8 Vegan Dishes you need for thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away (are you following our Thanksgiving Prep guide?) and as a vegan, this has always been a time filled with uncertainty for me. 

Let's face it. Most classic Thanksgiving dishes are not naturally vegan friendly. And I don't expect everyone else to cater to my dietary needs.

But it's always nice to have a few dishes that we can all enjoy together as a family. I mean, isn't that part of Thanksgiving? Family togetherness?

That's why I wanted to compile this list of vegan dishes to include at your Thanksgiving table this year. Whether it's for you, a family member, or heck- maybe you're throwing an entire vegan Thanksgiving!- I wanted these to be dishes that are easy to prepare that everyone can enjoy together.

I've also included some tips at the bottom that will help you create the perfect Thanksgiving Spread. Let's jump in!

butternut squash soup

Photo courtesy of Cookie and Kate

This Butternut Squash Soup recipe from Cookie and Kate would make the perfect main dish. It's easy to share, warm, and filling. Not to mention butternut squash is perfect for this time of year. Top with nutmeg or some pumpkin seeds for a really beautiful display. YUM!

*Please note that the original recipe isn't vegan, but Kate gives great suggestions for making it vegan.
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coconut creamed corn

This Coconut Creamed Corn recipe Alicia blogged about last year would be a zesty take on the Thanksgiving classic side. 

My mouth is already watering just thinking about this!
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mashed potatoes

Photo courtesy of Minimalist Baker

What's Thanksgiving without mashed potatoes?

That's right.

Nothing.

This Vegan Mashed Potato recipe from Minimalist Baker is actually the recipe I always use. They're creamy and flavorful and always a hit!
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mac and cheese

Photo courtesy of Vegan Yumminess

Mac and cheese was one of the hardest things for me to let go of when I transitioned to a vegan lifestyle (seriously).

But this Vegan Mac and Cheese recipe from Vegan Yumminess reminds us that lack of cheese doesn't mean lack of flavor. And I mean, come on. Looking at that picture you'd never be able to tell it's dairy-free. It's just as creamy and delicious as any mac and cheese should be!
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cranberry orange sauce

This is the first time I've ever shared this recipe, but it is a Thanksgiving staple for me. 

I've been making this cranberry orange sauce every year since becoming vegan and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon. It's so easy to make and has the perfect balance between the sweet oranges and the tangy cranberries.

​I'll post my recipe for this below!
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Glazed Sweet Potatoes

Photo courtesy of Detoxinista

 Growing up, I was never really a fan of sweet potatoes. It was the same way into my adulthood. In fact, I didn't start really appreciating sweet potatoes until I became vegan. Now I can't get enough of them!

And this Glazed Sweet Potato recipe from Detoxinista is one of my favorite ways to enjoy the little guys. This recipe reminds me alot of a glazed carrot dish my mom has made me before (she uses vegan butter for me). Carrots or sweet potatoes, this recipe is a winner!
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apple pie

Apple pie was always one of my favorites growing up and, luckily for me, my mom's recipe is accidentally vegan! Making this Vegan Apple Pie is definitely going to continue to be a tradition of mine.

Oh and the best part?

The crust is my grandma's recipe and also accidentally vegan! So I haven't had to change a single part of my childhood favorite. Thanks, mom!
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snickerdoodle cookies

Photo courtesy of Loving It Vegan

A warm snickerdoodle cookie is one of my favorite desserts, especially during fall. These Vegan Snickerdoodle Cookies from Loving It Vegan would be the perfect dessert to bring to Thanksgiving this year!
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tips for the perfect thanksgiving spread

Of course, your Thanksgiving table is about far more than just the dishes you bring (but these vegan Thanksgiving dishes are pretty perfect!). These extra touches will ensure your vegan Thanksgiving is on another level.

1. Don't run out of rolls. You know that feeling you get when you're eating at Olive Garden and the waiter just keeps bringing out basket after basket of breadsticks? You can recreate this feeling for your Thanksgiving guests. Pillsbury Original Crescent Rolls are accidentally vegan and easy to make. You can roll them all up ahead of time and bake more as needed throughout the evening. That way you always have fresh, vegan bread ready to pair with that Cranberry Orange Sauce.
2. Keep trays of snack boards available. Pickle spears, olives, carrot sticks, grapes, crackers, etc. all make great quick snacking options you can leave set at the table. Think of them as a palate cleanser of sorts. They help fill out your display and people can (and will) keep munching on these long after they say they're full.
3. Have a variety of beverages available. Martinelli's has always been one of my personal favorites. More great options are fruit juices, warm cider, and of course water. Be sure to have readily available for your guests as well.

I hope these tips help you. Whether you're able to gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, or you're confined to the members of your household, I hope these vegan Thanksgiving recipes find their way to your table.

If you try any, be sure to let us know what you think!
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Cranberry Orange Sauce Recipe

​Cranberry Orange Sauce

You may also enjoy

• Vegan, Gluten Free Pumpkin Chocolate Cookies
• Pumpkin Butter
• Vegan Caramel Apple Cupcakes