10 Delicious & Nutritious Thanksgiving Meal Ideas

James Colquhoun JAMES COLQUHOUN

Pumpkin Pie, maple Hasselback butternut, gluten-free stuffing, truffles and more! These are the plant-based Thanksgiving dishes that you're going to want to pull out this year!

We're not saying that the festive isn't about indulging but unless you include some more nutritious choices on your menu, you're going to be feeling that heavy festive cheer later! Thanksgiving side dishes don't get the same accolades as other starring dishes which is why we're here to change your views on the humble sides. We've rounded up a list of high fiber, nutrient-dense dishes that are also very delicious. Plus, we've included some Food Matters desserts so you can still indulge.

Make room on your plate this year for these delicious and nutritious Thanksgiving recipes!

Nutrient-Packed Sides

Maple Walnut Hasselback Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash is still one of our most favorite vegetables. The combination of the maple, Dijon,  walnuts, sage and thyme, baked Hasselback style, will be the show stopper in your holiday spread this year! Get the recipe here...

Brussel Sprouts, Cranberry & Walnut Salad

Brussels sprouts have officially made their comeback, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! This salad will wash away all those scarring memories of Mom and Dad over-boiling these little cruciferous veggies! We’ve left everything here raw and uber crunchy! See the recipe here...

Mashed Root Vegetables and Silverbeet

What’s old is new again, including this old family favorite! Sprinkle with a handful of organic parmesan, feta or nutritional yeast to deepen the creamy texture of this hearty root vegetable side dish! Recipe here...

Gluten-Free Stuffing

Want to stay gluten-free over the holidays but don’t want to miss out on one of the tastiest parts of your feast? We’ve created a gluten-free stuffing without compromising the flavor. Perfect for your turkey or as a side! See the recipe here...

Quinoa, Cranberry & Feta Stuffed Pumpkins

WOW, your friends and family this Thanksgiving with this surprisingly simple Stuffed Pumpkin recipe!

Ultimate Fall Salad

Imagine the best of Fall's produce tossed altogether in a giant bowl with the addition of maple pecans and dressed in a beautiful apple cider vinaigrette. This all-star salad proves that salads just aren't for summer and makes the perfect side dish for your nourishing Thanksgiving feast! Recipe here...

Wild Rice Quinoa & Mixed Mushroom Salad

Who said salads aren't filling?  This earthy salad featuring a warm mix of mushrooms, wild rice and quinoa packs a hearty punch for a side dish!! Recipe here...

Get Creative With Desserts

Pumpkin Pie with Spelt Pastry

We’re all traditionalists when it comes to the all mighty pumpkin pie, and we mean no disrespect to Ms. Martha or your Mom.  A slightly healthier alternative to the pure, "All Purpose" flour crust that we normally find holding in our favorite pumpkin filling is a darker and nuttier alternative - the spelt flour crust. We sacrifice none of the flaky texture but instead enhance the fiber content and enrich the depth of flavor.  See the r ecipe here...

Hazelnut Truffles

These truffles are easy to make and oh so delicious! You may want to double the ingredients and make a double batch because they sure didn't last long in the Food Matters Headquarters! Get the recipe here...

Pumpkin Pie Spice Parfait

When your favorite Pumpkin Pie Spice flavors meet with crunchy spiced granola and candied pecans! We have a winner!  Get the recipe here...