Whether you’re a stuffing lover (like me!) or a green bean casserole fan, Thanksgiving food is delicious and comforting. As tasty as the food is, there are always left overs. (Note to guests: bring a container). With all of the extra food, tasty snacks and meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner can be re-invented that are easy, fun and healthy and almost just as good as the actual Thanksgiving meal. Unless, of course, leftovers are preferred!  

Breakfast

Yogurt parfaits with cranberry sauce  

A sweet (and possibly a little tart) great way to start the day, is to make a cranberry parfait! This breakfast can be great on it’s own or as a side with a piece of toast. Alternating yogurt (flavor or choice) with cranberry sauce, this breakfast is not only festive, it’s pretty too. For added nutritional benefits, add a whole-grain cereal, granola, or nuts for extra fiber and some crunch. 

Stuffing pancakes

For those who love stuffing as much as I do, these pancakes are the perfect twist to the traditional flap-jacks. Whether the left-over stuffing is savory or sweet, these are sure to be delicious. First combine and mix the stuffing with an egg (2 cups of stuffing for everyone 1 egg), then take 1/2 a cup of the mixture and roll into a ball and then flatten. Heat a skillet with little bit of butter to medium heat and cook the patties on each side for about 3 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining mixture. For extra flavor and nutrients, mix in some leftover mashed sweet potato. Serve and enjoy with a side of fruit for a well balanced meal. 

Snacks

Cranberry smoothie

This smoothie is a great post-thanksgiving snack creation that’s refreshing and festive. Using a blender, mix 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup of yogurt (plain or vanilla), a dash of cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, and 1 cup of ice.  Blend all of the ingredients together until smooth and enjoy!

Sweet potato hummus

This recipe from Delish, gives a semi-sweet flavor to the classic hummus and adds some vitamin C. This “sweet p” hummus makes a great dip to be served with pita chips, veggies or as a spread on a piece of whole wheat toast.  In a blender, combine 3 cups of leftover mashed sweet potato, one 15 oz can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed), 3T of EVOO, 1 garlic clove, a pinch of cayenne pepper and a dash of salt in a blender. Blend until smooth and enjoy!

Lunch or Dinner

Thanksgiving Pizza

Making a leftover Turkey day pizza is a unique way to combine the delicious flavors all into one.  Taking the pizza crust (cauliflower, store bought or homemade), gently spread the stuffing (or mashed potatoes) on top of the crust, just as you would as if it were the tomato sauce. Then top with a cheese of your choice, followed by pieces of turkey.  Feel free to add other toppings such as green beans, sweet potato, or cranberry sauce, if desired. Place in oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted. 

Turkey Nachos

This dish is a creative way to combine Thanksgiving leftovers with the flavors of Mexican food. First spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Look for chips that are made from beans or multigrain for added nutritional benefits. Then top shredded cheese of choice and then pieces of turkey. Next, top with leftovers from Thanksgiving, such as stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce or green beans.   Put in the 425 degree oven for about 5-10 minutes, until cheese is melted then serve alongside guacamole, salsa or plain non-fat greek yogurt and enjoy! 

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