Thanksgiving is a time to focus on all your good fortune, dear friends and loving family. As you’re recalling all the support you’ve received throughout the year, consider how you can return the favor and make your loved ones feel just as special. This year, grab the reins and throw your favorite people a healthy, plant-based feast that will feed their hearts as much as their bellies.
The piece de resistance
What could possibly replace the turkey? If this is your first meat-free Thanksgiving, don’t fret. All you need is a Tofurky and classic poultry seasoning, which simply adds to that quintessential flavor and much-anticipated aroma. Tofurky is a tofu-and-wheat-protein turkey alternative that usually comes stuffed with rice and bread stuffing, making for a very filling main dish. The best part, though, is you won’t have to cut around bones or gristly fat.
The sweet-and-savory sides
There’s no other time of year you get to eat stuffing. But to make a vegan-friendly version, you’ll have to swap the butter for avocado, olive oil or – another fall favorite – pumpkin puree. Also try using gluten-free bread to ensure everyone can join in on the tradition without a worry.
If you’re not afraid to think outside the box, give the greenlight to moist, cooked lentils with a cranberry topping. Or simply put a twist on original Thanksgiving fare with butternut squash risotto or stuffed squash. These flavorful sides offer that cozy fall feel that will make guests go back for seconds…and thirds!
Of course, you can’t forget the mashed potatoes. You can, however, throw everyone for a loop by swapping out those starchy potatoes for a lighter option: mashed cauliflower. Without all the sleep-inducing carbs and heavy whole-milk dairy, there will be no food comas, here. Better yet, no one will ever know you made the switcheroo. The thick, whipped texture and “buttery” taste are deceptively convincing of the real deal.
The pie’s the sky
Once you’ve come this far, you have to finish off the day with a bang! For a truly memorable meal, ditch the pumpkin pie and tempt your loved ones with a Pumpkin Pudding Parfait, Gluten-Free Pumpkin Donuts or vegan, No-Bake Cinnamon Roll-Pumpkin Pie Bars. By all means, make them all for a healthy, deliciously sweet spread.
Originally published on myvega.com
If you’re hungry for more, download our vegan recipe book.
Shop dairy-free favorites, from creamy milk alternatives to chocolate-rich candy at Vitacost.com!
About the Author:
Sarah Skalzub is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Personal Trainer and Product Specialist at Vega. Sarah educates from experience! Drawing on her retail leadership in the natural health industry, her own nutrition consulting and a personal passion, she equips audiences with tools and inspiration to feel their absolute best from the inside, out. Specializing in sports and fitness recommendations, Sarah stays active running, playing soccer and enjoying the Rocky Mountains on her snowboard.