Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, and indulging in delicious food. However, for those managing diabetes, the holiday can often feel daunting.
The traditional Thanksgiving feast typically includes dishes that are high in carbohydrates and sugars, which can make it challenging to enjoy the festivities without worry.
But it doesn’t have to be that way! With a little creativity and a focus on nutritious ingredients, you can create a delightful Thanksgiving spread that everyone can enjoy.
In this article, we’ll explore over 50 diabetic-friendly Thanksgiving recipes that will satisfy your taste buds while keeping blood sugar levels in check.
From savory main dishes and hearty sides to decadent desserts, these recipes are designed to bring joy to your holiday table without sacrificing health.
Get ready to impress your loved ones with flavorful dishes that are as good for your health as they are for your palate!
50+ Healthy Thanksgiving Diabetic Recipes for Your Healthy Life
Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude, love, and delicious food, and with these 50+ diabetic-friendly recipes, you can fully enjoy the holiday without compromising your health.
By embracing nutritious ingredients and exploring flavorful alternatives, you can create a Thanksgiving feast that caters to all dietary needs.
Whether you’re sharing a savory herb-roasted turkey, a vibrant green bean almondine, or a delightful pumpkin chia pudding, your holiday table will be filled with dishes that everyone will enjoy.
This Thanksgiving, let’s focus on what truly matters—making lasting memories with loved ones while savoring every delicious bite. Happy cooking, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter
This Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter is a centerpiece worthy of any Thanksgiving table. The herb-infused butter not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor of the turkey without excessive calories or carbs. Using fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage elevates this dish, making it both festive and healthy. This turkey is a great source of lean protein and will keep your blood sugar levels in check, ensuring that you enjoy the holidays without worry.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14-16 lb) whole turkey, thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Prepare Turkey: Remove the turkey giblets and neck. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
- Make Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix the softened butter with rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Season Turkey: Carefully lift the skin of the turkey and spread some herb butter directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the turkey.
- Stuff and Roast: Place the onion quarters inside the turkey cavity. Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
- Roast: Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
This Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter is not only a flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving meal but also a healthier option that accommodates diabetic dietary needs. The balance of protein and healthy fats from the herbs ensures a satisfying meal without spikes in blood sugar. Paired with low-carb side dishes, this turkey will impress your guests and make for a memorable holiday celebration.
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Chives
For a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, try this creamy Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Chives. This dish offers the same comforting texture but with significantly fewer carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those managing diabetes. The garlic adds a delightful flavor while the chives provide a fresh, onion-like taste, making this mash a perfect companion to your turkey or roast.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil Cauliflower: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cauliflower florets. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender.
- Sauté Garlic: In a small pan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Mash Cauliflower: Drain the cooked cauliflower and return it to the pot. Add the garlic butter, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender or a potato masher to mash the cauliflower until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add Chives: Stir in the chopped chives just before serving.
This Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Chives is a delightful twist on a Thanksgiving classic that allows those with diabetes to enjoy the festive meal without guilt. It’s creamy and flavorful, ensuring that you won’t miss traditional mashed potatoes. Rich in fiber and low in carbs, this dish is a smart choice for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels while indulging in holiday flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding
Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding is a nutritious and satisfying dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall while remaining diabetes-friendly. Chia seeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can aid in blood sugar control. The pumpkin puree adds sweetness and a wealth of vitamins, making this pudding a guilt-free treat that fits perfectly into your Thanksgiving menu.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup chia seeds
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or a sugar substitute
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- Optional toppings: walnuts, pecans, or cinnamon
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin spice.
- Mix Well: Stir the mixture thoroughly until the chia seeds are evenly distributed and there are no clumps.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to expand and thicken the pudding.
- Serve: Stir well before serving. Divide into serving dishes and top with walnuts or pecans if desired.
Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding is a wonderful way to enjoy dessert during Thanksgiving without compromising on health. This pudding is rich in fiber and packed with nutrients, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels while satisfying your sweet tooth. With its creamy texture and delicious autumnal flavor, it serves as a perfect ending to your holiday meal, allowing you to indulge in the spirit of the season without any dietary concerns.
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic side dish that brings a fresh and crunchy element to your Thanksgiving feast. This simple recipe features crisp-tender green beans sautéed with slivered almonds and a hint of lemon, making it a perfect complement to heavier dishes like roasted turkey. Rich in vitamins and low in calories, this dish is ideal for those managing their carbohydrate intake, providing essential nutrients without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
- Blanch Green Beans: In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
- Toast Almonds: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and toast them, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
- Sauté Green Beans: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the blanched green beans, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy.
Green Bean Almondine is a vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving spread that balances well with richer dishes. This side dish is packed with fiber and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their blood sugar. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic, combined with the nutty crunch of almonds, make it not only nutritious but also a deliciously satisfying way to celebrate the holiday.
Quinoa Stuffing with Dried Cranberries and Pecans
This Quinoa Stuffing with Dried Cranberries and Pecans is a wholesome, gluten-free alternative to traditional bread stuffing. Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that provides essential amino acids and fiber, promoting fullness without raising blood sugar levels. Combined with sweet dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, this stuffing offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make it a standout side dish on your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup diced mushrooms
- ½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, pecans, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and combine flavors.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.
This Quinoa Stuffing with Dried Cranberries and Pecans provides a healthy and festive alternative to traditional stuffing, making it a perfect choice for those with diabetes. Rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, it helps maintain steady blood sugar levels while delivering a satisfying taste experience. This dish not only nourishes but also adds a colorful and delicious touch to your Thanksgiving feast, pleasing both the palate and the eye.
Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
This Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a delightful dessert that brings the comforting flavors of autumn to your Thanksgiving celebration. Using naturally sweet apples and a crunchy oat topping, this recipe replaces refined sugars with a sugar substitute, making it a diabetic-friendly treat. With each bite, you’ll enjoy a warm, cozy dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping blood sugar levels in check.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup almond flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar substitute (or equivalent sweetener)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Apples: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice and cinnamon. Spread the apples evenly in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Make Topping: In another bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar substitute, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until crumbly.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
The Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of Thanksgiving while remaining diabetes-friendly. Packed with fiber from the apples and oats, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also supports healthy digestion and blood sugar control. Enjoy it warm, perhaps with a dollop of low-fat yogurt or whipped cream, for a perfect ending to your holiday meal that everyone at the table can appreciate.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a festive side dish that captures the essence of Thanksgiving while being mindful of diabetic dietary needs. Naturally sweet sweet potatoes are combined with spices and a crunchy pecan topping, making it a delightful addition to your holiday table. This casserole is not only lower in carbohydrates compared to traditional recipes, but it’s also high in fiber and vitamins, making it a nourishing option for everyone.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or sugar substitute
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute (or equivalent sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Add almond milk, melted butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, rolled oats, brown sugar substitute, melted butter, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the sweet potato mixture in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until heated through and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
This Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a perfect way to enjoy the rich flavors of the season without compromising your health. With its vibrant color and deliciously sweet flavor, it adds a festive touch to your Thanksgiving meal. Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, this dish is a wholesome choice that will satisfy guests of all dietary preferences while keeping blood sugar levels steady.
Herb-Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts
Herb-Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts is a vibrant and nutritious side dish that showcases the best of seasonal vegetables. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and enhances the nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a touch of elegance. This dish is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those with diabetes while still delivering on taste and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts and sliced carrots. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
- Season: Add chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss again until the vegetables are evenly coated with the herbs and oil.
- Roast: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Finish: If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving for added flavor.
Herb-Roasted Carrots and Brussels Sprouts is a colorful and flavorful side dish that brings both nutrition and taste to your Thanksgiving table. This dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while ensuring that your guests enjoy a low-carb option. The combination of roasted veggies and fresh herbs not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides essential nutrients that support overall health. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a delicious complement to your Thanksgiving feast.
Cranberry Orange Chia Jam
Cranberry Orange Chia Jam is a tangy and naturally sweet spread that makes an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving meal. This jam uses fresh cranberries and oranges, combined with chia seeds to thicken, resulting in a low-sugar alternative to traditional jams. Perfect for spreading on whole-grain bread or as a topping for desserts, this jam is not only easy to make but also a great way to enjoy the festive flavors of the season without spiking blood sugar levels.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup maple syrup or a sugar substitute
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Instructions:
- Cook Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup, and orange zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Chia Seeds: Stir in the chia seeds and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the jam to thicken further. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a bit more orange juice.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let the jam cool before transferring it to a jar or container. Refrigerate for up to two weeks.
Cranberry Orange Chia Jam is a delightful and health-conscious addition to your Thanksgiving spread. This jam captures the bright flavors of cranberries and oranges while offering a low-sugar option that fits well within diabetic dietary guidelines. The chia seeds provide added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, making this spread both nutritious and satisfying. Use it on your holiday table to complement various dishes, or enjoy it on whole-grain bread for a delightful treat that celebrates the season.
Savory Pumpkin Soup
Savory Pumpkin Soup is a warm and comforting dish that embodies the essence of fall. This recipe uses pureed pumpkin, which is rich in vitamins and low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a healthy Thanksgiving appetizer. Enhanced with aromatic spices and a touch of cream, this soup offers a rich and satisfying flavor without excessive carbohydrates. It’s perfect for warming up your guests and kicking off the Thanksgiving feast in a healthy way.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or fresh herbs
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Pumpkin and Spices: Stir in the pumpkin puree, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth and almond milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer it in batches to a blender.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with pumpkin seeds, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or fresh herbs if desired.
Savory Pumpkin Soup is a delightful way to welcome your guests to Thanksgiving dinner. This dish is not only low in calories but also packed with vitamins A and C, making it a nourishing option that supports overall health. The warm, comforting flavors combined with the creamy texture will surely impress everyone at the table while keeping blood sugar levels in check. Serve this soup as an elegant starter, and watch it disappear quickly!
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Herbs
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Herbs is a creamy, flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, making it a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving meal. This recipe is low in carbohydrates while offering a similar texture and taste to mashed potatoes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this classic comfort food without the guilt. Enhanced with roasted garlic and fresh herbs, this mash is both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place unpeeled garlic cloves on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, until soft. Allow to cool slightly, then squeeze the garlic out of the skins.
- Cook Cauliflower: In a large pot, steam or boil the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash: In a large bowl, combine the cooked cauliflower, roasted garlic, butter, almond milk, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with additional herbs if desired.
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Herbs is a fantastic way to enjoy the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes without the extra carbohydrates. This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for those managing diabetes. The combination of roasted garlic and fresh herbs adds depth of flavor, ensuring that it’s not just a substitute but a standout dish in its own right. Serve this delicious mash alongside your Thanksgiving turkey, and watch it become a new holiday favorite!
Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad
Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad is a refreshing and nutritious addition to your Thanksgiving spread. This salad features fresh pears, which are naturally sweet, paired with crunchy walnuts and a mix of greens. Dressed in a light vinaigrette with a hint of spice, this salad is not only visually appealing but also provides essential nutrients without raising blood sugar levels. It’s a perfect way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or kale)
- 2 ripe pears, sliced
- ½ cup walnuts, toasted
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar substitute
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toast Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced pears, toasted walnuts, feta cheese, and dried cranberries.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.
Spiced Pear and Walnut Salad is a delightful way to start your Thanksgiving meal with a burst of flavor and freshness. The combination of sweet pears, crunchy walnuts, and zesty dressing provides a perfect balance of textures and tastes while being low in carbohydrates. This salad is packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, making it a nourishing choice that supports overall well-being. It’s not only a beautiful addition to your table but also a delicious reminder that healthy eating can be festive and enjoyable.
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast is a succulent centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. This recipe features a juicy turkey breast seasoned with fresh herbs, ensuring flavor without the added sugars and excessive fats found in some traditional recipes. It’s a great source of lean protein, making it perfect for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake. The herbs not only enhance the taste but also provide additional health benefits, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 pounds) boneless turkey breast, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the turkey and season generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
- Add Herbs: In a small bowl, combine rosemary, thyme, and sage. Sprinkle the herb mixture over the turkey breast, pressing it into the skin.
- Roast: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth around it. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Slice: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast is a fantastic option for Thanksgiving, offering a healthy yet flavorful main dish that everyone will love. Packed with lean protein and essential vitamins, this turkey is perfect for those managing their blood sugar levels without sacrificing taste. The aromatic herbs elevate the dish, making it a memorable part of your holiday feast. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy the compliments from your guests!
Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic side dish that brings a fresh and vibrant element to your Thanksgiving spread. This dish features tender green beans sautéed with almonds and garlic, providing a satisfying crunch and rich flavor. It’s not only visually appealing but also a great source of fiber and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
- Blanch Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
- Toast Almonds: In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced almonds. Toast for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and Serve: Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic and oil. Stir in the lemon juice, toasted almonds, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve warm.
Green Bean Almondine is a delightful and nutritious side dish that enhances your Thanksgiving meal with its bright colors and satisfying textures. This dish is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a wonderful option for those managing diabetes. The combination of sautéed garlic, toasted almonds, and fresh lemon juice elevates the flavor profile, making this side a standout on the holiday table. Enjoy this healthy twist on a classic dish and share the joy of good health with your loved ones!
Pumpkin Chia Pudding
Pumpkin Chia Pudding is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of fall while being kind to your blood sugar. This recipe combines chia seeds, which are rich in fiber and healthy fats, with pureed pumpkin and warm spices for a creamy, satisfying treat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a festive dessert that is low in sugar yet full of flavor, making it perfect for your Thanksgiving gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or sugar substitute
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond milk, pumpkin puree, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.
- Serve: Once the pudding has set, stir well before serving. You can top it with nuts, coconut flakes, or additional pumpkin spice for extra flavor.
Pumpkin Chia Pudding is a delicious and nutritious dessert that captures the essence of Thanksgiving without the added sugar. Rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, this pudding not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also contributes to your overall health. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends during the holiday. Indulge in this delightful dessert, and make it a staple for your Thanksgiving celebrations!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
