Recipe: Apple Stuffing

Tired of your regular old stuffing recipe? Then give our apple stuffing a shot for a welcome change of pace. This healthy, low-fat side boasts fewer than 200 calories per serving. It’s great for Thanksgiving or simply any time you’re serving poultry throughout the year!

Ingredients

• 1 8-ounce package dry bread stuffing mix (whole grain if available)
• 2 cups apple juice, or as needed
• 2 tablespoons trans fat-free tub margarine
• 2 red delicious apples — peeled, cored and diced

Directions

1. Prepare the stuffing mix according to package directions, but substitute apple juice for water.
2. When bringing the juice and margarine to a boil, add the diced apple to the pan.
3. Stir in the stuffing mix until the liquid is absorbed.
4. Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish sprayed with non-stick cooking spray and top with remaining apples.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350 F or until stuffing is heated through.

Ingredient health benefits

• Apples: What’s not to love about apples? In addition to tasting great on a crisp fall day, apples can help regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol and give the microbes in your gut the fuel they need to keep you healthy.
• Margarine: This well-known spread has less saturated fat and fewer calories than butter. And the trans fat-free version doesn’t have trans fats, which raise your risk of heart disease.
• Whole-grain bread: Whole grains support your heart health, lower your blood pressure and can help you manage your weight. That being said, be choosy when selecting a whole-grain bread. Opt for breads that say “100% whole-grain” or “100% whole-wheat” on the labels and avoid brands that claim to be “enriched.”

Nutrition information (per serving)

Makes 8 servings

Calories: 180
Total Fat: 3 g
Sodium: 530 mg
Carb: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 3 g