When preparing meals for the holidays, try some of these holiday helpers to keep meals lower in fat:

1. Don't forget the roasted vegetables -- squash, sweet potatoes, parsnips or tomatoes. These vegetables require little if any fat to prevent sticking, and roasting them with your turkey is an ideal cooking method.

2. Strong-flavored cheeses, such as gorgonzola or aged parmesan, add more "oomph" per ounce and have less fat than easy melters such as cheddar.

3. Try pureed potato, skim or low-fat milk rather than cream for your sauces.