Mother's Day should be an opportunity to show your mom how much she means to you. And if you love your mom half as much as I love mine, you want to do what you can to ensure she has a long, healthy, happy life. So why on earth would you celebrate Mother's Day with a meal filled with sugar and fat? Doesn't make much sense to me.

A Mother's Day brunch can be delicious, impressive and filling even without the greasy biscuits and heavy cakes. And it doesn't have to be difficult -- there are tons of recipes out there for brunch that won't blow your mind or your (and Mom's) diet.

Let's start at the beginning (isn't that a very good place to start?). Very few people are going to turn up their noses at a plate of fresh fruit. It's beautiful, it's delicious and it's easy. Put some brightly colored berries in a bowl, arrange some apple slices and grapes around it, and you're set. Super simple, and will keep everyone occupied while you finish things up in the kitchen.

If Mom really is a fruit lover, continue the theme with this Baked Apple-Cinnamon French Toast. It can be prepared ahead of time and just popped in the oven when you're almost ready to eat. Or, if you're looking for something a little spicier, this lightened-up version of Huevos Rancheros sounds completely delicious but packs less than 250 calories per serving. Not too shabby. To get in your veggies without the "south of the border" feeling, a Spinach and Tomato Strata could be a really tempting dish. Just make sure you're careful with portions -- it would be really easy to overeat on something like this!

Who says brunch has to be reminiscent of breakfast? Maybe you want something more like lunch. In that case, a homemade flatbread like this Flatbread with Pancetta and Asparagus not only presents beautifully, but doesn't taste like it's light at all. Once again, though, watch portions -- this is only low-cal if you don't eat an entire half on your own.

And, what's an elegant brunch without dessert? For that matter, I don't think a casual brunch works without dessert, either. Resist the pre-made chocolate cake or banana cream pie at the supermarket -- you can do way better than that. Creme brûlée is always impressive, and the ingredients in this Meyer Lemon and Rosemary Brûlée are sure to be memorable (bonus -- you can make these a day ahead of time so you can spend more time with your mom!). Of course, baked goods are tasty, too, and these Maple Nut and Pear Scones would probably disappear from your table in no time.

Got a recipe you love? Please share it in the comments!