Deliciously Wholesome and Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Thanksgiving is around the corner, and you know what that means! Food, food and food (and maybe a bit of football). But for some of us trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle during the holiday season, Thanksgiving can be an especially challenging holiday to navigate.

Not to worry, though — We’ve got you covered with three wholesome and healthy side dish recipes that promise to satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your goals. Put on your aprons and get ready to impress your loved ones with these delicious and nutritious dishes.

Roasted Butternut Squash with Quinoa

Squash is a staple in Thanksgiving meals, but it often comes loaded with butter and sugar. This recipe offers a healthier alternative that will satisfy your cravings for something hearty and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a bowl, combine butternut squash, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt and pepper. Mix well.
3. Spread the squash mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is tender and slightly browned.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked quinoa with the roasted butternut squash. Add pumpkin seeds as a topping.

Garlic Parmesan Green Beans

This simple and tasty side dish is the perfect addition to any meal, especially Thanksgiving.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound green beans, trimmed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic in olive oil for 1 minute.
2. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for 7-10 minutes or until they are tender and slightly browned.
3. Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.

Sweet Potato and Spinach Salad

Packed with wholesome ingredients, this salad is the perfect blend of sweet and savory that will leave your taste buds craving more.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups baby spinach
• 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a bowl, mix sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix baby spinach with red onion and walnuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture.
5. Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the salad mixture. Serve chilled.

These healthy side dishes are not only perfect for Thanksgiving, but any time of year. With these recipes, you don’t have to sacrifice your health to enjoy delicious food during the holidays. So, go ahead and indulge guilt-free in these nutritious and flavorful dishes. Happy Thanksgiving!