Vegan Thanksgiving Recipe Round-Up

11/25/2013

During the holidays eating a vegan diet can be extra challenging. If you’re hosting a meal, the first question is what can you make if most of your family’s traditional recipes aren’t vegan friendly? I’m very excited to share with you many of my favorite dishes that I hope will inspire and give you ideas for every course! I’ve included breakfast as well because it is so much fun to have a special breakfast with your family while visiting for the holidays.

What do you do if you’re the guest at a holiday meal?

Although, I’m fortunate to have family and friends that are very understanding, when I go to gatherings I find it helpful to offer to bring along a vegan dish so that it isn’t stressful for the host. In my experience, as much as I don’t want to come across as a pain, it is much better to be upfront ahead of time and let the host know that you eat a vegan diet then to arrive and turn down every dish that is offered. The only time I might not say anything is if it is a big gathering with lots of people, then I’ll have a snack ahead of time, and search for vegan friendly options such as fruit or vegetables.

What about Tradition?

The first Thanksgiving after switching to a vegan diet I was concerned that the holidays wouldn’t be the same, because I love food and tradition, but you know what I found, creating new traditions was every bit as special. It is wonderful to adapt old favorite recipes and make them your own. It is not about what you’re making so much as it is spending time in the kitchen, listening to your favorite holiday music, and enjoying the moment you’re in. The act of creating a special meal and the feeling it provokes is what makes it special. All I have to do is turn on Santa Claus and Popcorn by Merle Haggard, and it no longer matters if I’m making my Grandmother’s traditional recipe, she’s right there singing along with me.

Whether you’re looking for some healthier options for your Thanksgiving meal, you have a guest that is vegan, or you plan on hosting an entire vegan thanksgiving dinner, I hope you enjoy these recipes close to my heart.

Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving!

xoxo Wendy