A Meat-Free Thanksgiving: Five Mouthwatering Alternatives to Turkey
Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition, a day to gather with loved ones, express gratitude, and indulge in a grand feast that typically revolves around the centerpiece of a beautifully roasted turkey. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in culinary preferences as more people embrace plant-based diets, seek sustainable options, or simply desire to explore the richness of flavors that meatless alternatives can offer.
In the spirit of culinary adventure, I wanted to share a few meatless alternatives for Thanksgiving!
Whether you're cooking for a variety of diets, a dedicated vegetarian, a flexitarian looking to reduce your meat intake, or just someone eager to discover exciting new tastes, then these recipes are for you!
-Jada Butler
Stuffed Butternut Squash with Quinoa Salad
This recipe smells and tastes like Thanksgiving, but it won’t weigh you down or make you feel like you need to walk (or sleep) it off immediately after. Another positive? You can prep the quinoa salad filling in advance, which makes this recipe doable even on a busy weeknight.
Roasted Root-Vegetable Pizza
Who doesn’t love a good pizza?! I know I do. This pizza is a delicious way to still get your veggies in and enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving ingredients… just in a new form! Plus, it’s customizable and fun for all ages!
Chili Polenta Pot Pie
Making a traditional pot pie takes a lot of time and effort, but this one can be started in your crockpot in the morning and then completed in as little as 30 minutes in the evening. Hello, simple pot pie!
Vegan Cranberry Portobello Pot Roast
Even the meat eaters will love this "meaty" vegan pot roast! It's very rich, very hearty, and the flavor of the gravy will impress all the skeptics.
Portobello mushrooms are known for their chewy, meaty texture and umami flavor, making them the perfect ingredient for a meatless pot roast.
Seitan Turkey
Decadent yet healthy, this home cooked Seitan Turkey is moist, packed with flavor, and has an awesome meaty texture. This vegan turkey recipe is perfect for a holiday centerpiece, easy meal prep, or even just a nice main dish for a family dinner.
