Want to make this Thanksgiving both healthy and delicious? You can! With a little creativity, you can enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty or sluggish afterwards.
By incorporating healthy recipes into your celebration, you can indulge in the rich flavors of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie without sacrificing your health goals.
Green Bean Salad with Crispy Fried Onions
The quintessential Thanksgiving dish, green bean casserole, is a staple of the holiday season. However, preparing it can be a chore, especially when oven space is at a premium. Between browning onions to perfection and juggling cooking time with other dishes, it’s no wonder many cooks feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’re excited to introduce this game-changing Green Bean Salad that captures all the flavors of traditional casserole, minus the fuss. Ready in under 15 minutes, this dish is a revelation! The combination of crunchy radishes and creamy feta cheese provides a delightful contrast, while store-bought fried onions eliminate any guesswork or risk of overcooking. With its impressive nutritional profile – just 120 calories per serving, with 9g of fat, 3g of protein, 8g of carbs, 2g of fiber, and 3g of sugar – this salad is a guilt-free twist on the classic.
Herb Roasted Garlic Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potatoes, and Carrots
Indulge in the flavors of fall with this nutritious veggie side dish, perfect for showcasing a medley of seasonal favorites. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts come together in harmony, tossed in a savory blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, tamari, garlic, and fresh herbs. The result is a sweet and satisfying bowl that’s not only delicious but also packed with benefits. This dish is a powerhouse of immunity-boosting vitamins A and C, potassium for healthy blood pressure, and fiber to keep you regular. With only 171 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free delight that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll get: 171 calories, 5g fat, 4g protein, 29g carbs, 6g fiber, and 8g sugar.
Roasted Leeks and Peas
Indulge in the simplicity and sophistication of Roasted Leeks and Peas, a stunning veggie side dish that’s sure to impress. The roasted leeks and peas combine for a harmonious blend of sweetness, while the parmesan cheese adds a rich, creamy depth. A burst of fresh mint brings the flavors together in a delightful celebration on your palate. With just 153 calories per serving, you can enjoy this elegant dish without guilt.
Per Serving:
Calories: 153
Fats: 9g
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 13g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Recipe
Roasted Butternut Squash with Spinach and Cranberries
Looking to spice up your meals without sacrificing nutrition? This recipe for roasted butternut squash salad is the perfect solution. The dish combines tender roasted butternut squash with sweet red onions, fresh spinach, and tangy cranberries, resulting in a hearty salad that’s bursting with flavor.
Butternut squash is more than just a tasty addition to your meals – it’s also packed with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like manganese and magnesium. Plus, it contains brain-boosting B vitamins, making it a great choice for those looking to supercharge their health.
To bring out the best in your butternut squash, be sure to peel it thoroughly before roasting. This will ensure that every last piece gets perfectly caramelized. You can use a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler to make quick work of this step.
Per serving:
Calories: 103
Fats: 3g
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Easy Roast Turkey
As the centerpiece of Thanksgiving, turkey demands perfection. The key to a mouthwatering bird is striking the right balance. Unfortunately, many attempts result in a dish so dry that even copious amounts of gravy can’t save it.
This recipe changes the game by delivering a turkey that’s both juicy and flavorful, with a savory aroma that fills the air. The secret lies in incorporating aromatics like onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, eliminating the need for basting or brining.
The best part? This simple yet impressive dish frees up time to focus on what really matters – sharing the holiday with loved ones.
Per Serving:
Calories: 386
Fats: 20g
Protein: 47g
Carbs: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Recipe
Healthy Mashed Cauliflower
Mashed potatoes, a comfort food staple for many. However, for those who need to keep their carb intake in check, it can be a bit of a bummer. Fear not, as there’s a delicious alternative that’s just as satisfying: Healthy Mashed Cauliflower. This dish is a game-changer – creamy, smooth, and packed with flavor. You might even forget you’re skipping the mashed potatoes altogether! For an extra-creamy consistency, simply process boiled cauliflower in a food processor until it reaches your desired level of silky-smoothness. As a bonus, this recipe is not only low in carbs but also relatively low in calories. Enjoy a generous serving without feeling guilty. Here’s the breakdown: per serving, you can expect 91 calories, 3g of fat, 6g of protein, 13g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, and 5g of sugar.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
Looking to impress your family with a Thanksgiving salad that’s both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than this Roasted Butternut Squash Salad. This vibrant and textured salad is packed with sweetness from the roasted beets and butternut squash, balanced by the earthy bitterness of kale and the satisfying crunch of pepitas. And the best part? You won’t need to worry about finding extra dessert space after indulging in this tasty treat. Per serving, you can expect: Calories – 203, Fats – 15g, Protein – 6g, Carbs – 14g, Fiber – 4g, Sugar – 5g.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors with these Mashed Sweet Potatoes. The addition of cinnamon and maple syrup infuses a warm, festive quality that’s sure to please both kids and adults. For a unique twist, black pepper adds a subtle kick, making this dish perfect for a family gathering or special occasion. In fact, your little ones might just prefer these sweet potatoes over traditional mashed potatoes due to the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes themselves. And don’t worry about serving them up – sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients like anthocyanins, which support healthy vision, and Vitamin A, which boosts the immune system. If you’re a fan of these tasty tubers, be sure to check out our sweet potato breakfast bowls for another delicious treat. Per serving: Calories 203, Fats 6g, Protein 3g, Carbs 34g, Fiber 5g, Sugar 9g.
Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin
If you’re short on time or energy to prepare a whole turkey, fear not! You can whip up this delectable Instant Pot Turkey Tenderloin instead. The secret lies in the tenderloin’s bath of chicken broth and infusion of fresh herbs like sage and rosemary. This game-changing method yields a mouthwatering dish that’s both juicy and moist. And the best part? It cooks in just 12 minutes, thanks to the Instant Pot’s remarkable cooking capabilities. Not only do you save time, but you also gain a more relaxed holiday season. If you don’t have an Instant Pot yet, consider adding it to your wish list – it’ll be worth every minute. As for nutrition, each serving boasts: Calories: 213, Fats: 5.8g, Protein: 42.2g, Carbs: 0.4g, Fiber: 0g, Sugar: 0g.
Keto Green Bean Casserole
Looking for a keto-friendly side dish that’s not only delicious but also low in carbs? Look no further than this Keto Green Bean Casserole, which boasts an impressive net carb count of under 7 grams. The combination of tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce, and crispy fried onions is sure to satisfy your cravings. And with the added crunch from a topping made using almond flour – a low-carb, high-fat alternative that’s also gluten-free and rich in Vitamin E – you’ll be hooked after just one serving. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to accompany your favorite holiday meals or seeking inspiration for your own baking endeavors, this recipe is sure to please.
Keto Pumpkin Muffins
When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth while following a keto diet, I’ve got you covered. These warm-spiced muffins are not only low in carbs but also gluten-free, making them an excellent treat option. The secret to their moist and flavorful texture lies in the combination of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree, which evokes the cozy feelings of fall. To sweeten these delights, I recommend using a natural granulated sweetener like erythritol, which not only won’t spike blood sugars but may also help protect against cavities. If you’re interested in trying powdered erythritol, you can find it here. Per serving, this indulgent treat packs 180 calories, with 15g of fats, 7g of protein, 5g of carbs (2g of which is sugar), and 2g of fiber.
Healthy Butternut Squash Casserole
As the holiday season approaches, it’s not uncommon to have plant-based guests at your Thanksgiving table. To ensure everyone leaves feeling satisfied and grateful, you’ll want a standout main dish that caters to their dietary needs. That’s where this hearty Casserole recipe comes in – a true showstopper. The combination of sweet potatoes, raisins, and butternut squash provides natural sweetness, while the warmth from nutmeg and cinnamon adds depth. Meanwhile, brown rice and wild rice offer a satisfying textural contrast. This plant-based masterpiece is sure to impress your guests and align with the holiday’s core spirit of gratitude and abundance.
Per Serving:
Calories: 327.9g
Fats: 7.6g
Protein: 3.7g
Carbs: 66.5g
Fiber: 2.7g
Sugar: 27.5g
Recipe
Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake
Indulge in a rich and creamy Keto Pumpkin Cheesecake, packed with flavor and under 6 grams of net carbs. This recipe fits seamlessly into your macros, making it an excellent choice for those following a ketogenic diet. The addition of ground pecans provides a delightful nutty flavor to the crust, while the cheesecake itself is moist and decadent – just like its traditional counterpart. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider topping it with homemade keto caramel sauce or using a sugar-free alternative. With this recipe, you’ll be treating your family and friends to a dessert that serves eight, providing ample portions for everyone to enjoy. Here’s the breakdown per serving: 414 calories, 39g fats, 10g protein, 9g carbs, 3g fiber, and 4g sugar.
Honey Roasted Carrots
Want to entice your kids to indulge in a serving of veggies? Try whipping up these Honey Roasted Carrots, which boast not one, not two, but three distinct layers of sweetness. Firstly, carrots possess a natural sweetness that’s hard to resist. Next, the roasting process brings out their inherent sugars, transforming them into a caramelized delight. And finally, a drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sugary goodness, making these carrots a true triple threat when it comes to satisfying sweet tooth cravings. Here’s the recipe:
Honey Orange Cranberry Sauce
If you’re not a fan of traditional canned cranberry sauce, this Honey Orange Cranberry Sauce is sure to win you over. The combination of tart fresh cranberries and sweet honey creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. The addition of orange extract adds a bright, citrusy note that elevates the dish even further.
If you don’t have any orange extract on hand, don’t worry – it’s easily accessible for purchase online. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their holiday table.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 103
Fats: 1g
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 25g
Cranberry Sauce with Apples and Clementines
Another delicious cranberry sauce recipe to add to your collection! While it’s hard to have too many cranberry sauces, this one is a standout. The combination of sweet clementines, apple sauce, and apples provides a perfect contrast to the tanginess of fresh cranberries. A pinch of cloves and cinnamon sticks adds a warm, festive touch. What’s more, this recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare, freeing you up to focus on other Thanksgiving delights. Nutritional information per serving: Calories – 63, Fats – 1g, Protein – 1g, Carbs – 17g, Fiber – 6g, Sugar – 7g. With its vibrant flavor and ease of preparation, this cranberry sauce is sure to become a new holiday favorite.
Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash
Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this impressive acorn squash side dish. The combination of crunchy pecans, sweet apple, sautéed kale, tart cranberries, and crispy croutons is nothing short of a culinary delight. But what truly sets this recipe apart is its remarkable nutritional profile. Rich in potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and fiber, every bite is not only delicious but also packed with goodness.
With each serving boasting an impressive array of macros – 385 calories, 19g fats, 7g protein, 56g carbs, and a respectable 7g fiber content – you can feel confident in your choice to prioritize health and taste. And the best part? This dish is surprisingly low in sugar at just 16g per serving.
Per Serving:
Calories: 385
Fats: 19g
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 56g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 16g
Mashed Butternut Squash with White Beans
If you’re seeking a nutritious alternative to mashed potatoes, look no further. This recipe is a game-changer, offering a rich and satisfying flavor profile that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates. The star of the show is the butternut squash, which lends a naturally sweet and buttery flavor. Meanwhile, the roasted garlic adds a deep, smoky sweetness that elevates the dish to new heights. With only 168 calories per serving, this recipe is not only delicious but also a guilt-free treat. Per serving, you can expect: 4g of fat, 7g of protein, 29g of carbohydrates, and a whopping 8g of fiber. And with just 4g of sugar, you can indulge without worrying about your diet.
Roasted Delicata Squash
Satisfy your sweet tooth with the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Roasted Delicata Squash is a delightful treat that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. The creamy caramelized squash, crunchy hazelnuts, and nutty brown butter create a mouthwatering experience. But what makes it truly special is its nutritional profile. Rich in Vitamins A and C, Delicata Squash is an excellent source of essential nutrients. It’s also packed with omega-3s, which are renowned for promoting heart health. With only 137 calories per serving, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence. Per serving, you can expect: Calories: 137, Fats: 9g, Protein: 2g, Carbs: 14g, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 4g.
Green Beans with Cranberries, Bacon, and Goat Cheese
Imagine a Thanksgiving without the classic green bean casserole. Would you rather skip it altogether? This innovative recipe might just change your mind. The key is in the sautéed green beans, cooked to perfection in savory bacon grease and then topped with a medley of flavors – tangy cranberries, crispy bacon, and creamy goat cheese (or feta, if that’s more to your taste). Not only will this dish tantalize your taste buds, but it’ll also make for a visually stunning addition to the Thanksgiving table. And the best part? Each serving packs a nutritious punch: 99 calories, 5g of fat, 6g of protein, 9g of carbs, 3g of fiber, and just 4g of sugar.
Keto Paleo Stuffing with Sausage, Fruit, and Pecans
Indulge in a Paleo-friendly stuffing that’s packed with flavor. This delectable recipe combines savory sausage and bone broth, aromatic celery and onions, sweet fruit, and crunchy pecans for a truly satisfying dish. To make it Paleo-approved, we’ll be using homemade coconut bread made with coconut flour – don’t worry if you’re short on supplies, you can easily pick some up. With this stuffing, traditional recipes are left in the dust. Per serving, expect 429 calories, 39g of fat, 16g of protein, 6g of carbohydrates, 5g of fiber, and a mere 2g of sugar – a nutritional profile that’s both impressive and guilt-free.
Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
For those who don’t fancy dark meat, the Oven Roasted Turkey Breast is a delightful alternative. This dish boasts a satisfying crunch on the outside, while the butter and herbs infused within ensure a tender and flavorful experience. The best part? It requires only two hours of cooking time, leaving you with ample time to enjoy other aspects of your day. Pair it with a simple yet refreshing carrot and beetroot salad for a well-rounded meal. For more recipes under 300 calories, click here.
Roasted Butternut Squash Wild Rice Salad
Indulge in this sweet and satisfying salad, packed with the flavors of roasted butternut squash, earthy wild rice, crunchy almonds, and tart cranberries. This recipe is perfect for those who don’t typically enjoy greens in their salads. With a blend of 272 calories, 11g of fat, 6g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, 5g of fiber, and 13g of sugar per serving, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Vegan Wellington
Looking for a show-stopping vegan main dish to impress your Thanksgiving guests? Look no further. I’m thrilled to share with you a game-changing recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite: Vegan Wellington. This plant-based masterpiece is so delicious, even non-vegans will be begging for seconds. And the best part? It serves eight, making it perfect for large gatherings. So, what’s the magic behind this incredible dish? A rosemary walnut mushroom filling that takes center stage, accompanied by a roasted butternut squash surprise inside the flaky vegan pastry. The result is a symphony of umami and sweet flavors that will leave everyone in awe. But don’t just take my word for it – this Vegan Wellington is not only mouthwatering, but also packed with nutrients, making you feel good about what you’re putting in your body. Per serving, you can expect: Calories: 318, Fats: 22g, Protein: 6g, Carbs: 26g, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 3g.
Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of air-fried Acorn Squash, a game-changing twist on traditional cooking methods. The result is a tender, caramelized masterpiece topped with crunchy pine nuts that’s impossible to resist. Even without an air fryer, this recipe is accessible, thanks to affordable options available. Here are the details: Per Serving: Calories 162, Fats 11g, Protein 2g, Carbs 17g, Fiber 3g, Sugar 1g.
Healthy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the comforting goodness of mashed potatoes, sans dairy! These Healthy Vegan Mashed Potatoes are a game-changer. The roasted garlic brings an incredible depth of flavor, while the chives add a delightful freshness. Who needs traditional butter and cream when you can have a dish that’s this satisfying? To boot, each serving boasts impressive nutritional stats: 170 calories, just 0.2g of fat, 4.7g of protein, 38.5g of carbs, 4.6g of fiber, and only 1.8g of sugar. It’s a treat that’s both delicious and guilt-free.
Purple Mashed Potatoes
Looking for a unique and delicious side dish to bring some excitement to your Thanksgiving table? Consider serving up some vibrant purple mashed potatoes. Not only will they add a pop of color to the table, but they’re also packed with nutrients. Purple potatoes are an excellent source of anthocyanin antioxidants, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.These creamy and flavorful spuds are sure to be a hit with your guests. With 412 calories per serving, you can feel good about indulging in this tasty treat. Each serving contains 26g of fat, 6g of protein, 42g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, and only 5g of sugar.To make these amazing purple mashed potatoes, simply boil or steam your purple potatoes until they’re tender, then mash with butter, milk, or a non-dairy alternative, and add in some chopped herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.