Sharing laughs and a delicious meal with family and friends is my absolute favorite thing about Thanksgiving. Over the years, I’ve made some changes and adopted new habits that allow me to fill my heart without over filling my belly.
Lightening up classic side dishes is easily done by swapping out heavy animal products with veggie broth, olive oil, and seasoning. Whipping up mashed potatoes with broth and some garlic infused olive oil delivers loads of flavor without saturated fat to weigh you down. My green bean casserole no longer includes creamy soup or bacon, but mushrooms and water chestnuts boost the texture and fresh garlic clings to every bite with the help of plant based margerine. Beautiful butternut squash still shines when its mashed up with or without the same.
Aside from the selective changes made to classic side dishes, I’m also quite selective with the remainder of my culinary choices. If something is worth it to me (like dressing or pumpkin pie), I enjoy it guilt free. If not, then I don’t let a wasted choice go to my waist.