High Protein Thanksgiving Recipes that Nourish and Delight

Name: High Protein Thanksgiving Recipes that Nourish and Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Turkey breast – 5 lbs; Quinoa – 2 cups; Green beans – 1 lb; Chickpeas – 1 can; Brussels sprouts – 1 lb; Almonds – 1 cup; Greek yogurt – 1 cup; Garlic – 4 cloves; Olive oil – 1/4 cup; Herbs (rosemary, thyme) – to taste

oktober 29, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Thanksgiving is all about gathering with family and friends, sharing stories, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. But have you ever thought about making your feast a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor? That’s where these high protein Thanksgiving recipes come in! I’ve always loved the idea of elevating traditional dishes by adding nutrient-packed ingredients that keep everyone feeling great after the meal. Imagine serving a perfectly roasted turkey breast alongside vibrant veggies like Brussels sprouts and green beans, all packed with protein to keep your guests fueled for holiday fun. Trust me, these recipes are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to show that healthy eating can absolutely be part of our holiday traditions. Let’s dive into the wholesome goodness!

Ingredients List

5 lbs turkey breast
2 cups quinoa
1 lb green beans
1 can chickpeas
1 lb Brussels sprouts
1 cup almonds
1 cup Greek yogurt
4 cloves garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
Herbs (rosemary, thyme) – to taste

How to Prepare Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step to ensure the turkey cooks evenly and comes out juicy!
While the oven is heating up, season your turkey breast generously with olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. Make sure to rub those herbs all over for maximum flavor.
Once seasoned, place the turkey in a roasting pan and pop it in the oven. Roast for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t forget to baste the turkey with its juices halfway through to keep it moist!
While the turkey is roasting, rinse your quinoa under cold water. Then, cook it according to the package instructions. Usually, it involves simmering in water for about 15 minutes until fluffy.
Now, let’s get those veggies ready! Steam your green beans and Brussels sprouts until they’re tender but still vibrant in color, which should take around 5-7 minutes. You want them bright and crisp!
For a tasty chickpea side, in a separate bowl, mix the drained chickpeas with minced garlic and a drizzle of olive oil. You can even toss in a pinch of salt and pepper if you like.
Once everything is ready, it’s time to serve! Slice the turkey and plate it alongside the quinoa, steamed veggies, and a generous dollop of Greek yogurt on top. It adds a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s packed with protein, making it a satisfying choice for your Thanksgiving feast!
All the ingredients come together easily, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all day.
The flavors are vibrant and delicious, perfect for impressing your guests.
It features wholesome ingredients that keep everyone feeling good after the meal.
This recipe is versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit different tastes.
It’s a great way to introduce healthy eating into your holiday traditions without compromising on taste.
Leftovers are just as tasty, making for easy meals in the days following Thanksgiving!

Tips for Success

Make sure to let your turkey rest for at least 15-20 minutes after roasting before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy!
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked quinoa to save on cooking time. Just heat it up before serving!
For a flavor boost, try marinating your turkey breast in the olive oil and herbs for a few hours or overnight if you can swing it. It really enhances the taste!
If you want to switch things up, add some roasted garlic to your chickpeas for an extra layer of flavor. Just roast the garlic alongside the turkey!
Don’t skimp on the seasoning for your veggies! A sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can elevate their flavor beautifully.
For a nut-free alternative, feel free to swap out the almonds for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds—they add a nice crunch too!
Keep an eye on your turkey during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If it’s browning too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent it from drying out.

Variations

Protein Swap: Instead of turkey, try using a herb-marinated chicken breast or even a whole roasted chicken for a different flavor profile. Both options are high in protein and just as delicious!
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, swap the turkey for a hearty bean loaf made from black beans, lentils, and quinoa. It’s packed with protein and super satisfying!
Fish Feast: If you’re looking for something lighter, consider using salmon or another fatty fish. It’s rich in protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, plus it cooks up beautifully in the oven!
Different Grains: Instead of quinoa, you can use farro or barley. Both are excellent sources of protein and add a nice chewy texture to your plate.
Alternative Sides: Amp up your vegetable sides with roasted sweet potatoes or a chickpea salad. Both pair wonderfully with a protein-rich main and add vibrant colors to your table.
Nutty Twist: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some hemp seeds or chia seeds to your quinoa for an extra protein boost and a delightful crunch!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like sage or dill to change the flavor profile of your turkey or chicken. Each herb brings its unique taste that can transform your dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your delicious Thanksgiving feast long after the big day! Once your turkey and sides have cooled down, transfer them into airtight containers. I like to separate the turkey from the sides to keep everything fresh. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the turkey and other dishes. Just make sure to wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. For the sides, just make sure they’re completely cool before freezing, and they should hold up well too!

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven for the turkey to keep it juicy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the turkey with foil, and heat it for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. For the sides, you can microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, or reheat them on the stovetop. Just be careful not to overheat, as you want to maintain all those lovely flavors!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying these high protein Thanksgiving recipes, it’s always good to have an idea of the nutritional breakdown! Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are typical estimates:

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 150mg
Cholesterol: 80mg

These numbers give you a great idea of how hearty and nutritious this meal can be, perfect for fueling your Thanksgiving festivities! Just remember, these values can shift a bit depending on how you prepare your dishes, so feel free to tweak things to fit your dietary needs!

FAQs

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey and sides a day in advance. Just store them properly in the fridge and reheat them before serving. This way, you can enjoy the holiday without stressing about last-minute cooking!

What are some other high protein Thanksgiving recipes?
There are so many options! You might consider adding a lentil loaf as a vegetarian main, or serve a quinoa salad loaded with beans and nuts as a side. Any dish that features lean meats, legumes, or dairy can boost the protein content of your meal!

How can I ensure my turkey stays moist?
Basting the turkey during roasting is key! Also, letting it rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, so you get a tender and juicy turkey every time. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Can I use frozen vegetables for the sides?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture. Fresh veggies are lovely, but frozen can be a great time-saver and still provide good nutrition!

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers can be transformed into delicious meals! Try making a turkey quinoa bowl topped with Greek yogurt or toss the veggies into a stir-fry. You can even make a hearty soup with any remaining turkey and vegetables. The possibilities are endless!

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Over mij

Hoi, mijn naam is Julia. Ik ben het hart van Vihaad Recipes en een gepassioneerde liefhebber van lekker eten. Mijn liefde voor koken begon al in mijn kindertijd, geïnspireerd door de heerlijke maaltijden van mijn grootmoeder. Vandaag de dag deel ik smakelijke recepten die mensen samenbrengen door het gedeelde plezier van eten.