Photo Credit: Victor ProtasioAs Thanksgiving approaches, consider moving away from the usual turkey-focused meal. Whether you're vegetarian, reducing meat intake, or simply seeking a break from traditional holiday dishes, we encourage you to get creative with your menu and incorporate more vegetables into your Thanksgiving spread. Discover these vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes for standout main courses and filling sides—all without any meat.
1. Spiced Butternut Squash Soup
Antonis AchilleosThis velvety butternut squash soup is flavored with red curry paste, fresh ginger, and garlic. Coconut milk provides a creamy texture, while silken tofu boosts the dish with plant-based protein.
2. Roasted Squash and Lentil Salad
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire SpollenThis seasonal dish combines pre-cooked lentils and butternut squash, spiced with garam masala and enhanced with sweet dates. For a more filling option, top it with roasted tofu or pan-seared halloumi.
3. Fennel, Leek, and Wild Mushroom Gratin
Victor ProtasioA cheesy baked dish is a Thanksgiving side like no other, and this one is bursting with flavor. It’s rich and creamy with a satisfying crunch, topped with a golden layer of melted Gruyère and Parmesan. Crispy fried onions and fresh chives elevate it to perfection.
4. Sheet Pan Pierogies with Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Shallots, and Mustard Dressing
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/real-simple-sheet-pan-pierogies-with-roasted-brussels-sprouts-shallots-and-mustard-dressing-recipe-1222DIN-b3a0fb1b41834cb8b7178787d7b6b036.jpg)
This one-pan marvel brings together store-bought pierogies, roasted Brussels sprouts, shallots, and a zesty mustard dressing for a simple yet delightful Thanksgiving dish. Be sure to choose pierogies with vegetarian fillings, such as potato or cheese, rather than meat-based options.
5. Farro and Squash Salad
Victor ProtasioThis hearty, prepare-ahead dish combines nutty farro with grilled summer squash, enhanced by fresh basil and Parmesan for a delightful Italian-inspired flavor.
6. Mushroom and Burrata Orzotto
Greg DuPreeUpgrade your Thanksgiving feast with a speedy orzotto—essentially risotto made with orzo. This variation features roasted mushrooms and luscious burrata, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
7. Butternut Squash Bake With Wild Rice
Victor ProtasioRich and satisfying, this dish serves as an excellent vegetarian centerpiece, boasting a distinctly fall-inspired taste with its earthy mushrooms, butternut squash, and fragrant rosemary.
8. Maple Roasted Vegetables
Grace ElkusA hearty pour of maple syrup not only adds sweetness to seasonal vegetables but also helps them caramelize beautifully as they roast.
9. Gnocchi With Corn and Miso
Fred HardySoft, pillowy gnocchi is enveloped in a savory miso-corn sauce, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and umami for a surprising twist.
10. Wild Rice and Mushroom Pilaf With Cranberries
Gentl + HyersThis colorful pilaf combines wild rice, earthy mushrooms, and tart cranberries, creating a festive and flavorful Thanksgiving side.
11. Ricotta Roll-Ups in Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
Victor ProtasioImagine this dish as a contemporary take on vegetarian lasagna, ideal for autumn. The creamy ricotta filling and sweet pumpkin sauce harmonize perfectly.
12. Brussels Sprouts Salad
Heami LeeFar from ordinary, this Brussels sprouts salad is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring pecans, dried cranberries, and shaved cheese to create a harmonious dish. It’s a great choice for gatherings, as much of the preparation can be done ahead of time.
13. Squash, Mushroom, and Kale Soup With Dill
Christopher TestaniStay warm with a rich vegetarian soup packed with squash, mushrooms, kale, and orzo. A sprinkle of dill adds a fresh, aromatic finish to this comforting dish.
14. Grilled Honeynut Squash Salad
Christopher TestaniTake your salad game to the next level with grilled honeynut squash, adding a sweet and smoky flavor to this seasonal favorite.
15. Spaghetti Squash Alfredo
Christopher TestaniCraving a rich, creamy dish for Thanksgiving? Spaghetti squash alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. Baked twice and loaded with cheese, this vegetarian main is so delicious you’ll likely want seconds.
