Hello friends! I’m Marie Martin, and Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of year to gather loved ones around the table and that means comfort, warmth, and delicious food. If you’re vegetarian or looking to include more plant-based dishes in your Thanksgiving feast, this article is just for you. Over the years, I’ve collected and tested countless vegetarian recipes that shine on any holiday table, delivering all the cozy, celebratory flavors you want without any meat. From hearty mains to vibrant sides and delectable desserts, these dishes will make your vegetarian Thanksgiving memorable for everyone.
Table of Contents
Vegetarian Thanksgiving Main Dishes
One of the joys of vegetarian cooking is the variety of textures and flavors you can bring together to create show-stopping main dishes. These recipes go beyond just sides they’re hearty, satisfying, and perfect as the centerpiece of your holiday meal.
Rustic Scallion & Chive Panade
This decadent, savory casserole combines sourdough bread soaked in a rich broth with Gruyere, garlic, onions, and fresh chives. It’s fluffy, cheesy, and deeply flavorful an elegant alternative to traditional stuffing or a star main dish.
Mushroom Lasagna
Layered with a hearty mushroom ragù, ricotta, and tender pasta ribbons, this lasagna is comforting and vibrant with a hint of lemon zest. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with classic Thanksgiving sides.
Vegetable Pot Pie
A golden, flaky crust envelops creamy potatoes, carrots, peas, and onions in this veggie-packed pot pie. The addition of protein-packed chickpeas makes it hearty enough to satisfy every appetite.
Lentil Loaf
For a classic comfort food vibe, this protein-rich lentil loaf with sautéed herbs and veggies brings all the cozy flavors with a festive twist. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for a meat-free Thanksgiving spread.
Baked Tempeh with Maple Herb Marinade
Baked tempeh glazed in a sweet-savory maple herb sauce is an excellent protein-forward dish with terrific depth. This recipe is simple, makes a great alternative to turkey, and impresses guests with its bold flavor.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Tender baked sweet potatoes loaded with black beans, corn, veggies, and smoky spices offer a colorful, filling entree option. It’s an easy way to bring bold fall flavors to your Thanksgiving table.
Vegetarian Side Dishes
No Thanksgiving is complete without sides, and these vibrant vegetarian recipes accompany mains perfectly to complete your feast.
- Mashed Potatoes with Saffron Garlic Butter: Classic creamy potatoes brightened with garlic and aromatic saffron, topped with crunchy almonds and sesame seeds.
- Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Apples and Tofu: A sweet-savory skillet dish with tender sprouts, tart apples, and protein-packed tofu drizzled with maple syrup.
- Roasted Delicata Squash: Beautiful scalloped slices roasted alongside kale, radishes, and Marcona almonds with a spicy miso-harissa dressing.
- Green Beans with Dill and Leeks: Simple, fresh, and flavorful green beans sautéed with leeks and dill—a delightful green side for variety.
- Quinoa Skillet Bread: A rustic, herb-scented bread made with cornmeal and quinoa to accompany any meal.
- Lentils with Wine-Glazed Vegetables: Hearty lentils cooked with tender veggies and a touch of wine for elegance and warmth.
Salads & Soups for Thanksgiving
Brighten the meal with fresh vegetable-forward salads and comforting, seasonal soups.
- Broccoli Apple Salad: Roasted delicata squash and kale tossed with orzo and a tangy salted yogurt dressing for a fresh, veggie-forward component.
- Warm Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables: A colorful, nourishing grain salad with roasted fall veggies that can stand as a main or side dish.
- Vegetarian Butternut Squash Minestrone: A hearty soup with butternut squash, beans, and pasta in a savory tomato broth, warming and filling.
- Tuscan White Bean Soup with Kale: A creamy, herb-infused soup that’s perfect for cooler weather and festive gatherings.
Sweet Endings: Vegetarian Thanksgiving Desserts
No holiday is complete without a sweet finale!
- Classic Pumpkin Pie: Creamy pumpkin custard spiced with warming five-spice blend, baked inside a walnut-lined, flaky pie crust.
- Shaker Apple Pie: Thinly sliced apples with brown sugar in a tender, buttery crust—a simple yet spectacular fall dessert.
- Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: A crunchy, tasty snack or garnish to sprinkle on salads and desserts for a festive touch.
Helpful Tips for a Successful Vegetarian Thanksgiving
- Plan dishes that can be prepped ahead to ease cooking day stress.
- Include a mix of textures: creamy, crunchy, soft, and crisp to keep the meal interesting.
- Use fresh herbs, spices, and citrus zest to brighten deep, hearty flavors.
- Offer a variety of mains and sides so guests can mix and match.
- Consider vegan variations by swapping dairy with plant-based alternatives to accommodate vegan guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What do vegetarians eat on Thanksgiving?
A: Vegetarians enjoy a variety of hearty mains like lentil loaf, mushroom lasagna, and stuffed vegetables, alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted squash, and fresh salads.
Q: Can these recipes be made vegan?
A: Absolutely! Many vegetarian dishes easily convert to vegan by substituting dairy with plant-based milks and cheeses, and replacing eggs with flax or chia egg alternatives.
Q: What’s a good vegetarian Thanksgiving main dish for a crowd?
A: Mushroom lasagna, vegetable pot pie, and lentil loaf are perfect because they can be made in large batches and satisfy diverse tastes.
Q: How can I add protein to vegetarian Thanksgiving dishes?
A: Legumes like lentils and beans, tofu, tempeh, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of plant protein that integrate well into festive recipes.
Q: What sides pair well with vegetarian mains?
A: Roasted Brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, green beans with dill, and quinoa or grain salads complement vegetarian mains beautifully.
Culinary disclaimer
This content is provided for informational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice, professional diagnosis, or personalized treatment.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is all about sharing joy and abundance, and vegetarian dishes bring so much flavor, comfort, and color to the table. Whether you’re hosting a full vegetarian feast or adding meatless options to your holiday menu, these recipes will delight your loved ones and make your celebration special. Don’t hesitate to try one or two new dishes this year and feel free to explore more vegetarian recipes on HY Recipes for inspiration all year long. Happy Thanksgiving from my kitchen to yours!
