Hey y’all! Today I have special treat for you! A fun collaboration with MissLeigh from the YouTube channel Healthy on a Budget.
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Amazing Plant-Based Thanksgiving Appetizers | Episode 1
As the vibrant colors of autumn appear and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, it’s time to prepare for one of the most cherished holidays of the year—Thanksgiving! While traditional turkey may be the star of the show, plant-based appetizers can steal the spotlight, offering delicious, colorful, and healthy options that cater to all palates. In this first episode of our series on Amazing Plant-Based Thanksgiving Appetizers, we’ll explore a range of tempting dishes that will impress your guests and make your feast unforgettable.
1. Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers
Ingredients:
- Mini bell peppers
- Quinoa or rice
- Black beans
- Corn
- Avocado
- Lime juice
- Spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the quinoa or rice according to the package instructions.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked grain, black beans, corn, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice. Season with spices.
- Halve the mini bell peppers and remove the seeds. Stuff each pepper with the mixture.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Why It’s Amazing: These colorful bites are not only visually appealing but also packed with protein and flavor. They can be served hot or at room temperature, making them a versatile option for your appetizer spread.
2. Sweet Potato Crostini with Avocado Spread
Ingredients:
- Sweet potatoes
- Ripe avocados
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch rounds and brush with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly crispy.
- Mash the avocados in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Spread the avocado mixture on the sweet potato rounds and garnish with additional herbs.
Why It’s Amazing: This twist on crostini captures the autumn spirit with its sweet and creamy flavors, making it a perfect pairing with any traditional Thanksgiving fare.
3. Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- Large portobello or cremini mushrooms
- Fresh spinach
- Garlic
- Vegan cream cheese or cashew cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- Sauté chopped garlic and spinach in olive oil until wilted. Mix with vegan cream cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Fill the mushroom caps with the mixture and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Why It’s Amazing: These stuffed mushrooms are earthy, decadent, and full of savory flavors, making them the perfect bite-sized indulgence for any Thanksgiving table.
4. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
Ingredients:
- Brussels sprouts
- Olive oil
- Maple syrup
- Dried cranberries
- Salt and pepper
- Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them in olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with dried cranberries and nuts before serving.
Why It’s Amazing: The sweet and savory combination of maple syrup and Brussels sprouts, along with the tartness of cranberries, creates a festive flavor profile that celebrates the season.
5. Pumpkin Hummus with Veggie Platter
Ingredients:
- Canned pumpkin puree
- Chickpeas
- Tahini
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Spices (cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg)
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Season with spices to taste, then blend until smooth.
- Serve with a colorful array of fresh veggies such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
Why It’s Amazing: This creamy, spiced hummus adds a unique twist to a classic appetizer and pairs perfectly with crunchy veggies, making it both healthy and flavorful.
Conclusion
Incorporating plant-based appetizers into your Thanksgiving feast offers a delightful way to cater to all guests while showcasing the bounty of the season. These amazing recipes not only highlight diverse flavors and textures but also embody the spirit of togetherness and gratitude that Thanksgiving represents. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to explore incredible plant-based dishes to elevate your holiday celebrations!
Happy cooking and happy feasting!
