I hope you all had a very Happy Thanksgiving! Sorry I checked out for a bit—I was just trying to squeeze the most family time in as possible while back in Iowa for the week.

Anyway, I think of Thanksgiving as kicking off the festive season: Advent, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, etc. During these weeks, parties and gatherings seem to pop up out of nowhere and we may be scrambling at the last minute to think of a dish to bring! So I thought it may be helpful to share a few ideas for casual, nutritious meals to feed a crowd that I may try this season (and you may want to as well!). These could be perfect for a family get-together, work/school potluck or a game night with friends. Wow…That all sounds so fun, let’s have a party right now!

I’ve yet to whip these all up, but they look and sound so delicious, they’re on my to-make list as soon as the proper event arises. Who’s with me?!

For an appetizer:

• Fresh Barley Vegetable Soup with Beef Broth
• Healthy Hummus

For a main dish:

• Turkey and Veggie Meatloaf
• Chickpea Cauliflower Curry
• Skinny Sloppy Joes

 (Image from Lemon Sprig)

For a brunch:

• Low-Fat Pomegranate Scones

For dessert:

• Lemon Verbena Cheesecake
• Peach and Blueberry Cobbler

 (Image from Ace Fitness)

And don’t forget these Healthful Bites-tested-and-approved recipes:

• Homemade Soft Pretzels
• Karla’s Best Bran Muffins
• Rocco DiSpirito’s Apple Pie

Yum! Would any of these dishes make their way onto your holiday hosting list? Or what will be on your kitchen agenda? Do share!