Name: Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked green or brown lentils; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, chopped; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1/2 cup carrots, shredded; 1/2 cup celery, diced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; 1 teaspoon sage; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons non-dairy milk (for brushing)

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Table of Contents: Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

Table of Contents: Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

A Festive, Flavor-Packed Appetizer That Steals the Show!

Picture this: a golden, flaky crust wrapped around a hearty, savory filling of spiced lentils, caramelized onions, and melty vegan cheese. This Vegan Lentil Stromboli isn’t just another appetizer—it’s a showstopper that will have your Thanksgiving guests begging for the recipe! Whether you’re hosting a full plant-based feast or just looking for a crowd-pleasing finger food, this stromboli delivers bold flavors, irresistible texture, and wholesome ingredients in every bite.

Did you know that stromboli, unlike its cousin calzone, is rolled like a burrito for maximum filling-to-dough ratio? That means more deliciousness in every slice! Plus, with lentils as the star, this dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

If you loved our Spinach Salad with Berries and Cherries – A Healthy, Flavorful Choice, you’ll adore this stromboli—it’s just as creamy, cheesy, and comforting, but with a fun handheld twist. Ready to impress your guests with minimal effort? Let’s dive in!

What Is Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli?

Ever wondered why it’s called a stromboli and not, say, a “lentil roll-up extravaganza”? Legend has it that this Italian-American creation was named after the volcanic island of Stromboli because, just like molten lava, the cheesy, saucy filling bursts with flavor in every bite! (Okay, maybe that’s not the real origin story, but it sure makes for a fun food fact.)

This Vegan Lentil Stromboli takes the classic concept and gives it a plant-powered upgrade. Instead of meat, we use protein-rich lentils simmered in savory herbs, garlic, and tomato paste, then roll them up in a flaky pizza dough with melty vegan cheese. The result? A handheld masterpiece that proves the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach—vegan or not!

So, are you ready to roll up your sleeves (and this dough) for the ultimate Thanksgiving appetizer? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

1. A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

This isn’t your average holiday snack. The combination of tender lentils, aromatic spices, and gooey vegan cheese creates a rich, satisfying filling that’s both hearty and indulgent. A touch of balsamic glaze or marinara for dipping takes it over the top!

2. Budget-Friendly & Easy to Make

Skip the store-bought appetizers—this stromboli costs a fraction of pre-made options and tastes ten times better. Lentils are an affordable protein source, and store-bought pizza dough keeps prep time under 30 minutes!

3. Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, this stromboli slices beautifully, making it ideal for holiday gatherings. Pair it with our Cheesy Mashed Potatoes for a full feast-worthy meal.

Convinced yet? Grab your ingredients, and let’s make magic happen!

How to Make Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

Quick Overview

This recipe is simple, delicious, and ready in under an hour. The filling comes together in one pan, and store-bought dough keeps things hassle-free. The best part? It’s crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside—perfect for Thanksgiving snacking!

Key Ingredients

– 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– ½ tsp smoked paprika
– Salt & pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegan mozzarella shreds
– 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the filling: In a pan, cook onions until soft, then add garlic, lentils, tomato paste, and spices. Simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough: Stretch pizza dough into a rectangle (~12×10 inches).
3. Layer the filling: Spread lentil mixture evenly, then sprinkle vegan cheese on top.
4. Roll it up: Tightly roll the dough (like a burrito), sealing the edges.
5. Bake to perfection: Brush with olive oil, slash the top, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden.
6. Slice & serve: Let cool slightly, then cut into thick pieces. Serve warm with marinara!

What to Serve With Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli

This stromboli is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. For a Thanksgiving appetizer spread, try it with:
– Roasted Brussels sprouts for a crispy contrast.
– Cranberry dipping sauce for a sweet-tart kick.
– A fresh arugula salad to balance the richness.

Want a full holiday meal? Check out our Autumn Cobb Salad: A Seasonal Twist on a Classic Recipe for another showstopping centerpiece!

Top Tips for Perfecting Vegan Lentil Stromboli

✔ Don’t overfill—too much filling can cause leaks.
✔ Use parchment paper for easy transfer to the oven.
✔ Let it rest before slicing to prevent a messy cut.
✔ Swap lentils for mushrooms if you prefer a meatier texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
– Reheating: For crispiness, use an air fryer or toaster oven instead of the microwave.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Lentil Stromboli is a must-try for your Thanksgiving table. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to impress—whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main dish. Plus, it’s so delicious that even non-vegans will be reaching for seconds!

Ready to make it? Tag us on social media with your creations—we’d love to see your stromboli masterpieces! And if you’re looking for more holiday inspiration, check out our dinner recipes for more festive recipes.

Happy cooking! ️🌱

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