10 Best Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes Everyone Will be Grateful For!

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s easy to get caught up in the traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations – rich, buttery mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and of course, the star of the show: the golden-brown turkey.

While these classic recipes are undoubtedly delicious, they can also be a nutritional nightmare, loaded with unhealthy fats, added sugars, and excessive salt. But fear not, dear readers! This year, we’re shaking things up with a collection of healthy Thanksgiving recipes that are just as flavorful and satisfying as their traditional counterparts, but with a clean eating twist.

From vegan “turkey” made from plant-based protein sources to sweet potato casserole with a hint of cinnamon and a crunchy pecan topping, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to help you create a balanced, wholesome feast that will leave everyone feeling grateful and nourished.

Quinoa Stuffing with Vegetables and Herbs

Quinoa stuffing with vegetables and herbs is a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional stuffing. Packed with protein, fiber, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish brings a healthy twist to your Thanksgiving table. The aromatic herbs elevate the taste, making it a perfect complement to roasted turkey or as a standalone dish for a vegetarian feast.

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1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water and drain. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. 2. While the quinoa is cooking, dice 1 onion, 2 carrots, and 1 bell pepper. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender. 3. Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet along with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine. 4. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a large baking dish, and if desired, top with chopped fresh parsley. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. Serve warm.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze is a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving table, offering a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the sprouts, enhancing their earthiness, while the balsamic glaze adds a rich, sweet finish. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for clean eating enthusiasts.

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1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. 3. Toss the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until they are well-coated. 4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. 5. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar over medium heat and simmer until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. 6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts and toss gently before serving. 7. Enjoy this tasty, healthy side dish as part of your Thanksgiving feast!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish perfect for a healthy Thanksgiving feast. Packed with fiber and protein, this salad combines roasted sweet potatoes with hearty black beans, making it both filling and satisfying. Tossed in a zesty lime dressing, it offers a delicious balance of flavors that will impress your guests.

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1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). 2. Peel and cube 2 medium sweet potatoes, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. 3. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned. 4. In a large bowl, combine 1 can of rinsed and drained black beans, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1/4 cup of chopped red onion. 5. Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before adding them to the bowl. 6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 limes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. 7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. 8. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Olive Oil

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast with Olive Oil is a delectable and healthy main dish perfect for Thanksgiving. This recipe features lean turkey breast seasoned with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, resulting in a juicy and flavorful centerpiece. Not only is it a clean-eating option, but it also brings a festive aroma and taste to your holiday table.

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1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. 3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. 4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s evenly coated. 5. Place the turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan. 6. Roast for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). 7. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute. 8. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy Thanksgiving meal!

Cauliflower Mashed ‘Potatoes’ with Garlic

Cauliflower Mashed ‘Potatoes’ with Garlic is a delightful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, bringing flavor and health to your Thanksgiving table. This creamy dish is made with steamed cauliflower, blended until smooth, and infused with roasted garlic for a rich, savory taste. It’s a low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on comfort, making it perfect for anyone seeking a clean eating recipe this holiday season.

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1. Begin by washing and chopping one head of cauliflower into florets. 2. Steam the cauliflower florets until they are tender, about 10-12 minutes. 3. While the cauliflower is steaming, roast 4-6 cloves of garlic in a small bit of olive oil until golden and soft, approximately 10 minutes. 4. Once the cauliflower is cooked, drain any excess water and transfer it to a blender or food processor. 5. Add the roasted garlic, salt, pepper, and a splash of unsweetened almond milk or chicken broth for creaminess. 6. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. 7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. 8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk and Spices

Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk and Spices is a deliciously creamy and warm dish perfect for a healthy Thanksgiving feast. This soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the richness of coconut milk, creating a comforting bowl that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With warming spices like ginger and cumin, this recipe offers a delightful twist that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

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1. Start by peeling and chopping 1 medium pumpkin into cubes. Sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in a large pot with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until softened. 2. Add the pumpkin cubes, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 can of coconut milk, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. 3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender. 4. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree the soup until smooth. 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Green Bean Casserole with Almonds and Garlic

Green Bean Casserole with Almonds and Garlic is a wholesome twist on the classic dish, perfect for a healthy Thanksgiving feast. This recipe brings together crisp green beans, toasted almonds, and fragrant garlic, creating a flavorful and nutritious side dish. It’s a clean-eating alternative that adds vibrant color and taste to your holiday table.

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1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Blanch fresh green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp, then drain and set aside. 3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. 4. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic. 5. Transfer the green beans to a baking dish, then sprinkle with toasted almonds. 6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until heated through and the almonds are slightly golden. 7. Serve warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.

Cranberry Sauce with Fresh Orange and Ginger

Cranberry Sauce with Fresh Orange and Ginger is a vibrant and zesty addition to any Thanksgiving feast. This healthy take on the classic dish combines the tartness of cranberries with the refreshing citrus notes of fresh orange and a hint of warming ginger. Perfect for clean eating enthusiasts, this sauce not only enhances flavor but also adds a nutritious element to your holiday meal.

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1. In a medium saucepan, combine 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, the zest and juice of one orange, and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger. 2. Add 1/2 cup of honey or maple syrup for sweetness and 1/2 cup of water to the mix. 3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens. 4. Remove from heat and let cool before serving. Enjoy your healthy cranberry sauce!

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes

Zucchini noodles with pesto and cherry tomatoes offer a vibrant and healthy twist to traditional pasta dishes. This light and refreshing meal is perfect for those looking to enjoy a clean eating option during the Thanksgiving festivities. Bursting with flavor and nutrition, it’s a dish that will satisfy both your taste buds and your dietary goals.

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1. Using a spiralizer, turn the zucchinis into noodles and set aside. 2. In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and parmesan cheese to create the pesto, blending until smooth. 3. In a skillet, lightly sauté the zucchini noodles on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until just softened. 4. Toss the zucchini noodles with the prepared pesto and halved cherry tomatoes. 5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or cheese if desired.

Apple Crisp with Oats and Maple Syrup

Apple Crisp with Oats and Maple Syrup is a delightful and wholesome dessert perfect for Thanksgiving. This healthy version combines sweet, tart apples with a crunchy oat topping, sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup. It’s not only delicious but also a guilt-free way to enjoy a festive treat.

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1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a large bowl, slice and core about 4-5 medium apples, then toss them with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon. 3. In another bowl, mix 1 cup of rolled oats, 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, and a dash of salt. 4. Spread the apple mixture in a baking dish and top it evenly with the oat mixture. 5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. 6. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy your healthy dessert!