20 Delicious Vegan Thanksgiving Side Dish Ideas for a Plant Based Holiday Feast

Let’s be honest, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey. The side dishes bring just as much joy (if not more) to the table, and with a plant based twist, they’re just as satisfying. This year, as vegan and plant-based eating continues to trend, why not take the opportunity to wow everyone with a few fresh, flavorful, vegan friendly sides? Whether you’re hosting a fully vegan meal or adding a few plant based options to keep all guests happy, these 20 vegan Thanksgiving sides will have everyone asking for seconds. From cozy casseroles to vibrant salads, you’ll find everything you need to make this Thanksgiving unforgettable.

Tips for Choosing Your Vegan Thanksgiving Sides

When choosing vegan side dishes, aim for a mix of hearty, filling options and fresh, veggie packed choices. Thanksgiving meals are famously rich, so keep things balanced by pairing creamy dishes with crisp, colorful salads. Go for seasonal flavors and textures. Think sweet potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash with spices like cinnamon, sage, and nutmeg. Remember, plant based dishes can be just as decadent, so feel free to layer flavors and add garnishes like toasted nuts, caramelized onions, or a touch of balsamic glaze. Most importantly, choose sides you love and enjoy cooking because a relaxed chef makes a tastier Thanksgiving.

Cozy Comforts

• Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
  Silky smooth, rich and garlicky, these mashed potatoes are made with coconut milk and vegan butter. No one will miss the dairy.
• Savory Mushroom Stuffing
  Made with crusty bread, earthy mushrooms and plenty of herbs, this stuffing is hearty and packed with flavor. Perfect for filling up on holiday comfort.
• Roasted Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
  A twist on the classic, this sweet potato casserole uses maple syrup for a natural sweetness and a pecan crumble that’s crispy and nutty.
• Vegan Mac and Cheese
  Creamy, cheesy and entirely dairy-free! This mac and cheese uses cashews and nutritional yeast for a sauce that’s as rich as the classic.
• Vegan Dinner Rolls
  Soft and fluffy dinner rolls with just a hint of sweetness, perfect for scooping up every last bite of gravy.
• Gravy
  Smooth, savory and entirely plant based, this gravy is made with a vegetable broth base and a touch of soy sauce for umami goodness.

Vibrant Veggies

• Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
  Roasted to perfection with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, these Brussels sprouts are crispy, tangy, and just a little bit addictive.
• Maple Glazed Carrots
  These roasted carrots are sweet and caramelized with a light glaze of maple syrup and fresh thyme for an elegant, simple side.
• Green Beans Almondine
  Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch and fresh, bright flavor that balances richer dishes.
• Butternut Squash with Pomegranate Seeds
  Roasted butternut squash with a sprinkle of vibrant pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
• Garlic Sautéed Mushrooms
  These earthy mushrooms are cooked with garlic and fresh herbs, adding a robust flavor and juicy texture that pairs well with any main.
• Cauliflower Steaks
  Thick sliced cauliflower roasted with olive oil and herbs for a hearty, satisfying side that’s surprisingly simple to make.

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Fresh & Flavorful Salads

• Massaged Kale Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
  Massaging the kale makes it tender, while dried cranberries and toasted pecans add sweetness and crunch.
• Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
  Crisp apple slices, crunchy walnuts and a maple vinaigrette make this salad refreshing and festive.
• Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad
  A mix of roasted beets and fresh citrus with a hint of balsamic is both vibrant and delicious, adding a sweet-tart balance to the table.
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
  Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts with a light vinaigrette, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds for a unique and crunchy salad.
• Quinoa Harvest Salad
  Quinoa with roasted sweet potatoes, kale, and a citrus dressing for a protein-packed, nutrient-dense side.

Sweet Finishes

• Maple Cinnamon Roasted Acorn Squash
  Sweet acorn squash with a hint of cinnamon and maple syrup, adding a warm, autumnal touch to the table.
• Cranberry Sauce
  Skip the canned version and try a homemade cranberry sauce sweetened with a touch of orange zest for extra flavor.
• Spiced Pears
  Pears roasted with cinnamon and a hint of ginger make for a lightly spiced, fruity addition to your holiday spread.

Essential Vegan Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Making Thanksgiving Deliciously Plant Based

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with good food and good company, and these vegan side dishes prove that you don’t need dairy or meat to make it memorable. Each of these dishes brings its own flair to the feast, from the cozy richness of creamy mashed potatoes to the brightness of a fresh apple salad. With a bit of planning and these plant-based recipes, your table will be a colorful, flavor packed celebration of fall’s best ingredients.

Plant based meals can be a game changer, even at traditional holidays. This Thanksgiving, you might find that a few vegan dishes win over everyone. Whether they’re plant based or not! So grab your biggest serving spoon, dig in, and enjoy a holiday that’s as kind to animals as it is delicious. Here’s to new traditions, bold flavors, and a table full of love!

© 2024 Fritz Isaacs