Winter is here, and along with the chilly temperatures comes the desire for warm, comforting foods.

While it may be tempting to indulge in unhealthy, calorie-laden options, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious foods that can help keep you cozy and warm this season. By incorporating these ten winter-friendly foods into your diet, you’ll not only stay warm but also provide your body with essential nutrients to boost your immune system.

1. Soup

When it comes to warming up during winter, there’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of soup. Soups are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to pack them with nutrient-dense ingredients.

Opt for comforting classics like chicken noodle soup or vegetable soup, or experiment with heartier options such as butternut squash or lentil soup. The steamy goodness of a bowl of soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

2. Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, beets, and parsnips are abundant during the winter months and offer a plethora of health benefits. These vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Roast them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, or add them to stews and casseroles for a hearty and warming meal.

3. Citrus Fruits

While it may seem counterintuitive, citrus fruits are at their peak during the winter. These delicious fruits, such as oranges, grapefruits, and clementines, are not only refreshing but also packed with immune-boosting vitamin C.

Start your day with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or enjoy a citrus fruit as a healthy snack to enhance your body’s natural defenses during the cold season.

4. Oatmeal

Nothing warms you up on a cold winter morning like a hearty bowl of oatmeal. This whole grain is loaded with fiber and provides a slow release of energy, keeping you full and satisfied for longer.

Add some warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, and top it off with fruits, nuts, or a dollop of nut butter for a nourishing and comforting breakfast option.

5. Hot Beverages

Warm beverages like herbal tea, hot cocoa, and spiced cider are perfect for chasing away the winter chill. Herbal teas infused with ginger, chamomile, or peppermint not only warm you up but also have soothing and calming properties.

Treat yourself to a cup of hot cocoa made with dark chocolate for an indulgent yet nutritious treat. For a festive option, sip on a mug of spiced cider made with comforting spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

6. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great choice for staying warm this season. The natural oils in nuts and seeds provide insulation to your body, helping you maintain a comfortable temperature.

Snack on a handful of almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds to satisfy those cravings and keep the warmth in.

7. Winter Greens

While many vegetables are less abundant during the winter months, leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard thrive during this time. These nutrient-rich greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium.

Sauté them with garlic and olive oil or add them to soups and stews to boost your immune system and stay cozy.

8. Ginger

Ginger is a powerful root that offers numerous health benefits, including warming properties. Its natural compounds help increase blood circulation and heat generation in the body.

Incorporate ginger into your meals by adding it to stir-fries, soups, or warming teas. Its spicy and pungent flavor will not only warm you up but also add a unique depth to your dishes.

9. Winter Squash

Winter squash varieties like butternut squash, acorn squash, and spaghetti squash are not only delicious but also a great source of vitamins, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.

Roast them in the oven, puree them into a soup, or stuff them with tasty fillings for a comforting and nutritious meal. Their vibrant colors and sweet flavors will brighten up your winter dinner table.

10. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a winter spice with warming properties that can help increase your body’s temperature. Sprinkle it over your oatmeal, add it to baked goods, or stir it into warm drinks for a cozy and aromatic treat.

Not only does cinnamon enhance the flavor of your dishes, but it also offers potential health benefits such as improved blood sugar control and antioxidant effects.