While a table filled with turkey, stuffing, gravy, sweet cranberry sauce and an assortment of vegetables is the traditional “Thanksgiving meal,” there’s plenty of reasons why you may not want to go with the standard group of recipes this year.
- The responsibility of cooking a turkey is daunting and not something you see as fun.
- You have guests coming over with specific dietary needs and want to make sure they feel included.
- You want to try something new.
- Maybe you just don’t like some of the typical Thanksgiving meal foods (yes, there are people out there who don’t!).
This list could go on and on. Just remember, if you’re making dinner, you choose what’s on the menu. Your guests will appreciate the effort you put into making the day memorable. If you decide to opt out of turkey making, these main dishes make great substitutes:
Main Dishes
For the vegetarians in your life, our Roasted Squash with Quinoa Mushroom Pilaf is a crowd pleaser filled with fiber and protein. It’s vegan as written, but adding a little Parmesan cheese to the top will give it a flavor boost.
If your party is small, or if you have limited cooler or oven space, a whole turkey may be more than you want to make. Honey and Lemon Glazed Roast Chicken is the perfect poultry substitute for turkey.
This Glazed Pork Roast includes the favorite fall flavors of cranberry sauce and oranges. And leftovers make great sandwiches.
Thanksgiving Meal Sides
But what about the sides??? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Zesty Orange Carrots, Spaghetti Squash with Tomatoes, Basil and Parmesan and Sweet and Sour Cauliflower contain bright flavors that can complement the heavier dishes like stuffing, spinach casserole, and Two Potato Gratin.
If you’re dedicated to making turkey, and many of us are, we have Roast Turkey with Fruit Stuffing or Roast Turkey Breast with Herbs for you to try. Whether you choose to stick with your time-honored recipes or try something new this year, we hope you have a safe and restful holiday!
Written by Adriene Worthington, RDN, LDN
#recipes, #Thanksgiving, #vegetables