Thanksgiving is the ultimate celebration of gratitude, togetherness, and—of course—delicious food. For vegans, it’s an opportunity to showcase how vibrant, satisfying, and hearty plant-based dishes can be. Gone are the days when side dishes were merely an afterthought. These vegan Thanksgiving side dish ideas prove that plant-based cooking brings more creativity and comfort to the table than ever before.
Whether you’re hosting a full vegan feast or just contributing to a shared meal, these side dishes will please everyone—from lifelong vegans to traditional eaters curious about cruelty-free cuisine. Each dish combines seasonal produce, fall flavors, and textures that make Thanksgiving unforgettable.
1. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Cashew Cream
A Thanksgiving table without mashed potatoes feels incomplete. This vegan version replaces dairy with homemade cashew cream and roasted garlic, creating a silky, buttery texture with rich depth. Cashews provide creaminess while roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness. Top with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chives.
Pro Tip: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally buttery flavor. For extra indulgence, stir in a touch of vegan butter right before serving.
2. Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have transformed from childhood foes to holiday favorites. Roast them until crisp, then toss with a glaze made from maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. The balance of sweet, tangy, and caramelized notes makes this dish irresistible. Add toasted pecans or dried cranberries for a seasonal twist.
Serving Idea: Plate these sprouts alongside a lentil loaf or vegan roast for the perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
3. Butternut Squash & Quinoa Salad with Cranberry Dressing
Bright, colorful, and full of fall flair, this salad is a refreshing complement to heartier dishes. Roasted butternut squash combines with fluffy quinoa, kale, and toasted pumpkin seeds. A homemade cranberry vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy finish. It’s nutrient-packed and visually stunning—a must for your vegan Thanksgiving spread.
Make-Ahead Tip: Roast the squash and cook the quinoa the day before, then assemble just before serving to save time.
4. Savory Mushroom & Walnut Stuffing
Stuffing is a Thanksgiving essential, and this vegan version doesn’t disappoint. Instead of sausage or butter, it relies on umami-rich mushrooms, aromatic herbs, and crunchy walnuts. The mushrooms add depth, while the walnuts provide satisfying texture. Use vegetable broth and olive oil to keep everything moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestion: Serve this stuffing in a decorative baking dish or stuff it inside roasted acorn squash halves for a stunning presentation.
5. Creamy Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole has long been a Thanksgiving staple, but traditional versions often include dairy and canned soup. This veganized version uses homemade mushroom gravy and crispy shallots for a gourmet touch. Fresh green beans stay crisp-tender, and the creamy sauce delivers comforting flavor without heaviness.
Shortcut Option: If you’re short on time, use store-bought crispy onions—but the homemade ones will make your guests ask for seconds.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Cinnamon Tahini Drizzle
Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness and warmth to any Thanksgiving meal. Instead of the usual marshmallow topping, roast them simply with olive oil and sea salt. Drizzle with a creamy cinnamon-tahini sauce for a sophisticated take that balances sweet and savory beautifully.
Enhancement Idea: Garnish with pomegranate seeds or crushed pistachios for a festive look.
7. Harvest Cornbread with Jalapeño & Maple Syrup
Cornbread adds cozy comfort to any fall meal. This vegan version uses cornmeal, almond milk, and flaxseed as a binder. The result is moist, fluffy, and golden. Add diced jalapeños for a hint of spice, and brush with maple syrup before serving to create a sweet-savory contrast.
Pairing Tip: Serve alongside chili, vegan roast, or lentil stew for a comforting and hearty Thanksgiving dinner.
8. Caramelized Onion & Rosemary Roasted Carrots
Carrots get a dramatic upgrade with caramelized onions and fragrant rosemary. Roast until tender and golden, then finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This side dish feels elegant yet simple to make—and it adds a pop of color to your plate.
Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes if you like a hint of spice.
9. Vegan Gravy with Miso & Thyme
Every Thanksgiving meal needs gravy, and this vegan version is packed with umami flavor. Made with miso paste, tamari, garlic, and fresh thyme, it complements mashed potatoes, stuffing, or lentil loafs perfectly. The miso deepens the flavor while keeping it naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
Storage Tip: Make the gravy ahead of time and reheat with a splash of vegetable broth to thin it before serving.
10. Roasted Cauliflower with Pumpkin Seed Pesto
Cauliflower transforms beautifully when roasted—it becomes crisp on the outside and tender within. Toss with a vibrant pumpkin seed pesto for a seasonal twist that’s nutty and aromatic. It’s both light and satisfying, making it an excellent addition to any Thanksgiving menu.
Presentation Idea: Serve on a platter with lemon wedges and extra pesto on the side for dipping.
11. Cranberry-Orange Relish with Ginger
Skip the canned cranberry sauce and make this fresh, zesty relish instead. Combine fresh cranberries, orange zest, maple syrup, and a touch of grated ginger for a bright, tart condiment that pairs beautifully with every savory dish on your table.
Bonus: It also doubles as a topping for vegan cheesecake or pancakes the next morning.
12. Roasted Garlic & Herb Polenta Squares
For something unexpected, serve baked polenta squares infused with roasted garlic and herbs. Once cooled and sliced, they’re crisp on the outside and soft inside—perfect for soaking up gravy or pairing with vegetable stews.
Customization: Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions on top for extra flair.
13. Vegan Mac and Cheese with Butternut Squash Sauce
Comfort food lovers will rejoice over this creamy, golden mac and cheese made with pureed butternut squash, nutritional yeast, and cashews. It’s velvety smooth and full of fall flavor without a drop of dairy. Garnish with toasted breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch.
Serving Tip: Keep it warm in a casserole dish until it’s time to serve to maintain its silky texture.
14. Autumn Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice adds nutty, earthy depth to any Thanksgiving plate. Mix it with sautéed onions, cranberries, and toasted almonds for a beautiful pilaf that feels both rustic and elegant. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the entire dish.
Perfect Pair: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or vegan meatloaf for a well-balanced meal.
15. Garlic-Roasted Broccolini with Lemon Zest
For a simple yet vibrant side, roast broccolini with garlic and olive oil until the edges char slightly. Finish with lemon zest for brightness. This minimalist dish provides a crisp contrast to the richer items on the table while adding a pop of green.
Serving Suggestion: Arrange on a platter and sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.
How to Create a Balanced Vegan Thanksgiving Plate
When planning your vegan Thanksgiving feast, aim for variety in both flavor and texture:
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Balance richness and freshness: Pair creamy dishes (like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese) with lighter, tangy options (like salads or citrusy relishes).
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Include multiple colors: A mix of orange, green, and purple vegetables creates a visually appealing spread.
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Offer contrast: Combine crunchy, roasted, and creamy textures to keep each bite interesting.
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Plan ahead: Many sides can be prepared a day or two before Thanksgiving—roast vegetables, cook grains, and blend dressings early for stress-free hosting.
By mixing hearty classics with bright, vegetable-forward dishes, you can build a spread that feels complete, indulgent, and entirely cruelty-free.
A Final Thought: Celebrating Thanksgiving, Vegan Style
Thanksgiving is about gratitude and compassion—values that align beautifully with vegan living. Choosing to serve plant-based side dishes not only celebrates seasonal produce but also honors animals and the planet.
Each of these vegan Thanksgiving side dish ideas brings comfort and creativity to your table, showing that tradition can evolve deliciously. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply incorporating more plant-based meals into your holidays, your guests will appreciate the care, color, and flavor you bring to every bite.
And if you want to extend your compassion beyond the kitchen, check out The Dharma Store for vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton—perfect for sharing your plant-based pride this holiday season.
With thoughtful preparation, vibrant ingredients, and a little festive spirit, your vegan Thanksgiving will be every bit as warm, flavorful, and joyful as any traditional feast—perhaps even more so.