16 Best Healthy Thanksgiving Recipe Cook Up Something Special!

Published on: Mar 22, 2024

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and celebrate all that we are thankful for. However, it can also be a time of indulgence and overeating. With many traditional Thanksgiving dishes being high in calories, it can be challenging to find healthy options for the holiday. That's why we have compiled the best healthy Thanksgiving recipes to help you enjoy a delicious and guilt-free holiday feast. These recipes are not only nutritious but also easy to make, making them perfect for those who are short on time. So let's dive into some mouthwatering dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and grateful this Thanksgiving.

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Thanksgiving Spinach Salad with Dried Cranberries,...

Main Ingredients: Baby Spinach Leaves, Dried Cranberries, Sliced Almonds

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Add a touch of freshness to your Thanksgiving table with this delicious spinach salad. The combination of sweet dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts and tangy feta cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors. Drizzle with a balsamic vinaigrette and serve as a healthy and colorful side dish.

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Healthy Pumpkin Pie Dip

Main Ingredients: Mountain High Yoghurt, Pumpkin Puree, Brown Sugar

Skinny Pumpkin Dip - Yummy Healthy Easy

Pumpkin Pie Dip - Easy and No Bake - The Chunky Chef

Who says you can't have dessert on Thanksgiving without feeling guilty? This pumpkin pie dip is a healthier alternative to the traditional pumpkin pie, but still packs all the delicious flavors. Serve with fresh fruit or graham crackers for a tasty and guilt-free treat.

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Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts + Healthy Thanksgiving...

Main Ingredients: Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Pepper

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Upgrade your Thanksgiving appetizer game with these bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts. The combination of crispy bacon and tender Brussels sprouts is a match made in heaven. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to greasy fried appetizers.

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Thanksgiving Slaw

Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Dijon

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Looking for a lighter side dish to balance out all the rich Thanksgiving foods? This Thanksgiving slaw is the perfect choice. Made with shredded cabbage, apples, and a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing, it adds a refreshing and crunchy element to your meal.

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Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dish – Carrot and...

Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, Carrots, Yellow Onion, Minced Garlic

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Skip the traditional mashed potatoes and opt for this colorful and healthy alternative. The combination of sweet potatoes and carrots creates a creamy and flavorful mash that will be a hit with both kids and adults.

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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf

Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic

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For all the vegetarians at your Thanksgiving table, this meatless loaf is a must-try. Packed with protein-rich lentils, veggies, and spices, it's a hearty and flavorful main dish that even meat-eaters will love.

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Thanksgiving Stuffing

Main Ingredients: Butter Margarine, Medium Onion, Celery Stalks, Kosher

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No Thanksgiving meal is complete without stuffing, and this recipe is a classic and fool-proof choice. Made with bread, herbs, and veggies, it's a savory and comforting side dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Red Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Kosher

Smith's Vegan Kitchen: Thanksgiving Savory Lentil Loaf

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Looking for a healthy and protein-packed side dish? Look no further than this Thanksgiving lentil salad. With the addition of cranberries, apples, and a tangy vinaigrette, it's a flavorful and filling dish that will be a hit with everyone.

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Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey

Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Orange, Rosemary Sprigs, Salt, Black

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Of course, no Thanksgiving list would be complete without a recipe for the star of the show - the turkey. This roasted turkey recipe creates a tender and juicy bird with a golden crispy skin, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner.

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Thanksgiving Breakfast Cups

Main Ingredients: Turkey, Large Eggs, Nonfat Milk, Potato, Pepper

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Start your Thanksgiving morning with these delicious and easy breakfast cups. Made with eggs, turkey, and veggies, they're a healthy and filling option to keep you energized for the busy day ahead.

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Thanksgiving Stuffing Pasta Nests

Main Ingredients: Thin Spaghetti, Butter, Minced Garlic, Diced Onions

Pasta Nests - with a bite of Thanksgiving! • Steamy Kitchen Recipes ...

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Put a twist on traditional stuffing by turning it into these cute and tasty pasta nests. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they're a fun addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce

Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice

Cranberry Sauce Recipe (Fresh and Easy!) - Cooking Classy

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No need to buy canned cranberry sauce for your Thanksgiving dinner - this homemade version is easy to make and tastes so much better. The addition of orange zest and juice adds a refreshing and tangy flavor to the sweet cranberries.

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Thanksgiving Sides

Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground

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If you're looking for a variety of side dishes to choose from, this recipe has you covered. It includes four delicious and easy-to-make Thanksgiving sides, including roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, cranberry apple sauce, and green bean casserole.

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Thanksgiving Breakfast Frittata

Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Shallot

20 Delicious Thanksgiving Breakfast Ideas | The Worktop

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If you have a large group coming over for Thanksgiving, this breakfast frittata is a great option to feed a crowd. Made with eggs, veggies, and cheese, it's a hearty and customizable dish that can be made ahead of time.

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The Best Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes

Main Ingredients: Yukon Gold Potatoes, Butter, Fat Free Sour Cream

Crock Pot Mashed Potatoes {Easy & No Stress!}

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Looking for the perfect mashed potatoes to serve alongside your Thanksgiving turkey? Look no further, because these are truly the best. Creamy, fluffy, and full of flavor, they will be a hit with everyone at the table.

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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery

The BEST Traditional Stuffing Recipe (Easy & No Frills) - Averie Cooks

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For a simple and classic stuffing recipe, this is the one to try. Made with bread, celery, onions, and herbs, it's a timeless and comforting side dish that will make your Thanksgiving meal complete.

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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey

Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking

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For a fun and festive dessert that kids (and adults) will love, try making these adorable OREO cookie ball turkeys. They're easy to make and are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering.

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Vegan Thanksgiving Casserole

Main Ingredients: Lentils, Cashews, Whole Wheat Bread, Vegetable Broth

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For a delicious and filling vegan main dish option, this Thanksgiving casserole is a must-try. Made with lentils, veggies, and a creamy cashew sauce, it's a flavorful and hearty dish that will satisfy all your guests.

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Thanksgiving Punch

Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon

17 Thanksgiving Punch Recipes for a Crowd - An Unblurred Lady

Thanksgiving Punch - Meg's Everyday Indulgence

No Thanksgiving celebration is complete without a delicious and festive drink. This Thanksgiving punch combines cranberry and orange juices with ginger ale and vodka for a refreshing and tasty cocktail that will be a hit with your guests.

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Roast Turkey Breast

Main Ingredients: Boneless Turkey Breast, Olive Oil, Small Onion, Fresh

Citrus Herb Roast Turkey Breast - Mom On Timeout

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If you're hosting a smaller Thanksgiving gathering or just want to try something different than a whole turkey, this roast turkey breast is a great option. It's easier to prepare and cook, but still delivers all the delicious flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving turkey.

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Thanksgiving Spinach Salad with Dried Cranberries,...

Main Ingredients: Baby Spinach Leaves, Dried Cranberries, Sliced Almonds

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Start your Thanksgiving feast off on a healthy note with this delicious spinach salad. The combination of crisp spinach leaves, tangy dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts will have your taste buds singing. Drizzled with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

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Healthy Pumpkin Pie Dip

Main Ingredients: Mountain High Yoghurt, Pumpkin Puree, Brown Sugar

Who says pumpkin pie has to be reserved for dessert? This healthy pumpkin pie dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will make your Thanksgiving spread stand out. Made with pure pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this dip is a guilt-free indulgence.

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Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts + Healthy Thanksgiving...

Main Ingredients: Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Pepper

Bacon Wrapped Brussels Sprouts - Homemade Hooplah

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Elevate your Brussels sprouts game with this healthy twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish. Wrapped in crispy bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze, these Brussels sprouts are a flavorful and satisfying addition to your holiday menu.

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Thanksgiving Slaw

Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Maple Syrup, Dijon

This colorful and crunchy slaw is the perfect side dish to add some freshness to your Thanksgiving meal. Made with cabbage, carrots, apples, and a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, this slaw is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional creamy coleslaw.

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Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dish – Carrot and...

Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, Carrots, Yellow Onion, Minced Garlic

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Sweet potatoes are a staple on most Thanksgiving tables, but this healthy twist on a classic dish will have your guests begging for the recipe. This carrot and sweet potato casserole is made with natural sweeteners like maple syrup and honey and topped with a crunchy pecan and oat crumble.

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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf

Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic

For those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option for their Thanksgiving dinner, this meatless loaf is a must-try. Made with lentils, quinoa, and vegetables, this loaf is packed with protein and flavor. Serve it with a side of cranberry sauce for the perfect Thanksgiving meal.

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Thanksgiving Stuffing

Main Ingredients: Butter Margarine, Medium Onion, Celery Stalks, Kosher

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a big, fluffy serving of stuffing. This homemade stuffing recipe is made with whole grain bread, herbs, and vegetables for a healthier twist on a classic dish. Add some craisins or pecans for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

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Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Red Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Kosher

This colorful and nutrient-packed lentil salad is the perfect addition to any Thanksgiving table. Made with French lentils, roasted vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is a delicious and healthy side dish that will impress your guests.

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Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey

Main Ingredients: Turkey, Butter, Orange, Rosemary Sprigs, Salt, Black

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a perfectly roasted turkey. This recipe for a classic roasted turkey will have your guests coming back for seconds. With a homemade herb butter and lemon rub, this turkey is flavorful and moist.

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Thanksgiving Breakfast Cups

Main Ingredients: Turkey, Large Eggs, Nonfat Milk, Potato, Pepper

If you have a busy Thanksgiving morning, these breakfast cups are the perfect solution. Made with eggs, spinach, and bacon, these cups are a delicious and portable breakfast option for those on the go. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite breakfast ingredients.

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Thanksgiving Stuffing Pasta Nests

Main Ingredients: Thin Spaghetti, Butter, Minced Garlic, Diced Onions

Put a fun twist on traditional stuffing with these adorable pasta nests. Made with whole grain pasta and filled with a savory stuffing mixture, these nests make a delicious and unique addition to your Thanksgiving dinner. Top them with a crispy breadcrumb topping for the perfect finishing touch.

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Thanksgiving Sides

Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground

No need to choose between all your favorite Thanksgiving sides - this dish has them all! This casserole is loaded with mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, and cranberry sauce, making it the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish. And the best part? It's all topped with a crispy breadcrumb and cheese crust.

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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce

Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice

This homemade cranberry sauce is a delicious and healthy alternative to the canned version. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a touch of honey, this sauce has the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

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Thanksgiving Breakfast Frittata

Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Shallot

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If you have overnight guests for Thanksgiving, this breakfast frittata is the perfect way to start the day. Packed with vegetables, cheese, and prosciutto, this frittata is a hearty and flavorful breakfast option that will keep everyone satisfied until the big feast.

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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing

Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery

Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing - Flipboard

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For those who prefer a more traditional Thanksgiving stuffing, this recipe will not disappoint. Made with bread cubes, sausage, and traditional Thanksgiving herbs, this stuffing is a classic favorite that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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The Best Thanksgiving Mashed Potatoes

Main Ingredients: Yukon Gold Potatoes, Butter, Fat Free Sour Cream

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a big bowl of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe for the best mashed potatoes is made with russet potatoes, butter, milk, and a touch of garlic. They are the perfect accompaniment to any Thanksgiving main dish.

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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey

Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking

For a fun and festive dessert option, try making these OREO cookie balls in the shape of a Thanksgiving turkey. Made with Oreo cookies, cream cheese, and chocolate, these treats are a crowd-pleaser and can be decorated with candy corn and candy eyes for a cute and colorful touch.

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Thanksgiving Punch

Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon

Toast to the holiday with this delicious and refreshing Thanksgiving punch. Made with apple cider, cranberry juice, and sparkling apple cider, this punch is a festive and non-alcoholic option that everyone can enjoy.

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Vegan Thanksgiving Casserole

Main Ingredients: Lentils, Cashews, Whole Wheat Bread, Vegetable Broth

scoop on vegan corn casserole out of a pan Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes ...

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For those looking for a hearty and satisfying vegan option for their Thanksgiving dinner, this casserole is a must-try. Made with quinoa, vegetables, and coconut milk, this casserole is packed with flavor and nutrients.

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Roast Turkey Breast

Main Ingredients: Boneless Turkey Breast, Olive Oil, Small Onion, Fresh

If you don't want to cook a whole turkey for Thanksgiving, this roast turkey breast is the perfect alternative. It's seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and lemon, and roasted to juicy perfection. Serve it with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a delicious and stress-free meal.

Roasted Turkey Breast with Cranberry Glaze

Ingredients:

- 1 (4-pound) bone-in turkey breast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
This roasted turkey breast is a healthier alternative to a whole turkey, which can be high in fat and calories. Start by seasoning the turkey breast with salt and pepper, then roast it in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about an hour and a half. While the turkey is roasting, make the cranberry glaze by combining fresh cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, and chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until thickened. Pour the glaze over the turkey breast and return it to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. The result is a succulent and flavorful turkey breast that is sure to impress your guests.

Sweet Potato and Cauliflower Mash

Ingredients:

- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 head of cauliflower, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
This sweet potato and cauliflower mash is a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Boil the sweet potatoes and cauliflower until tender, then drain and mash together. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add it to the mashed sweet potatoes and cauliflower. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu.

Quinoa and Kale Stuffed Acorn Squash

Ingredients:

- 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bunch of kale, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For a vegetarian and gluten-free option, try this quinoa and kale stuffed acorn squash. Start by roasting the squash halves in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. In the meantime, cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté chopped kale, diced onion, and minced garlic in olive oil until tender. Mix the cooked quinoa with the kale mixture and season with salt and pepper. Stuff the squash halves with the quinoa and kale mixture and return them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. The result is a colorful and nutritious dish that will satisfy any dietary restrictions. Incorporating these healthy Thanksgiving recipes into your holiday menu will not only make for a delicious feast but also help you maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. So this Thanksgiving, indulge in these guilt-free dishes and give thanks for your health and well-being.