4 Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes for the Whole Family

The Perfect Thanksgiving Feast

At Rising Phoenix Fitness, we believe that celebrating Thanksgiving doesn't have to mean indulging in unhealthy dishes that leave you feeling sluggish. We have curated a collection of nutritious and delicious recipes that will please everyone around the table, without compromising on taste. Prepare these healthy Thanksgiving recipes and nourish your body while enjoying the festive spirit!

1. Roasted Herb Turkey Breast

Kick-start your Thanksgiving feast with a flavorful and moist Roasted Herb Turkey Breast. This lean protein-packed dish is perfect for health-conscious individuals. Marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and spices, the turkey breast is then oven-roasted to perfection. Seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, it offers a burst of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1 boneless turkey breast (approx. 4-5 lbs)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pat the turkey breast dry with a paper towel and place it on a baking sheet.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, ensuring it is evenly coated.
5. Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

2. Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Add a vegetarian twist to your Thanksgiving table with this vibrant and hearty Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash. Packed with essential nutrients, this dish is a delightful combination of fluffy quinoa, seasonal vegetables, and fragrant herbs. The natural sweetness of acorn squash balances perfectly with the savory stuffing, creating a mouthwatering combination.

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the acorn squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side down. Bake for 25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In the meantime, rinse quinoa under cold water and drain.
4. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
5. Add quinoa, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried sage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove the quinoa from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and stir in dried cranberries and chopped pecans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Carefully fill the roasted acorn squash halves with the quinoa stuffing.
9. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is golden and the stuffing is heated through.

3. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Elevate your Thanksgiving side dish game with these Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts. These tender and caramelized sprouts are bursting with flavor and provide a wealth of essential nutrients. The tangy balsamic glaze adds a delightful twist to this classic vegetable, making it a crowd favorite at the dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
3. In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper, until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, stirring once halfway through.

4. Pumpkin Chia Pudding

End your Thanksgiving feast on a sweet and healthy note with this luscious Pumpkin Chia Pudding. Made with nutritious ingredients, this indulgent dessert is packed with vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. The subtle blend of pumpkin and warm spices creates a creamy and satisfying treat that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together almond milk, chia seeds, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the pudding has thickened.
3. Give the pudding a good stir before serving.
4. Garnish with your choice of toppings such as chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.

Join Rising Phoenix Fitness this Thanksgiving and enjoy a nourishing feast with these healthy recipes. Embrace a lifestyle of health, nutrition, and fitness, and let us be your trusted partner in your journey towards optimal well-being. Happy Thanksgiving!