The holidays are all about sharing delicious food with loved ones, but what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle? Don’t worry—plant-based eating doesn’t mean missing out on holiday cheer! With these 8 festive vegan recipes, you can enjoy a feast that’s both cruelty-free and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting or attending a gathering, these dishes will impress everyone at the table.
1. Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash
A hearty and nutritious centerpiece for your holiday meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, sauté mushrooms, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened.
- Mix in cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each squash half with the quinoa mixture and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
2. Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Rich and buttery without the dairy.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender.
- Drain and return to the pot. Add almond milk, vegan butter, and garlic.
- Mash until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
3. Vegan Green Bean Casserole
A classic side dish made healthier and cruelty-free.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (vegan)
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (check for vegan certification)
Instructions:
- Steam the green beans until tender.
- Combine the soup, almond milk, and green beans in a casserole dish.
- Top with crispy onions and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
4. Vegan Stuffing
Warm, comforting, and packed with herbs.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread, cubed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion, celery, and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Combine with bread cubes, broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
5. Vegan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy and caramelized perfection.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Vegan Cranberry Sauce
Tangy and sweet, perfect for any holiday spread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
- Combine cranberries, orange juice, and maple syrup in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until cranberries burst.
- Stir in orange zest and cool before serving.
7. Vegan Apple Pie
A timeless dessert made entirely plant-based.
Ingredients:
- 1 vegan pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 cups thinly sliced apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix apples, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture and cover with a lattice top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes.
8. Chocolate Peppermint Bark
An easy yet decadent treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (vegan)
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions:
- Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave.
- Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the chocolate.
- Refrigerate until set, then break into pieces.
Tips for Hosting a Vegan Holiday Feast:
- Plan Ahead : Ensure there are enough protein-rich dishes like lentils, tofu, or tempeh.
- Label Ingredients : Clearly label any dishes containing nuts or gluten for guests with allergies.
- Offer Variety : Include a mix of appetizers, mains, sides, and desserts to satisfy everyone.