As the holiday season approaches, many of us start to think about what we’ll be serving at our Thanksgiving tables. While it’s easy to get caught up in traditional recipes that may not be the healthiest options, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious alternatives to try.
This year, why not shake things up with some flavorful and wholesome healthy Thanksgiving recipes? From classic dishes like roasted turkey breast and mashed potatoes to innovative twists on old favorites, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering ideas to get you started. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan options, or simply want to incorporate more whole grains and fresh veggies into your menu, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll be sharing a range of recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From savory main courses to sweet treats and refreshing sides, every dish is designed to bring people together around the table.
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Lemon
Brighten up your table with this flavorful and aromatic turkey breast recipe, infused with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the lemon juice over the turkey breast.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Perfect as a main dish or side, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweet, caramelized taste of roasted acorn squash.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized acorn squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each squash half with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly between both.
5. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts. This roasted delight is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
Transform your mashed potato game with this innovative recipe that swaps out traditional spuds for cauliflower! This dish is a game-changer, perfect for those looking to reduce carbs or try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss with butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Allow the roasted cauliflower to cool slightly.
6. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the cauliflower in a bowl.
7. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Rice Pilaf with Cranberries and Pecans
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful pilaf recipe, featuring nutty wild rice, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for the fall season or any time you want a burst of autumnal flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add wild rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked wild rice, cranberries, and toasted pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pilaf mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Maple-Glazed Roasted Carrots
Elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of pure Canadian maple syrup. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these roasted carrots are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the glazed carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Kale Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the earthy flavors of spinach and kale with the sweet and tangy taste of pomegranate seeds.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed baby greens (spinach, kale)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the spinach and kale.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the greens and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, and pecans over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This classic Southern dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch and nuttiness of pecans, perfect for holidays or special occasions. With its simple preparation and flavorful result, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with chopped pecans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Stuffing
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the comforting warmth of lentils. Perfect for a vegetarian main course or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked lentils, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and vegetable broth. Add to the mushroom mixture; mix well.
5. Transfer mixture to a baking dish; cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Green Beans
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. Garlic and herbs bring out the natural sweetness of green beans, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss green beans with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Spread the green bean mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
This creamy and comforting soup is a perfect blend of fall flavors, combining the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of coconut milk and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches. Return to pot and reheat as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Walnuts
Transform ordinary apples into a deliciously aromatic dessert by baking them with cinnamon, walnuts, and a hint of sweetness. This simple recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety), cored
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Stuff each apple core with the sugar-cinnamon mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
4. Place the apples in a baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the apples.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Grain Dinner Rolls with Flaxseed
Nourish your family with these wholesome dinner rolls infused with the nutty flavor of flaxseeds. Perfect for accompanying your favorite comfort foods or as a side dish on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole grain flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine whole grain flour, all-purpose flour, ground flaxseed, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm water, beaten egg, and olive oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shape.
6. Place rolls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cranberry Orange Relish with Fresh Mint
Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and tangy cranberry orange relish, infused with the sweetness of fresh mint. This recipe is perfect for serving alongside turkey, roast beef, or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh mint leaves
– Zest of 1 orange
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the relish has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in chopped mint leaves and orange zest.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy autumn evening. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4-6 sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or grated Parmesan for added richness
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the squash cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with chopped sage, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and top with crumbled goat cheese or grated Parmesan (if using).
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Brighten up your plate with this simple and flavorful grilled asparagus recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
3. Add the asparagus to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the asparagus for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea and Quinoa Patties
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional veggie burgers, these chickpea and quinoa patties are perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a sandwich filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite toppings, such as avocado, hummus, or mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add quinoa, oats, bell pepper, garlic, and cumin to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties.
5. Place the patties in the skillet or grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl
Get ready to cozy up with a deliciously warm and comforting Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl! This creamy treat combines the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with the texture of chia seeds and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup frozen pumpkin puree
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a bowl.
3. Top with desired toppings (sliced almonds, shredded coconut, whipped cream).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Herb-Crusted Salmon with Dill Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Herb-Crusted Salmon with Dill Sauce recipe. Fresh herbs, crispy crust, and a tangy sauce come together to create a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup dill sauce (see below for recipe)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with dill sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Dill Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of fresh greens. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time)
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds this Thanksgiving with these 20 wholesome and healthy recipes! From classic dishes like roasted turkey breast and mashed potatoes, to innovative twists like cauliflower “mashed” potatoes and chickpea quinoa patties, there’s something for everyone. These flavorful recipes also incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and pumpkin. Plus, many of these dishes are vegetarian or vegan-friendly, making them perfect for a diverse group of guests. Start planning your Thanksgiving menu today!
