Savoring the Flavors of Winter Olympian Nations

As the world comes together to celebrate the Winter Olympics, why not indulge in some delicious treats from the competing countries? We’ve curated five mouth-watering, health-conscious recipes from around the world to get you in the spirit.

Russian-Inspired Cauliflower Potato Cheddar Pierogi

In the cold-weather nations of Russia and Ukraine, pierogis are a beloved staple. Our version uses whole-wheat flour, Greek yogurt, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and skim milk to create a lighter, boiled alternative.

Ingredients:
  - 1 head of cauliflower
  - 2 cups whole-wheat flour
  - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  - 1/2 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese
  - 1/2 cup skim milk
  - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
  1. Steam cauliflower until tender.
  2. Mix flour, yogurt, cheese, and milk to form a dough.
  3. Wrap dough around cauliflower and boil until cooked.

Japanese-Style Brown Rice Veggie Rolls

Sushi can be a dietary minefield, but not these homemade brown rice rolls! Packed with avocado, carrot, sprouts, and other veggies, they make for a crunchy, guilt-free snack.

Ingredients:
  - 1 cup brown rice
  - 1/2 cup water
  - 1/4 cup chopped avocado
  - 1/4 cup chopped carrot
  - 1/4 cup sprouts
  - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
  1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
  2. Mix with chopped veggies and roll into desired shape.

German Soft Pretzels with a Twist

Who says you can’t enjoy a warm soft pretzel without the beer? Our whole-wheat recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even without a bread machine.

Ingredients:
  - 2 cups whole-wheat flour
  - 1/4 cup salt
  - 1/4 cup sugar
  - 1/2 cup warm water

Instructions:
  1. Mix flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. Add warm water and knead until smooth.
  3. Shape into pretzels and bake until golden.

Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa

Inspired by the Jamaican Bobsled Team’s spirit, this protein-packed chicken recipe will leave you feeling speedy and resilient. The spicy meat and sweet salsa are the perfect combination to banish the winter blues.

Ingredients:
  - 1 lb boneless chicken breast
  - 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
  - 1 ripe mango, diced
  - 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

Instructions:
  1. Grill chicken with jerk seasoning until cooked.
  2. Mix mango, onion, and jalapeño for salsa.

Norwegian Crispbread: A Simple Delight

Don’t let the tricky name fool you – making knekkebrød is a breeze! Top these crispy crackers with cream cheese and lox for a Scandinavian twist or enjoy them with cheese, jam, or nut butter.

Ingredients:
  - 2 cups whole-wheat flour
  - 1/4 cup water
  - Salt to taste

Instructions:
  1. Mix flour and water to form a dough.
  2. Roll out thin and bake until crispy.

What’s your favorite international Olympic treat? Share your thoughts in the comments or on Twitter!