It’s the start of the holiday season, let the cooking begin! Before you embark on your Thanksgiving Day spread, do not fret it can be done in a healthier approach. Most traditional recipes are packed with unhealthy ingredients. If you are preparing your Thanksgiving feast you are solely in control of what your loved ones will indulge in. Why not take a healthier route? Making minor adjustments to the old-fashioned recipes has become extremely popular for the modern day cook. Healthy Thanksgiving recipes are an achievable goal for anyone.
Healthy Thanksgiving Appetizers
Thanksgiving day appetizers are among one of the favorites in many households. There are healthy versions to serve that is guaranteed to be a hit. One of the most popular appetizers is deviled eggs. Deviled eggs are definitely a classic, and can be made in a nutritious manner. The trick is simple: substitution. Avocado deviled eggs are one example of healthy Thanksgiving recipes.
Directions:
- Once the eggs are boiled and the yolks have been placed in a bowl, add the avocado.
- Next add 1 tsp of Dijon mustard, 1 tsp of lime juice, 1/4 tsp paprika, and salt and pepper.
- Mix ingredients together, then add a spoon full to each of the egg halves.
By substituting avocado instead of using the traditional mayo, your eggs will be packed with healthy fats.
Healthy Thanksgiving Turkey
When it comes to healthy Thanksgiving recipes for turkey, there are plenty. The traditional oven-baked turkey and fried turkey can be replaced with a smoked turkey. A smoked turkey has a rich flavor that will awaken any palate. A smoked turkey is a lean choice that is packed with vitamins and minerals.
For additional healthier choices, try taking the skin off. Avoiding the dark pieces are another option. The dark pieces tend to contain more saturated fats. When you’ve made the decision to smoke your turkey, skipping the butter underneath the skin is another healthy option. Another important step is to purchase a turkey that is all natural, without any added sodium. Most traditional turkeys are full of sodium.
Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Side dishes are a must have for any Thanksgiving Day feast. The options are endless when it comes to healthy Thanksgiving side dishes. One of the most popular Thanksgiving side dishes are mashed potatoes. Normally mashed potatoes are loaded with butter, and milk or cream. A lighter version for this favorite is cauliflower mashed potatoes.
For this creamy mixture, you will only need five ingredients. 1 head of cauliflower, 1 head of garlic, 1 tsp of extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 cup of low-fat cottage cheese, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened almond milk, and pepper. This side dish has only 62 calories per serving. Cauliflower mashed potatoes are sure to be a crowd pleaser packed with tons of flavor.
Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts
Now that you have one of the healthy Thanksgiving side dishes in mind, the need for a healthy dessert is a must. In most families, deserts can be just as important as the turkey. Finding a suitable recipe for your loved one’s desires should not be a difficult task. If a desert is healthy it does not mean the taste will suffer. A lighter version for pumpkin pie will do the trick. There is a paleo pumpkin pie recipe that will not let you down.
Instead of using whole milk, you can replace the milk with 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk. Using maple syrup instead of sugar is another healthier approach. For the crust try a grain free made with arrowroot flour.
Crust ingredients:
- 1/2 cup arrowroot flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/3 coconut oil
- 1/3 cup of coconut milk
- 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup coconut
- You will also need 1/2 to 1 cup of additional flour for the dough.
Filling ingredients:
- 1 can of 16-ounce pumpkin puree
- 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk
- 3 eggs
- 2 tsp of pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tablespoons pumpkin spice
- Pinch of sea salt
In Conclusion
These healthy Thanksgiving recipes are loaded with flavor and nutrition. Following these simple substitutions can lead to a tradition for years to come. Good food, along with family make a perfect Thanksgiving day celebration.