Thanksgiving Recipe Round-Up: Main Courses
By Chef Linda
Thanksgiving is the most anticipated food holiday of the year. We plan, we shop, we prep, and we anticipate enjoying a meal that satisfies our need for gratitude, togetherness, and comfort.
More than any other holiday, Thanksgiving draws our attention to the centerpiece of the meal–we want something festive, creative, and that has a “wow-factor”–which is why we believe there’s no better time to showcase a compassionate approach to this revered main course. Sharing a plant-based main course that covers all of those bases AND that tastes scrumptious will surely make the right impression on everyone gathered at your table.
Depending on what you consider delectable, how much time you have, and the number of people you’re serving, we have some creative, delicious options for you. And if you’re looking for a simple, store-bought approach, there are plenty of those, too!
We’ve also got some suggestions for side dishes and desserts!
Polenta and Butternut Squash Lasagna
Nothing says “I love you” like lasagna and when it’s made with seasonal ingredients like squash and fresh pesto, it couldn’t be more perfect for a luscious holiday entreé. When we made this in Compassionate Cuisine Thanksgiving class, participants vowed to make this dish front and center of their holiday feast.
Seitan Roulade with Oyster Mushroom and Farro Stuffing
Yes, you can buy some wonderful pre-made holiday roasts, but make this and your guests will be talking about it for years to come. It starts with a simple batch of homemade seitan that’s so much easier than you would think and it gets stuffed with a flavorful, toothsome filling. This is a showpiece you will be proud to share!
Always a favorite in our classes and on our own tables, this hearty lentil meatloaf gets wrapped up in flaky puff pastry and baked to perfection. The tastes and textures are familiar and comforting to eaters of all kinds. And you can make and freeze it in advance so all you need to do on Thanksgiving morning is pop it in the oven.
Oh, how we love these wonderfully luscious and crispy individual pot pies! The seasonal filling is made with winter squash and surrounded by a golden, creamy sauce. Topped with puff pastry, you can hardly go wrong with these as your holiday main course. Make individual servings for something fun or one big casserole to dine family-style.
Whether you choose one of these recipes or search for others, there is no shortage of fantastic options around which to build a memorable meal this holiday season.
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Your pumpkin pot pie has become a tradition in our home. We’ve brought it to friends and family as well to rave reviews. The yummy Wellington is Sunday staple. This year’s new addition will be the butternut harvest roll. Thanks for making my vegan life delicious and simple!!