Winter is the perfect season for comfort food—think warm soups, creamy casseroles, and hearty stews. But indulgence doesn’t have to mean unhealthy.

By adding a few smart twists to your favorite dishes, you can keep them nourishing and satisfying without overloading on heavy ingredients.

1. Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or Greek yogurt: For creamy soups or sauces, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or plain Greek yogurt. Coconut milk adds richness without the extra fat. Greek yogurt brings protein and tang to such dishes as mac and cheese or creamy soups.

2. Load up on seasonal veggies: Winter brings a bounty of nutrient-packed vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash. Add roasted veggies to your favorite comfort meals or swap them in for carbs. For instance, use mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes or make a veggie-packed chili.

3. Go for whole grains: Comfort food can still be hearty without being heavy. Use whole grains, such as quinoa, farro, or barley, in casseroles or soups. They add fiber, keep you feeling fuller longer, and deliver a satisfying texture.

4. Bake with a healthy twist: Winter desserts can get a healthy makeover by swapping sugar for natural sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, and using almond or coconut flour instead of white flour. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to up the flavor and give your baked goods a cozy, seasonal twist.

With these easy tweaks, you can enjoy winter comfort foods while keeping them light and nourishing. So go ahead—indulge, but with a little extra goodness!