Before I share some of my favorite healthy Thanksgiving sides, I want to define what I am considering healthy. This is not a list of low-cal, low taste, holiday hacks. These are delicious recipes that are made with simple, whole food, seasonal ingredients.
As we talked about in What We Get Wrong About Holiday Eating, the reason we take care of our bodies and mind is to live the life that we want to live! That should include delicious meals and connecting with the people that we love. The idea is not to eliminate these special occasions, but to protect them.
So below you will find some of my favorite go-tos that are beautiful on a table, delicious on your tongue, and guaranteed crowd pleasers.
Autum Harvest Salad
I hesitated to include this salad because it is my go-to for pretty much all holiday gatherings. Now everyone will know that it is really Tieghan they should be thankful for! Don’t let how beautiful this salad is intimidate you. It is surprisingly easy to throw together. I prepare everything earlier in the day and then dress it right before dinner. I promise that you will love this and it might make you the most popular person at Thanksgiving.
Photo & Recipe Credit: Half Baked Harvest
Classic Sourdough Stuffing
When I said simple, whole food ingredients, THIS is what I was talking about. The beauty of this dish is it’s simplicity – sourdough and fresh herbs. It is perfectly crunchy on the outside and warm and creamy on the inside. If you like a traditional stuffing with a bright and fresh flavor, you are going to love this one!
Photo & Recipe credit: Love & Lemons
Melting Sweet Potatoes
This is a fun twist on the classic melting potato recipe. Typically you will find these drizzled with maple syrup or honey, but this combo of sweet, savory and spicy is my favorite. I recommend keeping the skin on to protect it while it’s cooking and for a little extra fiber.
Photo & Recipe Credit: Food Banjo
Naturally Sweetened Cranberry Sauce
Now I know people have STRONG opinions about cranberry sauce. And if you are a canned cranberry lover, I’m not here to convince you otherwise! But I didn’t know how much I loved cranberries until I had this simple combo. The sweet & tart flavor it a perfect contrast to most of the traditional Thanksgiving dishes and I couldn’t love it more!
Photo & Recipe Credit: Cookie & Kate
Brown Butter Green Beans & Whipped Feta
I may have saved the best for last! This is as beautiful as it is tasty. The flavors and textures come together in the most amazing way and I guarantee everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Photo & Recipe Credit: Kale Junkie
