Vegan Post

The Ultimate Vegan Thanksgiving Feast: 12 Delicious Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

Why Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes Are Perfect for the Holidays

Thanksgiving is a holiday centered around gratitude, family, and—of course—food. Traditionally, the centerpiece is turkey, but more people are embracing plant-based celebrations that are kinder to animals, the planet, and their health.

The great news is that vegan Thanksgiving recipes can be just as comforting, indulgent, and festive as traditional ones. With the right mix of flavors and textures, you can enjoy a feast full of rich main courses, hearty sides, and decadent desserts—all 100% plant-based.

Whether you’re hosting a completely vegan gathering or adding plant-based dishes to your table, this guide will help you plan the ultimate feast.

Planning Your Vegan Thanksgiving Feast

The key to a successful Thanksgiving dinner is balance. A good spread includes:

A Hearty Main Dish: Something that feels like the centerpiece.
Savory Sides: Stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, and grains.
Festive Salads: Freshness to balance the richness.
Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart complement to savory dishes.
Desserts: Pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or pecan bars to end on a sweet note.

Now, let’s dive into the recipes.

12 Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

1. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

A gorgeous main dish, roasted acorn squash halves are filled with quinoa, dried cranberries, pecans, and herbs. It’s colorful, nutritious, and festive.

Nutrition Tip: Quinoa adds complete plant-based protein, while squash provides fiber and beta-carotene.

2. Lentil and Mushroom Loaf

This hearty loaf is a perfect turkey alternative. Packed with lentils, mushrooms, onions, and herbs, it holds together beautifully and slices well.

Serving Suggestion: Top with mushroom gravy for an extra savory touch.

3. Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Olive Oil

Creamy mashed potatoes don’t need butter or cream. Use olive oil or vegan butter, garlic, and a splash of unsweetened plant milk for the perfect texture.

Variation: Add roasted garlic for depth of flavor.

4. Mushroom Gravy

A rich gravy made from sautéed mushrooms, onions, and vegetable broth. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, loaves, and stuffing.

Make-Ahead Tip: Gravy can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.

5. Classic Vegan Stuffing

Made with cubes of crusty bread, celery, onions, and fresh herbs, stuffing is a Thanksgiving must-have. Use vegetable broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

Upgrade: Add mushrooms, apples, or cranberries for extra texture.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze

Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven. A drizzle of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar makes them sweet, savory, and irresistible.

Nutrition Highlight: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

7. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Mashed sweet potatoes baked with a crunchy pecan-oat topping deliver the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures.

Option: Make it lighter by skipping marshmallows and relying on natural sweetness.

8. Vegan Green Bean Casserole

This plant-based twist on a holiday classic uses fresh green beans, creamy cashew sauce, and crispy onions. It’s comforting and crowd-pleasing.

Time Saver: Use pre-fried onions for quicker prep.

9. Cranberry Orange Sauce

Homemade cranberry sauce is simple and so much better than canned. Simmer fresh cranberries with orange juice and a touch of maple syrup for brightness.

Storage Tip: Keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

10. Harvest Salad with Kale and Apples

A refreshing side dish made with kale, crisp apples, toasted walnuts, and a maple-Dijon vinaigrette. It brings color and balance to the table.

Make-Ahead: Dress just before serving to keep greens crisp.

11. Vegan Pumpkin Pie

A Thanksgiving classic, pumpkin pie can be made with coconut milk or cashews for creaminess and warm spices for flavor. Bake in a flaky vegan crust.

Serving Suggestion: Top with coconut whipped cream.

12. Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

Warm apples baked with a cinnamon oat topping make for an easy, cozy dessert. It’s naturally sweet and perfect with dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Hosting a Vegan Thanksgiving

1. Plan Ahead

Make a menu and prep as much as possible before the big day. Many dishes like stuffing, casseroles, and pies can be made in advance.

2. Balance Flavors

Include savory, sweet, and tangy dishes to keep the meal exciting.

3. Use Seasonal Ingredients

Pumpkins, squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries are at their peak in fall, making them both affordable and flavorful.

4. Serve a Variety of Proteins

Lentils, beans, tofu, nuts, and seeds ensure guests feel full and satisfied.

5. Don’t Forget Presentation

Garnish with fresh herbs, roasted nuts, or pomegranate seeds for a festive look.

Nutrition Benefits of Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

Choosing plant-based holiday meals has several advantages:

Lower Saturated Fat: No heavy dairy or meat means lighter dishes.
Fiber-Rich: Vegetables, legumes, and whole grains support digestion.
Antioxidants: Seasonal produce like cranberries, squash, and kale are packed with vitamins.
Sustainability: Plant-based meals reduce your carbon footprint.

You can enjoy a feast that’s both indulgent and nourishing.

Leftover Ideas

One of the best parts of Thanksgiving is the leftovers. Here are a few ways to reinvent them:

Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms – Use leftover stuffing as filling for baked mushrooms.
Cranberry Spread – Layer cranberry sauce on sandwiches or wraps.
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie – Blend pie filling with plant milk and a banana for a cozy drink.
Harvest Bowls – Combine leftover veggies, grains, and protein into a balanced lunch bowl.

Making Thanksgiving Special Without Turkey

Thanksgiving is about more than one dish. By filling your table with colorful, flavorful, and satisfying vegan Thanksgiving recipes, you can create a feast that celebrates abundance and compassion.

And while food is the star, it’s also about gathering together, sharing gratitude, and making lasting memories.

Thanksgiving doesn’t need to rely on turkey and heavy dairy-based sides to feel festive. With a mix of hearty mains, seasonal vegetables, and decadent desserts, you can enjoy a holiday spread that’s both nourishing and celebratory.

Whether you’re fully plant-based or just adding a few vegan dishes this year, these recipes prove that compassionate meals can be just as delicious as traditional ones.

For an extra way to celebrate plant-based living, check out The Dharma Store where you’ll find vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. It’s a fun way to share your love for the lifestyle while gathering around the holiday table.

12 Simple Vegan Pasta Recipes for Every Occasion

Why Vegan Pasta Recipes Are the Perfect Meal

Pasta is one of the most versatile comfort foods in the world. It’s filling, customizable, and works beautifully with plant-based ingredients. With so many shapes, sauces, and fresh produce combinations, pasta makes an ideal base for quick weeknight dinners or hearty weekend meals.

The best part? You don’t need dairy or meat to create flavorful, satisfying pasta dishes. By using whole grains, fresh vegetables, beans, nuts, and plant-based proteins, you can create vegan pasta recipes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Building the Perfect Vegan Pasta

Before diving into recipes, let’s cover the essentials of creating great pasta dishes:

Choose the Right Pasta: Whole wheat, lentil, or brown rice pasta add extra fiber and protein. Traditional semolina pasta is naturally vegan unless egg is listed in the ingredients.
Base Flavor: Onions, garlic, olive oil, and herbs create the foundation of nearly every recipe.
Plant-Based Proteins: Lentils, chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh add heartiness.
Creamy Sauces: Cashews, tahini, coconut milk, or blended vegetables replace dairy.
Veggie Variety: Zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, and tomatoes make pasta vibrant and nutritious.

With these basics in mind, here are 12 simple yet flavorful vegan pasta recipes you’ll love.

12 Simple Vegan Pasta Recipes

1. Classic Vegan Spaghetti Marinara

A timeless favorite, spaghetti marinara features pasta tossed in a rich tomato sauce simmered with garlic, onions, and basil. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and endlessly comforting.

Nutrition Tip: Add lentils to the sauce for a protein boost.

2. Creamy Vegan Alfredo Pasta

Made with cashews, garlic, and nutritional yeast, this Alfredo sauce is creamy without any dairy. Toss with fettuccine and steamed broccoli for a wholesome meal.

Variation: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.

3. Vegan Pesto Pasta

Fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil blend into a vibrant green pesto. Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to keep it dairy-free. Toss with pasta and roasted cherry tomatoes.

Tip: Make extra pesto and use it as a spread or dip.

4. One-Pot Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Earthy mushrooms and a creamy cashew-based sauce transform this pasta into a cozy comfort dish. Cooking everything in one pot saves time and cleanup.

5. Roasted Vegetable Pasta

Colorful roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring sweetness and depth to pasta dishes. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Nutrition Highlight: Packed with antioxidants from roasted veggies.

6. Vegan Bolognese with Lentils

Lentils and mushrooms mimic the texture of traditional Bolognese. Simmered with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs, this sauce is hearty and satisfying.

Pro Tip: Serve over whole-grain spaghetti for extra fiber.

7. Vegan Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and nostalgic, vegan mac and cheese can be made with cashews, nutritional yeast, or even butternut squash. Perfect for kids and adults alike.

Upgrade: Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy finish.

8. Spinach and Garlic Pasta

This simple recipe uses olive oil, garlic, and fresh spinach for a light yet flavorful dish. It comes together in less than 20 minutes.

Quick Option: Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.

9. Vegan Primavera Pasta

A springtime classic, pasta primavera is full of fresh vegetables like asparagus, peas, and carrots. Light olive oil and lemon juice tie it all together.

Flavor Boost: Add fresh parsley or basil before serving.

10. Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta

This bold Italian classic uses red pepper flakes to give tomato sauce a spicy kick. Toss with penne for a simple but flavorful dish.

Tip: Balance spice with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

11. Vegan Carbonara

Smoky tempeh or coconut bacon replaces pancetta in this dairy-free version of carbonara. A creamy cashew sauce makes it indulgent while keeping it vegan.

Serving Suggestion: Top with cracked black pepper for authenticity.

12. Cold Vegan Pasta Salad

Perfect for summer, pasta salad combines cooked pasta with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s light, refreshing, and ideal for picnics.

Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for several days.

Tips for Making Vegan Pasta Recipes Healthier

Pasta doesn’t have to be heavy. Here’s how to make it lighter and more nourishing:

Choose Whole Grains – Opt for whole wheat, quinoa, or legume-based pasta.
Pack with Veggies – The more colorful, the better for nutrients.
Add Plant-Based Protein – Lentils, beans, or tofu make meals balanced.
Use Healthy Fats – Olive oil, avocado oil, or nut-based sauces provide richness.
Control Portions – Balance pasta with salads or roasted vegetables.

Storing and Meal Prepping Vegan Pasta

Vegan pasta recipes are excellent for batch cooking:

Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze sauced pasta for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.
Meal Prep Tip: Store pasta and sauce separately to avoid sogginess.

Flavor Pairings and Add-Ins

To keep pasta exciting, mix and match flavors:

Herbs: Basil, parsley, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
Toppings: Toasted breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, or vegan parmesan.
Extras: Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichokes, or capers.

Experimenting with these additions keeps meals fun and varied.

Why Vegan Pasta Recipes Are Great for Families

Vegan pasta recipes are family-friendly because they’re:

Customizable – Everyone can choose their favorite toppings.
Kid-Approved – Creamy sauces and fun shapes appeal to children.
Budget-Friendly – Pasta and beans are affordable pantry staples.
Quick to Prepare – Many recipes are ready in under 30 minutes.

This makes pasta an easy win for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike.

Pasta is proof that vegan meals can be simple, hearty, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you prefer creamy sauces, tomato-based classics, or fresh veggie-packed options, these vegan pasta recipes show just how versatile plant-based cooking can be.

By choosing whole grains, adding protein-rich ingredients, and loading up on vegetables, pasta can be both indulgent and nourishing. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

If you’re excited about celebrating plant-based living in and out of the kitchen, check out The Dharma Store for vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. It’s a stylish way to share your love for compassionate, sustainable living.

12 Easy Vegan Cookie Recipes Everyone Will Love

Why Vegan Cookies Are the Perfect Treat

Cookies are universally loved. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee, packed in a lunchbox, or served at gatherings, they bring comfort and joy. The good news? You don’t need butter, eggs, or milk to make cookies that are chewy, crisp, and full of flavor. With the right plant-based swaps, vegan cookie recipes are just as indulgent as their traditional counterparts—sometimes even better.

Vegan cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients like nut butters, oats, coconut oil, flaxseed, and natural sweeteners to achieve the perfect texture. They’re often healthier, more allergy-friendly, and completely dairy-free.

In this guide, you’ll find 12 delicious vegan cookie recipes that are easy to make, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The Secret to Great Vegan Cookie Recipes

The challenge in vegan baking is replacing butter and eggs. But with the right techniques, it’s surprisingly simple:

Butter Alternatives: Coconut oil, vegan butter, or even nut butters add richness.
Egg Replacements: Flax eggs, chia seeds, mashed banana, or applesauce bind dough.
Moisture & Flavor: Non-dairy milk and maple syrup add sweetness and balance.
Texture Boosters: Oats, shredded coconut, and nuts create chewiness and crunch.

By using these swaps, vegan cookies keep their irresistible taste and texture while staying 100% plant-based.

12 Easy Vegan Cookie Recipes

1. Classic Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

The holy grail of vegan cookie recipes. These cookies are soft in the center, crispy at the edges, and loaded with dairy-free chocolate chips. A combination of coconut oil and flax egg makes them perfectly chewy.

Tip: Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.

2. Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Chewy, hearty, and full of cinnamon-spiced goodness, oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless favorite. Rolled oats and plump raisins create a satisfying texture while flaxseed holds it all together.

Variation: Swap raisins for cranberries or chocolate chips for variety.

3. Peanut Butter Vegan Cookies

Rich, nutty, and naturally gluten-free, these peanut butter cookies melt in your mouth. Made with just a few pantry staples—peanut butter, coconut sugar, and a flax egg—they’re quick and delicious.

Nutrition Boost: Peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats.

4. Double Chocolate Vegan Cookies

For chocoholics, this recipe is a dream. Cocoa powder and vegan chocolate chunks make these cookies rich and fudgy. Perfect with a glass of almond milk.

Pro Tip: Add espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.

5. Vegan Snickerdoodle Cookies

Soft and pillowy, snickerdoodles are coated in cinnamon sugar for a comforting, nostalgic taste. This vegan version uses cream of tartar for that signature tangy bite.

Serving Idea: Pair with hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.

6. Vegan Coconut Macaroons

Sweet, chewy, and naturally gluten-free, coconut macaroons require just shredded coconut, maple syrup, and almond flour. Dip the bottoms in melted dark chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

7. Vegan Ginger Molasses Cookies

These cookies are chewy with a slight crispness and packed with warming spices. Molasses adds depth and richness, making them perfect for the holidays—or any time of year.

Flavor Tip: Add candied ginger for a spicy kick.

8. Vegan Almond Butter Cookies

A nutty twist on the peanut butter classic, almond butter cookies are slightly sweet, rich, and soft. They pair beautifully with a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

Upgrade: Mix in chopped almonds or dairy-free chocolate chunks.

9. Vegan Lemon Sugar Cookies

Light, refreshing, and zesty, these cookies use lemon juice and zest to brighten the flavor. They’re soft in the middle and crisp at the edges, ideal for spring and summer.

Pro Tip: Add a lemon glaze for extra tang.

10. Vegan Trail Mix Cookies

Perfect for snacking, these hearty cookies combine oats, nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips. They’re a great way to use up pantry ingredients and make a filling grab-and-go treat.

11. Vegan Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Soft, fluffy, and infused with pumpkin puree, these cookies are a seasonal favorite. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create the warm fall flavor profile everyone loves.

Serving Idea: Top with a vegan cream cheese glaze for decadence.

12. No-Bake Vegan Cookies

When you don’t want to turn on the oven, no-bake cookies save the day. Made with oats, cocoa powder, peanut butter, and maple syrup, they’re quick, easy, and deliciously chewy.

Time Saver: Ready in just 15 minutes.

Baking Tips for Perfect Vegan Cookies

Even the best recipes can fall flat without the right technique. Keep these tips in mind:

Measure Flour Correctly – Spoon flour into the cup and level it, don’t scoop.
Don’t Overmix – Overworking dough can make cookies tough.
Chill Dough – Prevents spreading and creates thicker cookies.
Use Parchment Paper – Helps cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
Check Early – Vegan cookies can go from chewy to overbaked quickly.

Making Vegan Cookies Healthier

Cookies don’t have to be a guilty pleasure. By choosing whole-food ingredients, you can create vegan cookie recipes that are both indulgent and nutritious:

Sweeteners: Use maple syrup, coconut sugar, or dates instead of refined sugar.
Flours: Swap all-purpose for oat, almond, or whole wheat flour.
Fats: Choose coconut oil, avocado oil, or nut butters over margarine.
Add-Ins: Seeds, nuts, or dried fruit provide nutrients and texture.

By making these swaps, your cookies can be a better-for-you treat while still tasting amazing.

Storing and Freezing Vegan Cookies

One of the best things about cookies is how well they store:

Room Temperature: Keep in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Extends freshness to 10 days.
Freezer (Dough): Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months; bake as needed.
Freezer (Baked): Store baked cookies in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

This makes vegan cookies perfect for meal prep, gifting, or having dessert ready anytime.

Pairing Vegan Cookies with Other Treats

Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways:

With tea or coffee as an afternoon snack.
Crumbled over vegan ice cream for a sundae.
Sandwiched with vegan frosting for whoopie pies.
Gifted in jars for holidays or birthdays.

Cookies are more than a sweet bite—they’re a way to share love and creativity in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, vegan cookies are one of the easiest and most rewarding treats you can make. With simple swaps and plant-based ingredients, these vegan cookie recipes deliver everything you love about cookies: chewy texture, rich flavor, and plenty of variety.

From classic chocolate chip to no-bake options, there’s a vegan cookie for every craving and every occasion. And because they’re dairy-free and egg-free, they’re often allergy-friendly and perfect for sharing.

If you’re passionate about living a plant-based lifestyle beyond the kitchen, why not wear it proudly? Check out The Dharma Store for vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. It’s a stylish way to celebrate your commitment to vegan living.