I've always believed in the power of local, seasonal, and nutritious foods. With the season of Thanksgiving approaching, I want to share a special recipe that not only adds a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving dinner but also aligns perfectly with the concept of eating seasonally.

The Importance of Seasonal, Locally Sourced Foods

Choosing seasonal, locally sourced foods goes beyond enhancing the taste and nutrition of your meals; it's a decision that supports both your health and the environment. It's all about enjoying what's in season, locally: the less a food item travels to your plate, the more nutrient-packed it is, as it doesn't need to be picked prematurely to go through a long journey unspoiled. Not to mention the many health benefits of eating locally produced food!

Healthy Sauce Recipe for Thanksgiving Dinner: Zesty Brussels Sprouts Sauce

In the spirit of making the most of November seasonal foods and healthy ingredients, I present to you a delicious and low-fat healthy sauce recipe for Thanksgiving dinner, which will perfectly complement your roasted vegetables! Not only does this sauce add a burst of flavor to your veggies, but it also enhances the nutritional value of your meal thanks to the addition of Greek yogurt, a source of both protein and healthy fats. This sauce is a great way to increase your protein intake making it a fantastic choice if you’re looking for tasty low-fat Thanksgiving recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice from locally sourced lemons
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup locally harvested fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A dash of honey or maple syrup for sweetness (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a zesty kick (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until you obtain a creamy base.
• Add the chopped fresh parsley to the mixture and blend it in.
• Season your sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. For a touch of sweetness, you can add a little maple syrup!
• Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount according to how spicy you want your sauce to be.
• Stir the sauce thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are well incorporated.
• Let the sauce sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

How to Incorporate More November Seasonal Foods in your Thanksgiving dishes

Think beyond the traditional turkey and mashed potatoes for your Thanksgiving meal! Roast up some butternut squash, add locally grown walnuts to your stuffing, or experiment with sweet potatoes! With these seasonal additions, you and your guests will enjoy the best of what nature has to offer during this time of the year. These foods are not only fresher and more flavorful when enjoyed in season, but they’re also an excellent source of essential nutrients.

Here's to a healthy and flavorful Thanksgiving!