Ask a dietitian

Q: I've been asked to provide a side dish for Thanksgiving dinner. Do you have a good light recipe for sweet potatoes or green bean casserole?

A: During the holidays, it is very difficult to eat healthfully, with delicious appetizers, casseroles and desserts at every party to tempt you. For people who are on a weight-loss plan and do not want to overeat at Thanksgiving dinner, do not "save up" for that one meal. Eat raw vegetables and/or fruit two to three hours before arriving at your party so you are not famished by the time you get there. "Saving up" causes people to think they can eat whatever they want because they have not eaten earlier in the day, but in the end many more calories are consumed. Make a dish you can eat in good conscience. The entrees at the meal most likely will be casseroles. Instead, prepare a green bean medley rather than a green bean casserole and roasted sweet potatoes instead of sweet potato casserole.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

4 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into 1/2-inch chunks

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon Splenda

1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

Heat oven to 375 F. Place sweet potatoes, Splenda and cinnamon in 13- by 9-inch casserole dish and toss. Slowly add olive oil and toss to coat. Place potatoes in the oven for 45 minutes, tossing every 15 minutes. If you want to try a different flavor, substitute ground pepper and chili powder for the Splenda and cinnamon.

-- Emily Maddux, registered and licensed dietitian/nutritionist, Memorial Health Care System