As the family and food oriented holiday of Thanksgiving approaches, many Americans are already counting down the days until they can enjoy their holiday favorites: turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie. However, many people who are vegetarian or vegan cannot eat all of the delicacies that Thanksgiving has to offer. Fortunately, for those who do not eat meat or dairy products, there are many alternative Thanksgiving options.

The best known Thanksgiving vegetarian option is Tofurkey, which is a combination of tofu and beans made to resemble the appearance and texture of the traditional Thanksgiving staple, turkey. Although the edibility and taste of Tofurkey are debatable, it is still a viable option that is sold at most supermarkets and grocery stores.

Other alternatives for vegetarians are the traditional Thanksgiving side dishes that are typically meat free, such as mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Additionally, stuffing and gravy can be vegetarian friendly if prepared with a vegetarian stock. To get into the festive fall spirit, vegetarians and vegans can also enjoy the many vegetables that are seasonal in November, including root vegetables such as parsnips carrots, acorn squashes, butternut squashes and pumpkins. Squashes have many health benefits and nutrients that help prevent cell mutations and promote lung and general health of the body. It is recommended to pick out squashes with dull, hard rinds and to keep the squash at temperatures between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sweet potatoes are a regular meat alternative present on most Thanksgiving dinner tables. These fleshy orange root vegetables are rich in antioxidants and provide a great source of vitamins A and C. Sweet potatoes make a great side dish when pureed with butter and brown sugar or simply baked in the oven like a regular baked potato.

Another popular Thanksgiving vegetable is pumpkin. Pumpkins can be baked, roasted, boiled and steamed. However, they are more commonly puréed and made into pumpkin pies, a classic Thanksgiving dessert. Additionally, pumpkins can be used in soups or in conjunction with other vegetables.

In addition to vegetables, vegetarians and vegans can enjoy an array of fruit dishes as a substitute for turkey. Cranberries are a popular Thanksgiving supplement and have been found to protect against cancer and viruses. Historically believed to be eaten by the Pilgrims and the Native Americans at the first Thanksgiving, these tart fruits are great in salads, sauces and baked goods.

Thanksgiving can be a festive and delicious holiday for everyone with enjoyable dishes, even vegetarians and vegans.