It’s turkey time and I know we can all find recipes for buttered up mashed potatoes and carbohydrate heavy stuffing. I’m a sucker for a good, old fashioned thanksgiving gravy meal but I have to believe there is an alternative to pigging out, feeling heavy and consuming past out bodies capacity. Here’s my picks for a few good for your body side dishes. It’s no biggie, some of your guests won’t even notice but they will feel better.

Coconut Oil Roasted Turkey

I’ve always used butter but lately my gallbladder is giving me the what for so I’m cooking with more coconut oil. It’s a solid dairy-free, organ friendly alternative and I haven’t received any complaints from the family. Heather Cristos has a perfect recipe and the presentation is beyond fabulous.
How to Truss & Roast a Turkey

Gluten Free, Dairy Free Gravy

Oddly enough, the turkey might be the most nutritious option on the table. I’m working with the drippings this year to make a dairy free, gluten free gravy.
Dairy Free, Gluten Free Gravy

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Now, let’s be clear. There is nothing as satisfying as a pot full of cream based mashed potatoes but lately my body has been rejecting an overload of dairy so I’m relying on the kindness (and genius) of my vegan friends to show me the way to dairy free success! Tess Masters of The Blender Girl is quite simply an incredible cook. Your Thanksgiving table will be better with these potatoes featured.
Garlic Olive Oil Mashed Potatoes with Chives

Stuffing Alternative – Basil Polenta w/ Mushroom Ragu

Sometimes I want to shake up the turkey table a little and introduce a new side dish into our Thanksgiving Feast. This is a great replacement for stuffing for those that have a gluten and/or dairy intolerance. I find it adds just a touch of elegance to the festivities. It’s also a fantastic potluck dish during the season of holiday parties.
Basil Polenta and Mushroom Ragu

Green Beans

I’m not even going to pretend like we don’t eat these green beans all year round. When it works, why break it.
Lemon Garlic Green Beans with Sliced Almonds