It’s almost that time of the year and we all know what comes with Thanksgiving – a feast! However, the traditional Thanksgiving meal can often be high in calories and rich foods, leaving you feeling sluggish and overstuffed. But with a few smart switches, you can enjoy all the flavors of the holiday while keeping things light, nutritious, and satisfying. These simple hacks for a healthy Thanksgiving will guide you in the right direction and make the holidays guilt-free. It’s a lot easier than you might think!
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Simple hacks for a healthy Thanksgiving that’s guilt-free.
There are so many simple switches you can make to make your Thanksgiving as guilt-free as possible. Honestly, I don’t count calories on holidays because holiday calories never count. (Let’s just go with that?) But there is no harm in making your meals as healthy as possible. If you have been eating healthy for some time, it becomes a lifestyle and that lifestly becomes all you ever want. Believe it or not, unhealthy, fatty foods might even make you feel sick. Here’s how you can avoid all of that!
Lighten up your turkey.
I think we can agree that a turkey is the star of the show in any Thanksgiving festivities, but it doesn’t mean that it has to be loaded with calories. With some simple hacks for a healthy Thanksgiving, your meals will be healthier than ever before. Instead of basting your turkey with butter, opt for a mix of olive oil and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. This combination not only adds a rich, aromatic flavor but also reduces the fat content, making your turkey a leaner option. Also, roasting your turkey in a bed of vegetables or using a broth-based marinade can help keep it moist and tender, while infusing it with even more flavor.
Turkey is a great lean-meat option and the healthiest, leanest part of your entire Thanksgiving meal. If you don’t pile your plate with a ton of side dishes you’ll be on the right track!
Choose smart sides for your meal.
When it comes to having a healthy Thanksgiving, the side dishes you choose can play a really big role. I’m not saying that you should only be eating veggies and turkey all day, but you can choose wisely and still enjoy your meal. Consider roasting a medley of root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips with olive oil and herbs for a dish that’s both hearty and packed with vitamins. Whole-grain stuffing with plenty of veggies like mushrooms, onions, and celery adds fiber and depth to the meal without the extra calories.
Simple dishes to try this Thanksgiving:
- Garlic Green Beans with Almonds: Steam green beans until tender-crisp. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil, then toss in the green beans. Top with toasted slivered almonds.
- Quinoa and Cranberry Salad: Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Mix with dried cranberries, chopped parsley, and a vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Spaghetti Squash with Parmesan: Roast a halved spaghetti squash at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes. Scrape the flesh with a fork to create strands, then toss with a little olive oil, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley.
- Herb Roasted Carrots: Toss whole or halved carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh rosemary or thyme. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
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Be mindful of your portion size.
With so many delicious dishes to choose from, you have to be mindful of what you put on your plate, and more importantly – the portion. Portion control is really important to help you stay on track with your weight loss goals. Start off by using a smaller plate, and aim to fill half of it with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein like turkey, and the remaining quarter with your favorite sides. This balanced approach ensures you get a variety of nutrients while still enjoying all the flavors of the holiday.
Take the time to eat slowly and savor each bite so that you can recognize when you’re full, preventing the urge to go back for seconds and helping you enjoy a satisfying, yet healthy Thanksgiving meal. No one said you can’t enjoy your favorite dishes and still be healthy, just be mindful of how much you eat.
No need to say no to dessert.
You don’t have to say no to dessert to have a healthy Thanksgiving—it’s all about making smart choices and enjoying your dessert in moderation. Instead of skipping dessert entirely, opt for lighter versions of your favorite desserts or try healthier alternatives. For example, you can make a pumpkin pie with a whole-grain crust and reduced sugar, or swap out heavy cream for a low-fat or dairy-free option. Fresh fruit salads, baked apples with cinnamon, or Greek yogurt parfaits with a sprinkle of granola are also delicious options that satisfy your sweet tooth without the extra calories and fat.
By being mindful of portion sizes and choosing desserts that are both tasty and nutritious, you can indulge in the holiday’s sweet offerings while still sticking to your health goals. There are some pretty great low calorie dessert recipes out there, and adding them to your holiday might not be such a bad idea. Using a sugar-free syrup is a great option too to cut down on some extra calories.
Conclusion.
With these simple hacks for a healthy Thanksgiving, you can enjoy a holiday that’s both delicious and healthy. By making mindful choices and incorporating nutritious ingredients, you’ll be able to celebrate the holiday without the post-feast guilt. So go ahead, and indulge in your favorite dishes—just with a healthier twist!
Happy Eating,
Your Wellness Warrior!