Dishes that satisfy without the need for meat

Roasted Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Stuffing

Mushroom and Fennel Bread Pudding

Roasted Delicata Squash Salad

Smoked Cheddar Soufflé

Broccoli, Mushroom, and Gouda Quiche

This year, give thanks to the meat avoiders in your life (be they ba-curious, vegetarian, or vegan) and give them a dish that will make them happy yet still complement the holiday spread. Most of these recipes can be made ahead of time (so they won't add stress to the big day) and are so tasty even the carnivores will want to sneak a few spoonfuls.

1. Roasted Acorn Squash with Wild Rice Stuffing. Wild rice, cranberries, and pecans combine in an autumnal stuffing that's tasty all on its own. But put it inside a roasted acorn squash, and you have a dish hearty enough to step in as a main.

Make-ahead tip: Make the stuffing up to two days ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Roast the squash and fill it with the stuffing no more than two hours before you plan to eat.