A Hearty Quinoa Nut Roast to Complete Your Vegan Thanksgiving Menu

With a savory blend of quinoa, nuts, and spices, this vegan nut roast promises to elevate your Thanksgiving table—discover how to make it unforgettable!

What kind of recipe is it?

The Vegan Quinoa Nut Roast is a wholesome and hearty dish perfect for plant-based eaters looking for a nutritious meal.

This dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with a variety of nuts, vegetables, and spices, resulting in a savory, protein-packed loaf that’s both satisfying and delicious.

It’s an excellent option for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone wanting to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Ideal for special occasions or as a family meal, this roast is sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

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Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Quinoa 1 cup (uncooked)
Mixed nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds, cashews) 1 cup (chopped)
Carrots 2 medium (grated)
Celery 2 stalks (finely chopped)
Onion 1 medium (diced)
Garlic 3 cloves (minced)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Ground flaxseed 2 tablespoons
Water 6 tablespoons (for flaxseed mixture)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce or tamari 2 tablespoons
Thyme 1 teaspoon (dried)
Oregano 1 teaspoon (dried)
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper ½ teaspoon
Bread crumbs (optional, for added texture) ½ cup
Fresh parsley (for garnish) To taste

This detailed table outlines all the ingredients needed for the Vegan Quinoa Nut Roast, along with their respective quantities for preparation.

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Cooking Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the middle. Prepare a loaf pan (approximately 22.5 x 10 cm / 9 x 5 in) by greasing it with a little olive oil or lining it with parchment paper.
  2. Rinse 1 cup (uncooked) quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once hot (around 190 °C / 375 °F), sauté 1 medium diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 grated medium carrots, and 2 finely chopped stalks of celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed and 6 tablespoons water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gelatinous (this serves as a binding agent).
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetable mixture, and the flaxseed mixture. Add 1 cup chopped mixed nuts, 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
  6. (If using, add ½ cup bread crumbs for added texture.) Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing down firmly and smoothing the top with a spatula. This guarantees an even shape.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The internal temperature should reach at least 70 °C (160 °F).
  9. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool for another 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows for easier cutting and helps the loaf hold its shape.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired. Enjoy your Vegan Quinoa Nut Roast warm or at room temperature.
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Variations

  • Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate 100g (3.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes, 100g (3.5 oz) kalamata olives, and 1 teaspoon dried basil for a flavor-packed addition that gives a taste of the Mediterranean.
  • Mushroom & Spinach Delight: Substitute the carrots and celery with 200g (7 oz) sautéed mushrooms and 100g (3.5 oz) fresh spinach to introduce umami flavors and a darker, richer texture.
  • Chickpea Protein Boost: Add 1 can (400g / 14 oz) drained and rinsed chickpeas to the mixture for an extra protein kick and enhanced creaminess while keeping it gluten-free.
  • Smoky BBQ Variation: Replace soy sauce with 2 tablespoons (30ml) liquid smoke and add 2 tablespoons (30g) BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor profile that’s perfect for grilling season.
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Tips on plating and presentation

vibrant platter with garnish

While plating your Vegan Quinoa Nut Roast, consider the presentation as an essential part of the meal experience.

I like to slice the roast neatly and fan the pieces out on a vibrant platter. Drizzling a homemade sauce adds a pop of color.

Garnishing with fresh herbs elevates the dish, and pairing it with seasonal vegetables completes the inviting look.

Enjoy creating your masterpiece!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

perfect accompaniments for roast

When you’re contemplating the perfect accompaniments for your Vegan Quinoa Nut Roast, think about flavors and textures that complement its nutty profile.

Roasted root vegetables add sweetness, while a vibrant cranberry sauce brings acidity. You can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes or a light, zesty green salad for contrast.

Don’t forget a flavorful vegan gravy to tie everything together!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

wine and tea pairings

To find the perfect drinks to pair with your Vegan Quinoa Nut Roast, I recommend considering options that enhance its earthy flavors.

A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, brings out the nuttiness, while a crisp, dry white such as Sauvignon Blanc can add an invigorating contrast.

For non-alcoholic options, try a herbal iced tea or sparkling water with lemon for a zesty touch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Leftovers of the Quinoa Nut Roast?

Yes, I’ve successfully frozen quinoa nut roast leftovers before! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic or foil. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your meal!

How Long Does the Nut Roast Take to Cook?

The nut roast usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes to cook. I always check its firmness and color; I want a lovely golden crust before I take it out of the oven!

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, this recipe’s gluten-free! I’ve guaranteed that all the ingredients I use, including quinoa and nuts, don’t contain any gluten. You can enjoy it worry-free if you’re sensitive to gluten like I am!

Can I Substitute Quinoa With Another Grain?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with another grain like brown rice or farro. I’ve tried both, and they work well! Just adjust the cooking time slightly to guarantee everything’s perfectly cooked and flavorful.

How Do I Store the Nut Roast After Cooking?

I simply let the nut roast cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. I store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer-lasting freshness.