Looking for a deliciously healthy side dish that will impress your guests without the guilt? Look no further! Our Fat Free Stuffing with Cranberries is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. With its savory blend of whole wheat bread, aromatic herbs, and the sweet touch of cranberries, this stuffing not only complements your holiday feast but also keeps your health goals in check. Ready to transform your dinner table? Read on for the full recipe and tips on how to make this scrumptious dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf whole wheat bread, cubed
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tablespoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut the whole wheat bread into small, uniform cubes approximately 1/2 inch in size. Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet and let them air dry for about 1-2 hours, or use slightly stale bread for better texture.
- In a large non-stick skillet, sauté the diced onion and celery over medium heat without using oil. Use a small amount of vegetable broth to prevent sticking and help the vegetables soften.
- Add sage, salt, and pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are translucent and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and dried cranberries. Gently mix to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Gradually pour the vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring carefully to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming soggy. The bread should be moist but not wet.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive drying.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes covered. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to create a slightly crispy top.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the stuffing to set.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use slightly stale whole wheat bread. If you don't have stale bread, let freshly cubed bread air dry for 1-2 hours before using it.
- Sauté with Care: When sautéing the onions and celery, use just enough vegetable broth to prevent sticking. This keeps the dish fat-free while enhancing the flavors of the vegetables.
- Moisture Control: Gradually add the vegetable broth to the bread mixture. You want the bread to be moist but not soggy, so pour slowly and mix gently.
- Crispy Top: For a perfect crispy topping, bake the stuffing covered for the first 25 minutes, then uncover for the last 5-7 minutes. This will give you that delightful contrast in texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the stuffing to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
