It’s time to reimagine the main dishes and sides for your plant-based Thanksgiving spread. No longer do you have to settle for boring or lackluster dishes. In fact, plant-based eating offers endless opportunities to create hearty, savory, and downright delicious dishes that will make your guests ask for seconds.
Plant-Based Main Dishes
Roasted Vegetable Wellington
This dish is a vegetable lover’s dream. A medley of roasted root vegetables is enveloped in flaky puff pastry, making for a show-stopping and delicious centerpiece to your Thanksgiving meal. Serve with cranberry sauce, gravy, and/or a simple green salad.
Lentil and Mushroom Loaf
A plant-based main course doesn’t have to be lacking in protein or flavor. This lentil and mushroom loaf is both satisfying and delicious. You can even make it ahead of time and reheat for dinner. For the best texture, cook the lentils just until tender but not mushy.
Butternut Squash and Quinoa Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your stuffed mushrooms with this elegant and impressive plant-based entree. Simply roast portobello mushrooms and stuff them with a flavorful filling made from butternut squash, quinoa, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Plant-Based Thanksgiving Sides
Creamy Mashed Potatoes (without Dairy)
Mashed potatoes don’t need dairy to be rich and velvety. This simple recipe uses plant-based milk and butter to achieve the perfect texture. Feel free to add in minced garlic or your favorite herbs for added flavor.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple and Pecans
Brussels sprouts don’t have to be a side dish that’s overlooked or underappreciated. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the sprouts with a touch of maple syrup and adds crunch with toasted pecans.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping
This sweet potato casserole is a healthier take on a classic Thanksgiving side. It’s still sweet and satisfying but is made without marshmallows. The pecan streusel topping adds crunch and texture without being overly sweet.
Embracing Seasonal Produce
Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Cinnamon
Make homemade cranberry sauce with a twist—orange zest and cinnamon stick—for a flavorful and sophisticated take on this classic Thanksgiving side. Serve alongside your roasted bird or plant-based main dish.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Sage and Balsamic
Butternut squash is the star of this simple but delicious side dish. Roast the squash until tender and then toss with sage, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. The flavors of the squash are highlighted with the simple addition of herbs and seasonings.
Satisfying Desserts to Complete the Meal
Pumpkin Pie with Coconut Whipped Cream
This classic Thanksgiving dessert is made plant-based with the addition of a few simple ingredients. Coconut milk is used to make a rich and creamy whipped topping that’s a delicious and vegan-friendly alternative to traditional whipped cream.
Apple Crisp with Oat Crumble Topping
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this delicious apple crisp. The oat crumble topping is a satisfying and crunchy addition to this sweet and comforting dessert. Serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.