Guest Author - Jennifer Murray

Need some healthy recipe ideas for the holidays? Then the new "South Beach Diet Parties & Holidays Cookbook" (Rodale 2006) is just what you need.

"The South Beach Diet Parties & Holidays Cookbook" is not just for those following the South Beach Diet; it's for anyone who is looking for healthy meal ideas for any holiday or celebration.

Not only does this cookbook contain 150 new and easy recipes, but Dr. Agatston also provides 20 menus and practical advice on making the "best food choices possible whatever the occasion." The full-color photographs throughout provide inspiration on presentation, table settings, and centerpieces. Also included with every recipe are tips on making the dishes ahead for stress-free entertaining.

"The South Beach Diet Parties & Holidays Cookbook" not only provides recipes for major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas, but also for baby showers, Super Bowl parties, and everything in between.

Some titles of recipes included are:

Roast Turkey with Fresh Herbs

Buffalo Chicken Bites

Cocoa-Nut Mousse

Fresh Crab Salad

Blue Cheese Dipping Sauce

Eggnog

Chicken Cassoulet

And many, many more! Appetizers, snacks, salads, meals, and desserts for every occasion.

One recipe I am definitely trying out this Thanksgiving is the Cranberry Orange Compote:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries

1 tbsp. grated orange zest

1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 cup water

1/2 cup granular sugar substitute

Directions
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, place cranberries, zest, cinnamon, and water, and stir to combine.
2. Simmer and cook; stir occasionally until berries have popped and mixture has thickened (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar substitute to taste.
4. Serve at room temperature.

I give "The South Beach Diet Parties & Holidays Cookbook" a two thumbs up!

The South Beach Diet Parties & Holidays Cookbook