Best Thanksgiving Vegetarian Side Dishes Recipes to Try

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering around the table, sharing stories, and indulging in delicious food that brings everyone together. For vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based options to their holiday feast, having flavorful, satisfying side dishes is essential.

These vegetarian sides not only complement the traditional turkey or main course but also stand strong on their own, bursting with autumn flavors and vibrant textures. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply want to try something new this year, these recipes will ensure your Thanksgiving spread is both festive and inclusive.

From creamy mashed potatoes with a twist to roasted vegetable medleys and savory stuffing alternatives, these dishes are designed to impress. Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients that celebrate the season’s bounty.

Let’s dive into the best Thanksgiving vegetarian side dishes that will delight every guest at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegetarian side dishes are perfect for Thanksgiving because they bring warmth, comfort, and rich flavors without compromising on nutrition or taste. They are easy to prepare, use seasonal ingredients, and cater to various dietary preferences.

Whether you’re hosting family or friends, these recipes add variety and color to your meal, making it memorable for everyone.

Each dish is crafted to balance texture and flavor, from creamy to crunchy, savory to sweet. They also pair beautifully with classic Thanksgiving mains or can be enjoyed as a hearty vegetarian feast on their own.

Plus, these recipes are flexible and can be customized to suit your taste or dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

• Butternut Squash Casserole: 3 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash, 1/2 cup pecans (chopped), 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup oats, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp cinnamon, salt and pepper to taste
• Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes: 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk, 3 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped), salt and pepper to taste
• Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: 1 lb Brussels sprouts (halved), 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp pure maple syrup, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste
• Quinoa Cranberry Salad: 1 cup cooked quinoa, 1/3 cup dried cranberries, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, juice of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper to taste
• Classic Vegetarian Stuffing: 6 cups cubed day-old bread, 1 cup diced celery, 1 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup vegetable broth, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp sage, 1 tsp thyme, salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Large pot (for boiling potatoes)
• Colander
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon and spatula
• Medium saucepan

Instructions

1. Prepare the Butternut Squash Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly in a greased casserole dish.
2. Make the topping: Mix oats, chopped pecans, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the squash. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the squash is tender and the topping is golden brown.
3. Cook the Mashed Potatoes: Peel and cube potatoes. Boil in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
4. Mash the potatoes: Add minced garlic, plant-based milk, vegan butter, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth. Keep warm.
5. Roast the Brussels Sprouts: Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Roast on a baking sheet: Spread in a single layer and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through for even browning.
7. Prepare the Quinoa Cranberry Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, dried cranberries, walnuts, fresh parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
8. Make the Vegetarian Stuffing: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and celery until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Combine stuffing: In a large bowl, mix bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add vegetable broth gradually, stirring until the bread is moist but not soggy.
10. Bake the stuffing: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes for a crispy top.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor in your mashed potatoes, roast the garlic before mashing to add a subtle sweetness.

Try adding dried cherries or apricots to the quinoa salad for a different fruity twist.

Use gluten-free bread in the stuffing if you are catering to gluten sensitivities.

Add toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to salads or casseroles for a delightful crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These side dishes pair wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving mains like roasted turkey or ham. For a fully vegetarian feast, serve them alongside a rich lentil loaf or a savory mushroom Wellington.

Add a fresh green salad or a warm soup to round out the meal.

To add a festive touch, garnish the casseroles and salads with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary. Consider offering cranberry sauce or a tangy mustard dressing on the side to enhance the flavors.

For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling cider complements these dishes beautifully.

Looking for more delicious recipes to complete your holiday? Check out the Magic Dough Recipe for a versatile bread base, or try the Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a fresh salad option.

For a fun dessert, don’t miss the Manny Randazzo King Cake Recipe to finish on a sweet note.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect vegetarian Thanksgiving side dishes doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. These recipes prove that plant-based dishes can be just as hearty and flavorful as their traditional counterparts.

By using seasonal ingredients and simple techniques, you can bring warmth and joy to your holiday table that everyone will appreciate.

Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or simply want to add more variety to your feast, these dishes offer a delicious balance of taste and nutrition. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones.

Embrace the harvest season and make your Thanksgiving celebration truly special with these crowd-pleasing vegetarian sides!

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