Best Thanksgiving Vegan Nut Loaf Recipe for Holiday Meals

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. For those following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to add a wholesome plant-based centerpiece to their holiday table, this best Thanksgiving vegan nut loaf recipe is an absolute must-try.

It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutritious ingredients that will satisfy vegans and omnivores alike. The combination of nuts, grains, and fresh herbs creates a loaf that’s moist, textured, and bursting with savory goodness.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring meat-free options, this recipe promises to be a showstopper that everyone will love.

Perfectly spiced and easy to prepare, this nut loaf makes a fantastic alternative to traditional meatloaf or turkey. Plus, it reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers or prep ahead of time.

Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can make it the star of your Thanksgiving feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan nut loaf checks all the boxes for a holiday favorite:

• Rich in texture: A blend of walnuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds gives the loaf a delightful crunch while remaining tender inside.
• Nutritious and wholesome: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, it keeps you full and satisfied.
• Flavorful and aromatic: Fresh herbs like sage and thyme bring classic Thanksgiving flavors, complemented by savory tamari and tomato paste.
• Easy to customize: This recipe adapts well to whatever nuts or spices you have on hand, making it flexible and forgiving.
• Perfect centerpiece: It looks beautiful sliced and served with your favorite vegan gravy or cranberry sauce, making it ideal for holiday entertaining.

Ingredients

• 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• ½ cup cashews, chopped
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated carrot
• ½ cup celery, finely diced
• ½ cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Mixing bowls
• Loaf pan (8 x 4 inches works well)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for carrots
• Frying pan or skillet
• Baking sheet (optional, for lining loaf pan)
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, whisk together the ground flaxseed and water. Let it sit for 10 minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency.
2. Toast the nuts and seeds: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Stir in the grated carrot towards the end and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Process the nut mixture: In a food processor, pulse the toasted nuts and seeds until coarsely ground—be careful not to over-process; you want some texture.
5. Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the processed nuts and seeds, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, cooked brown rice, tomato paste, tamari, smoked paprika, sage, thyme, flax egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed; if too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
6. Preheat your oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
7. Fill the loaf pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing firmly and evenly to ensure it holds its shape.
8. Bake the nut loaf: Place in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and firm to the touch.
9. Cool before slicing: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
10. Serve and enjoy: Slice the loaf and serve with your favorite vegan gravy, cranberry sauce, or roasted vegetables.

Tips & Variations

“For a gluten-free version, substitute rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats or add an extra ½ cup cooked quinoa.”

If you want to enhance the loaf further, here are a few suggestions:

• Add ½ cup cooked lentils for extra protein and moisture.
• Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a brighter flavor.
• Top the loaf with a thin layer of tomato ketchup or vegan BBQ sauce before baking for a tangy glaze.
• Experiment with different nuts such as pecans or almonds depending on your preference.
• Incorporate finely diced dried cranberries or chopped olives for interesting bursts of flavor.

This nut loaf also freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan nut loaf pairs beautifully with classic Thanksgiving sides. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Vegan mashed potatoes with garlic and chives
• Rich mushroom gravy or vegan gravy of your choice
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
• Cranberry sauce for a sweet and tart contrast
• Herb stuffing made from bread cubes and fresh sage
• Steamed green beans or a crisp kale salad

For a fun twist, try serving slices of this nut loaf alongside a fresh Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe to add vibrant colors and textures to your table.

Conclusion

This best Thanksgiving vegan nut loaf recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday with a compassionate, plant-based dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor or satisfaction. It’s filling, nutrient-dense, and versatile enough to please a crowd with varied dietary preferences.

Whether you’re making it as your main course or a hearty side, this nut loaf will bring warmth and festive spirit to your table.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and seasonings to make it your own. If you enjoy creative vegan recipes, you might also want to check out the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for a flavorful plant-based twist, or try the delightful Magic Dough Recipe for your homemade bread needs.

For a sweet finish, the Marzipan Challah Recipe is a perfect companion to your Thanksgiving feast.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy cooking!

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