Last year, I was able to cut back on my portions and realize that I was FULL after just one plate and this year, I'm taking it a step further and trying to find healthier options, without giving up all the flavor. Stuffing is my FAVORITE Thanksgiving food, and I've made it my mission to create a healthier option that is SO delicious hopefully I can trick a few of my family members into enjoying it, without knowing it's healthy! Here is the recipe I came up with and let me tell ya, my husband and son DEVOURED it during our taste test last week.
INGREDIENTS:
1 C Quinoa, rinsed well (I purchase mine already rinsed)
2 1/2 C Organic low-sodium chicken broth (you can use vegetable for vegan option) - separated
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 heaping C Celery, diced
1 medium White onion, diced
1/4 C Dried cherries (or cranberries)
1 small handful of fresh sage, chopped {about 1 tablespoon if using dried herbs}
1 Organic, Granny Smith apple, Cored and diced1 tsp garlic, minced
Hymalayan salt
fresh ground pepper
DIRECTIONS:
In a medium sized pot bring 1 cup of vegetable broth and 1 cup of water to a boil. Add in the quinoa, salt, pepper and stir. Set to low heat and simmer with a lid on for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat {do not lift lid} and allow the quinoa to steam for another 10 minutes. When that is over, you will have picture perfect quinoa – trust me, no more soggy mess!
Heat the olive oil in a pan over low heat. Add in the minced garlic, chopped celery, onion and cherries. Cook until veggies begin to become clear, about 5-10 minutes. Turn the heat up to medium and add in the remaining broth, sage and season with more salt and pepper if needed; simmer for a few minutes.
Combine the quinoa with the veggie mixture and stir together.
TIP: If you find the mixture to be too dry for your taste, add a bit more broth. If you prefer your stuffing to be a bit drier, add to a pan and bake on 375 for 10 minutes
TIP: If you find the mixture to be too dry for your taste, add a bit more broth. If you prefer your stuffing to be a bit drier, add to a pan and bake on 375 for 10 minutes
If you are interested in learning more recipes like this one, send me a message on Facebook. I'm running a FREE Thanksgiving Makeover group and we'll be sharing tons of clean(er) option recipes, tips & tricks to not overeat and Fun facts!