Healthy Comfort Food for Busy Weeknights on Breakfast Television
I had the pleasure of sharing my favourite healthy comfort food recipes on Breakfast Television. When the weather gets cold, and life gets busy, it is natural to crave meals that feel warm, cozy, and familiar. Comfort food has a way of grounding us at the end of a long day, but many traditional comfort foods can leave you feeling sluggish, overly full, or crashing later in the evening. The good news is that healthy comfort food does exist, and it can be quick, satisfying, and nourishing all at the same time.
The TV segment originally aired in January 2026. Watch the full segment here. Keep reading to get all of the recipes I shared.
What Makes Comfort Food Healthy?
Healthy comfort food focuses on balance. A nourishing comfort meal usually includes:
- A good source of protein to keep you full and support muscle health
- Fibre-rich carbohydrates to provide lasting energy
- Healthy fats for satisfaction and flavour
- Simple cooking methods that do not require hours in the kitchen
When these elements come together, comfort food becomes something you can enjoy regularly, even on the busiest weeknights. If you are looking for more weeknight recipes, check out my FREE cookbook, Quick and Healthy Dinner Recipes.
Below are three of my favourite healthy comfort food ideas that I shared on Breakfast Television.
Turkey Tacos with Apple Beet Slaw
Tacos are a classic comfort food, but they can easily be made healthier with a few simple tweaks. Using lean turkey provides a high-quality protein source, while a fresh apple beet slaw adds fibre, crunch, and natural sweetness.
This combination helps slow digestion and prevent blood sugar spikes, which means you feel energized instead of weighed down after dinner.
This meal also works well for leftovers, making it a great option for busy people.
Get the recipe in my FREE Quick and Healthy Dinners Cookbook.
Chai Sweet Potato Soup
There is something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially during cooler months. Sweet potato soup is naturally creamy and satisfying, and when paired with warming chai spices like cinnamon and ginger, it becomes the ultimate healthy comfort food.
Sweet potatoes provide slow-digesting carbohydrates that support steady energy, while the spices add depth of flavour without relying on excess salt or sugar. This soup is ideal for meal prep since it stores and freezes well.
If you often reach for heavy comfort foods when you are tired or stressed, soup like this is a nourishing alternative that still feels cozy and grounding.
Pineapple Shrimp Fried Quinoa
If fried rice is one of your go-to comfort foods, this healthy twist is for you. Swapping white rice for quinoa boosts the protein and fibre content, helping you feel satisfied longer.
Shrimp cooks quickly and adds lean protein, while pineapple brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savoury flavours.
This is healthy comfort food that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight routine since it can be on the table in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Get the recipe in my FREE Quick and Healthy Dinners Cookbook.
Why Healthy Comfort Food Matters
Healthy comfort food allows you to care for both your emotional and physical needs. Instead of feeling guilty about wanting comfort, you can choose meals that nourish your body and still bring joy to the table.
Balanced comfort meals can help:
- Prevent energy crashes in the evening
- Support blood sugar balance
- Reduce reliance on takeout
- Make healthy eating feel sustainable and enjoyable
When comfort food is nourishing, it becomes something you can enjoy regularly rather than something you feel you need to avoid.
Get More Healthy Comfort Food Ideas
If you are looking for more healthy comfort food recipes that are quick and realistic for busy nights, my free cookbook Quick & Healthy Dinners is a great place to start.
It includes eight easy, balanced meals that are ready in 30 minutes or less, along with exclusive cooking classes to help you feel confident in the kitchen. Whether you are short on time or simply need fresh inspiration, this resource makes healthy eating simple, comforting, and enjoyable.
Healthy comfort food should make your life easier, not more complicated. With the right recipes and a balanced approach, you can enjoy the cozy meals you love while still feeling your best.
