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Your Perfect (Healthier!) Thanksgiving Menu
By Lindsey O'ConnellHome » Eat Empowered » Your Perfect (Healthier!) Thanksgiving Menu
Is there really any debate? Thanksgiving is hands down the most delicious holiday. The turkey, the stuffing, the pie…oh my! Our mouths begin to water days in advance as we count the hours until we sit down with loved ones and indulge in all the nostalgic foods we will get to eat.
But this year, the holiday may look a little different. Many of us aren’t able to have all of our friends and family at the table, and perhaps we may not be able to have the lavish meal we typically do. One thing remains the same—this day is an opportunity to reflect on all that we are grateful for, to say “I appreciate you” to all of the people we cherish (near and far). And we can all use a little time to relax and enjoy ourselves.
We want to help you have the most wonderful holiday—and that is by taking some of the stress off of the cooking! Below are some of our most favorite recipes, with a healthy twist. Try one or make them all—we promise whoever is around the table this year will be asking for seconds.
Appetizers
Sweet Potato Rounds With Herbed Ricotta and Walnuts
The Roasted Root really nails all the flavors here. Sweet potato, herbed ricotta, walnuts, cranberries, and honey–this recipe screams fall. Yum!
Butternut Squash Broccoli Rabe Soup
People often fill up on appetizers before the meal even begins. Instead of dozens of canapes and giant cheese plates, why not make a delicious soup. We love this creamy fall classic with added nutrients and flavor.
The Main Event
Thanksgiving Turkey
The perfect beginner’s recipe for serving a turkey that’s juicy, delicious, and covered in flavorful herbs.
Sides
Vegan Whipped Coconut Sweet Potatoes
Our Catherine from @Weelicious knows her way around the kitchen. Which is why we aren’t surprised that this version of sweet potatoes is simply amazing! They’re made with coconut milk and dried coconut sprinkled on top like, as she puts it, “a light dusting of snow.”
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Simple, satisfying and really quick to whip up. No one will miss the green bean casserole with this on the table.
Wild Rice & Bulgur Stuffing
You’re probably right: no one in your family knows what bulgur is. But that won’t matter at the holiday table. Once they taste this hearty, flavorful stuffing made with the nutritious ancient grain, they’ll be too busy happily chewing to care.
Stuffed Butternut Squash
This Butternut Squash recipe will look like it’s part of the holiday table decor. It’s stuffed with tempeh, rice, pomegranate and just a hint of maple syrup. It’s so good, even the meat lovers will go back for seconds.
Dijon Cauliflower Mash
Ok, so we’re not saying to forgo the beloved mashed potatoes. But…if you’re looking for a delicious, lighter alternative, THIS is the way to go.
Gravy
A Lighter Gravy
We all love our turkey smothered with gravy, but it’s not always the most nutritious. Here’s a great tasting, healthier recipe.
Dessert
Cocoa Banana Ice Cream Turkeys
The kiddos will love this adorable treat. Homemade banana ice cream is super easy to make and the kids won’t even know they’re eating fruit.
Pumpkin Pie Parfait With Coconut Whipped Cream
Want an easy no-bake option? You got it. Individual pumpkin pie parfaits are all flavor without the crust!
Poached Pears
The cinnamon-vanilla flavor makes these poached pears a great option for the holiday season. It’s also nice to find a dessert you can make in a slow cooker, since you don’t have to watch it as closely as something you’re baking. You just leave it for hours, come back, and it’s ready to go.
(Images: Shutterstock)
Former Editorial Director, Nutritious Life
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