Thanksgiving usually means large gatherings with friends and family, along with plenty of delicious food. The meal is often centered around that ever-present symbol of Thanksgiving, the turkey. But what should conscientious hosts do when they’re expecting guests who don’t eat meat or are trying to eat a more plant-based diet?
Luckily for everyone around the table, there are many options for flavorful, nutrient-packed main dishes and sides that are sure to please everyone, no matter what their dietary restriction.
For main dishes, try to include a meatless protein source such as beans, lentils, nuts, soy, dairy and/or eggs. Try the following recipes for flavorful and cost-effective vegetarian main dishes:
- Curried Squash Stew
- Pumpkin and Bean Soup
- Baked Lentil Casserole
- Baked Tofu
- Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna
For side dishes, include vegetables, whole grains, fruits and low-fat dairy to complement the main dish. Many traditional Thanksgiving side dishes are already meatless, but watch out for hidden ingredients such as chicken broth.
- Harvest Delight
- Curried Brown Rice with Pumpkin Seeds, Apricots and Spinach
- Apple Cranberry Salad Toss
- Green Bean and Mushroom Medley
Try this easy, flavorful, and protein-packed recipe as a main dish for your vegetarian guests at your next gathering!
Thanksgiving Vegetarian Baked Lentil Casserole
(Original recipe available at the USDA’s What’s Cooking website.)
Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils (rinsed)
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 can tomatoes
- 2 carrots (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Directions:
- Combine lentils, water, seasonings, onion, and tomatoes.
- Place in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover tightly with lid or foil.
- Baked at 350 F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and add carrots. Stir.
- Cover and bake 30 minutes longer.
- Remove cover and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 5 minutes, until cheese melts.
Nutrition info for 1/5 of recipe: 200 calories, 4 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 12 mg cholesterol, 418 mg sodium, 29 g carbohydrate, 11 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 0 g added sugar, 14 g protein.
