Recipes for a Healthy Thanksgiving feast - modifications to your favorite Holiday side dishes.

Thanksgiving meals don't have to impede your health goals, whether they are to maintain a healthy weight or to eat more nutritious foods. Just get creative this year and modify each dish into a healthier version.

The turkey is a given, so here are some updated favorites - modern and healthy with tons of veggies - they are a feast for your eyes as well as your taste buds.

Green beans with crispy shallots and mushrooms

The traditional fat and sodium laden casserole gets a fresh farmers market taste upgraded with fresh green beans and mushrooms, rich in vitamins and minerals. Crispy shallots add satisfying crunch while parsley, lemon and Parmesan bring a pop of flavor.

Cauliflower - Potato purée

Swapping half the potatoes for cauliflower gives this mash a lighter texture while slashing the calories and carbs. Whole milk yogurt ensures it's silky smooth and adds a bright flavor hit too.

You may also wish to try Wild rice dressing,

Wild rice (is actually a seed) and has a deeper flavor, as well as more protein, fiber and antioxidants than traditional rice. With grassy, smoky notes, it plays well with fall flavors like leeks, celery, thyme leaves, dried cherries (full of potassium and beta carotene) and roasted pecans.

Brussel sprouts with apples and honey mustard vinaigrette

Deliciously earthy, nutty and chewy, roasted brussels sprouts have anti-cancer compounds as well as fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In this colorful side they are balanced by crispy sweet tart apples with a vinaigrette that ties it all together.

Don’t let the temptation of holiday foods ruin your heart healthy diet. Get creative this year and try these modifications for a healthier Thanksgiving feast.

Recipes by Anna Theoktisto, photos by Greg DuPree