This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at JHU chapter.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and it’s time to strategically craft your turkey day game plan, whether it be Friendsgiving in your dorm or at home with your family. This year, impress everyone with healthier versions of classic Thanksgiving dishes.

Instead of feeling sluggish, unbuttoning those pants, and passing out from a food coma, you’ll be able to help yourselves to seconds (and maybe even thirds) with these guilt-free, low-carb alternatives.

Cauliflower “Mashed Potatoes”

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutesServings:2 servings

Instructions

Gather ingredients and boil a pot of water.
Cut cauliflower into florets and place in a steamer. Steam for 10 minutes until tender.
#SpoonTip: If you don’t have a steamer, place cauliflower in a bowl with just enough water to cover the bottom of the bowl. Cover bowl with a paper towel and microwave for 4-5 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a small skillet. Smash garlic and cook for 1 minute on each side on medium heat until browned.
Put steamed cauliflower in a food processor, along with garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Blend well.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 5 minutesCook time: 30 minutesTotal time: 35 minutesServings:3 servings

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400ºF. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Dice sweet potatoes into small chunks. Trim Brussels sprouts and cut in halves.
Toss sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt and pepper together.
Roast for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 7 minutesCook time: 25 minutesTotal time: 32 minutesServings:5 servings

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400ºF. Spray a small pan with cooking spray.
Cook sweet potatoes. You can either peel, dice, and steam them or poke holes with a fork in them and microwave for 8-10 minutes.
Place cooked potatoes (no skin) in a blender along with vanilla, egg, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend until well mixed. You can also use an electric mixer or a potato masher.
Transfer the mixture to a baking pan and spread evenly.
To make the topping, mix flour, oats, pecans, cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle on top of sweet potatoes.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden.