Thanksgiving is such a special time of year, and I absolutely adore how it brings everyone together around the table, sharing love and laughter. But, here’s a little secret: you don’t need a turkey to have a truly festive feast! My non turkey Thanksgiving dinner is a vibrant, colorful affair that’s packed with flavor and joy. Imagine the warmth of roasted butternut squash mingling with the crunch of Brussels sprouts, all served over fluffy quinoa. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the holiday without the traditional bird while still impressing your friends and family. Trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds, and they won’t even miss the turkey! So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to make your Thanksgiving memorable.

Ingredients

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create a delicious non turkey Thanksgiving dinner that everyone will love:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

(Tip: Make sure to rinse the quinoa beforehand to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!)

How to Prepare a Non Turkey Thanksgiving Dinner

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this fabulous non turkey Thanksgiving dinner. I promise, it’s as easy as pie—minus the pie, of course! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious feast that will impress everyone.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Vegetables

First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. Peel and cube the squash, then halve the Brussels sprouts. In a large bowl, toss the squash and sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. The cinnamon adds a lovely warmth, trust me! Make sure they’re all well-coated so every bite is flavorful.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread your seasoned vegetables out on a baking sheet in a single layer—this helps them roast evenly and get that beautiful caramelization. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Give them a little shake halfway through to ensure they’re cooking evenly. You want them to be tender and slightly golden, which means they’re bursting with flavor!

Cook the Quinoa

While those veggies are roasting away, let’s get the quinoa going! In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Don’t peek too often—the steam is your friend here! Once it’s cooked and the liquid is absorbed, fluff it with a fork. It’ll be light and airy, just the way we love it!

Combine Ingredients

Now for the fun part! In a large serving bowl, combine the fluffy quinoa with the roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. This mix creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors, with the sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans adding delightful pops of surprise. Give everything a gentle toss to combine, and voilà! You’re ready to serve this gorgeous dish warm. Your non turkey Thanksgiving dinner is complete, and I guarantee it’s going to be a hit!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the estimated nutritional values for a serving size of 1 cup of this delicious non turkey Thanksgiving dinner. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g

This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it a fabulous choice for your holiday table. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s good for you too!

FAQs about Non Turkey Thanksgiving Dinner

Can I substitute the quinoa?

Absolutely! If quinoa isn’t your thing, you can easily swap it out for rice, couscous, or even farro. Each option will bring its own unique texture and flavor to the dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so make sure to check the package instructions for your chosen grain!

How can I add more flavor?

Oh, there are so many ways to amp up the flavor! You can add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to the vegetables before roasting. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving also works wonders. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Definitely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can roast the vegetables and cook the quinoa a day in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them and warm everything up. It’s a real time-saver for your Thanksgiving prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
• Flavor-packed with roasted veggies and nutty quinoa, making every bite delightful.
• Beautiful presentation with vibrant colors that’ll impress your guests.
• Vegetarian-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
• Nutritious and wholesome, offering a healthy alternative to traditional turkey dishes.
• Can be made ahead of time, freeing up your schedule on Thanksgiving day.
• Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices for a personal touch.

Tips for Success

To ensure your non turkey Thanksgiving dinner turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips that I swear by:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your vegetables, the better the flavors! Look for vibrant, firm butternut squash and Brussels sprouts for the best results.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! A good amount of salt and pepper really enhances the natural flavors of the veggies. Feel free to adjust to your taste as you go!
• Mind the Timing: Keep an eye on your vegetables while roasting. Every oven is different, and you want them tender with a lovely caramelized edge—so a little peek here and there is totally fine!
• Fluff the Quinoa: When your quinoa is done cooking, fluff it gently with a fork instead of stirring vigorously. This keeps it light and prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Tweak for Texture: If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can reserve some of the pecans to sprinkle on top just before serving. It adds a delightful surprise!
• Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, so make sure to serve it fresh out of the oven. It’s a great centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table!
• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: This recipe is super versatile! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices that you love. Make it your own!

With these tips in your back pocket, I know you’ll create a stunning and delicious non turkey Thanksgiving dinner that everyone will rave about!

Variations on Non Turkey Thanksgiving Dinner

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are tons of fun variations you can try with this non turkey Thanksgiving dinner! Here are some ideas that’ll keep things exciting and delicious:

• Swap the Vegetables: Instead of butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, why not try sweet potatoes, carrots, or even roasted cauliflower? Each veggie brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
• Add Some Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of roasting for a pop of color and added nutrients! Just a few minutes in the oven will wilt them perfectly.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices! Try adding cumin, nutmeg, or even a dash of curry powder for an exotic twist. Each spice can transform the dish into something new and exciting!
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavors beautifully. Try adding chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill to the quinoa right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Nutty Alternatives: If you want to switch up the pecans, try walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different crunch! They all add a delightful texture and taste.
• Cheesy Goodness: If you’re not strictly vegetarian, sprinkling some feta or goat cheese on top before serving can add a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.
• Sweeten the Deal: For a sweeter touch, mix in some diced apples or pears with the vegetables before roasting. The natural sugars caramelize beautifully and add a lovely contrast to the savory elements.

Feel free to get creative with these variations and make this non turkey Thanksgiving dinner truly your own! Each twist will keep your guests guessing and coming back for more.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! This non turkey Thanksgiving dinner stores beautifully, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors even after the holiday feast. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation, which can make everything soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure to pack them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Now, onto reheating:

• Microwave: For a quick reheat, simply pop a serving in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating!
• Oven: If you want to bring back that roasted flavor, reheat in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread the leftovers on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method will help the dish regain its delicious texture.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your non turkey Thanksgiving dinner long after the holiday is over! Enjoy every last bite!

Non Turkey Thanksgiving Dinner: 7 Flavorful Alternatives

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delicious non-turkey Thanksgiving dinner option that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.
4. In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Fluff the quinoa and mix in roasted vegetables, cranberries, and pecans.
6. Serve warm and enjoy your non-turkey Thanksgiving dinner.

Notes

• You can substitute quinoa with rice or couscous if preferred.
• Add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
• This dish can be made ahead and reheated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Roasting and boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: non turkey thanksgiving dinner