When it comes to Thanksgiving, there is a common misconception that the festive holiday is a vegetarian’s worst nightmare. After all, what is a vegetarian to do on a day that encourages indulgence to the point of becoming overly stuffed other than gorge oneself on roasted squash and green bean casserole? Trying to navigate around a meat-laden menu on Thanksgiving can make a vegetarian feel like the odd man out.
While the feast is often centered around a certain holiday bird, it turns out that there are many ways you can enjoy a complete dinner without a turkey at the table. A meatless Thanksgiving is not nearly as difficult as it sounds and with these delicious recipes that don’t include spending four hours prepping a turkey, you’ll be out of the kitchen in no time. Focus on a mix of traditional and unique dishes that still embody Thanksgiving’s themes of warmth, gratitude and sharing. Your guests, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, will definitely feel thankful for this year’s feast.
Mashed Potatoes w/ Horseradish
Where there’s Thanksgiving, there’s mashed potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes make this favorite extra creamy while horseradish gives it an extra kick.
Glazed Chile-Spiced Baby Carrots
Adding brown sugar to the carrots and roasting them in the oven helps bring out their natural sweetness. Tossing in diced jalapeño peppers allows for guests to choose how spicy they want.
We know pancakes are geared more towards Hanukkah a few weeks later, but these taro pancakes a great for serving to guests any time of the year. Taro and green onions gives this Asian-inspired recipe its tasty flavor and is served with sour cream for dipping.
Green Bean, Mushroom and Garlic Sauté
Everyone can enjoy crunchy green beans at the dinner table. This mushroom and fire roasted garlic-laden recipe is a lighter way to enjoy green beans with just as much flavor as a green bean casserole.
This fluffy quinoa pilaf is a satisfying addition to the dinner table with all the comforting flavors of roasted green onions, carrots, celery and bell peppers.
Guests will be diving into this tasty fall-inspired casserole for seconds and thirds. A sweet and savory comfort dish that’s perfect for sharing.
Spicy Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To make up for the lack of turkey this year, spice up your vegetable dishes such as these brussels sprouts. Tossed with shallots and garlic, this recipe is simplicity at its finest.
Our Roasted Vegetable Gratin turns this medley of fresh vegetables into a celebration of warm, comforting flavors. Throw in your favorite vegetables and top with your favorite pasta sauce.
Even if you’re missing turkey at the dinner table, you can still have this sweet chutney to complement your other dishes.
Will you be enjoying a Vegetarian Thanksgiving this year? What dishes do you plan to serve? We’d love to know about how you plan to celebrate the holiday this year!