My favorite plant-based Thanksgiving sides that are hearty, delicious, and gluten-free. Mix and match to create a cozy vegan holiday spread.
After attending 33 Thanksgivings, this year I’m hosting for the first time. I’ve been thinking through hostess questions big and small: when to start decorating, how many chairs I can squeeze in, and—most importantly—how many sides are appropriate. The answer to that last one is: there’s no such thing as too many sides.
Sides are my favorite part of the holiday table. I typically serve an entirely plant-based menu and never feel like I’m missing a thing. This curated collection of plant-based, gluten-free Thanksgiving sides is designed to be mixed and matched so you can build a beautiful, abundant holiday meal. These recipes also work well beyond Thanksgiving—make them again for Christmas, New Year’s, or any cozy winter gathering.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Figs & Pecans
Sweet and savory roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with chopped dried figs and toasted pecans. A flavorful winter side that also works as an appetizer.
Candied Yams with Cacao Nibs & Pecans
Naturally sweet candied yams glazed with coconut sugar and maple, finished with cacao nibs and pecans. A cozy, crowd-pleasing vegan side.
Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes with Almond Butter Gravy
Lightened mashed potatoes made with Yukon potatoes and cauliflower, served with a silky almond butter “gravy.” Comforting and dairy-free.
Harissa Roasted Cauliflower with Cranberries & Hazelnuts
Spiced harissa-roasted cauliflower finished with a tahini drizzle, fresh herbs, dried cranberries, and toasted hazelnuts. A lively side or elegant starter.
Roasted Squash & Arugula Salad
Simple arugula with roasted winter squash, pine nuts, dried cranberries, and an apple-cider-vinegar dressing. Bright, peppery, and a nice contrast to richer dishes.
Butternut Squash Noodle Cranberry Salad
Roasted butternut with squash noodles, onion, fresh sage, and dried cranberries. A seasonal salad that’s both visually appealing and satisfying.
Tri-Colored Roasted Cauliflower Salad
A colorful one-pan cauliflower roast seasoned simply with herbs and spices. Serve it as a vibrant side or add protein for a main course.
Vegan & Grain-Free Sweet Potato Casserole
A lighter sweet potato casserole that’s low in added sugar and grain-free, topped with a pecan cookie crumble for texture and warmth.
Dijon Tahini Green Beans
Crisp green beans tossed in a creamy dijon-tahini dressing. Oil-free and bright, they add a fresh, nutty element to the table.
Stovetop Cauliflower Rice Stuffing
A grain-free, low-carb stuffing made with cauliflower rice and savory aromatics. Cooked on the stovetop for a quick, flavorful side.
Low-Sugar Orange Cranberry Sauce
A refined-sugar-free cranberry sauce sweetened with maple syrup and fresh orange juice. Ready in about 20 minutes and brightens any holiday plate.
Delicata Chickpea Bake With Almond Butter “Gravy”
A simple one-pan meal of delicata squash, chickpeas, romanesco, and an oil-free almond butter sauce. Great for meal prep or a fuss-free holiday main or side.
I Want to Hear From You
If you try any of these plant-based Thanksgiving sides, please let me know how they turned out. Your comments, ratings, and reviews help shape future recipes and improvements.
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Wishing you warm holidays and a joyful, flavorful table.