Who wants to hold back when it comes to a national celebration? No one. Since we’re all prone to overindulging on Thanksgiving, here are the Top 10 Picks for ensuring you savor and survive America’s favorite day of feasting:
10. Shrimp cocktail. Begin with this tasty appetizer. It’s loaded with selenium and a compound that accounts for the pink color of salmon – both of which are known for their antioxidant properties.
9. Nuts. Mixed nuts make a great snack, especially for all the football watchers on T-Day. Go for raw, dry roasted or reduced salt versions.
8. Red wine. Relax and enjoy a glass this holiday. You’ll be sipping some good-for-your-heart polyphenols.
7. Sweet potatoes. They’re full of fiber, vitamins, minerals and have a lower glycemic index than white potatoes (before the marshmallows, that is!).
6. Cranberries. Most people eat them cooked into a sweet sauce, but any way you do it, these red jewels are great for you. For a little more eating adventure, try out “Mama Stamberg’s Cranberry Relish.” It’s made with 3 simple superfoods that may boost your metabolism (cranberries, onions & horseradish).
5. Green beans. Even if you only eat the soupy, fried onion version, green beans are still beneficial. A better-tasting and much healthier way to serve them is sautéed in olive oil with chopped celery and minced garlic – and topped with toasted almond slivers.
4. Cornbread. The homemade version is a whole grain bread that’s better for you than regular white flour dinner rolls.
3. Pumpkin pie. If you need to justify this favorite, think beta carotene!
2. Pecan pie. Despite being a “sugar bomb,” pecans are very nutritious. And, since they’re also the only truly American tree nut, they belong at Thanksgiving. The bonus: pecans contain vitamin E and plant sterols (antioxidants) that help fight heart disease and cancer.
1. Creamed onions. Ever heard of the French paradox? This creamy, savory side dish is full of quercetin (a potent antioxidant) and is my family’s favorite part of the meal. Don’t miss out on these. (Here’s the recipe.)
