It’s that time of year again to give thanks for all the abundance in our lives. Of course, you’ve eaten clean all of November and now you’re ready to enjoy the 3000 calories of Thanksgiving.

We tried this yesterday in an attempt to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie at only 75 calories each! We combined one can of Trader Joe’s organic pumpkin with one packet of stevia, pumpkin pie spice (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger). We topped it with a dollop of whipped coconut milk and voila–pumpkin pie. Put a 1/2 tablespoon of crushed almonds for a healthy “crust.” We ate the whole bowl in a matter of seconds, licking our spoons! Presented in a shot glass, it would be a beautiful and healthy addition to your thanksgiving table.

Another Thanksgiving tip–eat real foods this year. The Food Network’s, Alton Brown, makes a refurbished green bean casserole with fresh green beans, homemade mushroom sauce and homemade onion rings. It’s delicious and you won’t miss all the excess sodium and fat from the Campbell’s soup version. Same goes for stuffing–keep away from boxed stuffing. Use old whole wheat bread, mushrooms, fresh sage, onions, celery and bake it in muffin tins for easy serving portions. Try a new twist on marshmallow and brown sugar drenched sweet potatoes. How about roasting them with fresh herbs and garlic? They are already sweet! Use fresh cranberries with lemon and orange zest and half the called for sugar.

Stuffing in individual muffins

So enjoy the holiday. Enjoy the warmth of family, friends, and nourishing foods. If you are joining us for the Turkey Trot, we’ll see you there! Happy Thanksgiving!