Name: Plant Based Thanksgiving Recipes That Will Wow Everyone
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups quinoa; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup cranberries; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

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Thanksgiving is such a special time, and I absolutely love sharing delicious plant-based recipes that everyone can enjoy, whether they’re vegan or not! I remember the first time I introduced my family to a plant-based Thanksgiving feast. I was a bit nervous, but when they took their first bite of my quinoa dish, their eyes lit up! It was a hit! The combination of flavors and textures was so satisfying that even the non-vegans couldn’t get enough. Trust me, plant-based dishes can steal the show at any holiday table. They’re not just meals; they’re heartwarming experiences that bring everyone together and celebrate the bounty of the season. Let’s dive into some of my favorite recipes that’ll make your Thanksgiving memorable!

Ingredients for Plant Based Thanksgiving Recipes

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a delicious plant-based dish that everyone will love!

2 cups quinoa (rinsed)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup cranberries
1 cup pecans (chopped)
1 cup celery (diced)
1 onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. So, let’s get ready to cook up something special!

How to Prepare Plant Based Thanksgiving Recipes

Alright, let’s get cooking! This dish is not only delicious but also super simple to whip up. Trust me, you’ll have it ready in no time!

Rinse and Cook Quinoa

First things first, rinse your quinoa under cold water. This step is crucial as it helps remove any bitterness. Once rinsed, place the quinoa in a pot with 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. You’ll know it’s done when the quinoa is fluffy and tender. Just fluff it with a fork and set it aside!

Sauté Vegetables

Next up, grab a skillet and heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, and diced celery. Sauté these beauties until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be heavenly! This step really enhances the flavors, so don’t rush it. If you want an extra kick, sprinkle in a pinch of salt while they cook.

Combine Ingredients

Now for the fun part! Stir in the cranberries, chopped pecans, thyme, rosemary, and a dash of salt and pepper into the skillet. Mix everything until well combined and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, fold this savory mixture into your cooked quinoa. Give it a gentle stir to ensure every grain is coated in those delicious flavors. Serve it warm, and watch everyone dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-packed with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans
Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients
Perfectly complements any Thanksgiving feast
Nutritious and satisfying, packed with protein and fiber
Great for both vegans and non-vegans alike
Can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining

This dish not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday table!

Tips for Success

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, here are a few tips that I swear by! First, don’t skip rinsing the quinoa; it really makes a difference in taste. If you’re nut-sensitive, feel free to swap the pecans for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. Also, if you love bold flavors, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a little heat! And remember, you can always adjust the herbs to your liking—more thyme or rosemary can really elevate the dish. Trust me, taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Nutritional Information

This plant-based quinoa dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:

Calories: 280
Fat: 10g
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 200mg

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this dish is a wholesome choice that fuels your body while delighting your taste buds!

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. You can make the quinoa and sauté the vegetables a day ahead. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in a skillet, add a splash of vegetable broth if it seems dry, and gently reheat over medium heat until warmed through. Easy peasy!

What can I substitute for quinoa?

If you don’t have quinoa on hand, no worries! You can easily swap it out for brown rice or farro. Both options will give you a hearty texture, though they might take a bit longer to cook. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, and you’ll be golden!

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating, and you’re all set!

Serving Suggestions

This plant-based quinoa dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving it alongside a crisp, refreshing salad—think mixed greens with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables are another fantastic option; try some brussels sprouts or carrots drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. You could even add some creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting touch. The combination will make your Thanksgiving spread truly delightful!

Plant Based Thanksgiving Recipes That Will Wow Everyone

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A collection of delicious plant-based recipes for Thanksgiving.

Instructions

Rinse quinoa under cold water.
In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
In a skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and celery until soft.
Add cranberries, pecans, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
Combine the sautéed mixture with the cooked quinoa.
Serve warm and enjoy.