Thanksgiving Food Ideas: Side Dishes for a Healthier Feast
Hello, readers!
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal. But it can also be a time for overindulgence. If you’re looking for ways to make your Thanksgiving feast a little healthier, without sacrificing any of the flavor, then you’re in luck! Here are a few of our favorite side dish ideas that are sure to please everyone at the table.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are an easy and healthy way to add some extra color and nutrition to your Thanksgiving meal. Simply toss your favorite vegetables (such as carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes) with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish, but it can be surprisingly high in calories and sugar. This lightened-up version uses Greek yogurt and maple syrup instead of butter and sugar, for a healthier twist on a holiday favorite.
Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is another Thanksgiving staple, but it’s often loaded with sugar. This homemade version uses fresh cranberries and orange juice for a naturally sweet and tart sauce that’s both healthy and delicious.
Salads
Salads are a great way to add some freshness and lightness to your Thanksgiving meal. This autumn harvest salad is loaded with seasonal vegetables, fruits, and nuts, and it’s tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing.
Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is another classic Thanksgiving side dish, but it’s often made with cream of mushroom soup, which is high in fat and calories. This healthier version uses Greek yogurt and vegetable broth instead, for a lighter and more flavorful casserole.
Stuffing
Stuffing is a must-have for any Thanksgiving meal. This whole-wheat stuffing is made with a combination of whole-wheat bread, vegetables, herbs, and spices, and it’s baked to perfection in the oven.
Table Breakdown: Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes
| Side Dish | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roasted Vegetables | 120 | 5g | 20g | 2g |
| Sweet Potato Casserole | 200 | 6g | 35g | 3g |
| Cranberry Sauce | 70 | 0g | 17g | 0g |
| Autumn Harvest Salad | 150 | 6g | 20g | 4g |
| Green Bean Casserole | 180 | 6g | 30g | 4g |
| Whole-Wheat Stuffing | 200 | 6g | 33g | 4g |
Conclusion
There you have it! Our top picks for healthy Thanksgiving side dishes that are sure to please everyone at the table. So go ahead and indulge without the guilt. After all, it’s Thanksgiving!
If you’re looking for more healthy Thanksgiving ideas, be sure to check out our other articles:
- Thanksgiving Food Ideas: Healthy Main Dishes
- Thanksgiving Food Ideas: Healthy Desserts
- Thanksgiving Food Ideas: Healthy Appetizers
FAQ about Thanksgiving Food Ideas Side Dishes Healthy
1. What is a healthy side dish to serve with Thanksgiving dinner?
- Answer: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, are a healthy and delicious side dish that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.
2. How can I make my Thanksgiving side dishes healthier?
- Answer: Use whole-wheat bread or pasta instead of white, and opt for lean proteins like turkey or chicken instead of beef or pork.
3. What are some unique and healthy side dishes I can serve at Thanksgiving?
- Answer: Try roasted Brussels sprouts with pomegranate seeds and walnuts, or a quinoa and roasted vegetable salad with a light dressing.
4. What are some healthy side dishes that are easy to make?
- Answer: Mashed sweet potatoes with apples and cinnamon, or roasted green beans with almonds and cranberries.
5. What are some low-carb side dishes I can serve at Thanksgiving?
- Answer: Sautéed spinach with garlic and olive oil, or a cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.
6. What are some gluten-free side dishes I can serve at Thanksgiving?
- Answer: Roasted vegetables with quinoa, or a fruit salad with whipped coconut cream.
7. What are some vegan side dishes I can serve at Thanksgiving?
- Answer: Roasted root vegetables with maple syrup, or a lentil and quinoa salad with roasted vegetables.
8. What are some vegetarian side dishes I can serve at Thanksgiving?
- Answer: Stuffed mushrooms with wild rice, or a vegetarian chili with cornbread.
9. What are some healthy dips and sauces I can serve with my Thanksgiving side dishes?
- Answer: Hummus, guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip with vegetables.
10. How can I make sure my Thanksgiving side dishes are healthy and delicious?
- Answer: Focus on using fresh, whole ingredients, and limit processed foods and added sugar.