Thanksgiving has always been special—a time to gather with loved ones, reflect on blessings, and share a meal that nourishes the soul and body. For me, it’s about more than turkey (though a perfectly roasted bird is divine). It’s about bringing health, wellness, and tradition together—a table that feeds gratitude and vitality. This year, my kitchen’s buzzing with excitement: two turkeys! My daughter is cooking her first turkey, and I couldn’t be prouder. One will be roasted to golden perfection, the other baked in our new pizza oven. Each bird will be seasoned with fresh herbs from my garden—homemade butter, sage, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon. Not only do they add flavor, but their antioxidants bring a health boost. Stuffing is sacred in my house, but I’ve given it a healthy twist. Out with white bread, in with whole-grain or wild rice for added fiber. Toss in celery, onions, apples, nuts, and dried fruit, and you’ve got a stuffing that rivals the turkey. Instead of butter, I use low-sodium broth and olive oil, creating a moist, hearty dish that’s second (or third!) plate-worthy. And the gravy? Rich, flavorful, and light. I skim the fat off turkey drippings, thicken it with whole-grain flour or cornstarch, and enhance with thyme, sage, and black pepper—no heavy cream needed. Mashed potatoes get a healthy upgrade with cauliflower or parsnips, while Greek yogurt or coconut milk adds creaminess without extra calories. Sweet potatoes? My mom’s baked and lightly fried version, finished with honey, cinnamon, and pecans, is a family treasure. (Though marshmallows might sneak in—my daughter insists!) Roasted vegetables like brussel sprouts, carrots, and squash bring vibrant color and crunch. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary, they’re topped with pumpkin seeds or pomegranate arils for a festive flair. Dessert stays simple: a pumpkin pie with almond flour crust for added fiber and healthy fats, and dark chocolate-dipped fruit for a lighter indulgence. Drinks are equally fresh—sparkling water with citrus slices, herbal teas, or light sangria with fresh fruit to keep everyone energized. My Thanksgiving plate is all about balance: half colorful veggies, a quarter lean turkey, and the rest for starchy sides like stuffing or sweet potatoes, rounded out with healthy fats. This year, I hope you’ll embrace a meal that’s delicious and nourishing. With creativity and wholesome ingredients, we can savor the holiday while fueling our bodies and souls. Here’s to gratitude, vitality, and the joy of togetherness. Happy Thanksgiving!
You can count me as envious. And hungry. Canadian Thanksgiving happens earlier in the year (it's a harvest festival, after all, and our harvests come earlier.) But that doesn't stop me from desperately wanting turkey and all the fixings when US Thanksgiving rolls around. Nor does it stop me from reflecting on a world where I have had more then my fair share of joy and good fortune. I'll be giving thanks north of the border.
What a beautiful blend of tradition and mindful eating! Love how you've transformed classic dishes with nutritious twists while keeping the heart of Thanksgiving intact. The mother-daughter turkey duo is especially touching - those cooking memories are priceless. Your attention to fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients proves holiday meals can be both nourishing and nostalgic. Thanks for sharing these thoughtful tips that honor both health and heritage. Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃🌿
I love it.. a few years ago my wife and I took over as the hosts for our extended family thanksgivings. we've taken all our old family recipes and slooowly made them a little more balanced and healthy. There's a little less butter involved than there used to be and a few more greens 😅
Happy Thanksgiving! One Thanksgiving dinner is challenging enough, but two turkeys and this level of thoughtfulness? It's inspiring—love the balance of tradition and health here.
It's good to see how you blend tradition with healthy, mindful choices. I'm also intrigued by the pizza oven!
Though we don't celebrate in Portugal, it's always beautiful to see Thanksgiving joy.
great message of gratitude, we are also hosting family and looking forward to it!
This post is making me hungry Lizanne! I am so looking forward to spending time with family tomorrow and .... eating! Happy thanksgiving!
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3wWow. You must be having a small army over to dinner. How fun. I loved hosting Thanksgiving when everyone came to dinner and we would have about 14 people. This year everyone is scattered around the globe. Thankfully, my daughter will be here with my wife and I. I'm looking forward to being able to connect deeply with her. When there is a big group, there are always a few who want to watch football and it can be distracting. Excited to have some one on one time with her this year.