Dairy Free Thanksgiving Sides That Will Wow Everyone

June 6, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite times of the year, filled with family, love, and of course, delicious food! But when I transitioned to a dairy-free lifestyle, I worried that my holiday favorites would take a hit. Let me tell you, that couldn’t be further from the truth! These dairy-free Thanksgiving sides are not just satisfying; they’re bursting with flavor and texture that everyone at the table will enjoy. Trust me, whether you’re vegan or just looking to mix things up, these sides will steal the show and leave you feeling good about your meal choices!

Ingredients List

2 cups of green beans, trimmed
1 cup of sliced mushrooms
1 tablespoon of olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of thyme
Salt to taste
1 cup of quinoa
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 cup of cranberries
1 tablespoon of maple syrup

How to Prepare Dairy Free Thanksgiving Sides

Alright, let’s dive into the magic of creating these delicious dairy-free Thanksgiving sides! I promise it’s easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a stunning dish that everyone will rave about.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those green beans perfectly roasted!
Heat the oil: In a large pan over medium heat, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let it warm up for a minute or so.
Sauté the garlic and mushrooms: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté them until the mushrooms are tender and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes. Oh, the smell is divine!
Add the green beans: Toss in your 2 cups of trimmed green beans along with 1 teaspoon of thyme. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes. You want those green beans to be vibrant and just tender.
Prepare the quinoa: Meanwhile, in a separate pot, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid.
Mix in cranberries and syrup: Once your quinoa is fluffy and ready, stir in 1 cup of cranberries and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. This will give it a lovely sweetness that complements the savory green beans!
Serve it up: Now, plate your sautéed green beans alongside the quinoa mixture. You’ve got a beautiful, colorful dish that’s ready to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a 20-minute prep time, you can whip up these sides in no time, leaving you more room to enjoy the festivities!
Flavor-Packed: The combination of sautéed garlic, mushrooms, and sweet cranberries creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Healthy and Wholesome: These sides are packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and quinoa, making them a guilt-free addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for all dietary preferences, these dishes are entirely plant-based, ensuring everyone can dig in without worry.
Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the green beans and cranberries make for a stunning centerpiece on your table, adding a festive touch!
Customizable: Feel free to add nuts for crunch or swap in your favorite herbs to make this dish your own!

Tips for Success

Now, let’s make sure you nail these dairy-free Thanksgiving sides! I’ve got some pro tips that’ll help you avoid common hiccups and elevate your dish to perfection.

Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use fresh green beans and mushrooms. They add a vibrant flavor and crisp texture that frozen or canned just can’t match. Plus, they look gorgeous on your plate!
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Give the garlic and mushrooms enough time to sauté. This step is where you develop that rich, deep flavor, so let them cook until they’re golden and fragrant.
Check Quinoa for Doneness: Quinoa should be fluffy and have a slight bite to it. If it looks too wet, just let it sit covered for a few extra minutes to absorb any excess liquid. Trust me, you want that perfect texture!
Season to Taste: Since everyone’s palate is different, keep tasting as you go! Adjust the salt and seasoning to your preference. A little extra salt can really enhance the flavors.
Add a Crunch: For some extra texture, consider tossing in a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or pecans just before serving. They add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully!
Make Ahead: You can prep the quinoa and green bean mixture a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving, and you’ll save time on the big day!

With these tips, you’re all set to impress your guests with these delicious sides. Happy cooking!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Let’s talk ingredients! While I absolutely love this combination, I know that sometimes you might have dietary restrictions or just want to switch things up a bit. Here are some notes and substitutions to keep in mind:

Green Beans: If you’re not a fan of green beans, feel free to substitute them with asparagus or broccoli. Both will add a lovely crunch and pair beautifully with the other flavors!
Mushrooms: Not a mushroom lover? No problem! You can replace them with diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch or even zucchini for a lighter option.
Quinoa: If quinoa isn’t your thing, try using brown rice or farro instead. They have great textures and will give you that hearty feel while still being delicious!
Vegetable Broth: For a lighter flavor, you can use water instead of broth. But trust me, the broth adds a depth that really enhances the dish, so I recommend sticking with it if you can!
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries can be tart, so if you want a sweeter touch, dried cranberries or raisins work wonderfully too. Just keep an eye on the added sugar if you’re watching your intake!
Maple Syrup: If you’re out of maple syrup or prefer a different sweetener, agave nectar or even honey (if not strictly vegan) can be great alternatives. They’ll add that lovely sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Herbs: Don’t hesitate to play with herbs! If thyme isn’t available, rosemary or oregano can bring a whole new flavor profile to the table.

These substitutions can help you cater to different tastes and dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy experimenting, and make this dish your own!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Alright, let’s chat nutrition for a moment! It’s important to remember that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this as a general guideline. Each serving of these delightful dairy-free Thanksgiving sides is estimated to contain:

Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 25g

These sides not only bring great flavor to your table but also pack in some wholesome nutrition. Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something that’s good for you and your loved ones without sacrificing taste!

FAQ Section

Can I make these dairy-free Thanksgiving sides ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the quinoa and sauté the green beans a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat gently before serving. This will save you time on the big day!

What if I can’t find quinoa?
No worries! You can swap quinoa for brown rice, farro, or even couscous if you prefer. Each of these options will still provide that hearty base for your dish without losing the deliciousness!

Are these sides suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, indeed! These sides are entirely plant-based, making them perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle. They’re also great for those looking to reduce dairy in their meals while still enjoying flavorful dishes.

How do I know when the quinoa is cooked properly?
Cooked quinoa should be fluffy and have a slight bite to it. If it’s still crunchy or there’s excess liquid, just let it sit covered for a few extra minutes. It’ll absorb any remaining moisture and be ready to mix in!

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts would be fantastic additions. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is perfectly tender.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up these delightful dairy-free Thanksgiving sides, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more spectacular! Serving these sides alongside the right dishes can elevate your Thanksgiving feast to a whole new level. Here are some ideas that I love:

Herb-Roasted Turkey: If you’re looking for a centerpiece, a beautifully herb-roasted turkey pairs perfectly with these sides. The savory flavors of the turkey complement the earthy notes of the quinoa and green beans beautifully.
Stuffed Squash: For a vibrant and hearty option, consider a stuffed acorn or butternut squash filled with grains, veggies, and nuts. It’s a fantastic way to add even more color and flavor to your table!
Cranberry Sauce: A homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce can add a tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of your meal. Plus, it’s a classic Thanksgiving staple!
Roasted Root Vegetables: Think about adding a medley of roasted root vegetables—like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the flavors of your dairy-free sides perfectly.
Vegan Gravy: A rich, savory vegan gravy can tie the whole meal together. Drizzle it over the quinoa or the green beans for an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the hearty flavors on your plate. It adds a nice crunch and freshness that’s essential for a well-rounded meal.

These suggestions will not only enhance your dining experience but also provide a great variety of flavors and textures that everyone can enjoy. Happy Thanksgiving, and may your table be filled with love and delicious food!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.