people are going into a plant based diet and finding it difficult to come up with dinner ideas which is why we have put together these 17 flavorful Vegan Christmas dinner ideas to ease the stress.
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, delicious food. If you are planning a vegan Christmas dinner, you might be wondering how to create a festive meal that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.
Here’s a roundup of 17 delightful vegan dinner ideas, each complete with an easy-to-follow recipe. From hearty main dishes to delightful sides and desserts, these dishes are sure to impress your guests and spread holiday cheer.
17 FLAVORFUL VEGAN CHRISTMAS DINNER IDEAS
1. Stuffed Butternut Squash
Stuffed butternut squash is a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday table. It’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors from the sweet squash and savory stuffing.
Ingredients
- 2 medium butternut squashes
- 1 cup quinoa (or rice)
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Squash: Cut the butternut squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
- Cook the Quinoa: While the squash is roasting, cook quinoa according to package instructions.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Then add bell pepper and cook until soft. Stir in black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetable mixture.
- Stuff the Squash: Once the squash is done, remove it from the oven and fill each half with the quinoa mixture.
- Bake Again: Return the stuffed squash to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
2. Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
This hearty dish is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a winter gathering. The rich lentil filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes will keep everyone satisfied. From the Vegan Christmas dinner ideas, this is one you will also love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender (about 20-25 minutes).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine Filling: Add the cooked lentils, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the vegetable mixture. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Make Mashed Potatoes: While the filling is cooking, boil the potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and mash with plant-based milk, vegan butter, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Pie: In a baking dish, spread the lentil mixture evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing out the surface.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is slightly golden.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish.
3. Vegan Mushroom Wellington
A vegan twist on the classic beef Wellington, this dish is elegant and packed with earthy flavors from mushrooms and herbs, making it perfect for a festive meal.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (check for vegan)
- 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour (for dusting)
- Non-dairy milk (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Then add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture. Stir in spinach, thyme, soy sauce, salt, and pepper, cooking until spinach wilts. Let the mixture cool.
- Roll Out the Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to fit a baking sheet.
- Fill the Pastry: Spoon the cooled mushroom mixture onto the center of the pastry. Fold the pastry over to enclose the filling, sealing the edges well.
- Brush and Bake: Transfer to a baking sheet, brush with non-dairy milk, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve: Slice and serve with a side of vegan gravy or a fresh salad.
4. Creamy Vegan Potato Gratin
This creamy potato gratin is rich, cheesy, and a delightful side dish that will have everyone going back for seconds. It’s perfect for those cozy holiday dinners. This is my favorite from this Vegan Christmas dinner ideas.
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours)
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Make the Cashew Cream: Drain the soaked cashews and blend them with plant-based milk, garlic, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Potatoes: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes. Pour half of the cashew cream over the potatoes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
5. Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a holiday favorite, and when glazed with maple syrup and roasted to perfection, they become a sweet and savory side dish everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Roast: Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until caramelized and tender.
- Add Pecans: In the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle chopped pecans over the Brussels sprouts for added crunch.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy this flavorful side.
6.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts
No holiday dinner is complete without stuffing! This vegan version is packed with savory herbs and veggies, making it a delicious addition to your Christmas feast.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed (preferably day-old)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Mix Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the cubed bread. Pour in vegetable broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Fluff with a fork before serving and enjoy this comforting stuffing.
7. Spiced Sweet Potato Mash
This vibrant sweet potato mash is a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes. The warmth of spices adds a festive touch, making it a perfect side dish for your holiday table.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Boil Sweet Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add sweet potatoes and cook until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Mash: Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Add coconut milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, and salt. Mash until smooth.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy this spiced mash alongside your main dishes.
8. Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a holiday classic, and this vegan version is just as creamy and delicious. Topped with crispy onions, it’s a dish that will delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Blanch Green Beans: In a pot of boiling water, blanch green beans for 3-4 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender. Stir in coconut milk, vegetable broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Combine: In a baking dish, mix the blanched green beans with the creamy mushroom mixture.
- Top with Onions: Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve: Enjoy this comforting casserole as a side dish.
9. Cranberry-Orange Sauce
This bright and tangy cranberry-orange sauce is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast. It adds a fresh burst of flavor that balances out rich dishes beautifully.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and maple syrup.
- Cook: Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Cool: Remove from heat and let it cool before serving. It can be made ahead and refrigerated.
- Serve: This sauce is a delicious, tangy addition to your holiday plate.
10. Vegan Gravy
Rich, savory gravy can elevate any dish. This vegan version is easy to make and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or anything else on your plate.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make a Roux: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Add Broth: Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, making sure there are no lumps.
- Season: Stir in soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Drizzle over your favorite holiday dishes.
11. Vegan Pumpkin Pie
This classic dessert is a must for any holiday gathering. With its rich pumpkin filling and flaky crust, it’s sure to be a hit with both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounces)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, coconut milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let it cool before slicing. Serve with whipped coconut cream if desired.
12. Chocolate Avocado Mousse
For a light and creamy dessert, this chocolate avocado mousse is a perfect choice. It’s rich, indulgent, and surprisingly healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup, plant-based milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend until creamy and smooth. Adjust sweetness if needed.
- Chill: Transfer to serving dishes and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh berries or coconut whipped cream.
13. Roasted Vegetable Platter
When Vegan Christmas dinner ideas is talked about this dish is a sure.
A vibrant roasted vegetable platter is not only healthy but also adds color to your holiday table. You can use a mix of your favorite seasonal vegetables. this is a great choice from the Vegan Christmas dinner ideas.
Ingredients
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Roast: Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy.
14. Holiday Quinoa Salad
This colorful quinoa salad is packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s a light option that balances out heavier dishes on the table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa: In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until quinoa is cooked (about 15 minutes). Fluff with a fork.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, pomegranate seeds, walnuts, and parsley.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve: This salad can be served warm or chilled.
15. Spiced Apple Cider
Warm spiced apple cider is a cozy drink that can set the holiday mood. It’s simple to make and perfect for serving guests.
Ingredients
- 4 cups apple cider
- 1 orange, sliced
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 2 star anise (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a pot, combine apple cider, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
- Simmer: Heat over medium heat until warmed through. Reduce to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Serve: Strain and serve hot in mugs.
16. Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
For a sweet ending to your holiday meal, these vegan chocolate chip cookies are always a hit. They’re soft, chewy, and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, brown sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Scoop Cookies: Drop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve: Enjoy these warm or at room temperature.
17. Vegan Eggnog
This creamy vegan eggnog is a festive drink that’s perfect for toasting during the holiday season. It’s rich and delicious, making it a great alternative to traditional eggnog.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup cashews (soaked for 4 hours)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine almond milk, coconut milk, soaked cashews, maple syrup, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Chill: Pour into a pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill.
- Serve: Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
With these 17 flavorful vegan Christmas dinner ideas, you will have plenty of options to create a memorable holiday feast. Each dish is simple to prepare, full of flavor, and sure to impress your guests.
This post showed you 17 flavorful Vegan Christmas dinner ideas. Enjoy your cooking.