November brings thoughts of fall colors, warm hearty foods, and cozy nights by the fire. It also reminds us that a bountiful Thanksgiving awaits us!

The holidays don’t have to mean over-indulgence or the end of your efforts towards a healthier lifestyle. Try including some of the following delicious foods in your holiday cooking.

Healthy Thanksgiving Menus Ideas

Add Nutrition to Stuffing and Side dishes: Mix in celery, onions, mushrooms, carrots, beans and even raisins and apples to boost fiber and flavor. See Recipe below!

Turkey: White meat is the leanest and dark has a higher fat content. Go easy on gravy!

Cranberry Sauce – Go natural! Fresh Cranberry sauce is a cinch to prepare, has a much fresher and delicious flavor.

Lighten-up! Use lower fat versions of sour cream, substitute plain yogurt in creamy dips and mashed potatoes. Try olive or canola oil instead of butter for a heart healthier fat option.

Vegetarian delights – with more than seven million vegetarians nationwide, it’s likely you’ll have a vegetarian guest. Combine grains like quinoa, amaranth, millet and barley with bell peppers, apples, dried apricots and nuts for a dish all of your guests will want to try.