Feeling the Post-Thanksgiving Overload? Let’s Lighten Things Up.
There’s something magical about Thanksgiving, the cozy casseroles, the golden turkey, the pies that somehow taste even better the next morning. But once the leftovers are finally tucked away and the last slice of pumpkin pie has mysteriously disappeared (we’re not pointing fingers), reality hits: your body is ready for a reset.
If you’re anything like me, the days after Thanksgiving bring a very specific kind of hunger, one that craves simplicity, freshness, and meals that feel nourishing rather than heavy. After a week of rich gravies, buttery sides, and indulgent desserts, I find myself craving dinners that are:
- •Light but satisfying
- •Flavorful without the fuss
- •Packed with nutrients
- •And most importantly… require very little cleanup
That’s exactly why I return to my collection of one-pan salmon and asparagus recipes every year. They’re the perfect antidote to holiday excess: bright, citrusy, protein-packed, and ready in under 30 minutes.
These sheet-pan meals don’t just taste refreshing—they feel refreshing. They give your kitchen (and your stomach) a much-needed break while still delivering restaurant worthy flavor. No complicated prep, no multiple pots bubbling on the stove, no marathon cleanup session. Just simple, beautiful ingredients roasted to perfection.
Below, you’ll find six of my favorite variations, each with its own personality, each delivering exactly what we all need after Thanksgiving: a delicious, light, effortless reset.
