Easy Vegan Sides That Steal the Show
Thanksgiving is all about abundance, comfort, and gratitude — and going vegan doesn’t mean giving up on any of that. Whether you’re newly vegan, cooking for vegan guests, or simply looking to add more plant-based variety to your table, these easy vegan Thanksgiving side dishes are perfect for beginners.
Each recipe here is designed to be approachable, affordable, and foolproof. They use everyday ingredients, come together quickly, and can easily complement both traditional and fully vegan feasts. By the end, you’ll have a full lineup of sides that can proudly stand beside any main dish — no culinary experience required.
And while you’re planning your menu, remember to embrace the sustainable spirit of veganism in every detail — from the food you cook to the clothes you wear. If you want to express your vegan pride year-round, check out The Dharma Store, where you’ll find vegan-themed t-shirts made from soft, organic cotton that are as kind to your skin as they are to the planet.
1. Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, and the vegan version is every bit as rich and satisfying. Swap dairy butter for vegan butter and use unsweetened plant milk like oat or cashew for creaminess. Add roasted garlic or caramelized onions for a gourmet touch.
Pro tip: Whip the potatoes with a hand mixer for that light, fluffy texture — and finish with a sprinkle of chives or vegan parmesan.
2. Maple-Roasted Carrots and Parsnips
Roasted vegetables bring warmth and color to your Thanksgiving table, and this dish couldn’t be easier. Toss sliced carrots and parsnips in olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and a touch of thyme. Roast at 400°F until golden and tender.
The maple glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the veggies a sweet-savory balance that even non-vegans will love.
3. Easy Vegan Stuffing with Herbs
Traditional stuffing is often made with butter and eggs, but it’s just as delicious without them. Use cubed sourdough or whole-grain bread, sautéed onions, celery, garlic, and plenty of herbs — sage, thyme, and rosemary are essential.
Moisten with vegetable broth and bake until crispy on the edges but soft inside. The result: a comforting, aromatic dish that tastes like Thanksgiving itself.
4. Garlicky Green Beans with Lemon Zest
If you’re looking for something fresh and vibrant, these garlicky green beans are a winner. Blanch the beans briefly, then sauté them with olive oil, minced garlic, and a touch of lemon zest.
They pair perfectly with heavier dishes and add a bright note to your plate. Sprinkle with toasted almonds or sesame seeds for extra crunch.
5. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet potato casserole is a holiday classic, and this version skips the marshmallows for a more wholesome (but still decadent) twist. Mash roasted sweet potatoes with coconut milk, cinnamon, and a hint of maple syrup, then top with a pecan crumble made from oats, brown sugar, and vegan butter.
Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s dessert disguised as a side dish — and your guests will be lining up for seconds.
6. Simple Cranberry-Orange Relish
Homemade cranberry sauce beats the canned version every time. All you need is fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and maple syrup. Simmer until the berries burst and the mixture thickens.
This bright, tangy relish cuts through the richness of other dishes and adds a festive splash of color to your spread.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Even if you’re not a Brussels sprouts fan, this recipe might change your mind. Halve and roast the sprouts until crisp and caramelized, then drizzle with a simple balsamic glaze (balsamic vinegar reduced with a little maple syrup).
The result is a perfect mix of savory, sweet, and tangy — a must-have on every vegan Thanksgiving table.
8. Vegan Gravy That Pairs with Everything
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without gravy. This vegan version starts with a roux of olive oil and flour, whisked until golden. Add vegetable broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast for umami depth.
Simmer until thickened and serve over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or lentil loaves. It’s the finishing touch that ties the entire meal together.
9. Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy, and aromatic — vegan dinner rolls are a crowd-pleaser. Use plant-based butter and almond milk for the dough, and infuse it with minced roasted garlic and fresh rosemary.
Serve warm from the oven with a side of vegan butter. They’re perfect for soaking up extra gravy or cranberry sauce.
10. Harvest Kale and Quinoa Salad
Balance out the heavier sides with this hearty, nutrient-packed salad. Toss chopped kale with cooked quinoa, roasted squash, dried cranberries, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Dress it in a maple-Dijon vinaigrette for the perfect fall flavor combination.
It’s fresh, vibrant, and holds up beautifully even when made in advance — ideal for beginner cooks who want a stress-free prep.
Bonus Tip: Keep It Simple and Stress-Free
When you’re just starting out with vegan holiday cooking, it’s easy to overcomplicate things. But Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean spending all day in the kitchen. Here are a few ways to keep things manageable:
-
Plan your menu early: Choose 3–4 sides that balance texture and flavor — creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory.
-
Prep ahead: Roast vegetables and make sauces a day in advance; they reheat beautifully.
-
Use what you have: Substitute ingredients based on what’s available and affordable. Vegan cooking is flexible by nature.
-
Focus on flavor: Herbs, citrus zest, roasted garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil can elevate even the simplest dishes.
Styling Your Vegan Thanksgiving Table
Part of the joy of Thanksgiving is how everything looks coming together — the food, the table, the atmosphere. You don’t need to spend much to make it beautiful. Combine rustic serving boards, recycled glass jars for candles, and cloth napkins for an eco-friendly touch.
Add seasonal produce like pumpkins, pears, or sprigs of rosemary as natural décor. It’s simple, sustainable, and perfectly in tune with the vegan ethos of mindful living.
And if you want to carry that message beyond the dinner table, visit The Dharma Store for vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. Their collection celebrates compassion, sustainability, and style — perfect conversation starters for your holiday gatherings.
Start Your Vegan Thanksgiving Tradition
Hosting or contributing to a vegan Thanksgiving doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Start with the basics — a few well-made sides — and focus on making them flavorful and satisfying. The beauty of these vegan side dishes for beginners is that they’re forgiving, adaptable, and crowd-pleasing.
Every time you make them, you’ll gain confidence, discover new flavor combinations, and maybe even start your own plant-based holiday traditions.
This year, let your Thanksgiving table tell a story — one of gratitude, abundance, and conscious choices that nourish both people and the planet.