10 Organic Thanksgiving Recipes
It’s the ultimate foodie day: Thanksgiving! But here’s something we’re not thankful for: Many traditional Thanksgiving staples, such as cranberries, green beans, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, rank among the top foods at risk for toxic pesticide residue, according to The Organic Center’s new Dietary Risk Index. Make this year’s Thanksgiving your healthiest yet with organic foods, free from pesticides, GMOs, hormones, and antibiotics.
“The only real way to protect your family from [the risk of toxic pesticide residue] is to purchase organic foods, particularly those fruits and vegetables that pose the greatest risk,” says The Organic Center board member Sara Snow. “The Dietary Risk Index makes it easy by clearly listing which foods those are.”
Show your love by buying as many organic ingredients as you can and using them in these delectable recipes. “By preparing an organic Thanksgiving, you’ll be providing your family with nutritious food that’s both good for you and for the planet,” says Snow.
Roast Turkey with Sage
A gorgeous centerpiece entree (see full turkey on previous frame). Look for organic and heritage turkeys, which are raised without hormones, antibiotics, or additives. View recipe.
Herbed Bread and Vegetable Stuffing
This vegetable-studded stuffing adds flavor and nutrients to a typically bread-heavy dish. Use organic, sprouted bread for even more texture. View recipe.
Fresh Spinach-Artichoke Baked Dip
Enjoy this lightened version of the classic artichoke dip appetizer—and be sure to use organic spinach. View recipe.
Goat Cheese Tart with Marinated Beets and Arugula
Conventionally grown beets are often genetically modified (GMO); avoid this by buying organic beets for this lovely, light appetizer or starter course. View recipe.
Parsnip and Fennel Puree
It’s not Thanksgiving without some version of mashed potatoes! This sophisticated version adds natural sweetness with organic parsnips and fennel. View recipe.
Kibbeh with Apples, Walnuts, and Feta
This vegetarian, Mediterranean-inspired entree will please everyone at the table; you can also make it one day ahead. To avoid rBGH, use organic yogurt for the delicious, dill-infused sauce. View recipe.
Cranberry-Pomegranate Relish
Easy and tangy, this refreshing cranberry relish features organic orange peel for a bright finish. View recipe.
Apple-Cranberry Lattice Pie
Organic apples, an early symbol of the organic movement, combine beautifully with lemon and cranberries in this seasonal dessert. View recipe.
Fig Pie
This novel, savory-sweet dessert features juicy, fresh figs; it’s wonderful paired with fresh goat cheese. View recipe.
Cranberry Squash Pie
An Ayurvedic-inspired finale to your organic feast; the ingredients promote peacefulness because they’re free of caffeine and strong spices. View recipe.