13 Healthy Recipes for Thanksgiving

“13 Healthy Recipes for Thanksgiving” offers a collection of delicious, nutritious dishes perfect for the holiday. From roasted vegetables to lightened-up casseroles and healthier dessert options, these recipes provide a balance of flavor and nutrition. Enjoy a festive meal without compromising on health this Thanksgiving season.

Vegan Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
This Vegan Thanksgiving Recipe provides a hearty, plant-based alternative for the holiday feast. It combines rich flavors like roasted vegetables and lentils to create a filling, nutritious dish suitable for vegan diets.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$12-$15

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
45 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
1 hour

Course:
Main or Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Vegan

Required Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Roasting pan

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Carrots (peeled and chopped): 2
• Sweet potatoes (cubed): 2 medium
• Brussels sprouts (halved): 1 cup
• Red onion (sliced): 1 medium
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Cooked lentils: 1 cup
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Fresh thyme: 2 tbsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. Add cooked lentils to the roasted vegetables and mix.
5. Serve warm.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sodium: 220mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• You can add cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a touch of sweetness.

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Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A hearty and flavorful gluten-free dish, this recipe offers a delightful blend of ingredients perfect for a Thanksgiving meal, making sure everyone can enjoy the feast without worry.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$15-$18

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
40 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
1 hour

Course:
Main or Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Gluten-Free

Required Equipment:

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Spoon

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Rice (cooked): 2 cups
• Chicken broth (gluten-free): 1 cup
• Mushrooms (chopped): 1 cup
• Onion (diced): 1 medium
• Celery (chopped): 2 stalks
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Fresh sage: 1 tsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pan, sauté onion, celery, and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
3. Add cooked rice, chicken broth, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes.
5. Serve hot.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• For extra richness, add shredded cheese or chopped nuts on top before baking.

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Paleo Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A Paleo-friendly Thanksgiving recipe that incorporates lean protein, seasonal vegetables, and healthy fats, ensuring your holiday meal is both nutritious and filling.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$20-$25

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
45 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
1 hour

Course:
Main Course

Cuisines:
American, Paleo

Required Equipment:

• Roasting pan
• Knife
• Baking sheet

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on): 6
• Butternut squash (cubed): 2 cups
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Fresh rosemary: 2 sprigs
• Garlic (whole): 1 bulb
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place chicken thighs on a roasting pan, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Arrange butternut squash and garlic around the chicken.
4. Roast for 40-45 minutes, until chicken is golden and squash is tender.
5. Serve with garlic and squash.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 21g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• You can substitute sweet potatoes or carrots for the butternut squash for a different flavor profile.

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Low-Carb Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A low-carb, flavorful Thanksgiving recipe featuring seasonal vegetables, making it perfect for those looking to reduce carbs while still enjoying a festive meal.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$12-$15

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
30 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
40 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Low-Carb

Required Equipment:

• Skillet
• Knife
• Spoon

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Cauliflower (florets): 4 cups
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Parmesan cheese (grated): ½ cup
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and roast for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 290mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• Add a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A dairy-free Thanksgiving recipe that ensures everyone can enjoy a traditional holiday meal. This dish features roasted vegetables and quinoa, packed with flavor and perfect for guests with dairy sensitivities.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$14-$18

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
40 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
55 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Dairy-Free

Required Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Roasting pan

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Carrots (peeled and sliced): 2
• Parsnips (peeled and sliced): 2
• Quinoa (cooked): 1 cup
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Fresh thyme: 2 tbsp
• Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, and thyme.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. Toss roasted vegetables with quinoa and serve warm.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sodium: 250mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

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Keto Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A Keto-friendly Thanksgiving recipe perfect for those on a low-carb, high-fat diet. This dish features a creamy cauliflower mash with crispy bacon for a satisfying, keto-approved side.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$12-$15

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
25 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
35 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Keto

Required Equipment:

• Pot
• Knife
• Skillet
• Potato masher or blender

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Cauliflower (cut into florets): 1 medium head
• Cream cheese (room temperature): 4 oz
• Heavy cream: ½ cup
• Bacon (cooked and crumbled): 4 slices
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Boil cauliflower florets in salted water for 10-15 minutes, until tender.
2. Drain and mash cauliflower until smooth.
3. Stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Top with crumbled bacon and serve.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbs: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 460mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• Add garlic or chives for extra flavor.

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Whole30 Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
This Whole30-compliant recipe offers a healthy, flavorful side of roasted brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, making it the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$14-$18

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
30 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
40 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Whole30

Required Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Brussels sprouts (halved): 2 cups
• Sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed): 2 medium
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Fresh rosemary: 2 sprigs

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and tender.
4. Serve warm.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 210mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• You can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

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High-Protein Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
This high-protein Thanksgiving recipe is a filling and flavorful option, featuring roasted turkey breast paired with a protein-packed quinoa salad with cranberries.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$20-$25

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
40 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
1 hour

Course:
Main Course

Cuisines:
American, High-Protein

Required Equipment:

• Roasting pan
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Turkey breast (boneless): 2 lbs
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Quinoa (cooked): 1 cup
• Dried cranberries: ½ cup
• Chopped almonds: ¼ cup

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub turkey breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 35-40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix cooked quinoa with cranberries and almonds.
5. Serve turkey breast with quinoa salad.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• For extra flavor, try adding a touch of honey to the quinoa salad.

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Roasted Veggie Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A simple yet delicious roasted vegetable medley featuring carrots, parsnips, and brussels sprouts, making this recipe a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving table.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$10-$12

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
30 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
40 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American

Required Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Carrots (peeled and cut into sticks): 2
• Parsnips (peeled and cut into sticks): 2
• Brussels sprouts (halved): 2 cups
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Serve hot.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 220mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• Add a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar before serving for extra flavor.

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Quinoa Stuffing Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A healthier take on traditional stuffing, this quinoa stuffing uses quinoa instead of bread, combined with vegetables and herbs for a savory, nutritious dish perfect for Thanksgiving.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$12-$15

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
30 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
40 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

Required Equipment:

• Pot
• Roasting pan
• Knife

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Quinoa (cooked): 2 cups
• Onion (diced): 1 medium
• Celery (diced): 2 stalks
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Fresh sage: 1 tbsp
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté onion and celery in olive oil until softened.
3. Add cooked quinoa, sage, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
5. Serve warm.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• Add chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Lentil Soup Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A hearty and flavorful lentil soup, perfect for a warm and nutritious start to your Thanksgiving meal. This recipe uses carrots, onions, and garlic, with a variety of herbs to make a cozy, comforting dish.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$10-$12

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
40 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
50 minutes

Course:
Starter/Soup

Cuisines:
American, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Required Equipment:

• Pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Green lentils: 1 cup
• Carrots (diced): 2
• Onion (diced): 1 medium
• Celery (diced): 2 stalks
• Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
• Vegetable broth: 4 cups
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Dried thyme: 1 tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Bay leaves: 2

Instructions in Steps:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté carrots, celery, onion, and garlic until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add lentils, broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Remove bay leaves and serve hot.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbs: 38g
• Fiber: 14g
• Sodium: 500mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• For added creaminess, blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in.

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Butternut Squash Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A roasted butternut squash dish that’s both sweet and savory, seasoned with olive oil, rosemary, and a touch of cinnamon. It’s the perfect fall vegetable to complement your Thanksgiving table.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$12-$15

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
40 minutes

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
50 minutes

Course:
Side Dish

Cuisines:
American, Vegetarian

Required Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Roasting pan

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Butternut squash (peeled and cubed): 1 medium
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Fresh rosemary (chopped): 2 tbsp
• Ground cinnamon: ¼ tsp
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes in olive oil, rosemary, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden.
5. Serve warm.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 160 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 300mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for added sweetness if desired.

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Turkey Breast Thanksgiving Recipe

Summary of the Recipe:
A simple and delicious turkey breast recipe, roasted to golden perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. This dish is perfect for a smaller Thanksgiving gathering or as a main for those who prefer turkey breast over a whole bird.

Servings:
6 servings

Estimated Cost:
$18-$22

Prep Time:
15 minutes

Cook Time:
1 hour

Total Time Taken to Prepare the Recipe:
1 hour 15 minutes

Course:
Main Course

Cuisines:
American, Thanksgiving

Required Equipment:

• Roasting pan
• Knife
• Meat thermometer

Ingredients and Their Quantity:

• Boneless turkey breast (about 2-3 lbs): 1
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Fresh rosemary: 2 tbsp
• Fresh thyme: 2 tbsp
• Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
• Salt: 1 tsp
• Black pepper: ½ tsp
• Lemon (sliced): 1
• Onion (quartered): 1 medium

Instructions in Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub turkey breast with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a roasting pan and surround with lemon slices and onion quarters.
4. Roast for 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve.

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg

Additional Notes/Tips:

• For extra crispy skin, broil the turkey breast for the last 5 minutes of cooking.