This Thanksgiving, say goodbye to food comas and hello to dishes that taste amazing and leave you feeling amazing! We’ve compiled our top whole food vegan Thanksgiving rich and delicious recipes, designed to keep you satisfied and energized without that familiar post-feast slump.
Whether you’re craving a cozy soup starter, a hearty main, or a side that steals the show, we’ve got something to wow even the most skeptical of holiday guests. (Yes, Aunt Mildred, that means you.)
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s cooking: we’re talking a creamy, dreamy plant-based pumpkin soup (our twist on Rachel Ray’s favorite!), a turkey tempeh recipe that brings big holiday flavor with zero gobbles, and even some cheesy baked kale and mushroom goodness served inside a pumpkin. And don’t get us started on the desserts—warm cinnamon skillet apples, anyone?
Now, before we get to the recipes, we know the holidays can be challenging when your family isn’t exactly on board the plant-based train. From "Where's the turkey?" to "Is that tofu in the stuffing?", you might hear it all. So along with these crowd-pleasing dishes, we’re sharing our go-to tips for surviving Thanksgiving on a plant-based diet—and thriving while doing it!
Your Plant-Based Holiday Survival Guide
Bring a showstopper dish (or two)! If you’re going to stand your ground on plant-based eating, bring something that makes it easy to say, “Just try it!” Start with something comforting and familiar—like our Cheesy Baked Kale and Mushroom Stuffed Pumpkin. Show them that plant-based is anything but boring!
Serve up starters with confidence. Start things off with a cozy Coconut Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup or our Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Chili Cran Relish. These are perfect for sharing and can be enjoyed by anyone, whether or not they’re ready to skip the turkey.
Be the one in the kitchen—at least for a little while. Offering to cook or help out not only gives you a chance to put your plant-based creations on the table but also keeps you from getting roped into defending your lifestyle over and over. Just smile and keep stirring!
Have a one-liner ready. When someone asks why you’re plant-based, answer with a short and sweet response that keeps things light. Something like, “It makes me feel amazing and keeps my energy up!” Then pivot to something fun—“Speaking of energy, did you try the Thanksgiving Bean Burger yet?”
Bring your own dessert—trust us. Holiday desserts are loaded with hidden ingredients that might not fit your diet, so bring a treat that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Our Cranberry White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect crowd-pleaser (or even just a little stash for yourself if dessert drama breaks out).
Stay positive and have fun. Ultimately, it’s about sharing the holiday with people you love. Focus on enjoying the moment, and let them see how happy and healthy you feel. Who knows, they might even sneak a few bites off your plate when no one’s looking!
Let's get to the Whole Food Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes!
Without further ado, grab a seat, pile on the plant-based goodness, and let’s make this a Thanksgiving to remember—one that has you unbuttoning your pants only because you want to relax, not because you need to! Let's dive into these crowd-pleasers and make this holiday a feast that leaves everyone feeling grateful and great!
Whole Food Vegan Thanksgiving Starters:
Creamy Plant-based Pumpkin Soup with Chili Cran Relish (Version of Rachel Ray's Recipe Pumpkin Soup Recipe)
Whole Food Vegan Thanksgiving Main Meal Options:
Cheesy Baked Kale and Mushroom Stuffed Pumpkin (both vegan option and cashew-based cheeze option)
Whole Food Vegan Thanksgiving Sides:
Whole Food Vegan Thanksgiving Desserts:
As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, remember that your plant-based plate is a choice that fills you with energy, joy, and health. Even if some of the family doesn’t quite get it yet, your enthusiasm (and your delicious dishes!) just might spark a little curiosity. So dig into these recipes, savor every bite, and celebrate a holiday meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. And hey, if you inspire a few new fans of plant-based eating along the way, that’s just the cherry on top of the Cranberry White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie! Here’s to a Thanksgiving full of flavor, warmth, and gratitude—enjoy every bite!