Who ever said that Thanksgiving had to be about a stuffed bird? Sure, it’s traditional, but from votes for women to virginal bed-checking, we know that tradition doesn’t always mean good—let alone good for you. If you’re a vegetarian, or an eco-eater who likes to at least limit your meat intake, there are plenty of other ways to celebrate the holiday without killing a turkey (or ham, or whatever).
(And even if you’re not a veg head yourself, you may have guests who are; be sure to ask people when they RSVP if they have special diets that they follow.)
You can even still go traditional. With the invention of Tofurky, you can still enjoy the taste of turkey without actually eating one. No, it won’t completely be like the carved turkey that other people might have, but you can still use it with gravy and bread to make delicious sandwiches.
But why make sandwiches when there are so many yummy alternatives out there? Here is just a sampling of the healthy, veggie menus you could serve this holiday season.
If you’re on a budget, try this Frugal Feast option. With recipes for vegan biscuits, pumpkin soup, cheesy hors-d’oeuvre, nut stuffing and butter tarts, you’re sure to have a delicious meal without severe budget cuts.
This series on meatless Thanksgiving meals provides so many options and ideas that you’re bound to satisfy every palette. From coleslaw to fruit salad, veggie stews and chili to wild rice stuffing, these are scrumptious recipes good for everyday eating as well.
Looking for a large variety of appetizers and main courses to choose from? Seek no further, because The Veggie Table has you covered. There are various soups, salads and breads to choose from for a colorful plate, but the real variety lies in the plethora of main dishes to try. Veggie lasagna, shepherd’s pie, and ratatouille are all delicious Thanksgiving options that will still maintain the hearty seasonal feel during dinner, while veggie gratin, squash risotto or a delicious Greek spanakopita will add a bit of originality and zest to the table.
For more unique holiday ideas, try some from Chow. Savory egg or mushroom and fennel pudding would probably be something your guests have never even heard of, let alone tried. A walnut-thyme streusel topping some squash gratin would also likely be a memorable dish, and who wouldn’t salivate over a smoked cheddar soufflé?
