1. Smoked salmon. This tasty treat provides only 80 calories per portion and is a good source of protein and the health-promoting omega-3 fats. Ideal as a starter.
2. Roast turkey. Rich in protein and low in fat, especially if you discard the skin and choose light-coloured meat – only 150 kilocalories in an average portion.
3. Potatoes. A delicious source of vitamin C and other nutrients. If roasting, use vegetable oil or spray oil rather than lard to cut saturated fat. Keep the skins on if you want added fibre. If you cut them larger, they'll absorb less fat.
4. Brussels sprouts. An average serving (9 sprouts) provides half of your daily needs for folic acid and all the vitamin C you need.
5. Carrots. Rich in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. This and the other carotenoids act as potentially disease-beating antioxidants. Serve them steamed or boiled, or as crudités before the main course.
6. Peas. Popular with kids and a good source of iron, zinc, vitamin E, fibre, folic acid and most other B vitamins. Steam them in the minimum amount of water using a tight-fitting lid.
7. Christmas pudding. The dried fruit provides plenty of potassium, and it's a reasonable provider of iron and fibre. If you're making your own, you may not even need to add sugar as there's plenty of sweetness in the dried fruit.
8. Custard. A comforting and low-fat alternative to brandy butter, and a good source of calcium, too. Choose skimmed or semi-skimmed milk.
9. Satsumas. Each of these handy stocking fillers provides half your daily needs for vitamin C. Try some in between meals when you feel peckish.
10. Chestnuts. The only low-fat nut in existence and great for roasting by the fireside.

For some fantastic healthy alternatives to the traditional dinner please see the following recipes:

• Pan-fried turkey steaks in creamy mushroom sauce
• Bulgur wheat with cranberries and toasted almonds
• Slow-roasted winter vegetables
• Sweet chilli salmon with buttered spinach