Thanksgiving is just around the corner. As you’re planning your menu and writing down your grocery list, panic suddenly sets in – what do you make instead of turkey for your vegetarian family members?
In recent years, many people have become more conscious about the food they eat, and may have decided to follow more of a vegetarian lifestyle. As such, they are now looking for meat substitutes.
If you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, then you might want to consider adding vegetarian options to your menu. This way, everyone can enjoy their favorite dishes without feeling left out. You can easily create delicious and nutritious meals using other protein-packed foods.
Let’s have a look at some vegetarian turkey alternatives for Thanksgiving that will even appeal to meat-eaters.
Whole Roasted Cauliflower
A whole roasted cauliflower may sound like a simple idea, but if it’s prepared the right way, it’s a nice change without sacrificing taste. Try roasting bite-sized pieces in the oven until tender. Add a sauce and garnish with toasted pistachios.
Squashduckens
You may have heard of a bird in a bird in a bird, but have you ever tried a squash stuffed inside a squash inside another squash? This vegetarian version of a Turducken (also known as a butternut squash vegducken) with butternut squash, eggplant, and zucchini filling is a winner for the table as an entrée or the main.
Vegetarian Lasagna
When in doubt, make lasagna. The cozy casserole is always a crowd-pleaser. Instead of minced meat, use roasted vegetables like butternut. If you want to turn it into a vegan version, swap out your usual cheese for tofu and nutritional yeast. No one will want to turn down a hearty slice.
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Lentil shepherd’s pie with parsnip and potato mash is basically a complete vegetarian Thanksgiving dinner in one package. The rosemary and thyme-scented mushroom and lentil mixture will satisfy the desire for protein and gravy. Serve the dish with a big loaf of sourdough bread.
Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are versatile meatless mainstays. They are a full meal in one neat package and can serve the main protein when served with other sides. Stuff them with lentils and quinoa with a harissa-based sauce. You can swap out the peppers for tomatoes or squash. You could also fill them with bread or wild rice stuffing.
A word of caution: beware of vegetarian substitutes that are touted as plant-based…along with the meat-like protein substitute, can come to a slew of toxic ingredients to make it taste palatable. The above ideas are much more natural and tasty!
May you have a festive Thanksgiving with all your loved ones.
[RECIPE] COCONUT STUFFED PLUM
Serves: 1
Ingredients (use organic where possible):
- 1/4 cup vanilla-flavored coconut butter, softened
- 1 large plum, halved and pitted
- Pinch sea salt
- Pinch cinnamon
Directions:
- Spoon coconut butter into the cavities of the halved plum.
- Sprinkle it with salt and cinnamon.
To Your Health,
Patti
