When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, the focus is often on the traditional dishes like turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. But for those following a vegan diet, these dishes may not be an option. However, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on a delicious and satisfying meal. In fact, a Thanksgiving salad can be just as festive and flavorful as any other dish on the table. And in this article, we'll share a delicious vegan Thanksgiving salad recipe that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Thanksgiving is a time for feasting and indulging in delicious food with our loved ones. But amidst all the rich and heavy dishes, sometimes we crave for something light and refreshing. That's where this Thanksgiving Slaw comes in. A perfect mix of crunchy vegetables, tangy dressing, and a touch of sweetness, this slaw is a must-have on your Thanksgiving table.
If you're looking for a hearty and healthy Thanksgiving side dish, look no further than this Thanksgiving Lentil Salad. Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is not only delicious but also a great way to balance out all the indulgent dishes on your table. The combination of lentils, roasted vegetables, and a zesty dressing makes for a flavorful and satisfying salad.
3of 20
Warm Sweet Potato & Brussels Sprouts Salad with Maple...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Salt, Water, Brussels Sprouts, Sliced
Sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts are two classic Thanksgiving ingredients that come together beautifully in this warm salad. Roasted to perfection and tossed with a sweet and tangy maple balsamic dressing, this salad is full of fall flavors. It's the perfect side dish to add some color and nutrition to your Thanksgiving feast.
4of 20
Orange Cranberry Salad
Main Ingredients: Fresh Cranberries, Navel Orange, Walnuts, Orange Juice
If you're tired of the same old cranberry sauce, why not switch it up with this Orange Cranberry Salad? It's a refreshing and vibrant dish that will add a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving spread. The combination of tart cranberries, juicy oranges, and a tangy dressing is a winner in our books.
5of 20
Thanksgiving Kale Salad with Maple-Tahini Dressing
Main Ingredients: Lacinato Kale, Sweet Potato, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Kale is not only a superfood but also a versatile ingredient that can be dressed up or down. In this Thanksgiving Kale Salad, we dress it up with a creamy and nutty maple-tahini dressing. The addition of dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds adds a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness to this healthy and flavorful salad.
6of 20
Thanksgiving Salad with Wild Rice and Lemon Dressing
Main Ingredients: Orange, Lemon, Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Agave, Arugula
If you're looking for a unique and filling salad for your Thanksgiving table, this Thanksgiving Salad with Wild Rice and Lemon Dressing is the one for you. Wild rice is a great alternative to traditional white rice and pairs perfectly with the tangy lemon dressing and a variety of vegetables. It's a refreshing and nutritious addition to your holiday meal.
7of 20
Fresh Thanksgiving Salad with Fluffy Quinoa,...
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin, Fennel Seeds, Ground Cumin, Olive Oil, Maple
Quinoa is another superfood that is often overlooked on Thanksgiving. But this Fresh Thanksgiving Salad with Fluffy Quinoa, Apples, and Walnuts will make you want to change that. The combination of fluffy quinoa, crisp apples, and crunchy walnuts makes for a delicious and satisfying salad that will be a hit with your family and friends.
8of 20
5 Minute Tomato Salad
Main Ingredients: Cherry Tomatoes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Lemon, Chopped
For those who are short on time but still want to add a healthy and tasty salad to their Thanksgiving menu, this 5 Minute Tomato Salad is the perfect solution. It's a simple yet flavorful salad that can be whipped up in no time. The juicy tomatoes, tangy balsamic dressing, and a touch of herbs make for a refreshing and light side dish.
9of 20
Avocado and Tomato Salad
Main Ingredients: Tomatoes, Avocados, Red Onion, Chopped Cilantro, Limes
Avocado and tomato are a classic combination that never fails to impress. In this Avocado and Tomato Salad, we take this dynamic duo to the next level by adding a zesty lime dressing and some crunchy pumpkin seeds. It's a creamy, tangy, and crunchy salad that will be a crowd-pleaser at your Thanksgiving table.
10of 20
Brussels Sprouts Sweet Potato Salad
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes are two staple Thanksgiving ingredients that come together in this delicious salad. Roasted to perfection and tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, this salad is a great way to add some texture and nutrition to your holiday feast. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Slivered Almonds, Dried Cranberries
This Brussels Sprout, Cranberry, & Roasted Almond Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. The combination of roasted brussels sprouts, tangy cranberries, and crunchy almonds is a match made in heaven. Toss it together with a zesty dressing, and you have a delicious and colorful Thanksgiving side dish.
12of 20
Brussels Sprout Salad with Roasted Jalapeno and Onion...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Pomegranate Seeds
For those who like a little kick in their salads, this Brussels Sprout Salad with Roasted Jalapeno and Onion Vinaigrette is a must-try. The roasted jalapeno and onion dressing adds a spicy and smoky flavor to the crunchy brussels sprouts and sweet apples. It's a unique and tasty addition to your Thanksgiving menu.
13of 20
Roasted Butternut Squash Pomegranate Salad with Tahini...
Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Ground
Butternut squash is a quintessential fall ingredient that adds a touch of sweetness to any dish. In this Roasted Butternut Squash Pomegranate Salad, we pair it with the tangy sweetness of pomegranate and a creamy tahini dressing. It's a colorful and flavorful salad that will be a hit with your guests.
14of 20
Mixed Green Salad with Oranges, Dried Cranberries and...
Main Ingredients: Oranges, Orange Juice, Orange Zest, Dried Cranberries
For a simple yet delicious Thanksgiving salad, you can't go wrong with this Mixed Green Salad with Oranges, Dried Cranberries, and Candied Pecans. It's a refreshing and light dish that pairs perfectly with the rich and heavy dishes on your Thanksgiving table. The combination of tangy oranges, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans is a winner.
15of 20
Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries and Pine Nuts
Main Ingredients: Pine Nuts, Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt And Ground
Another Brussels sprouts salad that deserves a spot on your Thanksgiving menu is this Brussels Sprouts Salad with Cranberries and Pine Nuts. The addition of tangy cranberries and nutty pine nuts adds a nice contrast to the roasted brussels sprouts. Toss it with a zesty dressing, and you have a flavorful and nutritious salad.
16of 20
Quinoa Salad With Roasted Sweet Potato, Apples, Dried...
Main Ingredients: Quinoa, Sweet Potato, Cider Vinegar, Extra Virgin Olive
Quinoa is not only a great source of protein but also a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into salads. In this Quinoa Salad With Roasted Sweet Potato, Apples, Dried Cranberries, and Walnuts, we combine it with sweet potatoes, apples, and a variety of nuts and seeds for a tasty and nutritious dish. It's a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
17of 20
Warm Kale Salad with Pomegranate and Garlic Roasted...
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, Coconut Oil
Kale is another ingredient that is often overlooked on Thanksgiving. But this Warm Kale Salad with Pomegranate and Garlic Roasted Chickpeas will make you want to give it a chance. The combination of warm kale, juicy pomegranate, and crispy chickpeas is a winning combination. Add a tangy dressing, and you have a delicious and healthy salad on your hands.
18of 20
Cranberry Salad
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Apples, Sugar, Oranges, Strawberry, Water
No Thanksgiving table is complete without cranberry sauce. But why not switch things up and serve this Cranberry Salad instead? It's a refreshing and light dish that is bursting with tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a touch of sweetness. It's a perfect side dish to balance out all the rich and heavy dishes on your table.
19of 20
Brussels Sprout Salad
Main Ingredients: Brussel Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Pomegranate Seeds
If you're a fan of brussels sprouts, you'll love this simple and tasty Brussels Sprout Salad. It's a great way to showcase this underrated vegetable and add some green to your Thanksgiving feast. The combination of roasted brussels sprouts, tangy dressing, and a touch of sweetness from dried cranberries is a winner.
20of 20
Brussels Sprout and Sweet Potato Israeli Couscous Salad
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Sweet Potato, Olive Oil, Salt
This Brussels Sprout and Sweet Potato Israeli Couscous Salad is a perfect example of how to combine different ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious dish. The roasted brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes add a nice crunch and sweetness to the fluffy Israeli couscous. Toss it together with a tangy dressing, and you have a flavorful and satisfying salad.
Why Choose a Vegan Thanksgiving Salad?
1. Health Benefits
Not only is a vegan Thanksgiving salad a great option for those following a plant-based diet, it also offers numerous health benefits. By incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits, you'll be getting a dose of essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for maintaining a healthy immune system. Plus, by skipping the heavy, calorie-laden dishes, you can avoid that post-Thanksgiving meal lethargy and bloating.
2. Eco-Friendly
Choosing a vegan Thanksgiving salad also has a positive impact on the environment. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation, and by opting for a plant-based dish, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
3. Inclusivity
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and celebrating together. But for those with dietary restrictions, this holiday can often be a source of stress and exclusion. By serving a vegan Thanksgiving salad alongside traditional dishes, you are providing a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions and promoting inclusivity and understanding.
The Recipe
Ingredients
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup diced butternut squash
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup sliced red onion
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread onto a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and red onion.
Add roasted butternut squash to the salad and drizzle with dressing. Toss to combine and serve immediately.
By incorporating this vegan Thanksgiving salad recipe into your holiday menu, you'll not only be adding a delicious and healthy dish to the table, but also promoting inclusivity and sustainability. Give it a try and see just how tasty and satisfying a vegan Thanksgiving can be. Happy Thanksgiving!
Brussels Sprout and Sweet Potato Israeli Couscous Salad