Trim the Trimmings

With the whole family gathered around for the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, it can be difficult to stick to a healthy eating regimen. The typical holiday meal weighs in at more than 2,000 calories per person! But with imagination and a few tasty substitutes, you can pare down the calories without losing any of the flavor.

• Remove the fat layer and boil the drippings until liquid is concentrated (reduced by half).
• Serve "au jus style" in individual cups.

• Peel and cut butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. Place in a shallow baking pan.
• Add a little olive oil and minced garlic and mix thoroughly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Bake at high temperature (450°F) for 30 to 45 minutes until squash is lightly brown and crispy.

• Wash whole fresh cranberries and whole navel oranges in cold water.
• Using a food processor, chop whole cranberries and oranges into minced pieces, and then set aside.
• Make simple syrup by combining 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water; boil for two minutes.
• Combine minced cranberries, oranges, and simple syrup to make cranberry and orange relish.