No animals were harmed in the making of this Thanksgiving dinner.

Did anyone miss me? Anyone? *Cricket, cricket*...

After a much-needed break from incessant deal-blogging I'm finally back. I'm trying to get things ready for Thanksgiving this week. Not only am I trying to put together my menu, I'm also trying to put together my CVS plan(s) for Black Friday... which, if I understand correctly, actually begins on Thursday.

First thing's first. Our meatless Thanksgiving dinner. Upon finding out that we don't eat meat, the third question people ask (following "How do you get your protein?" and "But.... WHY?") is always, "Don't you MISS meat?" The only time in my vegetarian life that I have missed eating meat has been during pregnancy. And I didn't even want real meat, I wanted McDonalds. So no, I don't miss meat. And even on Thanksgiving, when a turkey is usually the centerpiece of the feast, we choose to pardon ol' Tom and still have a very full and delicious spread which I would like to share with you just in case you may be inspired to try adding a new dish or two to your holiday tradition.

Cream of Pumpkin Soup

Cashew Roast

Roasted Sweet Potatoes (Peel 'em, chop 'em. Toss with olive oil, sea salt and black pepper. Spread in single layer on lightly oiled baking sheet. Roast for 10 minutes at 450, then flip them and roast for another 5 minutes.)

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Pear Walnut Salad

Cinnamon Apple Raisin Bread

Store-bought Pumpkin Pie. Because I don't bake desserts. They always come out questionable at best and disgusting at worst.

And this year we're also having a Quorn Roast. If you haven't tried Quorn products, they are amazing. My friend Alysa schooled me on them a few years ago and my family loves them. Usually we're not big into meat replacement products, but Quorn products don't contain soy and they all taste delicious. So last month I sent them an email, telling them how great they are and asking for coupons. Last week they sent me three 1.00/1 coupons AND a free item coupon! So I used that to get our Thanksgiving roast for free.

I may not miss meat, but old traditions die hard. Plus, you know, faux turkey is so in vogue.