Plant-Based Cooking: 5 Delicious Ideas for Thanksgiving

Plant-Based Cooking: 5 Delicious Ideas for Thanksgiving

THANKSGIVING can be a challenging time for people following a predominantly plant-based diet. Plant-based cooking for a festive holiday like Thanksgiving can help you stick within the 80/20 rule: keeping 80% of your plate plant-based and 20% animal product.

The best way to ensure this happens is to bring a delicious side dish, main course, or appetizer to the table. It’s a great way to show your loved ones just how good living the TB12 lifestyle can be. Not sure what to bring? We’ve got your back!

5 Plant-Based Cooking Options for the Thanksgiving Day Table

01 Lentil Loaf

If you’re looking for a main dish to replace turkey, lentil loaf is where it’s at. Lentil loaf, or another plant-based cooking version of meatloaf, will pull together the heartiness of meat without any of the drawbacks. Lentils are high in protein and fiber, making them a great alternative to the animal proteins on the table.

02 Mushroom Gravy

No one can deny it: gravy is an essential part of Thanksgiving Day. Not to worry, there’s a plant-based version of it that’s just as good! Mushroom gravy is a perfect alternative to traditional gravy that the whole family will enjoy — even the meat lovers.

03 Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This one is for all you cheese lovers out there. Spinach and artichoke dip is one way to get those healthy dark, leafy greens into your meal. Don’t be fooled by the name; you can add kale, arugula, or collard greens, too. There are lots of ways to make this popular appetizer. Our tip: choose dairy from grass-fed cows on local farms. Happy cows = healthier food for you. With farm-fresh ingredients, you can easily make this a more nutritious dish

04 Roasted vegetables

While your aunt works on her signature green bean casserole, you could whip up a lighter holiday classic: roasted vegetables. Try roasted carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or even a vegetable medley. This is a great way to bring a simple, healthy, and delicious recipe to your Thanksgiving plate.

05 Mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes get a reputation of being “unhealthy,” but it’s not the potato’s fault. Potatoes are loaded with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. It’s the butter and cream that causes this dish to go rogue. Both white and sweet potatoes have plenty of health benefits to go along with their satisfying starch and protein. Yes, protein. A medium white potato has between 4-5g of protein! Switching out the dairy for plant-based alternatives (or using dairy from a grass-fed, local cow) can turn mashed potatoes into a healthier side dish.

------

Thanksgiving doesn’t need to be nerve-racking. There are plenty of great-tasting, plant-based cooking options to share with the people you love. So, relax, grab a serving of lentil loaf, and let’s be thankful for all life has to offer. Happy Thanksgiving!

For more ingredients we love, checkout our TB12 Grocery List!