Be sure to fill your Thanksgiving plate using the Diabetes Plate Method. Non-starchy veggies should fill half of your plate (plus, the veggies will add festive color to your meal!) and lean protein, like turkey or plant-based proteins, should fill one quarter. Finally, fill up the last quarter of your plate with carbohydrates (carbs), such as mashed potatoes or whole grains. Holiday tip: save your carbs for dessert! Be sure to check out the ones we have on our list.
Overall, the Diabetes Plate Method will help keep your blood glucose (blood sugar) from rising too high and is a great way to approach eating year round.
Keep scrolling to see our roundup of diabetes-friendly Thanksgiving recipes. If you have an account on Diabetes Food Hub, you can favorite and save these recipes to have on hand for Thanksgiving (or maybe save a few of them for your next holiday get together). Create an account or log in today!
Herb-Roasted Turkey
Calories: 165 | Carbs: 0g
The tried-and-true star of most Thanksgiving meals is the turkey. Try our low-sodium, low-carb version this year!
Spiced Turkey Breast with Apple Chutney
Calories: 145 | Carbs: 6g
Impress your guests with this turkey recipe that is served with a fall-flavored chutney to pack in extra flavor.
Herbed Bread Stuffing
Calories: 170 | Carbs: 27g
Thanksgiving doesn’t seem complete without stuffing, but this recipe gives this classic dish a healthy makeover.
Healthy Homemade Green Bean Casserole
Calories: 110 | Carbs: 11g
Green bean casserole is a favorite for the holidays, so we’ve cut some of the calories but none of the flavor for this recipe.
Cinnamon Roasted Carrots & Cranberries
Calories: 60 | Carbs: 15g
Impress your friends and family with this colorful side dish that packs tons of holiday flavor into every bite.
Butternut Squash Gratin
Calories: 95 | Carbs: 14g
Try this lower-carb recipe if you are craving something cheesy and creamy with your Thanksgiving meal.
Brussel Sprouts with Oranges
Calories: 80 | Carbs: 8g
They may seem like an unlikely pair, but this recipe is the perfect holiday accompaniment for a sweet-and-savory side dish.
Low-Carb Cauliflower Breadsticks
Calories: 45 | Carbs: 4g
If you are counting carbs but still want to offer breadsticks, then try this recipe that uses cauliflower as the main ingredient.
Holiday Pumpkin Pie with Maple-Ginger Crust
Calories: 115 | Carbs: 22g
If you can’t have a happy Thanksgiving without pie, try this recipe that offers an extra special crust without as much sugar and fat.
Carrot Cake Whoopie Pies
Calories: 160 | Carbs: 23g
These decadent whoopie pies are a fun spin on the classic carrot cake that also help with portion control.
From the American Diabetes Association® team, we wish you a happy Thanksgiving! Don’t miss out on any of our diabetes-friendly recipes by signing up for the monthly Diabetes Food Hub newsletter. Subscribe today!
