Invite Everyone's Diet Lifestyle to the Table
Just
as diverse as family members may be, so are their eating habits. Some
of these dietary demands are simply eccentric, while others are based
on health and lifestyle choices. You may not be as concerned about who
hates peas
(they can pick those out), but considerate hosts will want to please
everyone with at least one or more dishes on the Thanksgiving table.
In many cases – whether it's low-carb, sugar-free, low-fat, or vegetarian – they'll be just as tasty as the standard fare and all your guests will love them.
It
is perfectly acceptable to create two of the same dishes with varying
ingredients. For instance, make one dressing with giblets and butter and a second minus the meat but with a vegetarian broth and margarine.
We
searched the "BigOven" database for recipe suggestions that can be
adapted for any diet. You may discover a few new favorites among them
that will become part of your own traditions.
Vegetarians and vegans
First,
it's important to know the difference between a vegetarian and a vegan
– before you head to the grocery store. Vegetarians may consume dairy
and eggs while vegans avoid all things animal-related, including their byproducts: whey, gelatin, sodium caseinate, and "natural flavorings."
Crispy Vegan Rolls Baked Squash and Yams (Vegan)
Barley Mushroom Casserole (Vegan)
Celery-Rice Casserole (Vegan)
Cranberry Compote (Vegan)
Vegan Apple Strudel
Low-Fat
Most of us lose the desire to watch calories and fats on Thanksgiving. Why not throw in a few great dishes that will lift some of the guilt from consuming gravy and other goodies.
Turkey Gravy - Foolproof Fat-Free Lf
Low Fat Chicken Stock
Mashed Potatoes (Low Fat)
Drews Onion Dill Bread Low Fat Version
Apples, Berries, and Yams (Low Fat)
Low Fat Pumpkin Bread Low Fat Cranberry Cheesecake
No-Sugar
You'll find these just as tasty as the "real deal" and without the sugary high. You may wish to create fun, unobtrusive placards for each dish so everyone will know which is which.
Diabetic Cottage Cheese Vegetable Casserole
Diabetic Cranberry Sauce
Diabetics Pumpkin Pie
Diabetic Spicy Pumpkin Pie
Sugar Free Apple Strudel
Diabetic Thanksgiving Cheesecake
Reduced Carbs
Carbohydrate
reduction is also a fit for some diabetic and low-sugar lifestyles.
These recipes will please friends and family members who always worry
about "what they can eat."
Reduced Carb Stuffing
Garlic and Rosemary Green Beans
Low Carb Cranberry Salad
Low-Carb Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake