Thanksgiving is a fabulous holiday. Not only does it encourage us to be grateful for the cornucopia of blessings we have in our lives, but it also fosters a sense of community and giving to others. Then there’s the food. The Thanksgiving fare usually runs the gamut from fresh fall vegetables to decadent, calorie-laden desserts. And most, if not all, is not organic or non-GMO. But they don’t have to be!
Here are three easy ways to clean up the food in your family’s Thanksgiving feast.
Perfect that Pie
Lots of people order their favorite pumpkin pie from chain restaurants or even grab one at the local supermarket. But if you check the ingredients on those pies, they’re full of preservatives since the majority of the ingredients are pre-mixed for product consistency. Pumpkin pie is easy to make, and can even be made the day or two in advance and kept in the refrigerator. You can make your own crust from organic non-GMO graham crackers and the delicious pumpkin filling from organic non-GMO pumpkin puree and non-GMO pumpkin pie spice.
Be Selective About Seasonings
One of the last items people tend to think about when they are cleaning up their food at home is seasonings. From basil to onion powder to vegetable broth, there is a huge variety of non-GMO seasonings available to meet all of your wildest desires.
Creative Culinary Thinking
Forego some of the old school side dishes that rely on chemical-filled condensed soups and the like. This year, serve something festive and health conscious without sacrificing the taste and feel of the season. Try this fall-friendly apple cranberry quinoa salad.
Apple Cranberry Quinoa Salad
Makes 4-6 servings
Ingredients
2 cups non-GMO certified organic quinoa
1/2 cup non-GMO dried cranberries
3 organic green apples
1/8 cup organic pomegranate vinaigrette
Directions
- Cook quinoa according to pacakge directions.
- While quinoa is cooking, dice apples leaving the peel on (make sure they are washed to remove any wax residue).
- When quinoa is cooked, allow to cool then add dried cranberries and diced apples.
- Pour on pomegranate vinaigrette and toss. Serve chilled.
Tip: the best place to buy non-GMO foods & snacks is at Vitacost.com!