Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved food holidays of the year, but finding the right plant-based dishes can be a challenge for anyone hosting vegan guests or preparing a fully vegan feast. Many vegan recipes rely heavily on tofu, which not everyone enjoys or wants to use—especially on a traditional holiday spread. The good news is that you do not need tofu at all to create rich, satisfying, easy vegan Thanksgiving sides that taste just as comforting and celebratory as their classic counterparts. By using whole foods, seasonal produce, and simple techniques, you can build a menu that feels warm, indulgent, and entirely dairy-free and egg-free.
Whether you are hosting long-time vegans, accommodating a few plant-based visitors, or simply trying to incorporate more vegetables and whole-food ingredients into your Thanksgiving meal, these no-tofu vegan side dishes will satisfy everyone at the table. They rely on ingredients you may already keep in your pantry—such as potatoes, squash, herbs, beans, nuts, and grains—making them accessible, affordable, and ideal for cooking in large batches. The flavors of fall are naturally vegan-friendly, and with the right combinations, you can craft sides that feel timeless and soul-warming.
Vegan Thanksgiving sides don’t need to mimic traditional dishes exactly in order to feel festive. They simply need to offer depth of flavor, appealing textures, and the familiar aromas associated with the holiday. Herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme instantly create a sense of seasonality. Vegetables such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, green beans, and mushrooms are already staples of many Thanksgiving tables. Adding whole grains, legumes, roasted nuts, and homemade sauces can elevate these ingredients into dishes people look forward to all year long.
Below, you’ll find a detailed collection of easy vegan Thanksgiving side ideas that require no tofu whatsoever. These dishes range from classic comfort foods to creative modern additions. They are designed to work together harmoniously, so you can mix and match depending on the size of your gathering and the preferences of your guests. You can also prepare many of them in advance, making your holiday smoother and less stressful.
Herb-Roasted Root Vegetables
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and depth of root vegetables, making them ideal for a Thanksgiving side. Carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, turnips, and beets all caramelize beautifully in the oven. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and a mix of herbs like rosemary and thyme. Roast until tender and lightly browned. The aroma alone can set the tone for the whole holiday meal. This dish stores well, reheats easily, and tastes incredible served alongside vegan gravy or a bright citrus dressing.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (No Dairy Needed)
Mashed potatoes are a non-negotiable side for many holiday tables. Luckily, you can achieve perfectly creamy results without butter or dairy milk. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally buttery texture, and whip them with warm unsweetened vegan milk such as oat or almond milk. Add roasted garlic for flavor depth, along with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Season generously with salt and pepper. The final result is luxurious, fluffy, and indistinguishable from traditional mashed potatoes—without the heaviness.
Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash with Pepitas
Acorn squash is one of the most beautiful vegetables to serve on Thanksgiving thanks to its scalloped shape and vibrant color. Simply slice the squash, remove the seeds, and brush with a mixture of maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, and smoked paprika. Roast until golden. Top with toasted pepitas for crunch. The sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with savory mains and adds a burst of color to the table.
Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon
Green beans add freshness and lightness to the Thanksgiving spread. Instead of a heavy casserole, sauté them with slivered almonds, garlic, olive oil, and lemon zest. This dish comes together quickly and offers a crisp bite that balances heavier sides. It also holds up well at room temperature, which is helpful when multiple dishes are competing for oven and stovetop space.
Stuffed Mushrooms with Herbs and Breadcrumbs
To create a rich, satisfying bite without tofu, prepare stuffed mushrooms filled with a blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, olive oil, parsley, nutritional yeast, and finely chopped stems. Bake until golden and fragrant. These are excellent as both a side dish and an appetizer, and they offer a savory flavor that mimics classic stuffing while still feeling light and plant-focused.
Cranberry-Orange Relish
Instead of canned cranberry sauce, a fresh cranberry-orange relish brightens the palate and adds a zesty contrast to rich Thanksgiving staples. Simply pulse fresh cranberries with orange segments, zest, and a bit of maple syrup. This no-cook side dish is vibrant, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. It can also be prepared days in advance, giving you one less thing to cook on Thanksgiving Day.
Rosemary Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a top Thanksgiving favorite, and they shine when roasted at high heat. Trim and halve the sprouts, then toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh rosemary. Roast until crispy on the edges and tender inside. You can finish them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or toss in toasted walnuts for more texture. These Brussels sprouts are simple, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Vegan Cornbread with Maple Butter
Cornbread is naturally easy to make vegan by using plant-based milk and replacing eggs with a flax mixture. The result is fluffy, lightly sweet, and perfect for pairing with greens or beans. Serve with a homemade maple butter made from softened dairy-free butter mixed with pure maple syrup. Cornbread can be baked in advance and warmed just before serving, making it one of the most convenient sides for large gatherings.
Garlicky Sautéed Kale with White Beans
A hearty, earthy dish that delivers both protein and greens, sautéed kale with white beans is a simple yet satisfying vegan side. Start by cooking garlic in olive oil, then add chopped kale until wilted. Stir in cooked cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and lemon juice. Simmer until the flavors meld. This side dish is comforting without being heavy, and the beans make it filling enough to serve as a main dish for vegan guests who prefer something lighter.
Roasted Carrots with Tahini Drizzle
Roasting carrots brings out their natural sweetness, and a tahini drizzle adds a creamy, savory element without using tofu or dairy. Simply roast whole or halved carrots with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin. Whisk tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and warm water to create a smooth sauce, then drizzle over the carrots before serving. Garnish with parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Golden Brown Vegan Stuffing
Stuffing is a core part of the Thanksgiving experience, and it’s surprisingly easy to make vegan without sacrificing texture or flavor. Use stale bread cubes, sautéed celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, and plenty of herbs like sage and thyme. Bake until crisp on top and tender inside. You can also add mushrooms, apples, cranberries, or nuts for variation. This dish offers all the nostalgia of classic stuffing with none of the animal products.
Wild Rice and Cranberry Pilaf
Wild rice is hearty, aromatic, and full of nutty flavor, making it a wonderful Thanksgiving side. Simmer it in vegetable broth, then combine with sautéed onions, celery, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley. This pilaf adds both color and texture variety to the meal, and it pairs well with roasted vegetables and gravy. It also keeps well, making it perfect for leftovers.
Smoky Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are almost synonymous with Thanksgiving. Instead of topping them with marshmallows, try roasting them with smoked paprika, garlic powder, olive oil, and chili flakes. This savory version emphasizes the natural sweetness of the potatoes while offering a smoky, intriguing flavor profile. Serve them cubed, sliced, or mashed.
Caramelized Onion Gravy
No tofu is needed to create a rich, savory gravy that enhances mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetable medleys. Slowly caramelize onions until deep golden brown, stir in flour, add vegetable broth, and season generously with herbs and black pepper. Simmer until thickened. This gravy is so flavorful that even non-vegans will not miss the traditional version.
Building a Balanced Vegan Thanksgiving Spread
The best Thanksgiving tables—vegan or not—offer different colors, textures, and flavors. When planning your menu of easy vegan Thanksgiving sides with no tofu, include a mix of roasted vegetables, fresh or crisp dishes, hearty grains, and comforting classics. Consider the overall balance of sweet and savory, creamy and crunchy, light and rich. Doing so ensures your guests enjoy a dynamic and deeply satisfying meal.
Presentation plays a meaningful role as well. Serving roasted vegetables on large platters, displaying colorful dishes like cranberry relish in clear bowls, and arranging grains and greens in rustic vessels all contribute to a festive, abundant atmosphere. Thanksgiving is a celebration of harvest, so let your ingredients shine visually as well as flavorfully.
If your plant-based cooking reflects a broader commitment to a vegan lifestyle, you may also enjoy celebrating the holiday wearing clothing that aligns with your values. Comfortable, organic cotton apparel can make the day feel even more meaningful. For vegan-themed t-shirts and designs that express plant-based living with style, you can visit
The Dharma Store.
A vegan Thanksgiving without tofu can still be generous, flavorful, and memorable. With simple ingredients and thoughtful preparation, these easy vegan sides will delight guests of all dietary preferences. By relying on seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs, hearty grains, and bright sauces, you can craft a holiday feast that honors tradition while embracing modern plant-based cooking. This approach ensures your Thanksgiving table is warm, inviting, and full of dishes that truly capture the essence of the season.