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With only 2 days left till Thanksgiving finding those last minute accommodating recipes for your dietary restricted friends and family can be overwhelming and just a lot of work. I know brussel sprouts are one of my favorite holiday veggies and I am excited to share one of my favorite recipes for them. Can you even have a thanksgiving feast without the carrots? Enjoy the Cholesterol-Friendly Roasted Butternut Squash and Carrot Medley also.
Diabetic-Friendly Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Garlic & Lemon
This simple and flavorful roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is perfect for anyone managing their blood sugar. With minimal carbs and loads of nutrients, it’s a great choice for a diabetic-friendly side dish. The garlic and lemon provide a burst of fresh flavor, while the olive oil adds heart-healthy fats!
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
Spread the Brussels sprouts out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the edges.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the sprouts before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.
This recipe is considered healthy for several reasons:
Low in Carbs: Brussels sprouts are naturally low in carbohydrates, which is important for managing blood sugar levels. When combined with the minimal use of olive oil and simple seasonings, this dish offers a satisfying, low-carb option for diabetics.
High in Fiber: Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of dietary fiber. Fiber helps slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes and improve overall blood sugar control.
Rich in Antioxidants: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C and vitamin K, which support immune function and reduce inflammation. The garlic and lemon also offer additional antioxidant benefits, supporting heart and overall health.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a source of monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats that can help reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.
Low Glycemic Impact: The combination of fiber, healthy fats, and low carb content gives Brussels sprouts a low glycemic index, meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for diabetic-friendly meals.
All in all, this dish is nutritious, heart-healthy, and great for managing blood sugar levels, while still being flavorful and enjoyable.
What is your favorite brussel sprout recipe?
Cholesterol-Friendly Roasted Butternut Squash and Carrot Medley
This simple and vibrant roasted veggie medley combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash and carrots with heart-healthy olive oil and fragrant herbs. It’s the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread—light, satisfying, and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients:
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes or already cut if available
4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme, chopped)
1 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh rosemary, chopped)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash and carrots with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. If you'd like a slightly sweeter flavor, drizzle with maple syrup and toss again.
Spread the vegetables evenly on a large baking sheet, ensuring they’re in a single layer for even roasting.
Roast for 30-35 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the squash and carrots are tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why It’s Heart-Healthy:
Olive Oil: A great source of monounsaturated fats, olive oil helps lower bad cholesterol levels and supports heart health.
Butternut Squash & Carrots: Both are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, supporting overall cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation.
Herbs: Thyme and rosemary not only add flavor but are also loaded with antioxidants, providing extra heart-healthy benefits.
This dish is naturally sweet, satisfying, and perfectly complements any Thanksgiving main dish. It’s the ideal side for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and heart-healthy holiday meal!
These are sure to win over your guests and make great additions to your traditional feasts. What are your favorite veggie side dishes? Do you have a favorite carrot recipe? Don't forget to leave a comment and let me know. I have to get ready for prepping. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, enjoy and keep that smile smiling!