Low-Fat Recipes for Thanksgiving - Thanksgiving - Cooking

How to Make Thanksgiving Healthy

No Comments | Written on November 23, 2011 at 11:00 am, by Monica Reinagel, MS, LDN

courtesy of Fitness

When if comes to Thanksgiving dinner, certain things may be non-negotiable: turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy, for example. But you want your guests to leave the table sated and singing your praises yet not collapsing on the couch in a calorie-induced coma. So, instead of filling out the menu with calorie-laden side dishes, balance the heavier, richer things on the menu with lighter, more refreshing options. Here are few swaps that will lighten up the menu without sacrificing any of the flavor:

Rather than a salad with creamy dressing, offer a plate of crudités and pickled vegetables. (Try Asian Pickled Carrots.)

Instead of green beans swimming in mushroom soup and topped with fried onions, try steamed green beans tossed with lemon butter and slivered almonds.

Swap out high-fat croissant rolls or biscuits and opt for fresh, hot dinner rolls.

Instead of sweet-potato casserole topped with marshmallows, roast chunks of sweet potatoes and other root vegetables in olive oil until nicely caramelized. (Try this Herb-Roasted Vegetables recipe.)

Replace creamed spinach with spinach or Swiss chard gently sautéed with garlic and olive oil until wilted but still bright green. Sprinkle with a bit of cider or balsamic vinegar.