Hoping to eat a bit healthier this Christmas dinner?  Do you have guests who are gluten intolerant or prefer a low-carb diet?  If so, let us put a twist on the traditional stuffing.  There are ways to make stuffing healthier without jeopardizing taste.  You just need a few ideas and the desire to give it a shot.  If you are concerned you will end up with a mutiny on your hands, make two versions, your traditional stuffing and one alternative.  Here are some ideas that are should impress all your guests.

Rosemary Whole Wheat Stuffing With Figs and Hazelnuts:

This vegan/meatless stuffing is a sweeter variation thanks to the figs and cranberries.  The hazelnuts adds a crunch and nutty flavour, which can be replaced with chestnuts for a more Christmassy feel.  Pick a whole wheat or whole grain bread with lots of grains and seeds such as pumpkin seeds to add to the flavours. https://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipes/rosemary-whole-wheat-stuffing-with-figs-and-hazelnuts/

Paleo Stuffing:

The main ingredients that allows this to work and gives it that bread-like texture is almond flour and eggs.  With the addition of mushrooms, celery, and apples, this stuffing alternative is sure to please everyone. https://40aprons.com/best-paleo-stuffing/

Crockpot Stuffing with Wild Rice, Cranberries, and Almonds:

This is a great second stuffing recipe as the crockpot does the work for you.   You can also prepare some of the components up to two days in advance and just toss them in the crockpot when you are ready to make the dish.  Being a rice based stuffing it is a great alternative for your gluten-free guests.  crock-pot-stuffing

Easy Vegan Stuffing:

This recipe uses many traditional stuffing ingredients without the meat. Use any bread you like (wheat or gluten-free) and use vegetable stock to add moisture instead of butter or turkey broth.  Add some dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries to add some sweetness.  One bonus for this stuffing is it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.  https://runningonrealfood.com/easy-vegan-stuffing/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=869221984_37127202_394072

Apple and Mushroom Stuffing:

An easy and quick stuffing recipe that uses whole grain bread, many mushrooms and a sweet addition of apples.  Use vegetable broth to keep it vegan.  https://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/2016/11/22/healthy-stuffing-recipe/

Low-Carb Cauliflower Stuffing:

Stuffed inside the turkey or cooked on the side, this stuffing is made similar to traditional stuffing but thanks to the cauliflower replacing the bread it is low-carb and gluten-free.  Just do not overcook the cauliflower or it will get too soft. https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/low-carb-paleo-cauliflower-stuffing-recipe/

Herbed Wild Rice and Quinoa Stuffing:

This vegan, gluten-free stuffing also provides extra protein, which is a great option for vegetarians.  If you like, you can add chickpeas or lentils to add more fibre and protein.  Pecans, apples, and cranberries makes this a flavourful dish that can be used as a side or as the main dish. https://www.kitchentreaty.com/herbed-wild-rice-and-quinoa-stuffing/

https://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/2019/11/20/healthy-stuffing-recipes/