When it comes to Thanksgiving, no meal is complete without an array of delicious side dishes. But what if you’re looking for tasty vegan options to complement your main course? Fear not! A plethora of plant-based recipes await, offering a world of possibilities to create a memorable and satisfying Thanksgiving feast.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring the world of plant-based cuisine, this roundup of forty-one vegan side dishes is sure to inspire and delight. So why let being vegan restrict your meal choices this holiday season? Instead, let these delectable recipes guide you in crafting a menu that’s not only vegan-friendly but also sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Best Vegan Side Dishes for Thanksgiving
The culinary centerpiece of Thanksgiving gatherings is, undoubtedly, the star-studded lineup of delectable dishes that never fail to wow guests. Among these iconic creations, a few timeless favorites consistently steal the show, earning their place as staple offerings on Turkey Day menus.
Vegan Garlic Knots
Garlic knots have earned their reputation as a crowd-pleasing side dish that effortlessly pairs with a wide range of main courses. When served with a tangy cranberry sauce or drizzled with olive oil, this humble recipe becomes a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
This vegan-friendly garlic knot recipe is a game-changer for any social gathering, whether it’s a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even a Thanksgiving potluck. With its versatility and ease of preparation, you’ll be the belle of the ball among your loved ones.
Pumpkin Pasta
One of the most iconic fall flavors is pumpkin, which pairs perfectly with the autumnal festivities of Thanksgiving. This simple yet satisfying pumpkin pasta dish boasts an abundance of fresh sage and other herbs, elevating its humble ingredients into a culinary delight. The real beauty lies in its convenience: prep the sauce ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and then quickly cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve dinner. Simply toss the cooked pasta with the prepared sauce for a stress-free and utterly delicious vegan side dish that’s sure to impress at your holiday gathering.
Green Bean Casserole
A well-crafted green bean casserole is a culinary delight that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its rich, creamy sauce and satisfying crunch from the tender green beans, this dish is a true showstopper. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to prepare, requiring minimal time and effort in the kitchen. In fact, you can have it ready in no time at all, making it an ideal option for busy households or special occasion meals.
Brussel Sprouts Slaw
Looking for a nutritious option to bring to someone else’s Thanksgiving dinner? Consider pairing shaved Brussels sprouts with crispy, sweet apple in a delicious side salad that your family will adore. The best part is it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time and transport to the gathering. Despite their hardiness, Brussels sprouts are surprisingly versatile, making this recipe perfect for both Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations.
Mac and Cheese
The idea of macaroni and cheese as comfort food is undeniable, but what about vegans who crave this classic dish? The obvious hurdle is the presence of traditional cheese. Fear not, however, as a clever solution exists. By employing a vegan cheese sauce and vegan butter, it’s possible to create a creamy casserole that’s so satisfying, it may even surpass other vegan Thanksgiving side dishes in popularity.
Vegan Potato Side Dishes
When it comes to versatility, potatoes are the undisputed champions of the vegetable world. Whether you’re cooking up a storm for a vegan Thanksgiving feast or simply looking to add some depth to your meals, potatoes are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in countless ways without compromising on flavor. In fact, their ability to absorb and enhance flavors makes them a holy grail ingredient for many vegans seeking to bring excitement to their plant-based dishes.
Mashed Potato
Discover the secret to making scrumptious vegan mashed potatoes without relying on dairy products. Simply substitute buttery goodness with almond milk and olive oil for a creamy texture that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. This recipe is a game-changer, especially during Thanksgiving when traditional dishes often get a vegan twist. To take it up a notch, this flavorful mash is infused with a hint of oniony charm from many chives. And the best part? It’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare!
Sweet Potato Casserole
Indulge in a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes with this scrumptious sweet potato casserole, boasting a visually stunning presentation beneath its crunchy walnut crust. Each serving is akin to uncovering a treasure trove of flavors! The earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes shines through, making it an excellent choice for any autumnal celebration or special occasion.
Foil Pack Red Potatoes
Venturing outdoors this Thanksgiving? Don’t neglect the supporting cast of side dishes! A simple yet satisfying option are these easy-to-prepare red potatoes cooked to perfection in a grill or campfire setting. With only four essential ingredients required, they’re an ideal choice for those seeking a low-fuss dish that still packs flavor. Simply combine the potatoes with herbs, wrap them in foil, and let the heat do its magic – voilà, a stress-free addition to your holiday meal.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Chunks
For those with an air fryer, this recipe offers a fantastic way to utilize the appliance. The chunky sweet potato pieces develop a stunning dark brown caramelization that’s impossible to ignore. This dish is particularly convenient on Thanksgiving when you have a full menu planned. Simply set the sweet potatoes and let them cook while you focus on other aspects of your holiday meal, returning later to find them perfectly prepared.
Scalloped Potatoes
The allure of scalloped potato casserole is undeniable – tender, velvety, and bursting with aromatic flavors that showcase the humble spud at its best. And yet, this vegan rendition manages to maintain that signature creaminess without compromising on taste or texture! The secret lies in crafting a rich, dairy-free cheese sauce that envelops the potatoes, resulting in a show-stopping casserole that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Chanterelle with Potato
Indulge in a delectable and savory side dish with this innovative stuffing recipe, expertly substituting traditional sausage with the earthy charm of chanterelle mushrooms. The fungi’s meaty texture and nutty flavor profile seamlessly replicate the hearty essence of sausage, yielding a stunning result that can be prepared in mere minutes.
Marmite Roast Potato
Marmite’s unique flavour profile is no accident – it’s a by-product of yeast, making it a rich source of taste. When paired with potatoes, Marmite amplifies its bold character without much effort required. For an even more indulgent experience, use this spread to elevate your potato dishes cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Alternatively, an oven will also yield impressive results if you don’t have access to an air fryer.
Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
Achieving the perfect Hasselback potato without sacrificing flavor or presentation is now within reach with the aid of an air fryer. This recipe serves as a masterclass in coaxing crispy, buttery results from this beloved side dish, which pairs exquisitely with Thanksgiving gravy. For those seeking a visually appealing accompaniment that requires minimal effort, this Hasselback potato recipe is the ultimate solution.
Lebanese Potato Salad
Lebanese potato salad is our final recipe, and it’s a delightful creation that showcases the simplicity of combining potatoes with an array of herbs and spices. The result is a flavorful dish that will have your taste buds dancing. What makes this potato salad truly special is the time you can allow the flavors to meld together – making it ahead of time allows the ingredients to harmonize beautifully, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. So, go ahead and make this recipe in advance, then refrigerate it until ready to serve. Your guests will thank you! The wait will be worth it, as the potatoes absorb all the wonderful flavors, making each bite a true delight.
Vegan Salad Side Dishes
Salads often get a bad rep for being dull, but that’s simply not true. When done right, a side salad can be a flavorful and textured delight that showcases the natural beauty of fresh veggies. Every salad on this list is a testament to that. By incorporating a variety of ingredients, you can create a culinary experience that’s far from boring.
Quinoa and Chickpea Salad
Among the initial salad recipes featured is a personal favorite that I frequently turn to for its perfect blend of taste and nutrition. This particular recipe boasts an impressive array of vegetables and flavor profiles, making it an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
This salad’s versatility allows it to seamlessly transition from a weeknight dinner to a crowd-pleasing potluck or picnic offering. Its make-ahead capabilities are particularly convenient, as it can be prepared the night before to save time on busy days.
Creamy Cucumber Salad
At first, combining cream and cucumber may seem counterintuitive, yet this unexpected pairing proves irresistible. As we explore this unique recipe, discover the benefits of making your own vegan sour cream from scratch. By doing so, you’ll unlock a versatile ingredient for future culinary creations.
Chopped Salad with Pear Vinaigrette
While a traditional Thanksgiving feast is always a treat, there’s nothing wrong with introducing a bit of variety to the table. A well-crafted chopped salad can be just the thing to cut through the richness of the meal, and a drizzle of pear vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch. The combination of sweet pomegranate seeds and peppery green rocket is particularly noteworthy, as it adds a delightful burst of flavor to each bite.
Green Bean and Beet Salad
Another burst of vibrant color appears, courtesy of this delightful green bean and beet salad. The perfect harmony of crunch and sweetness makes it an excellent antidote to the richness of the stuffing and potatoes. Meanwhile, we’re embracing the essence of seasonal eating by celebrating the freshness of these ingredients.
Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is an excellent addition to salads due to its impressive nutritional profile. Not only does it boast a high content of fiber and protein, but it also provides a sense of fullness that lasts longer than other ingredients. Its versatility allows it to harmoniously blend with a variety of salad toppings. Furthermore, quinoa’s rapid cooking time means you can allocate more attention to preparing your side dishes, allowing for a more relaxed holiday experience. This festive salad would complement any of the nutritious Thanksgiving desserts perfectly.
Strawberry Avocado Pasta
While the notion of pairing strawberry with avocado may seem unconventional at first, this unlikely duo can indeed bring harmony to your taste buds. The sweetness of strawberries is beautifully offset by the creaminess of avocados. When combined with pasta and a generous amount of fragrant basil, you’ll find yourself indulging in a delightfully well-rounded salad that will satisfy your cravings.
Winter Fruit Kale Salad
Winter’s chill brings out the best in kale, and when paired with sweet winter fruits, slivered nuts, and a dash of creativity, the humble green becomes a true showstopper. This salad’s unique combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress at any holiday gathering, from Thanksgiving potlucks to cozy winter nights around the fire. As the kale provides a sturdy base, the sweetness of the fruits shines through, while the earthy undertones of the nuts add depth and satisfying crunch. It’s the perfect recipe for when you want to bring a little extra magic to your table.
Coleslaw
While many may associate coleslaw with traditional ingredients, vegans can still indulge in this refreshing side dish. This vegan coleslaw recipe is a game-changer for those looking to add some crunch and flavor to their meals without compromising on dietary preferences. With its ability to be prepared ahead of time, it’s the perfect addition to any dinner spread. The beauty of this recipe lies in its capacity to meld flavors together over the course of the day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or special occasions alike.
Crockpot Side Dishes
Crockpots have become an indispensable tool for many home cooks, offering the freedom to prepare meals with minimal effort and maximum results. By simply adding ingredients to the pot and letting it cook throughout the day, the stress of timing multiple dishes is alleviated. This hands-off approach makes it particularly well-suited for special occasions like Thanksgiving, when a perfect side dish can be effortlessly prepared, leaving you more time to focus on other aspects of your celebration.
Pumpkin Soup
Looking for a simple and satisfying recipe? Pumpkin soup fits the bill! This warm and comforting dish is packed with flavor and spice, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make. For an added bonus, swap out traditional sour cream for coconut cream – it’s a game-changer.
Mashed Potatoes
For many, mashed potatoes are an integral part of the Thanksgiving experience. This particular recipe relies on red potatoes, which require a slightly longer boiling time to get just right. As they’re cooked in a crockpot, it’s the perfect method for bringing out their unique characteristics. To elevate the flavor profile, be sure to sprinkle with generous amounts of salt, pepper, and chives. Additionally, substituting vegan butter results in an incredibly creamy consistency.
Carrots
Elevate your Thanksgiving celebration with a show-stopping side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the rich flavor of cranberries. This delectable and aromatic recipe is a cinch to prepare using a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy hosts or those new to cooking. As guests take their first bite, they’ll be delighted by the burst of color and flavor as the whole carrots are sprinkled with these vibrant red gems, transporting them to a festive Thanksgiving table.
Balsamic Brussel Sprouts
Let’s give some much-needed love to the humble Brussels sprout, often unfairly maligned in the culinary world. The balsamic-glazed version I’m about to describe will have you rethinking this underrated veggie’s place on your plate. Sweet and earthy, with a tender texture that’s simply divine, these little green orbs are perfect for cozying up with on a chilly evening. Each one is like a flavor sponge, eagerly absorbing the rich balsamic notes and coming away transformed – a true delight to savor.
Easy Side Dishes for Thanksgiving
If you’re responsible for feeding a large family, you know how daunting the task can be – especially when it comes to preparing a special occasion meal like Thanksgiving. Luckily, we’ve got just the thing for you: a collection of incredibly easy vegan Thanksgiving dinner recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And don’t worry if you’re thinking ‘simple’ equals ‘bland’ – these dishes pack plenty of flavor despite their ease of preparation. By choosing one (or two, or three…) of these recipes, you’ll not only save yourself time and energy this Turkey Day, but also ensure that your loved ones have a wonderful meal to enjoy together.
Instant Pot Potatoes and Carrots
For many, Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a hearty and satisfying side dish to accompany the main event. Fortunately, the Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare potatoes and carrots that are not only delicious but also incredibly quick to make – all in just three minutes! This recipe is a true win-win, offering a healthy and flavorful option that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re looking for a comforting complement to turkey or a satisfying accompaniment to other dishes, this recipe is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Transform your air fryer into a quick and easy side dish maker by whipping up a vibrant, turmeric-infused cauliflower that’s sure to be the star of your Thanksgiving table. The pop of bright yellow is an instant conversation starter! You can enjoy it on its own or elevate the flavor with a tangy green chutney for added depth.
Vegan Stuffing
When the phrase ‘Thanksgiving’ comes up, many of us think of savory delights like stuffing. But what makes this recipe truly special is its versatility – it’s not just limited to Turkey Day celebrations. Whether you’re looking to elevate a holiday dinner or simply satisfy a craving, this recipe is sure to please. The beauty of stuffing lies in its ability to adapt to your unique flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to create a signature blend that becomes a staple at your gatherings. And for those seeking an added layer of complexity, consider incorporating the rich flavors of garlic bread into the mix. The result is nothing short of incredible.
Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips
The experience of savoring honey-roasted carrots can be a game-changer for anyone who’s never tried them before. The natural sweetness that seeps out during the roasting process is elevated to new heights by the subtle aroma of honey, creating a truly mouthwatering combination. What’s more, these sweet and savory delights are incredibly easy to prepare – simply set aside 30 minutes, gather your roughly chopped carrot medley and drizzle with honey, and you’re ready to indulge in a culinary treat that will leave you wanting more.
Air Fryer Okra
Okra, a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, embodies the essence of comfort food. Its tender green spears can be elevated with a satisfying crunch courtesy of a flavorful coating. A quick fry seals the deal, and your taste buds will thank you. But what truly elevates this dish is the rich, velvety dipping sauce. For added depth and heat, I recommend the creamy chipotle option. Alternatively, a simple aioli provides a delightful contrast to the crispy okra.
Breaded Cauliflower
When it comes to achieving that perfect crisp, air fryers truly excel. One of my favorite ways to put this technology to use is by transforming cauliflower into a delectable and unique side dish for the holidays – think Thanksgiving! To give your cauliflower an extra boost of flavor, I recommend brining it in vegetable broth beforehand. The result will be tender florets infused with a savory depth that will leave everyone wanting more. And if you’re looking to serve this recipe as part of a larger meal, don’t worry – its versatility makes it just as suitable as a satisfying appetizer.
Roasted Lemon Garlic Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a game-changer for vegan meals, offering a satisfying meatiness without the need for animal products. Their ability to absorb flavors is unparalleled, particularly when it comes to citrusy and aromatic notes like lemon and garlic. Roasting mushrooms proves to be an even more effortless process than frying, requiring minimal stovetop attention. Simply slice them up, dress with garlic and lemon, and let the oven do the work. In under twenty-five minutes, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful and textured delight.
Root Veggie Mash
If the thought of traditional mashed potatoes has become too mundane, this innovative recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds. A medley of carrots, pumpkin, and butternut squash harmonizes to create a velvety mash that embodies the essence of fall’s bountiful flavors. To elevate this dish further, simply add a judicious amount of fresh herbs and rich butter. The result is nothing short of exceptional! For those determined to resist the temptation of tossing Thanksgiving leftovers aside, fear not – this recipe can be frozen with ease for a later culinary indulgence.
Air Fryer Roasted Beetroot
When it comes to roasting, beetroot is a standout favorite of mine. As the natural sugars caramelize during the roasting process, they release a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. The end result is a tender, sweet, and earthy delight that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family at the dinner table.
To add an extra pop of color to your roasted beetroot, I recommend trying out red and gold varieties. Not only do they offer a stunning visual display on your plate or platter, but their unique flavor profiles will also keep things interesting. So go ahead, get creative, and let the beauty of roasted beetroot shine!
Air Fryer Tomatoes
Indulge in perfectly grilled tomatoes that require minimal effort, yet yield an explosion of flavors! The resulting dish is a symphony of textures and aromas, as if a concentrated tomato sauce has been bottled up on your plate. To achieve this culinary delight, simply pan-fry the tomatoes with sprigs of fresh rosemary. As the herb’s pungent flavor mingles with the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, you’ll be treated to a truly exceptional gastronomic experience.
Green Beans with Almonds and Olives
Elevate your green beans from bland to grand without sacrificing their nutritional value. The combination of salty olives and crunchy almonds adds a delightful depth of flavor, making them a satisfying snack. This same approach can be applied to asparagus, where a sprinkle of crispy kale or herbs takes the dish to the next level.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
This humble cream of mushroom soup stands out for its effortless simplicity, yet bursts forth with a rich, earthy flavor profile, subtly elevated by the warmth of thyme. The tender, stewed mushrooms add a satisfying texture that belies the speed at which this comforting concoction can be prepared.
Instant Pot Baked Potatoes
Imagine being able to whip up perfectly roasted potatoes in just 22 minutes, without ever having to preheat your oven. That’s exactly what you can achieve by baking potatoes in your Instant Pot! The key is using the right type of potato – russet potatoes have a natural skin that roasts beautifully. This game-changing recipe makes it easy to add deliciously roasted potatoes to your Thanksgiving table without breaking a sweat.As you start planning your holiday menu, I’d love to hear about your vegan guests and how you’re navigating plant-based options this year. Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you’re already thinking ahead to Christmas dinner, be sure to check out our collection of mouth-watering recipes for inspiration.
