Thanksgiving is just a few weeks away (insert praise hands emoji).
However, many people may be wondering how they’ll stay on track with their health goals. After all, it’s simply not Thanksgiving without some of the traditional yummies.
Unfortunately, these delicious dishes can wreak havoc on your waistline and all your hard work.
To that end, we’ve crafted a list of six recipe swaps your body and tastebuds will appreciate.
HEALTHIER VERSIONS OF THANKSGIVING FAVORITES
Food at Thanksgiving tends to be loaded with unhealthy ingredients. Here are six simple Turkey Day alternatives that your guests won’t even notice.
1. GREEK YOGURT VEGGIE DIP
The one healthy dish you’re likely to find at the Thanksgiving table is a vegetable tray. But all those health benefits fly right out the window when you add fatty dips. Instead of your traditional vegetable dip, try a Greek yogurt dip.
Simply replace the sour cream with nonfat plain Greek yogurt. It may sound crazy, but doing this creates the same texture and a very similar taste. No one will know the difference.
2. MASHED CAULIFLOWER
Before you skip over this one (we know, you just can’t beat mashed potatoes), give it a chance.
Try this delicious rosemary garlic mashed cauliflower from The Cookie Rookie. This healthy and tasty alternative won’t disappoint.
3. ROASTED SWEET POTATOES
Candied yams are a popular side dish at Thanksgiving. But each half-cup serving contains 215 calories. And let’s be honest… who really stops at half a cup?
Try replacing candied yams with roasted sweet potatoes. Roasting instead of boiling them brings out their natural sweet flavor, and each serving is only 100 calories. Sweet potatoes are also full of vitamins and nutrients.
4. WHITE MEAT TURKEY
And now we get to the star of the Thanksgiving show: the turkey. Dark meat has about twice the amount of fat and 40 percent more calories than meat from the breast. The skin also adds calories, so stick to skinless white meat portions.
5. HOMEMADE STUFFING
Traditional store-bought stuffing is made with butter and white bread—the epitome of fattening. This year, make your own. Not only will it be healthier in general, but you’ll also be in control of each ingredient.
For a delicious stuffing, sauté celery, onions, and any other veggies you love in olive oil. Then add whole-grain bread, low-sodium chicken broth for moisture, and any of your favorite herbs.
6. FRESH GREEN BEANS
Another Thanksgiving staple is green bean casserole. It may sound healthy, but it’s full of unhealthy ingredients. Instead of making a casserole, steam fresh green beans and add slivered almonds, healthy oils, and seasonings.
STAYING FIT DURING THE HOLIDAYS
In addition to making healthy food choices, it’s important to remember to squeeze in some exercise between all the holiday festivities. Reach out to Amarillo Town Club to stay fit this season. We’re closed on Thanksgiving Day, but we’ll return to normal business hours the day after.
