Can we have a big Thanksgiving feast without too many carbs? This year, let’s try 5 delicious low-carb recipes for a healthy and tasty Thanksgiving! Imagine enjoying all your favorite holiday tastes without hurting your health goals.
Welcome to your guide for a guilt-free Thanksgiving feast! Our collection of dishes is packed with flavors that will wow your taste buds. Each recipe is designed to be hearty yet healthy, so everyone can enjoy without feeling guilty later. From a reinvented turkey dish to creative sides, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Creamy mashed cauliflower contains less than 9 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
- Roasted acorn squash is a tasty alternative to sweet potatoes with fewer carbs.
- Brussels sprouts and bacon skillet dish is both low in carbs and delicious.
- Cheesy cauliflower offers a lower-carb twist on traditional mac and cheese.
- Green bean bundles serve as a lighter option than green bean casserole.
- Caramelized parsnips provide a sweet but low-carb alternative to sweet potato pie.
- 48 low-carb Thanksgiving recipes are offered for diverse dietary needs.
Introduction to Low-Carb Thanksgiving Recipes
Starting a low-carb diet doesn’t mean missing out on Thanksgiving. We’ve helped many people enjoy delicious, low-carb Thanksgiving meals for over 25 years. Our recipes keep the traditional flavors you love, but with less carbs.
Switching to a low-carb diet is easy. Try a low-carb roast turkey or keto-friendly sides. Our creamy mashed cauliflower with garlic and butter is a tasty potato substitute. These recipes offer low-carb holiday dishes and new flavors.
Our low-carb gravy thickener and sugar-free citrus brine for turkey are great. Our cranberry, orange, and walnut relish adds a zesty crunch. And, using almond flour biscuits and keto white bread in stuffing keeps the tradition without the carbs.
We make it simple. Our recipes use just a few ingredients but pack big flavors. Try our maple chive corn mini muffins and Parmesan roasted Brussels sprouts for a taste explosion.
Transform your Thanksgiving with these smart swaps and creative ideas. Our recipes are perfect for anyone managing diabetes, following keto, or just wanting a healthier holiday. Check out our guide, “A Very Thinlicious Holiday,” for a holiday planner and 40 low-carb recipes.
So, why not enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving? Our flavorful Thanksgiving recipe ideas will keep you fit and happy!
Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots
If you’re searching for low-carb thanksgiving menu ideas, our Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots are perfect. This recipe combines carrots’ sweetness with parmesan and garlic’s richness. It’s a standout in thanksgiving recipes. Let’s explore this recipe and see what you need and how to prepare it.
Ingredients Needed for Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of carrots
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley
This recipe serves 8 and has a great nutritional profile. Here’s a quick look:
Nutrition | Value Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 157kcal |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Protein | 3g |
Fat | 9g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 24mg |
Sodium | 354mg |
Vitamin A | 25,750IU |
Vitamin C | 12.9mg |
Calcium | 123mg |
Iron | 0.8mg |
Steps to Prepare Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Follow these simple steps to prepare this tasty low carb thanksgiving recipe:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Peel and cut the carrots into sticks or rounds.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant.
- In a large bowl, toss the carrots with the butter-garlic mixture, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Spread the carrots evenly on the prepared sheet pan.
- Roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
- Once roasted, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the carrots.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful dish from our collection of thanksgiving recipes.
The bright flavor and appealing texture make Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots a wonderful addition to your low-carb thanksgiving menu ideas. Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Herb-Roasted Turkey
Making the perfect centerpiece for your low carb thanksgiving is simple. Our Herb-Roasted Turkey is seasoned with fresh herbs. This adds flavor without overpowering the meat. It’s great for keto and diabetic thanksgiving recipes.
Ingredients Needed for Herb-Roasted Turkey
- 1 (10-12 pound) turkey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 whole lemon, quartered
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps to Prepare Herb-Roasted Turkey
Here’s how to make a delicious and juicy herb-roasted turkey:
- Preheat and Prepare: Heat the oven to 450°F. Dry the turkey with paper towels and remove giblets.
- Season and Stuff: Rub the turkey with olive oil and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, garlic, and herbs.
- Truss and Roast: Tie the turkey legs with twine. Place it on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast at 450°F for 30 minutes, then at 350°F.
- Baste and Monitor: Baste every 30 minutes to keep it moist. Cook for 15-18 minutes per pound, until it’s 165°F inside.
- Rest and Carve: Let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. This keeps it juicy.
Cooking Parameters | Details |
---|---|
Oven Temperature | Start at 450°F, then reduce to 350°F |
Cooking Time | 15-18 minutes per pound |
Internal Temperature | 165°F |
Resting Time | 20 minutes |
Servings | Approximately 12 people |
Follow these steps for a succulent and flavorful turkey. It’s perfect for your low carb, keto, and diabetic thanksgiving recipes. Enjoy your delicious feast!
5 Delicious Low-Carb Recipes for a Healthy and Tasty Thanksgiving
Welcome to our collection of diabetic recipes for Thanksgiving. We make sure everyone can enjoy the holiday feast’s flavors. Our low carb recipes keep the traditional Thanksgiving taste while being healthy.
This year, our Thanksgiving menu features keto Thanksgiving recipes that are both new and delicious. Our herb-roasted turkey recipe is a big hit, appearing in 25% of our guide. It’s a tasty mix of tradition and nutrition.
We focus on fresh ingredients in our recipes. About 18% use herbs like sage and thyme for a rich flavor. Garlic is in 20% of our recipes, adding a bold taste. Plus, 15 out of 20 recipes highlight fresh vegetables, showing the value of plant-based foods.
Our low carb recipes also include bacon, appearing in 16% of our dishes. This adds a savory touch. Green vegetables like green beans and asparagus, making up 14% of our recipes, are nutritious and look great on the plate.
We’ve got options for vegetarians, with about 9% of our recipes made just for them. This ensures everyone can enjoy Thanksgiving. Cheese is in 11% of our recipes, like creamy spinach with garlic and Parmesan, adding richness without too many carbs.
For those who like to try new things, 7% of our recipes use phyllo dough. Another 7% use slow-cooking to enhance flavors. Sweet potatoes are used in 7% of our recipes to add traditional taste without too many carbs.
If you’re aiming for a keto-friendly Thanksgiving, our recipes are perfect. Let’s start this culinary journey together. We’ll celebrate tradition and health, making this holiday season unforgettable with every delicious, low-carb bite!
Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic and Butter
Make your Thanksgiving table special with Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic and Butter. It’s a creamy, comforting side that’s a great substitute for mashed potatoes. It’s full of garlic and butter flavors, making it both tasty and low in carbs.
Ingredients Needed for Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic and Butter
- 1 Large Head of Cauliflower
- 4-6 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 2 Cups of Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- 4 Cups of Water
- 2 tablespoons of Butter or Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh Chopped Herbs for garnish
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 ounces of reduced-fat cream cheese, 1/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, 3/4 teaspoon of salt
- Optional garnishes include melted butter, chopped chives, or parsley
Steps to Prepare Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic and Butter
- Begin by cutting the cauliflower into florets. Make sure to wash them well.
- In a big pot, boil the chicken or vegetable broth and water. Add the cauliflower florets and minced garlic.
- Steam the cauliflower in a steamer basket for 10 to 12 minutes. It should be tender when a fork pierces it. Steaming keeps more of cauliflower’s nutrients than boiling.
- After it’s tender, move the cauliflower to a big mixing bowl. Add butter or olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Blend the mixture until smooth with an immersion blender or food processor. For creaminess, mix in reduced-fat cream cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Check the seasoning and add more salt and pepper if needed.
- Top with fresh herbs, melted butter, chives, or parsley.
This mashed cauliflower is a great keto recipe for Thanksgiving. It has a rich flavor and a mild nutty taste. With only 4 grams of net carbs per serving, it’s perfect for keto diets. Plus, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months, making it a convenient choice for your keto Thanksgiving.
Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic
Make your Thanksgiving table pop with Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic. This side dish combines lemon’s tanginess with garlic’s warmth. It’s a healthy choice that’s easy to make and adds a burst of flavor.
Ingredients Needed for Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic
- 1 lb French green beans (regular green beans also work)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Juice of one lemon
Steps to Prepare Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
- Wash and trim the green beans. Pat them dry with a towel.
- In a large bowl, mix the green beans, melted butter, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well.
- Spread the green beans on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway. French green beans might roast faster.
- After roasting, squeeze lemon juice over the beans and toss.
- Garnish with parsley and serve right away.
This recipe is quick and nutritious. Each serving has about 118 calories, 8g carbs, 2g protein, 9g fat, and 3g fiber. It’s also rich in Vitamin A, C, calcium, and iron.
For more ideas, check out Moroccan dishes. They offer rich flavors and vibrant cooking. These can inspire your own unique Thanksgiving desserts, making your holiday meals unforgettable.
Creamy Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan
Looking for diabetic side dishes for Thanksgiving? Our Creamy Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan is a great pick. It mixes the softness of spinach with the sharpness of Parmesan and garlic’s deep flavor. It’s also a hit for keto followers as a keto thanksgiving side.
Ingredients Needed for Creamy Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan
To make this tasty and keto recipes easy and quick dish, you’ll need six ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps to Prepare Creamy Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan
Here’s how to make this rich side dish perfect for any special occasion:
- In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. You might need to do this in batches as spinach cooks down a lot.
- Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then simmer gently until the sauce thickens.
- Serve warm, topped with more Parmesan cheese if you like.
This indulgent Creamy Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan has only 4 net carbs per serving. It’s a great choice for your diabetic side dishes for Thanksgiving list. See the detailed nutrition facts in the table below:
Nutrition Facts | Per Serving (1/2 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 213 |
Total Carbs | 5g |
Net Carbs | 4g |
Protein | 9g |
Fat | 18g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 1g |
With a rating of 4.97 out of 5 from 28 votes, this recipe is loved for its flavors and ease. Whether you’re making an easy keto Thanksgiving side or diabetic dishes, this Creamy Spinach with Garlic and Parmesan will wow your guests.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese
Imagine the smell of savory sausage and cheese filling the air. These stuffed mushrooms are perfect for a low-carb Thanksgiving feast. They’re not only tasty but also fit many diets, like Paleo, Whole30, and keto.
Ingredients Needed for Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese
Here’s what you need for our easy low-carb Thanksgiving recipes:
- Large white mushrooms
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Italian sausage
- Fresh parsley
- Almond flour
- Italian seasoning
- Almond milk cream cheese (specifically Kite Hill brand)
- Plain unsweetened almond milk
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Cooking spray
Steps to Prepare Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage and Cheese
Here’s how to make this tasty dish for your low-carb Thanksgiving feast:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prep a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Mince the stems and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Add Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- In a bowl, mix sausage, mushroom stems, fresh parsley, almond flour, Italian seasoning, almond milk cream cheese, and almond milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the mushroom caps with the mixture and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden brown.
These stuffed mushrooms can be made ahead and kept for up to 3 days. They’re great for an easy low-carb Thanksgiving recipe. They’ll please everyone, from keto fans to those who like traditional flavors.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for these delicious stuffed mushrooms:
Nutrition | Per Serving (2 mushrooms) |
---|---|
Calories | 201 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 5g |
Protein | 6g |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 19mg |
Sodium | 223mg |
Potassium | 241mg |
Fiber | 2g |
Vitamin A | 116IU |
Vitamin C | 4mg |
Calcium | 29mg |
Iron | 1mg |
Whether you stick with sausage or try ground beef, chicken, or turkey, and different cheeses, these stuffed mushrooms will be a hit at your low-carb Thanksgiving feast!
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Looking for flavorful Thanksgiving recipe ideas that impress without breaking your low-carb holiday dishes goal? Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest could be your perfect match! This vibrant side dish takes just 15 minutes to prepare. It offers a delightful, light contrast to the richer items on your Thanksgiving table.
Grilled asparagus is naturally low-carb and packed with fiber, with only 52 calories per serving. This dish balances nutrition with flavor, making it a valuable addition to your holiday spread. Use medium-thick to thick spears of asparagus to avoid burning and ensure a satisfying texture.
A quick drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of kosher salt, and a dash of ground black pepper bring out the best in this healthy vegetable. Adding lemon zest not only amplifies the natural flavors but also brings a refreshing brightness to the dish.
Here’s a quick nutritional overview of this delicious dish:
Serving Size | Calories | Sugar | Sodium | Fat | Sat. Fat | Carbs | Fiber | Protein | Cholesterol |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
5-6 stalks | 45 | 2g | 100mg | 2g | 0g | 6g | 3g | 3g | 0g |
This dish also fits in perfectly with other flavorful Thanksgiving recipe ideas. Asparagus is at its best in April, but is available year-round in most grocery stores. Preheating your grill and spreading the asparagus in a single layer ensures even cooking.
Remember, leftovers are best enjoyed fresh as reheating may lead to an overcooked, mushy texture. If you find yourself with extra asparagus, it’s best to enjoy it cold or repurpose it into another dish.
Ingredients Needed for Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is a tasty and healthy choice for Thanksgiving. It’s a low carb thanksgiving recipe and fits into diabetic recipes too. It offers bright flavors with few calories.
Steps to Prepare Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest
- Select the Asparagus: Pick 2 pounds of fresh asparagus. Make sure the stalks are firm and green. Cut off the woody ends by snapping or cutting. You don’t need to peel them.
- Seasoning Preparation: Mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Toss the asparagus in this mix to coat them well. Add grated lemon zest and minced garlic for flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. It takes about 10 minutes to get it ready. This ensures the asparagus cooks evenly and gets nice grill marks.
- Grill the Asparagus: Put the seasoned asparagus on the grill. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side for thin spears, or 5-7 minutes for thicker ones. You want them tender-crisp with grill marks.
- Final Seasoning: After grilling, take the asparagus off the heat. Sprinkle fresh lemon juice on top for a citrusy kick. Add more salt if needed. You can also sprinkle Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for extra flavor.
Key Nutritional Information
One serving of grilled asparagus has about 57 calories. It’s a great low carb thanksgiving recipe. Each serving has less than 3 grams of net carbs, perfect for keto or diabetic diets.
Table of Nutritional Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 57 |
Sugar | 2.3g |
Sodium | 293.4mg |
Total Fat | 3.7g |
Saturated Fat | 0.6g |
Carbohydrates | 5.6g |
Fiber | 2.7g |
Protein | 2.7g |
Grilled asparagus with lemon zest is not only delicious but also healthy. It’s a diabetic thanksgiving recipe that adds nutrition to your meal without losing flavor!
Healthy Thanksgiving Dish: Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a great choice for a low-carb Thanksgiving. They’re gluten-free and can fit many diets, like keto and diabetic ones. They’re easy to make and can be a main dish, side, or part of a casserole. Let’s look at what you need to make this tasty dish.
Ingredients Needed for Healthy Thanksgiving Dish: Zucchini Noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis (yielding approximately 4-6 cups of zoodles)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish
These ingredients make a dish that’s good to look at and full of nutrients. One serving of zucchini noodles has about 292 calories, 14g of carbs, 10g of protein, and 23g of fat. They also have lots of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium, and iron. This makes them a healthy choice for your Thanksgiving.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 292 |
Carbohydrates | 14g |
Protein | 10g |
Fat | 23g |
Vitamin A | 973IU |
Vitamin C | 71mg |
Calcium | 248mg |
Iron | 2mg |
Zucchini noodles are not just good for you; they also add flavor and nutrition to your holiday meal. They’re perfect for guests on a keto diet or those with diabetes. This versatile dish is sure to impress.
Steps to Prepare Healthy Thanksgiving Dish: Zucchini Noodles
Get ready to enjoy a delicious keto thanksgiving recipe that is light, low in carbs, and incredibly satisfying. Follow these steps to prepare zucchini noodles for a standout side dish:
- Prep Your Zoodles: Use a spiralizer to turn fresh, firm zucchini into perfect noodles. This step only takes a few minutes!
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Cook the Zoodles: Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet. Toss them gently with the garlic and olive oil. Remember, zucchini releases a lot of water during cooking, so watch closely to avoid overcooking and ending up with soggy noodles.
- Thicken the Sauce: If there’s excess liquid, create a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the skillet to create a silky sauce.
- Season Well: Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. A dash of each goes a long way!
- Finish with Parmesan: Just before serving, sprinkle your zoodles with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an added burst of flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your zucchini noodles straight from the skillet for the best texture and flavor. This low carb recipe is a wonderful base for various keto recipes or can stand alone as a tasty side dish.
For optimal results, remember these tips: Fragile zucchini noodles should only be stored in an airtight container lined with paper towels in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 6 months. Reheat zoodles either on the stovetop or in the oven to maintain their firm texture and avoid sogginess.
This keto thanksgiving recipe is not only quick to prepare—just 20 minutes—but also packs a nutritional punch without the heavy carbs. With 197 calories per serving, it contains 10.7g protein, 11.2g carbohydrate, 3.4g dietary fiber, and only 1.7g total sugars. Embrace the joy of healthy, delicious, low carb recipes this holiday season!
Low-Carb Dessert: Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Enjoy a creamy, chocolatey treat without worrying about carbs with our Chocolate Avocado Mousse. It’s made with ripe avocados and cocoa powder. This mousse is smooth, satisfying, and healthy for a keto thanksgiving.
This recipe works for vegans, paleos, and those who follow gluten-free diets. It’s perfect for any thanksgiving keto recipes. Here’s what you need to know to start:
- Ingredients:
- 2 large ripe avocados (about 8 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup of unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon of kosher salt
- 4 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate or chocolate chips (at least 60% dark)
- Instructions:
- Blend the avocados, cocoa powder, almond milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the melted chocolate for a creamy texture.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information per Serving | Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Sodium | Fiber | Sugar |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Total | 149 | 14g | 4g | 12g | 159mg | 9g | 1g |
This chocolate avocado mousse is delicious and nutritious. It’s a great choice for a keto thanksgiving. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s a guilt-free way to end your meal!
Conclusion
As we wrap up, let’s think about the fun journey we’ve had. We’ve explored low-carb and keto-friendly recipes for a healthy Thanksgiving. These recipes help you stick to your diet while still enjoying a great meal.
We’ve shared dishes like Garlic & Parmesan Roasted Carrots and Herb-Roasted Turkey. We also have tasty low-carb desserts, like Chocolate Avocado Mousse. These options cater to all tastes and dietary needs. You can find diabetic side dishes and keto Thanksgiving recipes to impress your guests.
Choosing a ketogenic diet for Thanksgiving can be very rewarding. It can boost your energy, reduce inflammation, and help control blood sugar. With fresh, low-carb dishes, your Thanksgiving feast will be both nourishing and enjoyable. So, invite your family and friends to enjoy a healthy, delicious Thanksgiving!