7 Superfoods for a Healthful Thanksgiving

Add these 7 Superfoods to your Thanksgiving dinner to not only boost nutrition, but taste too! Don't worry - it's easier than you think!

7 Superfoods for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with friends and family to enjoy delicious food and company. Why not sneak in some healthier options that will fuel your body for the long and delightful conversations ahead? I've included recipes for my favorite superfoods to add a little extra to Thanksgiving dinner.

Sweet Potatoes

These are such a Thanksgiving staple - I'd be surprised if you didn't already have these on the menu! Luckily, these bad boys are high in fiber as well as potassium and vitamin A. Sweet potatoes have more natural sugars than other potatoes so you really don't need to add more sugar. This year I'm making a Sweet Potato Casserole topped with our Maple Pecan Homestyle Granola.

Brussels Sprouts

Even though they sometimes get a bad rap, these little guys pack a nutritional punch like no other. Brussels add fiber, protein, antioxidants, and other nutrients to the meal. Real Mom Nutrition's Blog has a sure-fire Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprout Recipe that will have everyone loving them this year!

Apples

Still in season and wonderful to add to salads or bake a delicious dessert with! This versatile superfood is a powerful source of antioxidants that will even make you feel fuller (which might not be a bad thing on this holiday!) They also provide a great source of dietary fiber as well as immune boosting vitamin C. Hip Foodie Mom's Blog has a beautiful Rose Apple Tart Recipe that is so pretty you'll be hesitant to eat it!

Kale

While you family might not like the sound of kale being at Thanksgiving dinner, it packs a ton of health benefits! Kale is an awesome addition to a Thanksgiving side for its high fiber and iron content. Not to mention it has detoxifying properties as well! Check out this delicious looking side dish for Gluten-Free Walnut and Kale Quinoa Stuffing from Healthy Seasonal Recipes.

Cranberries

It wouldn't be Thanksgiving without the cranberries! I like bringing cranberries to the table be adding them to a dessert or a festive adult drink! Cranberries are high in vitamines C, A, and K. Vitamin K is known to help with heart and cardiovascular healthy with is a great addition if you're planning on eating a large meal! These Cranberry Mule's from The Speckled Palate will be sure to put your guests in the holiday spirit!

Ginger Root

I've included ginger in this list not only because it's one of my favorite spices that's loaded with benefits but also because it naturally soothes the digestive system which may help after your holiday feast. Ginger adds a zest to your veggie dish - Skinny Taste Blog puts together a delicious looking Honey Roasted Ginger Carrot Recipe.

Cinnamon

I certainly bake with cinnamon not only for the wonderful flavor that it brings out in foods but because it also has some awesome health benefits that other spices can't compete with. This heart healthy ancient spice is a natural anti-inflammatory as it has certain antioxidants that help with pain and swelling. The antioxidants found in cinnamon can also help with common cold symptoms - perfect to use in the winter months! Joyful Healthy Eats has a delicious and easy Cinnamon Toasted Almonds Recipe that makes for a perfect appetizer while your guests wait for the turkey!

What healthy dishes are you cooking up this year?

Leave a comment or tag us on social sites using #erinbakers - we love it when we've inspired you!

Find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or leave a Comment

Erin's Signature

Food Fact Resources: