Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli Recipe

Picture this: a golden, crackly crust hiding layers of hearty, herbed lentils mingled with sweet-tart cranberry sauce, all wrapped up like the world’s coziest holiday hug. That’s exactly what you get with Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli—a delightful, plant-based main dish that brings all the flavors of Thanksgiving into one showstopping loaf. Whether you’re serving vegans and vegetarians or simply want something deliciously different for your holiday table, this stromboli is proof that comfort food and celebration truly go hand in hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli is refreshingly straightforward, yet every component plays a key role. Each item helps build irresistible flavor, contributes to the rich, satisfying texture, or adds a pop of festive color—making this recipe as practical as it is craveworthy.

• 16 oz pre-made pizza dough: A simple base that bakes up beautifully golden and crisp, making life easier without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Flour, for rolling: Prevents sticking and helps you roll out the dough to just the right thickness for that perfect stromboli structure.
• 2 tbsp vegan butter: Adds a rich, buttery undertone to the filling and helps build a flavorful roux.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Enhances the dough’s tenderness and brings a subtle, fruity depth to the sautéed veggies and herbs.
• 4 tbsp flour: Thickens the lentil mixture so it stays satisfyingly hearty and sliceable.
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme, finely chopped: Infuses the filling with that unmistakable Thanksgiving aroma and freshness.
• 5 sage leaves, finely chopped: Lends earthiness and a classic holiday flavor that pairs perfectly with lentils and cranberry.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors—don’t be shy!
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced: Sautéed onion adds sweetness and complexity to the filling.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic punch no festive dish should be without.
• 1/4 cup celery, diced: Adds crunch and savory, aromatic notes reminiscent of traditional stuffing.
• 1 cup vegan broth: Makes everything juicy, flavorful, and downright delicious.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Gives the filling a gentle tanginess and beautiful depth of color.
• 2 cups cooked brown or green lentils: The satisfying, protein-packed star of the show, lending great texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce: A hint of sweet-tart magic that brings each bite to life—don’t skip it!
• For the topping:
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the crust turn a beautiful golden brown and carries the flavors from the toppings.
• 3/4 tsp garlic salt: Ups the savory factor—think of it as the finishing touch.
• 1 tsp onion flakes: Adds extra flavor and the prettiest little pops of texture on the crust.
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Gives your loaf an irresistible herby finish and aroma.

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

Step 1: Bring Your Dough to Life

Take the pre-made pizza dough out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This not only makes it easier to work with, but helps develop a better texture once baked. Don’t rush this step—the dough will be more pliable and give you that beautiful stromboli roll you want.

Step 2: Craft the Savory Herb Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine your vegan butter and olive oil. Once melted and shimmering, quickly whisk in the 4 tablespoons of flour, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and fragrant—like the start of a heavenly gravy. This roux becomes the backbone of the whole filling.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies and Build Flavor

Add diced onion, minced garlic, and celery to the roux and cook everything together for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently. This not only softens the vegetables, but helps them infuse the filling with layers of sweetness and aroma. The kitchen will already smell like Thanksgiving!

Step 4: Fold in Lentils & Sauce

Next, stir in your tomato paste, vegan broth, and, finally, the cooked lentils. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates and the filling is thick, rich, and scoopable—about 10 to 12 minutes total. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes, so it doesn’t melt the dough later.

Step 5: Assemble the Stromboli with Cranberry Sparkle

Roll your pizza dough out on a piece of parchment paper floured lightly, aiming for a rectangle roughly 10 x 14 inches. Spread a stripe of cranberry sauce right down the center; this sweet-tart layer brings every bite to life. Spoon the cooled lentil filling evenly over the cranberry, keeping things neat and tidy for easy braiding.

Step 6: Get Braiding & Top Things Off

Along both long sides of the dough, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice 1-inch wide strips. Fold the ends in, then criss-cross the strips over the filling in a classic stromboli braid. Mix together olive oil, garlic salt, onion flakes, and dried oregano for the topping—brush it all over the finished loaf. All that’s left is to marvel at your creation before baking!

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the parchment and braided stromboli to a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the kitchen smells incredible. Cool for just five minutes, then slice and serve while everything is hot and savory and the crust is at its very best.

How to Serve Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

Garnishes

Dress up each slice of Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli with a sprig of fresh thyme or a few extra sage leaves for a pop of green. A light drizzle of warmed cranberry sauce over each piece adds a beautiful gloss and an extra hit of festive flavor. Even a dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving can make everything pop—presentation counts just as much as taste!

Side Dishes

The beauty of Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli is how seamlessly it fits in beside all your favorite holiday sides. Try it next to garlicky green beans, classic vegan mashed potatoes, or a bright, tangy salad—each one soaks up the hearty flavors of the stromboli beautifully. It’s also right at home with a bowl of vegan gravy or a chunk of roasted butternut squash.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the stromboli diagonally and fan the pieces out on a big wooden board for a family-style feast. You can even serve mini versions as appetizers or individual mains by dividing the dough and filling into smaller loaves before braiding. Either way, Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli is sure to steal the spotlight on any holiday table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the meal, wrap any leftover Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. It will keep perfectly in the fridge for up to 3 days, making fantastic leftovers that taste just as good reheated for lunch or as a late-night snack.

Freezing

If you’re thinking longer term, this stromboli freezes beautifully! Simply cool completely, slice, and wrap pieces individually or leave it whole. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To get that fresh-from-the-oven effect, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, just until warmed through and the crust has crisped up again. You can also pop individual slices in a toaster oven; if you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave works, though the crust will be a bit softer.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade dough gives a wonderful artisan touch and lets you control the flavor and texture. Just be sure it’s rolled thin enough and given time to proof, so the Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli bakes up light and crisp.

What kind of lentils work best for this recipe?

Brown or green lentils are ideal for stromboli because they hold their shape and provide the meaty bite you want in the filling. Avoid red lentils, which tend to get too mushy; canned lentils also work in a pinch if you drain them well.

Is there a gluten-free option for the dough?

Yes! Many stores offer gluten-free pizza dough in their refrigerated or frozen sections, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Just be aware that GF dough can be a bit more delicate, so handle it gently during rolling and braiding.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The lentil filling for Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli can be cooked up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it cool completely before assembling the stromboli when you’re ready to bake.

What can I swap for cranberry sauce if I don’t have any?

If cranberry sauce isn’t available, a layer of apple or pear chutney, or even a spoonful of apricot jam thinned with lemon juice can add that bit of sweetness. These swaps bring a different spin to the stromboli while keeping the spirit of the dish alive.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about gathering around a table with a beautiful loaf of Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli fresh from the oven. It’s the kind of main dish that can wow a crowd, nourish your soul, and spark plenty of happy conversation. Give it a try this holiday season—you just might start a whole new tradition!

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