10 Delicious and Healthy Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes for the Whole Family
November 22, 2023
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, and to share in a feast that celebrates the harvest season. However, for those following a vegan lifestyle, it can be a challenge to find food options that everyone can enjoy. That’s why we have compiled a list of 10 delicious and healthy vegan Thanksgiving recipes that will satisfy the whole family, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
From hearty main dishes to mouth-watering sides and desserts, these recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures that will make your holiday celebration both festive and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new this holiday season, these recipes are sure to impress!
1. Why a vegan Thanksgiving?
As the world becomes more health-conscious, veganism has gained significant popularity as a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. People are turning towards plant-based diets for various benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancers.
When it comes to Thanksgiving, many people think of turkey, ham, and other meat dishes. However, a vegan Thanksgiving can be just as delicious and satisfying. In fact, it can be a great way to introduce your family to healthier eating habits and new flavors.
In addition to health benefits, a vegan Thanksgiving also has environmental benefits. The meat industry is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing or eliminating meat consumption can help reduce our carbon footprint.
By choosing to have a vegan Thanksgiving, you can show your love for your family, the planet, and your own health. Plus, with so many delicious vegan Thanksgiving recipes available, you won’t even miss the meat!
2. Vegan Thanksgiving recipe essentials
When it comes to vegan Thanksgiving recipes, there are some essentials that you will need to make sure your meal is both hearty and delicious. First and foremost, you will need a protein source to replace the traditional turkey. Some great protein options include tofu, lentils, and seitan. These can all be seasoned and roasted to perfection to create a filling and satisfying main dish.
In addition to protein, you will also need some classic Thanksgiving sides. Mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing are all staples of the Thanksgiving table. To make them vegan, swap out butter for a plant-based alternative, like vegan butter or coconut oil, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
For dessert, pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving treat. To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based milk, like almond or soy milk, and a vegan butter substitute for the crust.
Finally, don’t forget about the cranberry sauce! This classic Thanksgiving side is naturally vegan, as it is made from cranberries and sugar. You can add in some orange zest or a touch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
By including these vegan Thanksgiving recipe essentials, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy, regardless of their dietary restrictions.
3. Appetizers
Thanksgiving is all about indulging in delicious food with your loved ones, and vegan appetizers can be just as delicious and satisfying as traditional ones. There are so many plant-based ingredients that can be used to create appetizers that are both healthy and flavorful.
One great option is bruschetta with a twist. Instead of using tomato and basil, try using roasted butternut squash and sage. The sweetness of the squash paired with the earthy flavor of the sage is a perfect combination. Serve it on toasted baguette slices and your guests will be begging for more.
Another tasty vegan appetizer is a roasted beet and cashew dip. Simply roast some beets until they are tender, then blend them with cashews, lemon juice, garlic, and a little bit of olive oil. The result is a creamy and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with crackers or sliced veggies.
If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, try making some vegan stuffed mushrooms. Stuff large mushroom caps with a mixture of sautéed veggies, quinoa, and walnuts, then bake until tender and golden. These are a great option for those who want something savory and satisfying.
No matter what vegan appetizers you choose to serve, make sure they are packed with flavor and nutrition. Your guests will be impressed by the variety of options and you’ll feel good knowing you’re providing healthy and delicious food for your loved ones.
4. Main dishes
The main dish is the centerpiece of any Thanksgiving meal, and it’s no different when it comes to vegan meals. Luckily, there are plenty of options that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike.
One popular vegan main dish is the stuffed acorn squash. The acorn squash is stuffed with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and chopped pecans. It’s then baked until the squash is tender and the filling is hot and crispy. Another great option is a vegan lentil loaf. This is a hearty and filling alternative to traditional meatloaf made with lentils, vegetables, oats, and spices. It’s perfect for those who want a comforting meal without the meat.
For those who prefer a more traditional Thanksgiving meal, a vegan roast made with seitan is an excellent option. Seitan is a protein-rich meat substitute made from wheat gluten. It has a chewy texture and can be seasoned to taste like roast beef or turkey. Serve it with all the classic Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, and cranberry sauce for a festive and satisfying meal.
No matter which main dish you choose, make sure to pair it with some delicious vegan sides and desserts for a complete Thanksgiving feast.
5. Side dishes
Side dishes are an important part of any Thanksgiving feast, and a great opportunity to showcase vegan ingredients. Here are some delicious and healthy vegan side dishes that are sure to impress your guests:
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until crispy and browned.
2. Sweet Potato Casserole: Mash roasted sweet potatoes with coconut milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon, and top with a crunchy pecan streusel.
3. Cranberry Sauce: Simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and zest until the berries burst and the mixture thickens.
4. Green Bean Casserole: Make a creamy cashew sauce and bake with blanched green beans and crispy fried onions.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender, mash with vegan butter and non-dairy milk, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuffing: Toss cubed bread with sautéed onions, celery, and herbs, and bake until crispy and golden.
7. Roasted Root Vegetables: Cut carrots, parsnips, and beets into chunks, toss with olive oil and herbs, and roast until tender.
8. Gravy: Make a rich and flavorful gravy with vegetable broth, soy sauce, and nutritional yeast.
9. Cornbread: Whip up a batch of vegan cornbread, flavored with jalapenos, scallions, or vegan cheese.
10. Salad: Serve a refreshing salad with mixed greens, sliced apples, pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette.
With these vegan side dishes, your Thanksgiving table will be full of color, flavor, and nutrition.
6. Salads
Thanksgiving is a time to indulge in some delicious, hearty food, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip the salads. In fact, salads can be a great way to balance out the heavier dishes and add some much-needed greens to your meal. There are plenty of vegan salad options that are both flavorful and healthy.
One great option is a roasted beet and orange salad. This salad features sweet and tangy flavors, with roasted beets, juicy oranges, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing. It’s a colorful and refreshing addition to any Thanksgiving table.
Another delicious salad option is a kale and quinoa salad. This salad is packed with protein and nutrients, thanks to the quinoa and kale. Add in some roasted sweet potatoes, dried cranberries, and a homemade lemon tahini dressing, and you have a delicious and filling salad that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.
For something a little different, try a roasted Brussels sprouts and apple salad. This salad features roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and a tangy mustard vinaigrette. It’s a unique and flavorful combination that’s sure to impress your guests.
No matter what salad you choose, adding a fresh and healthy option to your Thanksgiving menu is always a good idea. Not only will it add some balance to the meal, but it’s a great way to incorporate some plant-based options into your holiday spread.
7. Soups
Soups are a great way to start off your vegan Thanksgiving dinner! Not only are they a comfort food, but they are also a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. A classic vegan Thanksgiving soup is butternut squash soup. It is creamy and rich, with a hint of sweetness from the roasted butternut squash. It can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed.
Another great soup option is a vegan mushroom soup. Made with mushrooms, vegetable broth, and coconut milk, it is a flavorful and hearty soup that pairs well with a vegan dinner. Adding a side salad or some bread to the soup can make it a complete meal. If you’re looking for a lighter soup option, try a vegan tomato soup. Made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, it is a refreshing and healthy way to start off your Thanksgiving dinner. Whatever soup you choose, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for the whole family!
8. Desserts
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a delicious dessert to finish it off, and just because you’re following a vegan diet doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the sweet treats! Here are some mouth-watering vegan dessert recipes that are perfect for Thanksgiving:
1. Pumpkin Pie – A holiday classic, this vegan version uses coconut milk and creamy cashews instead of dairy.
2. Apple Crisp – Served warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, this dessert is sure to impress everyone at the table.
3. Pecan Pie Bars – These bars are sweet, nutty, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.
4. Chocolate Mousse – Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that’s made with avocado instead of heavy cream.
5. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars – These bars are a perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet apples, and gooey caramel.
6. Sweet Potato Pie – This pie is a delicious twist on the classic pumpkin pie, and it’s just as easy to make!
7. Cranberry Orange Bread – This sweet and tangy bread is perfect for breakfast or as a dessert on the Thanksgiving table.
8. Carrot Cake – This moist and flavorful cake is perfect with a dollop of vegan cream cheese frosting.
9. Chocolate Chip Cookies – Everyone loves a good chocolate chip cookie, and this vegan version is just as tasty as the original.
10. Cinnamon Rolls – Warm, gooey, and covered in sweet glaze, these cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to end your Thanksgiving meal.
With all of these delicious vegan dessert options, you won’t even miss the traditional butter and cream-filled desserts. Give these recipes a try and impress your friends and family with your vegan cooking skills this Thanksgiving.