13 Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes
Slimmed-down holiday favorites
Just because it's Thanksgiving doesn't mean you have to blow your healthy eating plan. Here are some holiday favorites, slimmed down, that will thrill your guests.
From green bean casserole and mashed potatoes, to pumpkin cheesecake and apple pie, try these lightened-up dishes.
Crostini with Roasted Butternut Squash, Ricotta and Preserved Lemon
Try this appetizer, with the preserved lemon relish adding a bright, salty note the flavors of creamy ricotta and sweet squash.
This is an easy make-ahead appetizer. Wrap bundles of enoki mushrooms in bacon, and bake. That's it.
Kale Salad with Miso and Pistachios
Don't settle for a basic green salad, opt for this delicious version with fresh kale, a bright and tangy miso dressing, and pistachios for crunch.
The main dish at many Thanksgiving dinners will be, of course, turkey. Try this recipe for turkey breast with fresh garlic, rosemary, sage and thyme for a delicious change of pace from a traditional roast turkey.
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Shallots
Try this lightened-up version of the classic green bean casserole. The crispy shallots add a modern touch.
Skip the heavy cream and make these mashed potatoes with hummus and just a bit of butter. The hummus adds a creaminess that you have to taste to believe.
Quinoa Stuffing with Apples, Sweet Potatoes and Hazelnuts
Stuffing doesn't have to be fattening or heavy with bread. This version combines quinoa with apples, sweet potatoes and hazelnuts.
Creamy Butternut Squash and Parsnip Soup
Add lime juice to this soup right before serving for a bright zing. This butternut squash soup is creamy without the use of any cream. Simple ingredients include chicken broth, onion and a dollop of yogurt as a topping.
This potato tart gratin uses both Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes for a delicious combo. Opt for 2% milk instead of cream, and just a tablespoon of butter for flavor.
Roasted Cauliflower with Olive Vinaigrette
Combine roasted baby cauliflower with olives and lemon zest for a fresh take on Thanksgiving side dishes.
Go for a beautiful and flavorful side dish with this orange glazed carrot recipe. Orange juice and maple syrup blend beautifully to create the glaze.
Dessert is a big part of Thanksgiving. Cut calories but not the delicious taste with these baked apple versions of apple pie.
There's no refined sugar in these pumpkin cheesecake bites, and you can opt to make them gluten free. Yet they're every bit as delicious as cheesecake should be.
