Thanksgiving is a time where family and friends flock together to share what they are thankful for and to gobble down on turkey.

But for me, Thanksgiving is a little different since I am a vegetarian. Actually I am a Pescatarian (not to be confused with Episcopalian), which means I exclude all meat except for fish from my diet.

People always wonder how vegetarians can survive a holiday that revolves around eating a bird, but for us veg-heads, Thanksgiving allows us to get creative with our main course and wing it. What should our main course be?

Tofurky…The epitome of a vegetarian Thanksgiving. If you are a vegetarian and you haven’t tried this dish, you’re missing out big time.

Meat-eaters and carnivores may laugh, but the turkey substitute can be pretty delicious if the right herbs and spices are used. A little cranberry sauce can also do the trick.

If you are a vegetarian who doesn’t like tofu, you don’t have to re-think your diet, as there is still hope for you. What can one look forward to if he or she thinks tofu is taboo?

We can’t forget about side dishes! Personally, I think side dishes are the best part of the Thanksgiving feast. Mashed potatoes, biscuits, salad, and sweet potato with marshmallows on top; all of these make for a well-rounded meal, and an even more well-rounded belly.

Vegetarian stuffing is also a delightful side dish that can be brought to the next level with a special mushroom gravy. A perfect recipe for mushroom gravy can completely improve your Thanksgiving meal.

What people must remember is that that being a vegetarian is a personal choice. If I want to eat a bite of turkey, no one is going to stop me, but I choose not to eat meat. I’ll admit that the smell of turkey that fills my house the morning of Thanksgiving smells delectable, but it doesn’t leave my mouth watering. I don’t need will power to stop myself from grabbing a leg and biting in, nor am I jealous of those who eat meat. I’m always happy with the meal I eat on Thanksgiving (compliments to my mother) and I enjoy every bite!

If other vegetarians are still unsatisfied with their Thanksgiving meal, there’s always homemade pie to look forward to…just make sure to skip the mincemeat!