Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes for a Nourishing Holiday Feast

Thanksgiving is a time to gather, celebrate, and enjoy great food, but it doesn’t have to derail your health goals. This year, try these healthier recipes to create a Thanksgiving feast that’s both delicious and nourishing.

1. Maple-Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Cranberries

This colorful, flavorful dish is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

• 1/4 cup unsweetened dried cranberries

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.

3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.

4. Add pecans and cranberries for the last 5 minutes of roasting.

5. Serve warm.

2. Quinoa and Wild Rice Stuffing with Mushrooms and Herbs

Swap out bread for this hearty, gluten-free stuffing alternative.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup quinoa

• 1/2 cup wild rice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 1 tsp fresh thyme

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook quinoa and wild rice according to package instructions.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, mushrooms, and celery. Sauté until tender.

3. Stir in cooked quinoa, wild rice, herbs, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.

4. Serve warm as a side dish.

3. Honey-Balsamic Glazed Carrots

These tender, sweet carrots are a simple yet elegant addition to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Toss carrots with olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet.

3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.

4. Garnish with parsley before serving.

4. Garlic and Lemon Roasted Turkey Thighs

Skip the whole turkey and go for flavorful, portion-controlled turkey thighs.

Ingredients:

• 2 turkey thighs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Rub turkey thighs with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Place in a roasting pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

5. Coconut Pumpkin Pie Bars

A healthier twist on traditional pumpkin pie with a coconut flour crust.

Ingredients:

• Crust:

  • 1/2 cup coconut flour

  • 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted

  • 2 tbsp honey

  • 1 egg

• Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin purée

  • 2 eggs

  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg

  • 1/2 tsp ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish.

2. Mix crust ingredients until dough forms. Press into the bottom of the dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes.

3. In a bowl, whisk together filling ingredients. Pour over the baked crust.

4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set.

5. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Tips for a Healthier Thanksgiving:

• Focus on portion control. Balance your plate with veggies, lean proteins, and small servings of starches or desserts.

• Incorporate fresh, whole ingredients to cut back on processed foods.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and aid digestion.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving with these healthier takes on holiday favorites. Not only will your body thank you, but your guests will love the fresh, vibrant flavors.

What’s your go-to healthy Thanksgiving recipe?