Sweet potatoes are a staple dish on many Thanksgiving tables, but they are often loaded with butter, brown sugar, and marshmallows, making them not the healthiest option. However, with a few simple ingredient swaps, you can create a healthy and delicious sweet potato dish that will still be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is not only tasty, but it is also packed with nutrients that will leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free. So, put down the marshmallows and try out this healthy sweet potato recipe for your Thanksgiving feast.
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Orange Juice, All Purpose Flour, White
Let's start with a classic – Thanksgiving sweet potatoes. This simple and delicious recipe combines sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and spices for a dish that will have everyone going back for seconds. The best part? It only takes 5 ingredients and 30 minutes to make. Serve it alongside your turkey and other Thanksgiving favorites for a perfect holiday meal.
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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
For our vegetarian and vegan friends, we have a delicious alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving main course – Thanksgiving meatless loaf. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with lentils, mushrooms, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's the perfect centerpiece for a meatless Thanksgiving feast.
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Thanksgiving Sides
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground
Thanksgiving isn't complete without a variety of delicious sides to accompany your main dish. And what better side dish than sweet potatoes? This recipe for Thanksgiving sides combines sweet potatoes, apples, and pecans for a sweet and crunchy dish that will be a hit with everyone at the table.
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Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Maple
If you're looking for a healthier option for your Thanksgiving dinner, look no further than this recipe for maple roasted sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. This dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, thanks to the combination of sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and a delicious maple glaze. It's the perfect side dish for any holiday table.
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Candied Sweet Potatoes- Thanksgiving Side Dish
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Brown Sugar, Butter
Candied sweet potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving side dish, but this recipe takes it to the next level. Instead of just adding butter and brown sugar, this recipe also includes a touch of orange juice and zest for a bright and tangy twist. The result? A dish that is both sweet and refreshing.
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Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Lean Ground Turkey, Clove
If you're looking for a one-pan meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering, this ground turkey sweet potato skillet is the way to go. This dish is packed with protein, veggies, and of course, sweet potatoes. It's a hearty and healthy option that the whole family will love.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts with...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Balsamic
Another delicious roasted sweet potato and Brussels sprouts dish, this recipe takes things up a notch with the addition of bacon and a maple-balsamic glaze. The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors makes this dish a standout at any holiday meal.
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Warm Sweet Potato & Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Salt, Water, Brussels Sprouts, Sliced
If you're looking for a lighter option for your Thanksgiving meal, this warm sweet potato and Brussels sprouts salad is the way to go. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and kale creates a flavorful and nutritious dish. Top it off with a maple-dijon dressing for a touch of sweetness.
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Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes with Cranberries
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Splenda, Cinnamon, Dried Cranberries
Cranberries are another holiday staple, so why not incorporate them into your sweet potato dish? This recipe for Thanksgiving sweet potatoes with cranberries combines sweet potatoes, cranberries, and a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive and flavorful dish.
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Thanksgiving Veggie Roast (oil-free + vegan)
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Brussel Sprouts, Button Mushrooms, Red
This Thanksgiving veggie roast is a great option for those looking for a meatless and oil-free main course. It's made with sweet potatoes, lentils, quinoa, and a variety of veggies and spices. It's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a holiday meal.
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Healthy Sweet Potato-Leek Gratin
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Leeks, Coarse Salt, Ground
Gratin is a classic holiday dish, but it's usually loaded with cream, cheese, and butter. This healthy sweet potato-leek gratin is a lighter and more nutritious option. It's made with sweet potatoes, leeks, and a touch of cheese and cream for a dish that is both creamy and flavorful.
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Skillet Candied Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Butter, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Salt
Another skillet dish that is perfect for a busy holiday meal, these candied sweet potatoes are a sweet and savory delight. The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and thyme creates a dish that is both delicious and easy to make.
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Thanksgiving Salad with Cranberry Poppy Seed...
Main Ingredients: Romaine Lettuce, Sweet Potato, Turkey, Crumbled Feta
If you're looking for a light and refreshing side dish for your Thanksgiving feast, look no further than this Thanksgiving salad with cranberry poppy seed dressing. This salad is made with a variety of greens, sweet potatoes, and a delicious homemade dressing that is tangy and sweet.
For those who can't imagine a Thanksgiving dinner without sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows, we've got you covered. This recipe for Thanksgiving sweet potatoes with marshmallows is a classic and crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone feeling nostalgic.
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Secret Ingredient Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Kosher Salt, Banana, Unsalted Butter
Looking for a unique and flavorful twist on your traditional sweet potato dish? This recipe for secret ingredient Thanksgiving sweet potatoes might just be the answer. The secret ingredient? A touch of bourbon for a hint of smokiness and depth of flavor.
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Roasted Thanksgiving Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Butter, Maple Syrup, Salt, Nutmeg
Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and creates a delicious caramelized exterior. This recipe for roasted Thanksgiving sweet potatoes is simple and easy to make, but the result is a dish that is bursting with flavor.
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Thanksgiving Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Orange Juice, Heavy Cream, Unsalted
If you're looking for a mashed sweet potato dish with a little more texture, these Thanksgiving smashed sweet potatoes are the way to go. They are made with a touch of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dish that is both sweet and savory.
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Thanksgiving Candied Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Water, Sugar, Salt, Butter
Another candied sweet potato dish, this recipe takes things a step further by adding a touch of bourbon and a sprinkle of pecans. It's a sweet and boozy dish that is perfect for the holiday season.
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Thanksgiving Pockets
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
If you're looking for a fun and creative way to serve sweet potatoes at your Thanksgiving dinner, these Thanksgiving pockets are the answer. They are made with sweet potatoes, cranberries, and a touch of brie cheese for a delicious and portable dish.
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Spicy Peanut Sweet Potato Soup
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Shallots, Garlic Cloves, Ancho Chile
Last but not least, we have a recipe for those who prefer a savory dish over a sweet one. This spicy peanut sweet potato soup is a unique and flavorful option for a holiday meal. The combination of sweet potatoes, peanut butter, and spices creates a soup that is rich, creamy, and oh so satisfying.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals
One of the main reasons why sweet potatoes are a healthy choice is because they are packed with vitamins and minerals. Vitamin A is the standout nutrient in sweet potatoes, providing over 400% of your daily recommended intake in just one serving. This vitamin is essential for healthy eyesight, a strong immune system, and healthy skin. Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and potassium, which is important for heart health.
High in Fiber
Sweet potatoes are also a good source of fiber, which is important for digestion and can help you feel full and satisfied after your Thanksgiving meal. One medium-sized sweet potato contains about 4 grams of fiber, which is about 16% of your daily recommended intake. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is especially important when indulging in other holiday treats.
Low in Calories
Despite their sweet taste, sweet potatoes are relatively low in calories, making them a great choice for a healthy Thanksgiving dish. One medium-sized sweet potato contains about 100 calories, compared to the traditional sweet potato casserole that can have over 400 calories per serving. By swapping out some of the less healthy ingredients, you can significantly reduce the calorie count of your sweet potato dish without sacrificing flavor.
Healthy Thanksgiving Sweet Potato Recipe
Now that you know the health benefits of sweet potatoes, here is a delicious and nutritious recipe that your guests will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes, then pierce them with a fork a few times.
3. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until they are soft and cooked through.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Cut them open and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl.
6. Add the olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the bowl and mash everything together with a fork or potato masher.
7. Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a baking dish and top with chopped pecans.
8. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the pecans are lightly toasted.
9. Serve and enjoy your healthy and delicious sweet potato dish!
With this healthier version of sweet potatoes, you can still enjoy this classic Thanksgiving dish without feeling guilty. Plus, the added nutrients and fiber will leave you feeling satisfied and energized to tackle the rest of your holiday festivities. Give this recipe a try and see for yourself how delicious and nutritious it can be.