Vegan Post

15 Irresistible Vegan Thanksgiving Side Dishes Everyone Will Love

A Plant-Based Thanksgiving: Satisfying Sides That Steal the Show

When Thanksgiving rolls around, most people picture turkey at the center of the table—but the real magic often happens on the sidelines. If you're living a plant-based lifestyle or hosting vegan guests, crafting a memorable, satisfying feast doesn’t mean missing out. In fact, vegan Thanksgiving side dishes can be so flavorful and hearty that even the meat-eaters will reach for seconds.

From savory stuffings to creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and nostalgic casseroles, this guide shares the best vegan-friendly sides that celebrate fall’s bounty. These dishes are easy to make, packed with seasonal ingredients, and free from animal products—perfect for a compassionate and delicious holiday meal.

Ready to reinvent Thanksgiving traditions with kindness and flavor? Let’s get cooking.

Pantry Essentials for Vegan Holiday Cooking

Before diving into the recipes, stock your kitchen with these vegan staples that make plant-based cooking during the holidays a breeze:

Plant-based butter (great for mashed potatoes, baking, and sautéing)
Olive oil or avocado oil
Vegetable broth
Nutritional yeast (adds a cheesy, savory flavor)
Non-dairy milk (unsweetened almond, oat, or soy)
Flour or cornstarch (for thickening gravies and sauces)
Herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, sage, smoked paprika, and nutmeg

Having these on hand ensures your sides come together smoothly, without compromise on taste or texture.

15 Easy Vegan Thanksgiving Side Dishes

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, fluffy, and comforting, mashed potatoes are a holiday must-have. Use almond milk and plant-based butter, then stir in roasted garlic for a rich flavor without dairy.

2. Mushroom Gravy

Earthy mushrooms cooked with onions and vegetable broth make for a thick, savory gravy. Thicken it with a little flour or cornstarch and finish with a dash of soy sauce for umami.

3. Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of maple syrup, then roast until golden. Optional: add toasted pecans or dried cranberries for texture and color.

4. Vegan Stuffing

Cubed gluten-free or sourdough bread sautéed with celery, onions, mushrooms, and herbs creates a stuffing that’s both moist and crisp. Use veggie broth to bring it all together.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole

Mash roasted sweet potatoes with a bit of maple syrup, cinnamon, and a splash of almond milk. Top with a pecan crumble or oat-based topping and bake until golden.

6. Green Bean Almondine

Blanched green beans sautéed with slivered almonds, garlic, and lemon zest make for a bright, crunchy contrast to richer dishes.

7. Cranberry Orange Relish

Skip the canned stuff. Combine fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a bit of maple syrup in a saucepan and simmer until thickened for a tart-sweet side that pairs well with savory dishes.

8. Butternut Squash Risotto

Creamy arborio rice cooked slowly in vegetable broth and finished with puréed roasted butternut squash makes a luxe, cozy side dish. Stir in nutritional yeast for a hint of “cheesiness.”

9. Cauliflower Gratin

Use cauliflower florets instead of potatoes and bake them in a vegan béchamel sauce thickened with flour and plant milk. Add garlic, mustard, and nutritional yeast for depth.

10. Caramelized Onion Tart

A gluten-free or vegan puff pastry base topped with slow-cooked caramelized onions and rosemary makes for an elegant, crowd-pleasing starter or side.

11. Harvest Quinoa Salad

Quinoa tossed with roasted squash, cranberries, kale, and pumpkin seeds makes for a light yet hearty side dish full of texture and nutrition.

12. Roasted Root Vegetables

Chop carrots, parsnips, turnips, and beets. Toss with olive oil, sea salt, thyme, and roast until caramelized. Simple, rustic, and full of fall flavor.

13. Vegan Cornbread

Make cornbread using cornmeal, flour, baking powder, almond milk, and applesauce as an egg replacer. It’s moist, golden, and perfect for soaking up gravy.

14. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Whole baby carrots roasted with balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and rosemary make for a side that’s sweet, savory, and elegant.

15. Spiced Apple & Walnut Slaw

Thinly sliced apples, cabbage, and walnuts tossed with a maple-Dijon vinaigrette provide a refreshing, tangy contrast to rich dishes.

Tips for a Seamless Vegan Thanksgiving

Whether you're planning an entirely vegan spread or just adding a few animal-free dishes, these tips can help ensure a smooth and delicious celebration.

1. Plan Ahead

Many vegan side dishes can be made a day or two in advance—especially stuffing, casseroles, and cranberry sauce. Reheat just before serving.

2. Focus on Texture

Balance creamy (mashed potatoes, casseroles) with crunchy (slaws, roasted veggies) to keep the meal exciting.

3. Use Seasonal Ingredients

Root vegetables, squash, apples, and cranberries are naturally vegan-friendly and taste their best this time of year.

4. Label Everything

If you’re hosting a mixed-diet group, clearly label your vegan dishes. It also helps guests with allergies or food sensitivities.

5. Create a Vegan Gravy Station

Having a plant-based gravy option makes it easier for guests to enjoy multiple dishes—especially mashed potatoes and stuffing.

Building a Balanced Holiday Plate

A successful vegan Thanksgiving plate should offer a mix of:

Protein: Lentil loaf, quinoa salad, or beans in the stuffing
Healthy fats: Nuts, seeds, and olive oil-based dressings
Fiber: Whole grains, root vegetables, and leafy greens
Complex carbs: Potatoes, squash, and gluten-free grains

Don’t forget the sauces. Vegan gravies and dressings elevate simple components and tie your plate together.

Hosting or Attending as a Vegan Guest

If you're hosting:
Offer variety and don’t be afraid to showcase plant-based versions of classics. Often, non-vegans appreciate creative dishes they wouldn’t typically try.

If you're attending:
Bring your favorite vegan side to share. Choose something substantial like a casserole, stuffing, or hearty salad that doubles as a main dish if needed.

Where Food Meets Compassion

Celebrating Thanksgiving with vegan side dishes lets you honor the season’s abundance without sacrificing your values. These recipes prove that holiday food can be inclusive, nourishing, and deeply flavorful. Whether you're a lifelong vegan or just exploring new options, you can craft a table that reflects both tradition and transformation.

And if you're looking to wear your values with pride, visit The Dharma Store—a shop dedicated to vegan-themed apparel made from soft, sustainable organic cotton. It’s a stylish way to share your beliefs long after the dishes are done.

Make this Thanksgiving one to remember—plant-based, peaceful, and packed with delicious sides that bring everyone together.

Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Desserts Everyone Will Love

The Sweet Side of Plant-Based Living

Living gluten-free and vegan doesn’t mean giving up dessert. Whether you’re dealing with dietary restrictions, food allergies, or simply want to nourish your body with cleaner ingredients, gluten-free vegan desserts offer the perfect solution. These treats ditch animal products and wheat without sacrificing flavor, texture, or creativity.

From fudgy brownies and no-bake bites to fruit-forward crisps and creamy puddings, this guide breaks down foolproof dessert ideas you can whip up with ingredients that are plant-based, gluten-free, and satisfying. You’ll also find essential pantry tips and swaps for making any dessert more inclusive.

Ready to embrace your sweet tooth the compassionate way? Let’s dive into the essentials.

Gluten-Free + Vegan: What Does That Mean?

A dessert labeled as both gluten-free and vegan is free from:

Animal products: No eggs, dairy, gelatin, or honey.
Gluten-containing grains: No wheat, barley, or rye.

This combo can be a bit of a balancing act in baking. Eggs often serve as binders, while gluten provides elasticity. Without them, recipes require thoughtful alternatives—think flax eggs, chia seeds, almond flour, and starches.

But don’t worry. You won’t miss a thing with the right ingredients and a few go-to recipes.

Must-Have Ingredients for Gluten-Free Vegan Desserts

Building a well-stocked baking pantry makes dessert prep quick and hassle-free. Here’s what to keep on hand:

1. Flours and Starches

Almond flour
Oat flour (certified gluten-free)
Coconut flour
Brown rice flour
Tapioca starch
Arrowroot powder

2. Natural Sweeteners

Maple syrup
Coconut sugar
Agave nectar
Medjool dates

3. Binders

Flaxseed meal (for flax eggs)
Chia seeds
Applesauce
Mashed banana

4. Dairy Alternatives

Coconut milk
Almond milk
Cashew cream
Vegan butter or coconut oil

5. Flavor Enhancers

Vanilla extract
Cacao powder
Lemon zest
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom

10 Easy Gluten-Free Vegan Dessert Ideas

1. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

Why it works:
These require no oven, minimal cleanup, and just a few ingredients. They're rich, chewy, and store well.

Ingredients:

Almond flour
Natural peanut butter
Maple syrup
Dark chocolate (dairy-free)
Coconut oil

Tip: Add crushed gluten-free pretzels on top for crunch.

2. Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites

Why it works:
Chickpeas offer fiber and protein without overpowering the flavor. These bites are safe to eat raw and taste like dessert.

Ingredients:

Canned chickpeas
Almond butter
Maple syrup
Vanilla extract
Dairy-free chocolate chips

Tip: Use a food processor for a smooth, doughy texture.

3. Baked Cinnamon Apples with Walnut Crumble

Why it works:
Warm apples and spiced crumble offer comfort food satisfaction with natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

Sliced apples
Maple syrup
Cinnamon, nutmeg
Gluten-free oats
Chopped walnuts
Coconut oil

Tip: Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.

4. Vegan Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Why it works:
Avocados give this dessert a rich, creamy texture without dairy or processed thickeners.

Ingredients:

Ripe avocados
Cacao powder
Maple syrup
Vanilla extract
Almond milk

Tip: Chill before serving and top with berries or coconut flakes.

5. Strawberry Chia Jam Bars

Why it works:
These bars are layered with homemade chia jam and an almond-oat crust. Perfect for snacking or serving at brunch.

Ingredients:

Gluten-free oats
Almond flour
Maple syrup
Coconut oil
Strawberries
Chia seeds

Tip: Let the bars cool completely to firm up.

6. Gluten-Free Vegan Brownies

Why it works:
Rich, fudgy, and chocolatey—no one will believe they’re vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients:

Oat flour or almond flour
Cacao powder
Coconut sugar
Flax eggs
Coconut oil
Dairy-free chocolate chunks

Tip: Don’t overbake. Let them cool to set fully.

7. Banana Nice Cream

Why it works:
One ingredient. Endless variations. This frozen dessert is creamy, sweet, and nutrient-packed.

Ingredients:

Frozen ripe bananas
Optional add-ins: peanut butter, cocoa powder, berries

Tip: Blend until smooth and serve immediately, or freeze for a firmer texture.

8. Lemon Coconut Energy Balls

Why it works:
These zesty, refreshing bites are perfect for summer or midday pick-me-ups.

Ingredients:

Almond flour
Shredded coconut
Lemon juice and zest
Maple syrup
Chia seeds

Tip: Roll in extra coconut for texture.

9. Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Why it works:
Fall-flavored and fluffy, these muffins use oat flour and flax eggs for structure.

Ingredients:

Pumpkin puree
Oat flour
Coconut sugar
Pumpkin spice blend
Almond milk
Apple cider vinegar

Tip: Use silicone muffin molds for easy release.

10. Vegan Rice Pudding

Why it works:
Comforting and creamy, this dessert works hot or cold.

Ingredients:

Arborio or short-grain rice
Coconut milk
Maple syrup
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon

Tip: Stir frequently and cook low-and-slow to avoid sticking.

Tips for Successful Gluten-Free Vegan Baking

Baking without gluten or animal products is its own art. Use these strategies to make your desserts foolproof:

1. Combine Flours

Mixing flours (e.g., almond and tapioca) can create a better texture than using a single gluten-free flour.

2. Don’t Skip the Binder

Flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) are crucial for structure and moisture in most recipes.

3. Taste as You Go

Since vegan batters are safe to eat raw, taste and adjust your sweetener or spices.

4. Watch Moisture Content

Gluten-free flours can absorb more or less liquid. Add plant milk gradually and let batters rest to hydrate.

5. Read Labels

Double-check ingredients, especially baking powder, oats, and chocolate chips, to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Make Dessert, Not Compromises

There’s no need to choose between health, ethics, and indulgence. With these gluten-free vegan desserts, you can enjoy rich, satisfying treats made from whole, plant-based ingredients that align with your values.

When you stock your kitchen with thoughtful staples—and maybe even wear your values—you're showing the world that compassion and flavor can go hand in hand. If you want to wear your vegan pride with comfort and style, check out The Dharma Store, where you’ll find ethically made vegan-themed t-shirts crafted from organic cotton.

Dessert is more than food—it’s a moment of joy. Make it intentional, inclusive, and 100% plant-powered.

Essential Vegan Pantry Staples for a Nourishing Plant-Based Kitchen

Why Vegan Pantry Staples Matter

Whether you're new to veganism or a seasoned plant-based eater, your pantry is the foundation of your kitchen. A thoughtfully stocked pantry saves time, reduces food waste, and helps you whip up nourishing meals without last-minute grocery runs. With the right ingredients on hand, plant-based cooking becomes more convenient and satisfying—especially on busy days.

This guide covers essential vegan pantry staples, organized by category, so you can easily build or audit your pantry. We'll explore dry goods, canned items, baking essentials, condiments, and more. If you're looking for reliable, healthy, and versatile plant-based ingredients, this list is for you.

1. Whole Grains

Grains are a cornerstone of many vegan meals. They provide fiber, complex carbs, and a sense of fullness.

Key grains to stock:

Brown rice – A go-to base for bowls, stir-fries, and curries.
Quinoa – High in protein and cooks in under 20 minutes.
Oats – Use for breakfast, baking, or homemade energy bars.
Farro – A hearty, chewy grain for soups and salads.
Barley – Great in stews or as a risotto substitute.
Whole grain pasta – A shelf-stable weeknight staple.

Quick tip: Store grains in airtight glass jars to maintain freshness and deter pests.

2. Legumes and Pulses

Packed with protein, fiber, and iron, legumes are essential for vegan nutrition. They’re also affordable and incredibly versatile.

Stock both dried and canned options:

Lentils (brown, green, red) – Ideal for soups, stews, and curries.
Chickpeas – Use for hummus, roasting, or salads.
Black beans – Great in tacos, burritos, or chili.
Navy beans – Perfect for baked beans or soups.
Split peas – Base for warming split pea soup.
Cannellini beans – Creamy and great for pastas and dips.

Quick tip: Canned beans are convenient, but dried beans are more cost-effective for batch cooking.

3. Canned & Jarred Goods

These items offer long shelf lives and quick-meal potential.

Essential canned or jarred items:

Coconut milk – Ideal for curries, soups, or desserts.
Crushed tomatoes – For sauces, soups, and stews.
Tomato paste – Adds richness and umami to dishes.
Vegetable broth – Base for soups and grain cooking.
Olives and capers – Add briny depth to Mediterranean meals.
Artichoke hearts – Delicious in pasta, salads, or on pizza.

Quick tip: Look for low-sodium versions when available, and recycle cans to stay eco-conscious.

4. Baking Essentials

Even if you don’t bake often, having a few basics on hand can help you whip up muffins, pancakes, or baked tofu in a pinch.

Must-have vegan baking items:

All-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
Baking soda and baking powder
Coconut sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar
Apple cider vinegar – Helps activate leavening agents.
Nut butters – Almond, peanut, or cashew for binding and flavor.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – For vegan brownies or smoothies.
Flaxseed meal – Key for making vegan “flax eggs.”

Quick tip: Flax eggs = 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water. Let sit 5–10 minutes to thicken.

5. Condiments, Sauces, and Spreads

Flavor is everything. These condiments elevate simple ingredients into crave-worthy meals.

Pantry-friendly flavor boosters:

Soy sauce or tamari – For stir-fries, marinades, or dipping.
Nutritional yeast – Adds cheesy, umami-rich flavor.
Sriracha or chili sauce – For heat and depth.
Tahini – Great in sauces, dressings, or baking.
Mustard – Versatile and zesty.
Vegan mayo – For sandwiches, dips, and dressings.
Maple syrup – For sweetness in sweet or savory dishes.

Quick tip: Keep a few mason jars for homemade dressings—store in the fridge and shake before serving.

6. Herbs and Spices

A flavorful spice rack makes plant-based cooking vibrant and satisfying. Stocking dried herbs and spices gives you creative range.

Staple vegan spices and herbs:

Cumin – Essential for Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern dishes.
Smoked paprika – Adds depth to soups and roasted veggies.
Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory and colorful.
Curry powder – For quick flavor infusion.
Cinnamon – Useful for both savory and sweet.
Oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary – Mediterranean must-haves.
Garlic powder & onion powder – For easy flavor layering.

Quick tip: Rotate stock every 6–12 months for optimal freshness.

7. Nuts and Seeds

Full of healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein, nuts and seeds make excellent snacks and smoothie additions.

Nuts and seeds to keep stocked:

Chia seeds – High in omega-3s and perfect for pudding or baking.
Flaxseeds – Great for digestion and baking.
Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) – Add crunch and protein.
Almonds and cashews – Use for snacking, sauces, or homemade vegan cheese.
Sunflower seeds – Affordable and allergy-friendly.

Quick tip: Store in the fridge or freezer to extend shelf life and prevent rancidity.

8. Plant-Based Proteins

For quick meals, keep ready-to-eat proteins available.

Top picks:

Tofu (shelf-stable vacuum-packed) – Pan-fry, scramble, or bake.
Tempeh (vacuum-sealed) – Fermented and full of texture.
Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) – Rehydrate for tacos, chili, or pasta sauce.
Seitan (gluten-based) – High-protein meat substitute.
Vegan protein powder – For smoothies and baking.

Quick tip: Even shelf-stable proteins should be rotated every few months for freshness.

9. Dried Fruit

Dried fruit offers concentrated nutrition and natural sweetness without added sugar.

Great choices:

Raisins or golden raisins – For salads or oatmeal.
Dates – Excellent for desserts and energy balls.
Dried cranberries or apricots – Sweet and tangy snacks.
Goji berries – A superfood addition to cereal or granola.

Quick tip: Use in moderation—dried fruit is calorie-dense and best paired with protein or fat.

10. Vegan Snacks

Having a few vegan snack options prevents impulse buys and supports mindful eating.

Simple snack staples:

Popcorn kernels – Air-pop for fiber-rich snacking.
Rice cakes or whole grain crackers
Granola or trail mix (low-sugar)
Nut butter packs
Energy bars (check ingredients for honey or dairy)

Quick tip: Make your own granola with oats, nuts, seeds, and maple syrup for a customizable snack.

Pantry Organization Tips for Plant-Based Living

An organized pantry isn’t just about aesthetics—it improves meal planning and reduces waste.

Try these tips:

Use clear containers: This helps you track inventory at a glance.
Label everything: Especially bulk items like flours, grains, or lentils.
Group by category: Keep legumes, grains, and snacks in separate sections.
Create an “open first” bin: Use older items before opening new packages.
Audit monthly: Toss expired goods and take inventory for restocking.

Your Vegan Pantry = Your Powerhouse

Having a pantry full of vegan pantry staples sets you up for consistent, delicious plant-based meals. You don’t need every ingredient on this list right away—start with the basics, and build as you go. Over time, you’ll know what you reach for most and what you can make from scratch versus buy pre-made.

Looking for a way to express your values beyond food? The Dharma Store offers vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton—perfect for sharing your message with comfort and style.

Eat with intention. Cook with joy. Stock with purpose.

Let your pantry be your plant-based partner in health and compassion.