Shrinking Daisy

I did NOT invite Paula Deen to Thanksgiving!

Friday, November 20th, 2009 | Recipe, Thoughts | No Comments

So, I may have told you that I did a little (little being a relative word here) early Thanksgiving Dinner.  This dinner really was Thanksgiving at it’s best, not just the food, but it was full of interesting people, great conversations, and of course wine! I felt really thankful to have such amazing friends.

It turned out fantastically, and with a few minor modifications much lighter than your average T-Day affair.  (Also, I’m not a glutton for punishment, these are yummy, fancy, light, and EASY recipes people!) I have nothing against decadence, I’m telling you, this pecan pie is AMAZING!!!!

Turkey Strategy: So, this is my second year for a smoked turkey, it’s such a great idea people!  Just pick up a turkey from a local smokehouse (Fritz’s is great) or even an already smoked Butterball from the store, heat it for 1.5 hours in the oven, and you’re done.  Smoked turkeys are technically already cooked, so no stress about whether or not it will be done,  it already is! (This is not cheating people… I feel no shame!)  It’s always brown and beautiful, and that oh-so-healthy, but often overdone and dry white meat is succulent and juicy.  This is Kansas City after all, smoked anything is a tradition!

Mashed Potatoes - Buttermilk is your friend here.  That’s right, something with the word butter in it may sound bad for you, but it’s the best weapon in your mashed potato arsenal.  Really it’s what’s leftover AFTER you make butter, so it’s got all the flavor, but not the fat! What a deal!!!  Try this one

Stuffing, oh how I love stuffing,  I could just eat this and nothing else.  Maybe it’s because I don’t usually eat it,  but stuffing and pumpkin pie are the icons of Thanksgiving to me.  Those are the things that I look forward to whenever the weather gets chilly! I especially love stuffing with a twist of something unexpected, and sausage doesn’t hurt either, that’s why I made this one: click here

There is no reason you have to break out that can shaped log of cranberries this year… wiggly and ribbed, it always feels like an obligation,  don’t spend your points on that!  A fresh one is so much better and so easy.  I made this lightened up cranberry apricot version, (click here) and stirred the extra in my oatmeal the next day!

Help yourself out people! Throw a few veggies on the table and fill 1/2 your plate with those.  Simple steamed veggies are a great point saver with many coming in a zero points and remember, spices are free!!!  I made an amazing simple seasonal salad here, some wildly popular (and totally cream of mushroom soup free) green beans here, and some really interesting (in a good way) roasted carrots here. I also really considered these Brussels sprouts, but they didn’t make it to the table this year, they’re great though! click here

This pumpkin pie has become my standby.  I think I’ve served this WW classic for 3 years running and…I don’t wait for Thanksgiving.  I’ve been known to make this one up at random times because I love it so much!!! It’s also low enough to make it into the regular rotation without a big sacrifice elsewhere or a major guilt trip.  Find it here

Oh those geniuses over at Cooking Light, how do they think up this stuff??? Oatmeal in a pecan pie? It was amazing, the oatmeal was so nutty, and it was a lot more substantial than your usual pecan pie, more balance too, not so sweet.  Seriously people, if you only give one of these recipes a try, this is the one!!! click here for recipe

Want an off the wall but amazing light dessert option? Try this one by ZestyCook here

Whew, are you tired of cooking yet? I made the pies and cranberry sauce the day ahead, and put the potatoes in the crock pot, that worked out well! Whatever you end up making, remember it’s not just about the food, but the friends, family, and time you spend together.

Take a minute to think about all the things you have to be thankful for this year.  I certainly have a lot to be thankful for.  I’m in great health, the best shape of my life.  My brother made it back from Iraq safe and sound.  I have a wonderful family, amazing husband, great friends; and of course I have all of you, who are so inspiring every day.   I’ll miss you all over the holiday!

Have a Great Thanksgiving!

Tags: brussels sprouts, carrots, cranberry, green beans, mashed potatoes, pears, pecan, pie, potato, pumpkin, roasted vegetables, salad, stuffing, thanksgiving, turkey