Gluten-Free Wild Rice Stuffed Squash
I made this recipe when we invited both our families to celebrate our first Thanksgiving in our new home. There were 37 of us, and those who tried this dish raved about it. —Robin Thompson, Roseville, CaliforniaEditor’s Tip: Make sure the rice mix you buy is gluten-free. Rice on its own is safe to eat, but some mixes contain additives that contain trace amounts of gluten.
Gluten-Free Moist & Tender Turkey Breast
This easy turkey recipe is sure to be popular in your home. Everyone will love the taste, and you'll love how quickly it comes together. —Heidi Vawdrey, Riverton, UtahGluten-Free Roasted Green Beans with Lemon & Walnuts
I first tasted roasted green beans in a Chinese restaurant and fell in love with the texture and flavor. This is my Americanized version and it's always a big hit at our holiday table. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaGluten-Free Pumpkin Creme Brulee
I've never met a creme brulee that I didn't love! I'm not a big pumpkin fan, but this is fantastic. —Tamara Leonard Merritt, Raleigh, North CarolinaGluten-Free Slow Cooker Creamed Corn with Bacon
Every time I take this super rich corn to a holiday potluck or work party, I leave with an empty slow cooker. It's decadent, homey and so worth the splurge. —Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, GeorgiaGluten-Free Rum Vanilla Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is one of my favorite things—this jazzed-up version combines vanilla with rum to create a rich flavorful sauce that's far from the usual! —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, WisconsinEditor’s Tip: Plain rum is gluten-free (both dark and light), but some flavored rums may contain gluten. If you’re not sure, double-check the brand’s website before you buy.
Gluten-Free Roasted Cauliflower & Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This deeply delicious recipe is a surefire way to get my husband to enjoy Brussels sprouts. Between the roasted flavor of the veggies and smoky, crisp bacon, it will convert even the pickiest eater. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, FloridaEditor’s Tip: Some balsamic vinaigrettes contain malt or other gluten-based additives. Double-check the label before you buy.
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blondies
I converted these blondies to be gluten free so that my family could enjoy a comforting dessert. We were craving brownies one night, and these cakelike treats hit the spot. They are a fantastic spin on gluten-free peanut butter chocolate chip cookies. —Becky Klope, Loudonville, New YorkGluten-Free Slow Cooker Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Every year my Mom made cream cheese mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving. I tailored the recipe to my family's taste and carried on the tradition. I make them a day ahead and use my slow cooker to free up oven space for other dishes. —Ann Nolte, Tampa, FloridaGluten-Free Warm Apple & Pistachio Spinach Salad
I'm really not a salad person, but this unusual salad is actually worthy of bringing to a dinner party or even eating by itself. It's also super quick and easy to make. —Justine Kmiecik, Crestview, FloridaEditor’s Tip: Almost all mustards are gluten-free, but of course there are a few exceptions to the rule. Double-check the label to be sure.
Gluten-Free Cumin-Roasted Carrots
Carrots make a super side—big on flavor and a breeze to cook. Plus, I can actually get my husband to eat these fragrant, deeply spiced veggies. —Taylor Kiser, Brandon, FloridaGluten-Free Collard Greens & Beans
I didn't eat southern-style collards until a friend gave me a recipe for greens with bacon and pinto beans. Now I’m delighted to make them. —April Burroughs, Vilonia, ArkansasGluten-Free Sweet Potato Soup
Ginger and peanut butter give this dazzling orange soup a really unique flavor. It has a mild, not spicy, taste with an Asian flair. —Hilda Fallas, Bothell, WashingtonGluten-Free Creamy Cranberry Salad
One of my piano students taught me the perfect lesson in holiday recipes: this fresh cranberry salad. The keys are tangy fruit, fluffy marshmallows and crunchy nuts. —Alexandra Lypecky, Dearborn, MichiganEditor’s Tip: Many marshmallow brands are gluten-free, but some still contain a starch that has gluten. Read the label first to make sure it’s safe.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie Custard
Instead of pumpkin pie, try this flavorful light holiday dessert. My husband’s aunt shared the recipe after she brought this treat to a family party. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New JerseyLow-Carb Herbed Turkey Breast
Like many of you, I always serve turkey for our family's Thanksgiving meal. But instead of roasting a whole bird, I opt for a turkey breast since most of us prefer white meat. The herb butter basting sauce keeps it so moist, and it's easy to carve. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, LouisianaCarbohydrates per serving: 1 gram
Low-Carb Green Bean Bundles
I found this recipe in a rural newspaper years ago and have made it often. The bean bundles are excellent with chicken or beef. Sometimes I'll arrange them around a mound of wild rice to make an appetizing side dish. —Virginia Stadler, Nokesville, VirginiaCarbohydrates per serving: 5 grams
Low-Carb Three-Cheese Creamed Spinach
Cream cheese, Parmesan and mozzarella make this dish wonderfully cheesy. Sprinkle it with french-fried onions for a crisp boost of flavor. —Kathy Vazquez, Amarillo, TexasCarbohydrates per serving: 9 grams
Low-Carb Sweet Potato Tartlets
My family can't resist sweet potatoes when they're mashed, placed in crunchy phyllo shells and topped with marshmallows. The bite-size tarts are fun to eat, too! —Marla Clark, Moriarty, New MexicoCarbohydrates per serving: 6 grams
Low-Carb Creamy Turkey Gravy
With my easy recipe, even someone who has never made homemade gravy before can be assured of success. —Phyllis Schmalz, Kansas City, Kansas.Carbohydrates per serving: 2 grams
Low-Carb Mashed Cauliflower with Parmesan
I couldn’t shake my mashed potato habit—until I tried mashed cauliflower with a similar consistency. I started making my own, and my family loves it. —Meredith Howard, Franklin, KentuckyCarbohydrates per serving: 8 grams
Low-Carb Roasted Citrus & Herb Turkey
Thanksgiving has never been the same since I tried this recipe. I have made it for the past three years, and it never fails to impress both in presentation and taste. This is a true showstopper! —Nancy M. Niemerg, Dieterich, IllinoisCarbohydrates per serving: 2 grams
Low-Carb Dipped Gingersnaps
I get tremendous satisfaction making and giving time-tested yuletide treats like these dipped gingersnaps. Dipping them in white chocolate makes much-loved gingersnaps even more special. —Laura Kimball, West Jordan, UtahCarbohydrates per serving: 6 grams
Low-Carb Brussels Sprouts with Bacon & Garlic
When we have company, these sprouts are my go-to side dish because they look and taste fantastic. Fancy them up a notch with pancetta instead of bacon. —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South CarolinaCarbohydrates per serving: 7 grams
Low-Carb Spinach Dip-Stuffed Mushrooms
I use a melon baller to hollow out the mushroom caps and make them easier to stuff. The apps fit neatly into muffin tins or a deviled egg tray for traveling. —Ashley Pierce, Brantford, OntarioCarbohydrates per serving: 1 gram
Low-Carb Cheese & Garlic Biscuits
My biscuits won the prize for best quick bread at my county fair. One of the judges liked them so much, she asked for the recipe! These buttery, savory biscuits go with just about anything. —Gloria Jarrett, Loveland, OhioCarbohydrates per serving: 7 grams
Low-Carb Bacon and Garlic Green Beans
Adding white wine, lemon juice and garlic gives a little kick to green beans. It was enough to turn our old, traditional holiday side into a year-round favorite. —Shannon Reynoso, Bakersfield, CaliforniaCarbohydrates per serving: 7 grams
Low-Carb Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Sure, it’s simple and healthy but, oh, this roasted broccoli is also delicious. Cutting the stalks into tall trees turns the ordinary veggie into a standout side dish. —Holly Sander, Lake Mary, FloridaCarbohydrates per serving: 9 grams
Low-Carb Baked Baby Potatoes with Olive Pesto
These little cuties pack all the appeal of a dinner baked potato into a perfect bite-sized appetizer. I top each one with a dollop of sour cream and coarsely ground pepper. —Sarah Shaikh, Mumbai, IndiaCarbohydrates per serving: 9 grams
Low-Carb Dutch Apple Pie Tartlets
These adorable mini apple pie pastries make a delightful addition to a dessert buffet or snack tray. The recipe calls for convenient frozen phyllo shells, so they're surprisingly easy to prepare. The lemon curd filling adds a unique flavor twist. —Mary Ann Lee, Clifton Park, New YorkCarbohydrates per serving: 7 grams
Vegetarian Acorn Squash with Cranberry Stuffing
If you have squash or cranberry lovers at the table, here’s your new go-to recipe. It’s colorful, the blend of flavors is delicious and it’s a fitting addition to a Thanksgiving menu. —Dorothy Pritchett, Wills Point, TexasVegetarian Slow-Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Sour cream and cream cheese give richness to these smooth make-ahead potatoes. They are wonderful for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner since there's no last-minute mashing required. —Trudy Vincent, Valles Mines, MissouriVegetarian Green Bean Casserole
This easy green bean casserole recipe has always been one of my favorite dishes. You can make it before any guests arrive and refrigerate it until it’s ready to bake. —Anna Baker, Blaine, WashingtonVegetarian Cranberry-Walnut Sweet Potatoes
If you ask me, the best part of a holiday dinner is the sweet potatoes! You can make the sauce up to a day ahead—just leave out the walnuts until you're ready to serve. —Mary Wilhelm, Sparta, WisconsinVegetarian Pumpkin Torte
This beautiful layered cake has a creamy filling with a mild pumpkin flavor and a little spice. It is quick and always turns out so well. The nuts and caramel topping add a nice finishing touch. —Trixie Fisher, Piqua, OhioVegetarian Corn Stuffing Balls
My mom had many "winning" recipes, and this was one of our family's favorites. I can still picture these Corn Stuffing Balls encircling the large meat platter piled high with one of her delicious entrees. —Audrey Groe, Lake Mills, IowaVegetarian Chipotle Butternut Squash Soup
My hearty soup uses herbs and vegetables from the garden along with convenient pantry items, so it’s easy, fast and mostly fresh. Your family will devour it. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, CaliforniaVegetarian Easy Batter Rolls
The first thing my guests ask when they come for dinner is if I'm serving these dinner rolls. The buns are so light, airy and delicious—and help make the meal. —Thomasina Brunner, Gloversville, New YorkVegetarian Caramel-Pecan Apple Pie
You'll love the smell in your kitchen—and the smiles on everybody's faces—when you make this scrumptious caramel apple pie recipe. It takes me back home to Virginia, to my granny's table. —Jean Castro, Phoenix, ArizonaVegetarian Pomegranate-Hazelnut Roasted Brussels Sprouts
I converted many people to Brussels sprouts with this recipe, and it has since become my most requested dish. The richness of the hazelnuts and the sweetness of pomegranate and orange elevate the sprouts to a new level. —Melanie Stevenson, Reading, PennsylvaniaVegetarian Quinoa-Stuffed Squash Boats
My colorful “boats” with quinoa, garbanzo beans and pumpkin seeds use delicata squash, a winter squash with edible skin that’s cream-colored with green stripes. In a pinch, acorn squash will do—but don't eat the skin! —Lauren Knoelke, Milwaukee, WisconsinEditor’s Tip: Some goat cheese contains rennet, which some vegetarians do not eat. Make sure you buy a safe goat cheese, or leave it on the side if you’re not sure.
Vegetarian Carrot, Parsnip and Potato Gratin
Thanks to a challenge in the TOH online community a few years back, my husband and I tried parsnips and discovered that we liked them! In fact, I started growing them in my garden and have been trying new things with them, including this recipe. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, WisconsinVegetarian Pumpkin Shortbread Dessert
My family prefers this to traditional pumpkin pie, which is just fine with me. It feeds a crowd, so I need to make only one dessert instead of several pies. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, UtahVegetarian Rustic Squash Tarts
This recipe is hiding a big surprise. Flaky, rustic-looking pastry shells hold a sweet and spicy pecan layer under the squash slices. —Ann Marie Moch, Kintyre, NDVegetarian Cranberry Pumpkin Muffins
Tart, juicy cranberries enhance the delicate pumpkin flavor of these muffins. Sometimes I dust the tops with powdered sugar to add a little sweetness. —Sue Ross, Casa Grande, ArizonaNon-Dairy Rosemary Turkey Breast
I season turkey with a blend of rosemary, garlic and paprika. Because I rub half of the mixture directly on the meat under the skin, I can remove the skin before serving and not lose any of the flavor. The result is an entree that’s lower in fat, yet delicious—the perfect centerpiece for holiday meals. —Dorothy Pritchett, Wills Point, TexasNon-Dairy Roasted Sweet Potato & Prosciutto Salad
I still think there's no better combo than sweet potatoes with pork, or prosciutto in this case. I'm a retired physician and am glad that sweet potatoes are being given their due as nutritional powerhouses. —Helen Conwell, Portland, OregonNon-Dairy Easy Potato Rolls
After I discovered this recipe, it became a mainstay for me. I make the dough ahead of time when company is coming, and I try to keep some in the refrigerator to bake for our ranch hands. Leftover mashed potatoes are almost sure to go into these rolls. —Jeanette McKinney, Belleview, MissouriEditor’s Tip: Make sure you use potatoes that are just mashed. To keep the dish dairy-free, avoid using leftover potatoes that contain added milk and butter.
Non-Dairy Texas Pecan Pie
I won a blue ribbon for this pie at the Texas State Fair. Since I was in the military for more than 20 years, I didn’t really start cooking until after I retired. Now I enjoy spending my time in the kitchen. —Michelle Shockley, Wichita, KansasNon-Dairy Cranberry-Walnut Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are one food that picky eaters often resist, but a burst of cranberry flavor may change their minds. You can also add garlic and dried fruits. —Jennifer Armellino, Lake Oswego, OregonNon-Dairy Olive Oil Mashed Potatoes with Pancetta
Classic American mashed potatoes take a trip to Italy with the flavors of olive oil, garlic, and pancetta. —Bryan Kennedy, Kaneohe, HawaiiNon-Dairy Chicken with Sugar Pumpkins & Apricots
When we have family gatherings, we give the slow cooker kitchen duty. This yummy chicken with pumpkin and apricots has the warm flavors of Morocco. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, NevadaNon-Dairy Swedish Apple Pie
This decadent Swedish apple pie serves up homemade flavor in every bite. This is a perfect snack with coffee or as an after-dinner treat. —Sarah Klier, Grand Rapids, MichiganNon-Dairy Orange Pomegranate Salad with Honey
I discovered this fragrant salad in a cooking class. If you can, try to find orange flower water (also called orange blossom water), which perks up the orange segments. But orange juice adds a nice zip, too! —Carol Richardson Marty, Lynwood, WashingtonNon-Dairy Pumpkin Bread
I keep my freezer stocked for our harvest crew with home-baked goodies like this deliciously spicy, easy pumpkin bread recipe. —Joyce Jackson, Bridgetown, Nova ScotiaNon-Dairy Maple-Glazed Green Beans
After I picked my first green beans one year, I wanted to make a savory dish that was unique, quick and packed with flavor. I loved this so much I couldn't stop eating it. The next day I picked more beans and made this delicious side dish again. —Merry Graham, Newhall, CaliforniaNon-Dairy Rosemary Walnuts
My Aunt Mary started making this recipe years ago. Each time we visited, she would have a batch ready for us. The use of cayenne adds an unexpected zing to the savory combo of rosemary and walnuts. When you need a good housewarming or hostess gift, double the batch and save half for yourself. —Renee Ciancio, New Bern, North CarolinaNon-Dairy Smoky Cauliflower Bites
These healthy little treats work well as a side or as fun bite size appetizers. Roasting the cauliflower adds deep flavor and gives it an irresistible crunch. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, KansasNon-Dairy Moist Pumpkin Tube Cake
This pumpkin bundt cake recipe is perfect for fall. As it bakes, the aroma fills the house with a spicy scent. —Virginia Loew, Leesburg, FloridaNon-Dairy Cranberry Meatballs
Lots of people have asked me for this recipe, but I knew I had a real winner when my grandmother asked me for it! —Tammy Neubauer, Ida Grove, IowaVegan Rice Pilaf with Apples & Raisins
I love making bulgar pilaf with apricots. So glad I tried it with dried apples and golden raisins! —Elizabeth Dumont, Madison, MississippiVegan Roasted Carrots & Fennel
This addictive fennel recipe is a fresh take on one of my mother's standard wintertime dishes. I usually add more carrots—as many as the pans will hold. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, GeorgiaVegan Pumpkin Pie Tartlets with Maple Pecan Crust
After discovering I had multiple food sensitivities, I began developing holiday recipes that would be safe for me, but enjoyable for others, too. These tarts are delicious—with no gluten, eggs or dairy! —Chantale Michaud, Guelph, OntarioVegan Mediterranean Mashed Potatoes
It's hard for our family to imagine eating mashed potatoes any other way but this. It tastes great on its own or drizzled with tahini sauce. —Nikki Haddad, Germantown, MarylandVegan Roasted Pumpkin and Brussels Sprouts
While traveling to Taiwan, I had the pleasure of trying a unique vegetable dish that included fresh pumpkin. It inspired me to roast pumpkin with Brussels sprouts. —Pam Correll, Brockport, PennsylvaniaVegan Warm Tasty Greens with Garlic
My farm box had too many greens, so I had to use them up. This tasty idea uses kale, tomatoes and garlic in a dish that quickly disappears. —Martha Neth, Aurora, ColoradoVegan Red Wine & Cranberry Poached Pears
While being poached, the pear absorbs the sweetness and spice from the sugar, wine, cinnamon and peppercorn. It makes an easy, yet elegant, dessert that's perfect for a special night. —Kiersten Atkinson, Birmingham, AlabamaEditor’s Tip: To keep this dish vegan, don’t serve it with the optional sour cream or creme fraiche.