For many families celebrating Thanksgiving in the United States, the holiday isn’t the same without turkey on the table. But for others, the classic bird may seem a little boring.
Here are eight festive, nutritious, turkey-free main dish ideas for Thanksgiving Day that will keep you and your guests in the holiday spirit — and won’t require you to skimp on taste.
1. Whole Salmon
Seafood is healthy, delicious, and cooks quickly. Case in point, a whole salmon dish can be in and out of the oven in 30 minutes or less. That can free up oven space for sides, and give hosts time to actually enjoy the get-together.
“Not only is salmon rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and a wide range of health-promoting vitamins and minerals — its unique color offers lots of opportunities for cooks to get creative with the presentation,” says Malina Malkani, RDN, of Rye, New York.
2. Veggie-Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Not only do you get protein from the pork tenderloin — you also score loads of healthy carbohydrates from the veggies too.
“People tend to leave the table more satisfied when meals offer a balance of protein, fiber-rich carbohydrates, and fats,” says Malkani.
On top of that, the “stuffed” look provides a dramatic visual effect for Thanksgiving.
3. Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant parmesan is warm, comforting, and nutrient-rich. Plus, it’s a vegetarian-friendly option for meat-avoiding guests.
“A nontraditional dish such as eggplant Parmesan can be a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving table,” says Christine Palumbo, RDN, who practices in Chicago.
If you don’t overdo it on the cheese, you can enjoy the indulgent dish while keeping your calories, fat, and sodium in check, Palumbo adds.
4. Tofurky
While people may joke about Tofurky, many vegans and vegetarians vouch for it. Some say it has a mouthfeel similar to that of actual meat.
“Tofurky is a soy-based turkey substitute that can be a healthy alternative on your holiday table,” says Palumbo.
5. Stuffed Acorn Squash
If you’re looking for a plant-based dish that brings the wow factor on Thanksgiving, look no further than stuffed acorn squash.
“The dish can certainly be filling enough and festive for your guests, and healthful if it’s stuffed with the right ingredients,” says Palumbo.
6. Roasted Whole Chicken
Instead of turkey, consider roasting a chicken — it works well for smaller parties and takes less time to cook. If you want to really think outside the box, Palumbo suggests trying Cornish game hens or even a whole duck.
“Each of these can be seasoned to your taste and roasted in the oven, resulting in wonderful aroma and delicious meat,” says Palumbo.
7. Quiche
For a Thanksgiving brunch, why not whip up a seasonal quiche?
“Eggs, the main ingredient in quiche, are an affordable, naturally nutrient-rich source of high-quality protein that can anchor a satisfying Thanksgiving meal,” says Malkani. “Build even more health-promoting nutrients, flavors, and textures into quiche dishes by adding savory vegetables.”
8. Hearty Pumpkin and Bean Soup
If you want your sides to be the focal point of your Thanksgiving meal this year, you can always opt for a lighter — but still filling — main. This vegan-friendly soup makes for a warm and cozy option, and it’s still full of seasonal flavors.
A little bit of kale ups the nutrient factor. Kale is a standout in terms of its vitamin A, B6, C, and K, not to mention folate and manganese.
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The Takeaway
- Thanksgiving is often all about the turkey, but there are plenty of other options out there to spice things up or meet different nutritional preferences.
- For different meats or fish options, try salmon, veggie-stuffed pork tenderloin, or roasted chicken.
- For vegetarian choices, check out baked eggplant parmesan, Tofurky, stuffed acorn squash, or pumpkin and bean soup.
- If brunch is what you’re after this holiday, try quiche as your Thanksgiving main.
