Healthy Recipes: to enjoy this Thanksgiving

Healthy Recipes: to enjoy this Thanksgiving

 

 

Thanksgiving is a time for family, fun, and food. But that doesn’t mean you have to throw your health goals out the window. With a few simple swaps, you can create healthier versions of classic dishes that will leave everyone feeling satisfied without the post-meal food coma.



Here are four healthy Thanksgiving recipes to try this year:

 

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon & Maple Syrup

Sweet potatoes are a nutrient powerhouse—rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Instead of the typical sweet potato casserole loaded with sugar and marshmallows, try roasting them with just a touch of maple syrup and cinnamon for a naturally sweet and healthy side dish.

 

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive or avocado oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato cubes with olive or avocado oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color.

 

Garlicky Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are full of fiber and vitamins. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and makes them crispy and satisfying. This simple recipe only requires a few ingredients and pairs well with any Thanksgiving meal.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp avocado or olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive or avocado oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the sprouts are crispy and golden brown.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar just before serving for an added tang.

 

 

Healthy Cranberry Sauce

Traditional cranberry sauce is often full of sugar, but this healthier version uses natural sweeteners like orange juice and a touch of honey. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, and when prepared this way, they’re both tart and sweet.

 

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Stir in the orange zest.
4. Let cool to room temperature before serving.

 

Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

This vibrant, colorful salad is packed with protein and fiber from the quinoa and roasted vegetables. It’s a great side dish or light meal for those looking to balance out the heavier options at the table.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive or avocado oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring once, until tender and slightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, cook the quinoa according to package instructions using vegetable broth for added flavor.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss to coat.
6. Garnish with feta cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

 

 

 

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Organicland