While turkey is the food most associated with Thanksgiving, mashed potatoes also appear on most holiday tables. More than 97 percent of people who eat Thanksgiving turkey eat mashed potatoes! It’s just not Thanksgiving without the mashed potatoes.
Traditionally blended with milk, butter, sour cream and garlic, mashed potatoes are rich and heavy, bringing a comforting, satisfying heat to the table. However, for those looking for a healthier version of this Thanksgiving classic, we have three delicious recipes for you to try.
Vegan mashed potatoes
Aren’t all potatoes vegan? Yes, potatoes are a plant and therefore naturally vegan. Potatoes, a starchy, nutrient-rich vegetable, are a big part of a vegan food diet because they are plant-based. However, not all potato recipes are vegan. In fact, many potato recipes are packed with butter, dairy products and even meats like bacon. The good news is that it’s easy to make your favorite potato recipes vegan. Make your vegan family member’s day complete by providing a hearty and delicious side. It’s the perfect and easy dish to show off your vegan cooking skills. See recipe.
Meyer Lemon-Hazelnut Mashed Potatoes
It’s hard to beat mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving. A scoop of potatoes, a pat of butter and smothered in gravy: what better side for your holiday meal?
Adding crunchy hazelnuts provides a nice contrast to the creamy texture of your favorite recipe. If you’re a white wine lover, the bright citrus flavors of the Meyer lemon peel complement the fresh fruit in bright white wines like Jordan Chardonnay, while the toasted nuts and hazelnut oil highlight the wine’s subtle oak nuances. See recipe.
Healthy mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving must, but this delicious side dish is usually packed with butter and cream. Try substituting Greek yogurt and low-fat or almond milk to still keep your mashed potatoes light and creamy, but without adding the extra fat that comes with butter and half-and-half. See recipe.