Cauliflower_Mash

Thanksgiving is one of my preferred holidays because it’s focused on Family. Food. & Fiesta. What more can we ask for than getting our loved ones together, enjoying delicious, home-cooked food, and having a party?!? This holiday is Definitely one of my FAVS! With all the extra cooking and eating, it’s important to watch your portions and prepare healthy (yet tasty) dishes for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a Thanksgiving side menu for you to make that is waistline friendly. Pair this with your Turkey and you’ll be in hog-heaven without the muffin-top.

Mashed Potatoes: click HERE for the recipe.

TIP: Substituting nonfat cottage cheese for butter is a leaner option that also gives you protein. Add some extra cheese using a parmesan cheese which is lower in fat than most other cheeses and super flavorful.

 

Stuffing: click HERE for the recipe from one of my favorite blogs: The Kitchn.

TIP: The Kitchn doesn’t use any oils or butter in this recipe. Simply put in healthy walnuts (a great source of Omega-3s) and some sausage or ground meat of choice and you’ve got a waistline friendly classic stuffing.

Corn_Shish_Kabobs_Final

Grilled Corn on the Cob: click HERE for the recipe.

TIP: Grilling the corn brings out the sweetness of the corn and adds more flavor than just boiling on the stove top. This also allows you to free up the stovetop for the other recipes.

 

 

 

 

FINAL_Roasted_Veggies

Roasted Vegetables: click HERE for the recipe.

TIP: You can roast any vegetable! It’s simple, easy to prepare, and flavorful. Try roasting Brussel sprouts, too! They’re very popular during the Thanksgiving holiday.

 

 

 

 

 

Salad_Dressing

Classic Green Salad: click HERE for the recipe.

TIP: Having extra vegetables around adds fiber, fills up our plates, and fills up our bellies. Still feeling like you need seconds? Go for more salad! My family’s classic balsamic dressing is always a hit. My favorite salad ingredients: lettuce, tomato, cucumber, marinated artichoke hearts, green onions, carrots, and green bell pepper. Delish!

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoy you Family. Food. Fiesta.
Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN