Holidays are about celebrating what’s most important in life, and at the top of my list is the health and happiness of my friends and family. I always treat them to good-for-you gifts that also feel decedent and indulgent. Here are a few of my favorite healthy, holiday gift baskets that are sure to get raves:

Healthy Indulgences

Put together a collection of luscious treats packed with nutritious perks.  My favorites:

• Roasted or spiced almonds
• Sweet tart dried cherries
• Top-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Local honey or maple syrup
• A bottle of red wine
• A selection of dark chocolates (60% cocoa or higher)
• Homemade, chocolate-covered, Fig and Ginger Truffles , from my new book, So Easy.  See my Top 5 Seasonal Recipes. Tip: they look gorgeous packed in a little gift box.

Tea for two

A cup of hot tea is one of life’s simple pleasures, and to top it off you get a healthy dose of antioxidants.  For a simple but thoughtful gift, gather an assortment of tasty teas that will help your loved ones stay warm and relax this holiday season.  My personal favorites are black teas infused with fruit and herbs, especially blackberry and sage.  If you want to get fancy, try:

• Loose leaf teas and a tea infuser
• A jar of local honey and a honey spoon
• A pair of elegant tea cups and saucers

Or if you’re not the Do It Yourself type, you can also find a wide selection of tea gifts  in stores and online.

Easy Morning

One of the things I enjoy the most about holidays is having the time to lounge around in the morning with my family relaxing in our PJ’s.  This basket is a great way to share some of the things that help make those mornings so special. Try:

• Homemade muffins like my Fig Bran Muffins or my Walnut and Dried Cherry Barsfrom my new book, So Easy.
• A jar of apple butter
• A bottle of pure maple syrup
• Fresh oranges or clemetines
• A package of exotic coffee
• A couple of artful coffee mugs

Here’s to a happy and healthy holiday season! Enjoy!