It’s cliche at this point to say that the holidays are a hard time for anyone watching what they eat — whether that’s for health reasons or otherwise. And while the idea of abstaining from all the tempting treats is an honorable one, it doesn’t have to be so difficult. There’s plenty of ways to eat healthy this Thanksgiving without sacrificing taste or flavor — and on top of it, none of them are especially involved in terms of kitchen prep.
Here’s a few recipes for easy traditional (and non!) Thanksgiving foods so you don’t have to choose between your health and your taste buds while you celebrate.
There’s no need to give up turkey this season if you just change the way it’s prepared. Instead of heavy gravies, opt for a citrus marinade that adds a delightful sweetness to your plate.
Yes, Thanksgiving usually means Turkey, but why limit your protein when salmon is so delicious? Furthermore, it’s rich in coveted omega 3s, which are good for LDL cholesterol.
Maple Pecan Mashed Sweet Potatoes Bonus: it’s made with heart-healthy pecans, but Health.com also recommends using walnuts for their cholesterol-lowering properties.
Apple Kale Salad with Toasted Pecans
Kale is more than healthy — it’s also heartily filling and pairs well with meaty and starchy dishes. So load up on greens and toss in some apple to provide some sweet delight.
Stewed Apples and Chai-Spiced Cream
This whole recipe takes 15 minutes to whip up, and just looking at it is enough to make a person hungry. Don’t worry, the cream has a cashew base so it won’t move anyone into unhealthy territory.