Start this holiday season the right way by planning meals that are delicious and healthy. Your dining experiences through the holidays can be exciting, delicious and nutritious whether planning a meal for two or twenty two. Here's how.

Take your menu seriously and plan ahead. Write down a shopping list before you head to the grocery store. This will save you time and stress. For Thanksgiving, make sure you know the number of guests you are serving and order your turkey ahead of time. If your guest list is small, consider buying a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey. This will save you money, and the never ending days of turkey leftovers.

Plan your day including the time it will take to prepare and cook your meal. If your oven is small, make sure you know how long each item that requires baking will take so that you can take one out -- put another one in -- and have everything prepared when serving time arrives.

Make sure you keep track of how much food you're preparing. For example, one pie will usually serve at least 10 people. If you are serving a crowd, consider purchasing a couple of bakery bought pies and serve with a side like ice cream.

Balance your meal with plenty of vegetables and fruit and stick to healthy portions of about three to four ounces of protein. And keep in mind that the average weight gain over the Thanksgiving to New Years holidays is only about a pound -- so enjoy!

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