45 Tasty Vegan Side Dishes For Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, it’s not just about the main course – festive side dishes are an integral part of the celebration. If you’re looking for inspiration for delicious vegan options, this collection of plant-based recipes is sure to satisfy.

From savory to sweet, these tasty treats will ensure that even non-vegans can enjoy a satisfying and fulfilling Thanksgiving meal. With 41 mouth-watering vegan recipes at your fingertips, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to building a menu that everyone will love – regardless of their dietary preferences.

Vegan Garlic Knots


Garlic knots are a staple in many households, and it’s easy to see why – they’re an incredibly versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside a hearty main course or as a snack on their own, these tasty treats are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. One of the best things about garlic knots is how easily they can be customized to suit your tastes. Try dipping them in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce for a flavor combination that’s sure to become a new favorite, or drizzle them with some rich olive oil for a more savory take. With this recipe in your repertoire, you’ll be the go-to cook among your friends and family, and you may even find yourself getting asked to bring these tasty knots to every holiday gathering and potluck. That’s right – vegan garlic knots are perfect for everything from Thanksgiving dinner to a casual Sunday Funday with friends.

Pumpkin Pasta


In the fall season, with Thanksgiving festivities around the corner, pumpkin becomes an integral ingredient in many delicious meals. One such recipe that embodies this seasonal flair is a delectable pumpkin pasta dish infused with fresh sage herbs. This effortless and flavorful side dish can be easily prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. Simply cook the pasta according to package instructions, then toss it with the pre-made sauce for a stress-free yet impressive vegan Thanksgiving accompaniment.

Green Bean Casserole


Indulge in the delight of a superbly crafted green bean casserole, a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly elevates dinner with its harmonious blend of creamy sauce and crunchy, flavorful green beans. What’s more, this straightforward recipe requires minimal kitchen time, allowing you to reap the rewards of a satisfying meal without sacrificing precious moments of your day.

Brussel Sprouts Slaw


Looking for a nutritious option to bring to your next gathering? A combination of tender Brussels sprouts and crunchy apple slices makes for a delightful side salad that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The best part is it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while still enjoying a fresh and healthy dish. In fact, Brussels sprouts are so resilient that you can make this recipe in advance without worrying about the leaves becoming wilted or soggy. This salad is perfect not only for Thanksgiving but also for Christmas parties, New Year’s gatherings, or any other occasion where you want to offer a light and satisfying option.

Mac and Cheese


Indulge in the warmth of macaroni and cheese, a classic comfort food, without compromising on your plant-based lifestyle. The traditional recipe’s reliance on dairy products can be a significant hurdle for vegans, but fear not! A clever solution involves crafting a vegan cheese sauce and using vegan butter to create a richly creamy casserole. This delectable dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates, making it a strong contender for your vegan Thanksgiving side dishes.

Vegan Potato Side Dishes

In the culinary world, potatoes are often overlooked as a humble ingredient, but their versatility knows no bounds. A staple in many cultures, they can elevate even the most basic of dishes to new heights. In vegan Thanksgiving recipes, potatoes are particularly prized for their ability to add depth and richness without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re looking to create a show-stopping side dish or a hearty main course, potatoes are an essential component that will leave your taste buds singing.

Mashed Potato


Discover the secret to making mouthwatering, buttery mashed potatoes without using dairy products. This game-changing vegan recipe replaces traditional ingredients like milk and butter with healthier alternatives like almond milk and olive oil, resulting in a creamy texture that’s just as delicious. Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also surprisingly quick and easy to prepare. Simply add some fresh chives on top, and you’ll be enjoying a side dish that’s sure to become a new Thanksgiving favorite.

Sweet Potato Casserole


Indulge in a delectable fusion of mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes, elevated by the crunch of crushed walnuts. The vibrant orange hue beneath the walnut crust is like uncovering a treasure trove with each satisfying scoop. This earthy, autumn-inspired casserole makes for an excellent centerpiece at any holiday gathering, be it Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Foil Pack Red Potatoes


When venturing outdoors for Thanksgiving, it’s essential to bring along some delicious side dishes that can be easily prepared on a grill or campfire. Red potatoes wrapped in foil are an excellent choice, requiring only four ingredients and minimal prep time. Simply combine the potatoes with your preferred herbs, wrap them tightly in foil, and cook. This straightforward process ensures you’ll have a tasty and satisfying dish to accompany your turkey.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Chunks


If you’re fortunate enough to own an air fryer, this is an excellent way to utilize it. The chunky sweet potato pieces develop a rich, dark brown caramelization that’s impossible to resist. This recipe is particularly well-suited for Thanksgiving, as it allows you to set and forget the sweet potatoes while focusing on other dishes. Come back to find them perfectly cooked and ready to serve.

Scalloped Potatoes


The allure of a scalloped potato casserole is undeniable – tender, creamy, and bursting with herbaceous flavors that elevate the humble spud. This vegan adaptation remarkably preserves the creaminess, courtesy of a cleverly crafted cheese sauce substitute. By swapping traditional dairy products for their plant-based counterparts, you’ll craft a dish that will win over even the most discerning palates, making it an ideal family-friendly delight.

Chanterelle with Potato


For a vegan twist on traditional sausage stuffing, look no further than these savory chanterelle mushrooms. With their meaty texture and nutty undertones, they seamlessly replace the need for animal products while delivering a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Best of all, this delectable side dish can be prepared in mere minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy cooks seeking a quick yet impressive accompaniment to any meal.

Marmite Roast Potato


Marmite, the savory spread, owes its rich flavor profile to being a by-product of yeast. When used to enhance the taste of potatoes, it’s a triple threat – a trifecta of deliciousness that requires minimal effort. Simply spread it on and you’re rewarded with an explosion of flavor. For the ultimate cooking experience, I recommend using an air fryer to coax out the natural sweetness in the potatoes. However, if you don’t have access to this modern marvel, a conventional oven will still yield impressive results.

Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes


When it comes to cooking up a storm on Thanksgiving, an air fryer is a game-changer – especially when it comes to preparing Hasselback potatoes. This recipe is designed to walk you through the process of crafting the perfect, crispy-on-the-outside and buttery-on-the-inside potato that pairs beautifully with a rich, savory gravy. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort while still yielding impressive results. If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that wows without breaking a sweat, this recipe is the perfect place to start.

Lebanese Potato Salad


In our final potato recipe, we bring a touch of Lebanon to your table with a delicious and effortless potato salad. The simplicity belies its depth of flavor, as the combination of herbs and spices expertly elevates the humble potato’s natural taste. For an added layer of complexity, I highly recommend preparing this dish in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator.

Vegan Salad Side Dishes

Contrary to popular belief, side salads don’t have to be dull. A great salad should boast a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, allowing fresh vegetables to shine in all their glory. And that’s exactly what each salad on this list achieves.

Creamy Cucumber Salad


While the idea of combining cream and cucumber may seem unconventional, the harmony they share in this unique pairing is undeniable. As we delve into creating a homemade vegan sour cream, the versatility of this recipe becomes apparent, making it an invaluable asset for future culinary endeavors.

Chopped Salad with Pear Vinaigrette


On Thanksgiving, a well-crafted chopped salad can be a delightful respite from the indulgent feast. To cut through the richness, consider pairing your greens with a tangy pear vinaigrette. The subtle sweetness of the pears perfectly balances the bold flavors of the season, making it an excellent choice to round out the meal. Meanwhile, the pomegranate seeds and peppery bite of green rocket add a delightful texture and depth that will leave you wanting more.

Green Bean and Beet Salad


As you savor the flavors of the rich stuffing and potatoes, another refreshing burst of color emerges – a vibrant green bean and beet salad that’s as crunchy as it is sweet. This delightful combination offers a perfect balance to the hearty meal, allowing you to indulge in the best of both worlds: the comforting warmth of the holiday feast and the celebration of seasonal ingredients at their finest.

Butternut Squash Quinoa Salad


Quinoa is an exceptional addition to salads due to its impressive nutritional profile. It boasts high levels of fiber and protein, making it an excellent choice for maintaining a feeling of fullness throughout the day. Furthermore, quinoa serves as an ideal base for incorporating other salad ingredients, allowing you to create a dish that’s both nutritious and visually appealing.

One of the most significant advantages of using quinoa in salads is its minimal cooking time. This allows you to quickly prepare your side dishes while still enjoying the fruits of your labor. With this in mind, it’s no wonder why this festive salad pairs beautifully with a variety of healthy Thanksgiving desserts.

Strawberry Avocado Pasta


While pairing strawberry with avocado might seem unconventional at first glance, trust that this unexpected union yields a harmonious blend of flavors. The natural sweetness of strawberries is beautifully complemented by the creamy richness of avocados. Take it to the next level by incorporating pasta and fresh basil, allowing each ingredient to shine in perfect balance.

Winter Fruit Kale Salad


While kale can be a fantastic addition to many dishes, it’s often overlooked for its mild flavor profile. That’s why this winter fruit kale salad is such a game-changer – the sweetness of the fruits perfectly complements the slightly bitter taste of the kale. The added texture from the slivered nuts provides an earthy depth and satisfying crunch. This show-stopping salad would be the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, including Thanksgiving potlucks where it’s sure to impress guests with its unique flavor combination.

Coleslaw


Vegan coleslaw enthusiasts are in luck! This delectable side dish can be enjoyed by all, regardless of dietary restrictions. With its tangy and creamy texture, it’s a perfect addition to any meal. What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. In fact, coleslaw is one of those dishes that only gets better with age, as the various components have time to harmonize in the fridge. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just looking for a tasty accompaniment to your favorite dish, this vegan coleslaw recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Crockpot Side Dishes

A crockpot is an indispensable tool for home cooks, allowing them to prepare delicious meals with minimal effort and maximum flexibility. Its versatility and convenience make it the perfect companion for holiday cooking, particularly on Thanksgiving when the focus should be on family and friends rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Pumpkin Soup


Looking for a comforting and flavorful recipe that’s quick to prepare? Look no further than pumpkin soup, a delightful and warming treat that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its rich, spiced flavor profile, this soup is perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening or as a satisfying meal to bring everyone together around the dinner table.

If you’re looking for an extra creamy twist, consider substituting sour cream with coconut cream – a game-changing addition that adds a velvety texture and subtle sweetness to the dish.

Mashed Potatoes


For many, mashed potatoes are an indispensable component of a Thanksgiving feast. To achieve the ideal consistency, this recipe employs red potatoes that require a slightly longer boiling time, making them well-suited for slow-cooker preparation. The addition of generous amounts of salt, pepper, and chives elevates the flavor profile, while vegan butter lends a rich, creamy texture to the dish.

Carrots


Looking for a show-stopping side dish to impress your Thanksgiving guests? This delectable and aromatic recipe is sure to hit the mark, featuring slow-cooked carrots infused with the sweet flavor of cranberries. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare in a slow cooker, leaving you more time to focus on other aspects of your holiday celebration.
Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces when they’re served a plate filled with tender whole carrots, garnished with vibrant red jewels – it’s like Thanksgiving magic! With this simple yet impressive dish, you’ll be the talk of the table and ensure that your holiday meal is truly unforgettable.

Balsamic Brussel Sprouts


Let’s give some love to the humble Brussels sprout, often maligned but truly deserving of our affection. The balsamic glaze imbues these tender, earthy delights with a rich sweetness that will leave you wanting more. A perfect treat for a chilly evening, each small, verdant sphere is like a flavor sponge, eagerly awaiting your attention.

Easy Side Dishes for Thanksgiving

If you’re responsible for feeding a large family, you understand the importance of simplicity when it comes to meal preparation. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with our collection of uncomplicated vegan Thanksgiving dinner recipes. These dishes may be easy to prepare, but they still pack plenty of flavor.

Instant Pot Potatoes and Carrots


The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook on holidays like Thanksgiving, allowing us to quickly prepare a delicious and healthy meal. One of its many advantages is the ability to whip up a side dish in mere minutes – a feature that’s especially useful during the holiday season when time is precious. A recipe that only requires three minutes of cooking time is not only impressive but also a huge plus for busy hosts. Potatoes and carrots are staples on any Thanksgiving table, and this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe seamlessly integrates into any menu, providing a satisfying accompaniment to whatever else you’re serving.

Air Fryer Cauliflower


Transform your air fryer into a culinary powerhouse by crafting a vibrant and flavorful side dish. The turmeric-infused cauliflower takes center stage, its bright yellow hue adding a pop of color to the Thanksgiving table. Elevate your holiday spread with this simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for introducing a new twist to traditional gatherings.

Vegan Stuffing


When Thanksgiving comes to mind, one dish often takes center stage: stuffing. But this recipe isn’t just limited to Turkey Day – it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed on any holiday or special occasion. The key to making it truly memorable? Experimenting with your favorite herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile. For an added layer of complexity, consider using garlic bread as the base for your stuffing. The subtle sweetness and savory flavors work together in perfect harmony, elevating this comforting dish to new heights.

Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips


Imagine being introduced to the unparalleled delight of honey-roasted carrots, a culinary experience that will leave you wondering how something so simple could be so sublime. The natural sweetness of these roasted vegetables is elevated by the subtle infusion of honey, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. What’s more, the preparation process is remarkably straightforward, requiring only thirty minutes and some rough-chopped veggies slathered in a sweet honey coating.

Air Fryer Okra


Okra is a quintessential element of Southern cuisine, offering a comforting respite from the ordinary. When seasoned with a savory coating and quickly fried to perfection, it’s no wonder okra has earned its reputation as an ideal comfort food. The subtle crunch provided by the green spears serves as the perfect accompaniment to a variety of flavors. To elevate this dish further, consider pairing it with a tangy chipotle sauce or a rich aioli – both options are sure to delight.

Breaded Cauliflower


There’s no denying that air fryers are the perfect tool for producing crispy, delectable morsels. Take cauliflower, for instance – when you bread and fry it, you get a one-of-a-kind, mouth-watering side dish that’s sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. But why stop there? To take this recipe to the next level, try soaking the cauliflower in vegetable broth beforehand. The result is a flavor explosion with each bite. And if you’re looking for more ideas, this appetizer would also pair perfectly with some of our other healthy Thanksgiving recipes.

Roasted Lemon Garlic Mushrooms


Mushrooms are an excellent way to add depth and texture to a vegan meal. Their natural ability to absorb flavors is particularly impressive when combined with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic. Roasting mushrooms is an even more straightforward process than frying them, requiring minimal hands-on time.By simply slicing the mushrooms, dressing them in a mixture of garlic and lemon, and then roasting, you can achieve perfectly tender and flavorful results in under 25 minutes.

Root Veggie Mash


If the thought of traditional mashed potatoes leaves you uninspired, this autumnal mash is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The star-studded trio of carrots, pumpkin, and butternut squash combines forces to create a flavor profile that’s quintessentially fall. By adding a generous helping of fresh herbs and rich butter, you’ll be rewarded with a truly winning side dish. But what really sets this recipe apart is its versatility – not only does it make a delightful accompaniment to your Thanksgiving feast, but it also keeps beautifully in the freezer for a stress-free reheat later on.

Air Fryer Roasted Beetroot


There’s something special about roasting beetroot – the natural sugars seem to burst forth, resulting in a sweetly caramelized delight that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. For an added pop of color, consider pairing red and gold varieties for a vibrant display on your table.

Air Fryer Tomatoes


Savor the simplicity of perfectly grilled tomatoes, bursting with fragrance and juice. These tender morsels are like a flavorful reward on your plate, minus the tedious effort typically required. To unlock their full potential, fry them alongside whole sprigs of rosemary, allowing the herb’s essence to seep into every bite.

Green Beans with Almonds and Olives


Transforming green beans from plain to palate-pleasing is entirely possible. The harmonious marriage of salty olives and crunchy almonds creates a delightful sensory experience, where every bite is a revelation. And it’s not just limited to green beans – this technique can be effortlessly applied to asparagus too! By incorporating crispy kale or a sprinkle of herbs, you can elevate the flavor profile to new heights, making even the most skeptical of eaters take notice.

Cream of Mushroom Soup


Earthiness abounds in this uncomplicated cream of mushroom soup, where each spoonful resonates with the rich flavors of mushrooms and a subtle hint of thyme. The tender texture of the stewed mushrooms adds depth to the dish, making it surprisingly satisfying without requiring hours of preparation.

Instant Pot Baked Potatoes


In a surprising twist, baking potatoes in your Instant Pot can be just as effective as traditional oven roasting – and it only takes 22 minutes! For this recipe, make sure to use russet potatoes, which have the ideal skin for roasting. This method is perfect for adding a delicious touch to your Thanksgiving table without much extra effort. As you start planning your holiday dinner, consider what else will be on the menu. Will there be any vegan options? Let me know how you’re approaching the holiday season in the comments below. If you’re already thinking about Christmas, check out these mouthwatering recipe ideas for inspiration.

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