Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping centerpiece that brings warmth, comfort, and rich, hearty flavors to your holiday table, look no further than this Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli. It’s a delightful twist on traditional Thanksgiving fare, wrapping the wholesome goodness of lentils, savory herbs, and tangy cranberry sauce inside golden, flaky dough. This Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of plant-based flavors that everyone will love, whether you’re vegan or just seeking a fresh, vibrant entree to impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to create a delicious balance of textures and flavors. Each component is carefully chosen to build the perfect savory filling, juicy pockets of cranberry, and that irresistible crispy crust that makes this dish unforgettable.

• 16 ounces pre-made pizza dough: Provides the soft, chewy crust that encases the filling perfectly; let it warm to room temperature before rolling.
• Flour for rolling out dough: Prevents sticking and helps shape the stromboli smoothly.
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter: Adds richness and helps build a creamy roux for the filling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used both in the filling and topping for a lovely depth and moisture.
• 4 tablespoons flour: Thickens the filling to just the right consistency.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme, finely diced: Brings fragrant herbal notes that evoke cozy holiday charm.
• 5 sage leaves, finely diced: Essential for that classic Thanksgiving flavor profile.
• Salt & pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors thoughtfully.
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromas as it cooks down.
• 3 cloves garlic, diced: Invigorates the filling with a savory punch.
• 1/4 cup celery, diced: Adds a mild crunch and freshness to the filling.
• 1 cup broth (vegan beef broth recommended): Enriches the mixture and infuses more savory depth.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Lends a rich, umami-packed base to the filling.
• 2 cups cooked lentils: The hearty star ingredient delivering protein, texture, and a satisfying feel.
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce: Offers a tart sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory filling.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for topping): Creates a golden, crispy crust when brushed on top.
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt: Intensifies the savory crust flavors.
• 1 teaspoon onion flakes: Adds extra aromatic detail to the topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Sprinkles herbaceous warmth on the finished stromboli.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Set your pre-made pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because cold dough can snap back while rolling, making it harder to form a perfect rectangle. Letting it warm up ensures a pliable, easy-to-work dough that will stretch evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter with the olive oil. Whisk in the flour along with the chopped thyme, sage, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth, bubbly roux that will thicken your filling beautifully. Add the diced onion, garlic, and celery, cooking them just until tender and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, broth, and cooked lentils, mixing thoroughly. Cook until most of the broth has absorbed, leaving a slightly creamy consistency. Taste and season as needed. Finally, remove from heat and let the filling cool for about 10 minutes so it’s easy to handle during assembly.

Step 3: Assemble the Stromboli

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a piece of parchment paper on your baking sheet. Roll the dough into a large rectangle directly on the parchment, about the size of your sheet or slightly smaller. Spread the cranberry sauce down the center strip of dough, being careful to leave an inch or so of dough on each side for folding. Spoon the lentil mixture evenly over the cranberries, layering flavors in every bite.

Step 4: Fold and Shape

Using a sharp knife, cut 1-inch wide strips along both edges of the dough, cutting nearly to the filling but not through it. Starting at the bottom, carefully roll up the dough edge with the filling, then fold the strips over in a crisscross pattern, like braiding, until your stromboli is sealed tight and looking handsome. The parchment paper underneath makes transferring it a breeze.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake

Combine olive oil, garlic salt, onion flakes, and dried oregano in a small bowl. Brush this flavorful blend all over the top of the rolled stromboli. This mixture crisps up in the oven and adds a lovely salty-herb kick. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and irresistibly crisp. Let the stromboli rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set for picture-perfect slices.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped sage leaves on top adds a vibrant herbal touch that visually elevates the dish and enhances the earthy flavors tucked inside this Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli. For an extra festive feel, a drizzle of vegan gravy on the side adds lusciousness and moisture.

Side Dishes

Pair this stromboli with simple sides like steamed green beans tossed with toasted almonds or a crisp autumn salad featuring apples, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. These sides balance the richness of the stromboli, keeping your meal bright, fresh, and perfectly seasonal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the stromboli into thick ribbons and arrange on a rustic wooden board for a communal feast vibe, encouraging everyone to dig in family-style. Alternatively, serve individual slices on pretty plates with a dollop of cranberry chutney or vegan gravy alongside, making the presentation both elegant and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, wrap any leftover Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen with time, making cold or reheated slices delicious for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli well in advance, you can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked stromboli. Wrap it securely in plastic and then foil, and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before proceeding with the topping and baking instructions.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, which warms through the filling and crisps the crust back to its original glory. A toaster oven works great for single slices, preserving that wonderful texture without drying out the filling.

FAQs

Can I make this Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough and gluten-free flour for dusting to keep the texture satisfying. Just be sure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well to maintain the flavor balance.

What Lentils Work Best for This Dish?

Brown or green lentils are ideal because they hold their shape well and provide a nice bite, but you can experiment with red lentils for a softer texture if preferred. Just keep in mind the consistency when mixing with the other filling ingredients.

Is the cranberry sauce necessary?

While you could omit cranberry sauce, it truly elevates the dish by adding a sweet and tart contrast against the earthy lentils and savory herbs. It’s a quintessential flavor in this Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli that brings everything together.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the lentil filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. This makes assembly on the day of your feast faster and smoother, plus the flavors meld even more deeply when the filling rests overnight.

What can I serve with vegan gravy?

Vegan gravy pairs beautifully with this stromboli, adding moisture and richness to each bite. You can make a simple mushroom or onion-based vegan gravy, or grab a store-bought version for convenience—it’s a comforting match that guests will rave about.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli is a magical recipe that brings all the beloved holiday flavors wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to give it a try at your next holiday meal—once you do, it may just become your favorite way to celebrate Thanksgiving, no matter what day it is!

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