Thanksgiving will be here in just a matter of weeks, and for many of us, that means getting together with friends and family for Thanksgiving dinner. While vegetarianism has been on the rise in the United States over the last few years, turkey is still the most popular main dish served at the majority of Thanksgiving tables. Vegetarian guests can certainly make do with just sides, but does that mean they should have to? With all of the amazing meat substitutes on the market nowadays along with an endless supply of free recipes online, there are plenty of meatless entree options to choose from that would go perfectly alongside some mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. Here are a few we especially love.
Stuffed Roasted Butternut Squash
If meat substitutes aren’t your thing, we recommend a stuffed squash recipe like this one from It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken. It’s filled with vegetables, a blend of rices, and fresh herbs, so you can expect plenty of flavor without that post-turkey sleepy feeling.
The Best Vegan Turkey Roast
Spare a turkey without sparing tradition. This vegan turkey roast is made with seitan and tofu and even has a crispy “skin” made from rice paper. Like a real turkey, it does take some time to prepare, so be sure to get all of your ingredients and start cooking at least the night before.
Lentil Mushroom Stew Over Mashed Potatoes
This Minimalist Baker dish is like a hug in a bowl. It’s hearty and comforting and rich in flavors that are sure to pair well with other Thanksgiving dishes. Plus, you’re already making mashed potatoes anyway, so just swap out the butter for a plant-based option and you’re good to go.
