Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, togetherness, and of course — the food. But if you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions, planning the menu can feel like a puzzle. Don’t worry — it’s entirely possible to create a spread that’s both vegan and gluten-free, while still being packed with warmth, flavor, and seasonal comfort.
These vegan and gluten-free Thanksgiving side dishes are made to please everyone at the table — no one will feel like they’re missing out. From creamy mashed potatoes and hearty stuffings to roasted vegetables and festive salads, this guide has everything you need to build a well-balanced, allergy-friendly feast that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious.
Why Serve Vegan and Gluten-Free Sides for Thanksgiving?
With more people choosing plant-based diets or managing gluten sensitivities, accommodating multiple needs at your Thanksgiving table shows care and inclusivity. Thankfully, vegan and gluten-free cooking doesn’t mean bland or boring. When you use the right ingredients — like hearty grains, roasted vegetables, and rich dairy-free sauces — your sides can be every bit as indulgent as traditional versions.
A well-planned vegan gluten-free Thanksgiving menu offers:
-
Comforting classics made allergy-friendly.
-
Naturally wholesome ingredients that appeal to all diets.
-
Easy prep and make-ahead options to reduce day-of stress.
-
Crowd-pleasing flavors everyone will genuinely love.
Let’s dig into a lineup of dishes that prove holiday meals can be inclusive and incredible.
1. Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Without Butter or Cream)
No Thanksgiving table is complete without mashed potatoes — and these vegan, gluten-free ones are just as rich and fluffy as the classic.
Ingredients:
-
2 lbs Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
-
1/2 cup unsweetened almond or oat milk
-
2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Boil potatoes until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
-
In a saucepan, warm milk, garlic, and oil together.
-
Drain potatoes, then mash while gradually adding the warm mixture.
-
Season generously with salt and pepper.
Tip: For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of vegan cream cheese or roasted garlic purée.
2. Wild Rice and Cranberry Stuffing
Traditional stuffing is full of bread and butter — but this version uses wild rice for a gluten-free, naturally hearty base.
Ingredients:
-
1 cup wild rice
-
2 1/4 cups vegetable broth
-
1 small onion, chopped
-
2 stalks celery, diced
-
1/2 cup dried cranberries
-
1/3 cup chopped pecans
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
Fresh thyme and sage
Instructions:
-
Cook wild rice in broth until tender (about 45 minutes).
-
Sauté onion and celery in olive oil until soft.
-
Stir in cooked rice, cranberries, pecans, and herbs.
-
Warm through and serve.
Flavor tip: Add diced apples or mushrooms for extra texture and depth.
3. Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots
Simple, caramelized, and elegant — these maple-glazed veggies bring natural sweetness and color to your table.
Ingredients:
-
1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
-
3 carrots, sliced into sticks
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
-
Salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika
Instructions:
-
Preheat oven to 400°F.
-
Toss all ingredients on a baking sheet.
-
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving idea: Drizzle with a touch of balsamic reduction just before serving for extra tang.
4. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole (Gluten-Free Topping)
This classic side gets a plant-based upgrade with a crunchy nut topping instead of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
-
3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
-
1/4 cup maple syrup
-
1/4 cup almond milk
-
2 tbsp coconut oil or vegan butter
-
1/2 tsp cinnamon
-
1/4 cup chopped pecans + 2 tbsp gluten-free oats for topping
Instructions:
-
Boil or steam sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them with syrup, milk, oil, and cinnamon.
-
Transfer to a baking dish.
-
Mix pecans and oats with a drizzle of maple syrup, sprinkle on top.
-
Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the casserole the day before and bake just before serving.
5. Harvest Kale and Quinoa Salad
Fresh, colorful, and loaded with nutrients, this salad adds a crisp balance to heavier dishes.
Ingredients:
-
1 bunch kale, chopped
-
1 cup cooked quinoa
-
1 apple, diced
-
1/4 cup dried cranberries
-
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
-
1 tsp maple syrup
-
Salt and pepper
Instructions:
-
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, and maple syrup together.
-
Massage dressing into kale to soften leaves.
-
Add quinoa, apples, cranberries, and seeds. Toss to coat.
Tip: Add roasted butternut squash for a warm version.
6. Green Bean Almondine (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
This light but elegant side dish pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving spread.
Ingredients:
-
1 lb green beans, trimmed
-
2 tbsp vegan butter
-
1/4 cup sliced almonds
-
Juice of half a lemon
-
Salt and pepper
Instructions:
-
Steam green beans until tender-crisp.
-
In a skillet, toast almonds in vegan butter until golden.
-
Add beans, toss to coat, and squeeze lemon juice over top.
Serving tip: Sprinkle with lemon zest or nutritional yeast for an umami boost.
7. Vegan Gravy (No Flour Needed)
This smooth, rich gravy adds the perfect finishing touch without using gluten or dairy.
Ingredients:
-
2 cups vegetable broth
-
1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
-
2 tbsp tamari (gluten-free soy sauce)
-
1/4 cup chopped mushrooms
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
Black pepper
Instructions:
-
Sauté mushrooms and garlic until soft.
-
Whisk cornstarch with a bit of broth to form a slurry.
-
Add all ingredients to the pan and simmer until thickened.
Pro tip: Blend the gravy for a smoother consistency.
8. Garlic Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon
Crispy, tangy, and aromatic — this simple dish is a crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into any holiday meal.
Ingredients:
-
1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
Juice of one lemon
-
Salt and pepper
Instructions:
-
Preheat oven to 425°F.
-
Toss cauliflower with oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
-
Roast for 25–30 minutes until golden.
-
Squeeze lemon juice before serving.
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or toasted breadcrumbs (gluten-free).
9. Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Pecans
This side dish combines sweet, savory, and tart — everything a Thanksgiving plate needs.
Ingredients:
-
1 medium butternut squash, cubed
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1/3 cup dried cranberries
-
1/4 cup chopped pecans
-
Maple syrup drizzle
Instructions:
-
Toss squash with oil and roast at 400°F for 25 minutes.
-
Add cranberries and pecans, drizzle with maple syrup, and roast another 10 minutes.
Serving idea: Add a sprinkle of sea salt for balance.
10. Apple Cider Glazed Carrots
Simple yet impressive, these glazed carrots are naturally sweet and perfect for a festive spread.
Ingredients:
-
1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
-
1/2 cup apple cider
-
1 tbsp maple syrup
-
1 tbsp vegan butter
-
Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
-
Combine cider, syrup, butter, and cinnamon in a skillet.
-
Add carrots and simmer until tender and glossy.
Tip: Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for color.
Make-Ahead Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving
Preparing sides ahead of time is a game-changer, especially when juggling dietary needs.
-
Mashed potatoes: Prepare a day in advance and reheat with extra milk.
-
Stuffing: Make the rice mixture and store in the fridge; bake before serving.
-
Salads: Prep dressings separately to avoid soggy greens.
-
Roasted vegetables: Par-roast the day before and finish in the oven.
-
Gravy: Store in the fridge and reheat gently with added broth.
With a few make-ahead strategies, you’ll enjoy a calm, organized day with plenty of time to focus on guests instead of kitchen chaos.
Creating a Beautiful Vegan & Gluten-Free Table
Food is just one part of the Thanksgiving experience — presentation matters too. Add warmth and style with:
-
Natural materials: Use wood, linen, and ceramic for an organic, welcoming vibe.
-
Seasonal colors: Think deep orange, sage green, and gold accents.
-
DIY touches: Mini pumpkins, candles, or eucalyptus sprigs make elegant centerpieces.
-
Personal touches: Handwritten name cards or gratitude notes at each setting.
A stylish, eco-friendly table fits perfectly with a vegan lifestyle focused on mindfulness and sustainability.
For more eco-conscious inspiration, explore The Dharma Store — their vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton make thoughtful gifts for guests or hosts alike, aligning with the spirit of kindness and conscious living.
Hosting Guests with Multiple Dietary Needs
If you’re serving guests with varied dietary preferences, communication and clarity are key.
-
Label dishes: Clearly note which are vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free.
-
Avoid cross-contamination: Use separate utensils and surfaces for gluten-free cooking.
-
Offer variety: A mix of warm and cold sides ensures everyone finds something they love.
By preparing inclusive dishes, you show genuine care — and your guests will feel comfortable, seen, and celebrated.
Final Thoughts
Creating a vegan and gluten-free Thanksgiving menu doesn’t mean giving up comfort or tradition. It’s about reimagining beloved flavors in a way that welcomes everyone to the table.
From creamy mashed potatoes and nutty wild rice stuffing to vibrant roasted vegetables and zesty salads, these sides prove that allergy-friendly dishes can still be festive, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
Whether you’re hosting a fully plant-based dinner or simply want to accommodate a few guests, these recipes bring everyone together — no compromises, just gratitude and good food.
So this Thanksgiving, serve love in every bite — inclusive, nourishing, and delicious.