Holiday Recipe Swaps: A Healthier Take on Thanksgiving Classics

The holidays are a time to celebrate, gather, and indulge in beloved traditions. But they don’t have to derail your health goals. With a few thoughtful swaps, you can enjoy Thanksgiving favorites while keeping your plate nutrient-dense and blood-sugar friendly. Here are The Lanby Care Team’s favorite takes on holiday comfort food.

Swap Mashed Potatoes for Cauliflower Mash

Why it works: Cauliflower provides a lighter, lower-carb base without sacrificing creaminess. Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, it pairs beautifully with garlic and herbs.
Try this: Steam cauliflower until tender, then blend with a splash of bone broth, roasted garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil for a silky, nutrient-rich mash. We also love this creamy cauliflower recipe. 

Upgrade Stuffing with Whole Grains and Veggies

Why it works: Traditional stuffing often relies on refined white bread. Using whole grain or sourdough bread adds fiber, while bulking up the dish with mushrooms, celery, onions, and herbs adds antioxidants and minerals.
Try this: Mix cubed sourdough with sautéed veggies, fresh sage, and a splash of bone broth. Bake until golden and crisp. If you want to go paleo try this recipe. 

Lighten Up Pumpkin Pie with a Nut-Based Crust

Why it works: Pumpkin itself is a nutritional powerhouse (rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and potassium), but most pies come with a sugar-heavy filling and refined crust. A nut-based crust and reduced-sugar filling keep the flavor without the blood sugar spike.
Try this: Blend almonds or walnuts with dates and a touch of coconut oil to form a crust, then fill with a lightly sweetened pumpkin custard using maple syrup instead of processed sugar. Here's a great recipe to try for a “healthier” version. 

Refresh Green Bean Casserole with Almonds & Olive Oil

Why it works: The classic version is heavy on canned soup and fried onions. A fresher take preserves flavor while boosting phytonutrients and healthy fats.
Try this: Sauté fresh green beans in olive oil and garlic, then top with toasted almonds for crunch and extra vitamin E. We love this recipe. 

Infuse Turkey with Fresh Herbs & Bone Broth

Why it works: Turkey is naturally lean and protein-rich, but can dry out when roasted. Using bone broth in the roasting pan keeps it moist while adding minerals and collagen.
Try this: Rub the turkey with olive oil, lemon, rosemary, and thyme. Roast over a bed of onions and carrots with bone broth for depth of flavor and nutrition.

The Lanby Takeaway

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean choosing between indulgence and wellness. With simple swaps, you can enjoy the flavors you love while supporting energy, digestion, and blood sugar balance, so you feel good long after the holiday meal ends.

Cheers to a healthier, happier holiday.