For most of us, Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday. It’s a feast, a gathering, and if you’re not careful, it can turn into a juggling act. Families and friends bring with them different traditions, food preferences, and increasingly, varied dietary preferences. Our family is pescatarian, but we’ve found that it’s still very easy to accommodate our meat-eating or vegetarian and vegan friends while staying true to our dietary preferences . . . and theirs. Though it’s taken us some time over the years, we’ve combined Thanksgiving dinner options for all tastes, including hearty meat-based classics, meatless Thanksgiving options including plant-powered dishes, and dairy-free, egg-free, fully vegan delights.
It might sound daunting to cook for such a wide range of tastes, but believe it or not, there are countless ways to serve a menu that delights everyone without sacrificing flavor. Sure, the turkey is grandiose, and though it almost always takes the center spot on the table, it’s still the yummy vegetables that everyone clamors for . . . even our most devoted carnivore friends.
CARNIVORE-FRIENDLY CLASSICS
As we know, for meat eaters, Thanksgiving is often about turkey, ham, or sometimes even roast beef. But even within tradition, there’s room for creativity.
The Traditional Roast Turkey (with a Twist)
There’s no denying that most people can’t imagine Thanksgiving without turkey. To elevate ours, we brine it overnight in apple cider, orange slices, rosemary, and peppercorns. The result? Juicy meat with a subtle hint of fruit and spice. Bonus tip: slip herbed butter and chicken broth ice cubes under the skin before roasting for extra flavor and moisture.
Turkey Legs to Die For!
Turkey Legs? Yep! This one had been a staple favorite in our households, all year long . . . that is, until we turned pescatarian. But it didn’t stop me from preparing it for family and friends at Thanksgiving. It’s easy-peasy and yummy is an understatement! Be sure to check with your local grocer to see when the legs will be coming in, as some stores don’t usually sell the big ones except at the holidays. Rinse legs and cut several 1″ slits (about 1/2″ deep) on both sides. Stuff the slits with garlic cloves (size will depend on your garlic preferences). Sprinkle on both sides with salt and pepper, oregano, thyme, basil and red pepper flakes to taste. Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil, place turkey legs on top, pour extra virgin olive oil on both sides and bake in 350 degree oven until tender enough to fall off bones. Turn periodically. Get ready for raves!
Smoked Turkey Breast with Chili Honey Glaze
If you don’t need a full bird or want a faster cooking option, smoked turkey breast is a winner. Brush it with a glaze of honey, chili flakes, and a dash of bourbon during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The sweet heat will be appreciated your guests.
Pomegranate-Molasses Glazed Duck
For something outside the box, consider roasted duck instead of turkey. Glazed with tangy-sweet pomegranate molasses, garlic, and soy sauce, duck brings a richness and festive flair that makes it feel indulgent and special. The deep ruby color looks stunning on the table, too.
PLANT BASED STARS
Until recently, turkey and ham were a non-replaceable part of every Thanksgiving meal, but today there are vegan options that score right up there with the traditional meats.
Vegan Turkey Roast & Vegan Ham Roast
Get ready for a round of applause when you serve these meatless roasts. We tried them last year for the first time and they were a hit! Click here for ham and turkey roast recipes.
FISH
Fish is our family’s go-to protein at Thanksgiving, but we were shocked to learn our guests were also adding fish to their plates. We usually prepare a large piece of salmon and either barbeque it on the grill or prepare it with teriyaki sauce; or we pick up a beautiful snapper, season it with lots of fresh garlic and deep fry in a pan made to accommodate a whole fish fish. It’s gotten to the point where we have to double the amount of fish, as it’s so popular with our guests.
VEGETARIAN STARS
When you think about it, vegetables are the real stars of Thanksgiving, though they’re usually relegated as side dishes. With a little planning, you can make some non-traditional veggies that are hearty, satisfying, and flavorful enough that even meat eaters will want seconds.
Below are a couple of unique vegetable recipes you may want to add to the table.
Roasted Hasselback Butternut Squash
Before baking, slice the squash ‘Hasselback’ and garnish with thyme, pecan and pomegranate. Then drizzle with olive oil before baking.
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries
Halved acorn squashes become edible bowls for a filling of wild rice, cranberries, pecans, and mushrooms. The presentation is gorgeous, and the dish itself hits all the right holiday notes . . . savory, nutty, tangy, and a little sweet.
Unusual Vegetarian Option: Mushroom Wellington
Think of it as the vegetarian cousin to beef wellington. A mix of mushrooms, caramelized onions, spinach, and chestnuts is wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Slice it at the table for a dramatic, crowd-pleasing centerpiece.
VEGAN THANKSGIVING VEGGIES
Vegan dishes aren’t “missing something”, they shine in their own right. With rich spices, creamy textures, and hearty plant-based proteins, vegan options can be the highlight of your holiday table.
Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Swap meat for lentils and veggies simmered in red wine and thyme, top with silky mashed potatoes (use olive oil or vegan butter). Baked until golden, this dish is cozy, filling, and surprisingly close to its meat-based counterpart.
Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Tahini Drizzle
Even sprout skeptics will fall in love with this one. Maple syrup caramelizes the sprouts while a drizzle of garlicky tahini adds richness. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds for a festive pop of color and flavor.
Unusual Vegan Option: Jackfruit “Pulled Pork” Sliders
Who says Thanksgiving has to be all sit-down? These sliders, made with young jackfruit simmered in smoky barbecue sauce, are a fun addition to a buffet-style dinner or as a creative appetizer. The texture is shockingly close to pulled pork, making it a delightful surprise for your guests.
TWEAKING YOUR TRADITIONAL SIDE DISHES
Sides are usually the easiest way to cater to all dietary needs with just a few tweaks.
- Mashed Potatoes: Make them with butter and cream for carnivores and vegetarians and offer a small vegan batch with olive oil and oat milk.
- Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds and garlic—naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
- Cornbread Stuffing: Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian/vegan, or sausage and chicken broth for the meat lovers.
- Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest: A tart-sweet condiment that cuts through rich dishes and works for all diets.
VEGETARIAN THANKSGIVING DESSERT
Thanksgiving dessert is usually pie-centric, but you can branch out while still nodding to tradition. Add one or more of the plant-based dessert options below to your traditional Thanksgiving dessert options and you’ll earn lots of extra brownie points.
Classic Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is non-negotiable for many families. Use evaporated milk and eggs for the traditional version, or swap in coconut milk and cornstarch for a vegan-friendly pie that’s equally creamy and spiced.
Apple Crisp with Ginger Crumble
Baked apples under a crunchy oat topping spiced with cinnamon and ginger—perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (dairy or non-dairy).
Unusual Dessert Option: Sweet Potato Chocolate Mousse (Vegan)
Yes, you read that right. Cooked sweet potatoes blended with cocoa powder, maple syrup, and almond milk create a surprisingly decadent mousse. It’s creamy, chocolaty, and has a hint of autumn earthiness that feels right at home on the holiday table.
Mini Cranberry Cheesecakes (Vegetarian)
PAIRING DRINKS FOR EVERY PLATE
Don’t forget the drinks! A thoughtful pairing makes the meal feel cohesive.
- Carnivores (Turkey & Duck): Pinot Noir or a spiced cider.
- Vegetarians (Squash & Mushroom Dishes): Chardonnay or mulled white wine.
- Vegans (Lentils, Jackfruit, Brussels Sprouts): Bold Zinfandel or a sparkling cranberry mocktail.
BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER
Hosting a Thanksgiving dinner that pleases carnivores, pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The trick is variety and inclusivity . . . ensuring that everyone has a hearty main, plenty of sides, and a sweet ending. Remember, Thanksgiving is about gratitude, not just the menu. Still, when your table is bursting with thoughtful, creative dishes, you give your guests one more thing to be thankful for: you.
So, this year, let the turkey be there if it must, but make room for new Thanksgiving dinner options including stuffed squashes, mushroom wellingtons, and vegan mousses. Let your cranberry sauce sparkle with orange zest and your brussels sprouts shine under a drizzle of tahini. And most of all, let your feast reflect the joy of bringing people together, in the end, that’s what Thanksgiving is really about!
~~~ We’d love to hear any suggestions you may have for a non-traditional Thanksgiving dinner! ~~~
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