Thinking about Thanksgiving usually leads to images of excess running through our heads as we envision "letting" ourselves enjoy foods that are richer than usual and delicacies that break some rules. The good news is that Thanksgiving doesn't actually deserve some of that negativity. Turkey, for instance, delivers plenty of protein and it has a low fat content compared to other meats, writes Amanda Schupak. Sweet potatoes do have "sweet" in their name, but their makeup helps keep blood sugar in the reasonable range. And those pies at the end of the meal? Pumpkin is chock full of vitamins, while apple treats are replete with fiber. That's a lot to be thankful for.

Martha Stewart has certainly earned her reputation as an accomplished cook, so paying attention to the extra component she adds to mashed potatoes is a good idea. She uses her mom's recipe, although she prefers Yukon gold spuds to her mom's preference for russets. Cream cheese is the unconventional addition that Stewart swears makes the dish richer, creamer and more flavorful.

Chefs say that sourdough is the best bread for stuffing because of its tangy flavor and sturdy texture. "The sturdy, chewy crumb soaks up broth without getting soggy, while its tangy flavor adds a depth you don't get from plain white bread," says Justin Ferrera, executive sous chef at Fleeting in Savannah, Ga. Brioche is recommended for a richer stuffing, while cornbread is preferred for Southern-style dressing.

Turkey may be at the center of the table on Thanksgiving Day, but stuffing/dressing, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes and mac and cheese have diners' hearts. Preferences vary geographically though, from macaroni and cheese in Florida to mashed potatoes in Washington state. The venerable green bean casserole, which turns 70 this year, didn't make it to number one, but deserves a shout-out for staying power.

Heinz has launched its first squeezable gravy, Heinz Leftover Gravy, inspired by the "Moist Maker" sandwich from "Friends." The product caters to the 94% of Americans who make leftover sandwiches after Thanksgiving, with nearly half considering gravy essential. It is available at Walmart, along with a limited-edition Leftover Gravy Kit.

If you are searching for the perfect bread to accompany your holiday creations, whether for a routine evening at home or a night out with friends, these scallion milk bread rolls will be a perfect fit. They are light yet distinctly savory and satisfying, with their butter-infused scallions adding just the right touch. Use bread flour if you have it or can find it; it'll make the rolls a little more sturdy while enhancing their featheriness. Food & Wine

Refreshing vanilla ice cream is the perfect counterpoint to warm poached Fuyu persimmons. A sweet, crisp topping seals the deal. If you don't have persimmons handy, apples, quince or another ripe fruit can send you on a mini culinary adventure. CIA Foodies