As the holiday season approaches, many people are starting to plan their Christmas dinner menu. While traditional dishes like roast turkey and honey-glazed ham are always a crowd-pleaser, why not switch things up this year and try a vegetarian Christmas dinner? Not only is it a great way to accommodate any vegetarian or vegan guests, but it's also a delicious and healthy alternative to the heavy meat-based meals typically served during the holidays. Here are some creative and flavorful vegetarian Christmas dinner recipe ideas that will impress your family and friends.
Main Ingredients: Elbow Macaroni, Butter, Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Eggs
If you're looking for a hearty and delicious side dish for your beer can chicken, Paula Deen's Crock Pot Macaroni and Cheese is a must-try recipe. This easy-to-make dish is full of cheesy goodness and can be prepared in just a few simple steps. Plus, it's perfect for feeding a crowd, making it a great addition to any backyard barbecue or family dinner.
2of 20
Vegan Christmas roast
Main Ingredients: Puff Pastry, Green Lentils, Mushrooms, Roasted
If you're hosting a holiday meal and have vegan guests, this Vegan Christmas Roast is sure to impress. Made with a mixture of lentils, nuts, and veggies, this roast is packed with flavor and protein. Plus, it's a great alternative to traditional meat-based main dishes, making it a perfect option for those looking for a plant-based option.
3of 20
Ultimate Christmas Tofurkey Roast
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, White Miso, Smoked Paprika, Salt, Oregano
For a vegan take on a classic holiday dish, try this Ultimate Christmas Tofurkey Roast. Made with tofu, this roast is a great substitute for turkey and is seasoned with traditional holiday flavors like sage, thyme, and rosemary. Serve it up with some roasted veggies and cranberry sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.
4of 20
Tofu & Chestnut Christmas Loaf
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onions, Garlic, Celery, Chestnut Puree
This Tofu & Chestnut Christmas Loaf is another delicious and hearty vegan option for your holiday table. Packed with protein from the tofu and fiber from the chestnuts, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. The addition of cranberries adds a touch of sweetness and tartness to balance out the flavors.
5of 20
High Protein Pasta Christmas Tree
Main Ingredients: Fettuccine, Cherry Tomatoes, Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil
If you're looking for a fun and creative way to serve pasta this holiday season, try making this High Protein Pasta Christmas Tree. Made with a mixture of whole wheat pasta, beans, and veggies, this dish is not only festive but also healthy and delicious. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra protein for those who may not be big meat eaters.
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Medium Onion, Garlic, Carrot, Lentils
This Christmas Chickpea-Lentil Loaf is a great option for those with dietary restrictions as it is both vegan and gluten-free. Made with a combination of chickpeas, lentils, and veggies, this loaf is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Serve it with some roasted potatoes and your favorite gravy for a complete and satisfying holiday meal.
7of 20
Chestnut and Cashew Nut Roast – Vegan Christmas Roast
Main Ingredients: Medium Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Butternut Squash
If you're looking for a nutty and savory alternative to traditional holiday roasts, try this Chestnut and Cashew Nut Roast. Made with a mixture of nuts, veggies, and herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it's a great option for those with food allergies or sensitivities.
Main Ingredients: Brown Rice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Mushrooms, Dried
This Vegetarian Christmas Main dish is a great option for those who love the flavors of mushrooms and cranberries. Made with a combination of mushrooms, nuts, and quinoa, this dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein and fiber. Plus, the addition of cranberries adds a festive touch to the dish.
9of 20
Christmas Lima Beans with Tomato and Celery
Main Ingredients: Christmas Lima Beans, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion
For a simple and flavorful side dish to accompany your beer can chicken, try these Christmas Lima Beans with Tomato and Celery. These beans are cooked in a savory tomato and celery sauce, making them a great addition to any holiday meal. Plus, they're packed with nutrients and add a pop of color to your plate.
10of 20
Alfredo Florentine Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Ricotta Cheese, Eggs, Frozen Chopped Spinach, Salt
For a decadent and delicious main dish to serve alongside your beer can chicken, try this Alfredo Florentine Lasagna. Made with layers of creamy alfredo sauce, spinach, and cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Plus, it's a great option for those who may not be big fans of traditional holiday roasts.
11of 20
Brown Sugar Glazed Ham
Main Ingredients: Brown Sugar, Honey, Cloves, Whole Grain Mustard, Dijon
If you're looking for a classic and flavorful main dish for your holiday meal, try this Brown Sugar Glazed Ham. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in the glaze makes this ham a crowd-pleaser. Serve it up with some roasted veggies and mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
12of 20
Root Vegetable Dinner Pie
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Sweet Onions, Shallots, Kosher Salt, White
This Root Vegetable Dinner Pie is a great option for those looking for a vegetarian main dish for their holiday meal. Made with a variety of root vegetables and topped with a flaky crust, this pie is packed with flavor and nutrients. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover veggies you may have on hand.
13of 20
Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
If you're looking for a flavorful and satisfying main dish for your Thanksgiving meal, try this Meatless Loaf. Made with lentils, veggies, and a variety of herbs and spices, this loaf is a great alternative to traditional meat-based main dishes. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time for a stress-free holiday meal.
14of 20
Ordinary Vegans For A Complete Vegan Holiday...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Unsweetened Coconut Milk, Chipotle
For a complete and delicious vegan holiday meal, check out this recipe from Ordinary Vegans. This meal includes a variety of dishes, including a vegan roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, and mushroom gravy. It's a great option for those looking for a traditional holiday meal without any animal products.
15of 20
Easy One-Pot Pasta | Cozy & Healthy 20 Minute Dinner!
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Grape Tomatoes, Garlic Cloves, Yellow Onion
If you're short on time but still want a delicious and healthy dinner to serve with your beer can chicken, try this Easy One-Pot Pasta recipe. Made with whole wheat pasta, veggies, and a creamy sauce, this dish is not only tasty but also quick and easy to make. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for your picky eaters.
16of 20
Glazed Ham
Main Ingredients: Pineapple Juice, Butter, Honey, Canela, Garlic Powder
This Glazed Ham is another classic and tasty option for your holiday meal. The glaze is made with a combination of brown sugar, honey, and mustard, giving the ham a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Serve it up with some roasted vegetables and dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.
17of 20
Maple Glazed Whole Ham
Main Ingredients: Maple Syrup, Dark Brown Sugar, Light Brown Sugar, Honey
For a twist on the classic glazed ham, try this Maple Glazed Whole Ham. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to the glaze, making it perfect for the holiday season. Plus, cooking the ham in the oven helps to keep it juicy and tender, making it a delicious addition to any meal.
18of 20
John Legend's Macaroni and Cheese
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Freshly Ground Pepper, Coarse Salt
This Macaroni and Cheese recipe from John Legend is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The combination of cheeses and spices makes this dish rich and flavorful, and the addition of breadcrumbs on top adds a crunchy texture. Serve it up as a side dish or main dish, and watch it disappear in no time.
19of 20
Turkish Vegan Lentil Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Red Lentils, Water, Bulgur, Olive Oil, Large Onion
For a unique and flavorful main dish to serve with your beer can chicken, try these Turkish Vegan Lentil Meatballs. Made with a combination of lentils, bulgur, and spices, these "meatballs" are packed with protein and flavor. Serve them with some rice and a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
20of 20
Holiday Tofu Roast
Main Ingredients: Extra Firm Tofu, Orange, Cloves, Olive Oil, Low Sodium
This Holiday Tofu Roast is a great option for those looking for a vegan and gluten-free main dish for their holiday meal. Made with a combination of tofu, veggies, and herbs, this roast is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Roasted Vegetable Wellington
Vegetarian Christmas dinner doesn't have to be boring or lacking in protein. This roasted vegetable Wellington is a hearty and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The main ingredient is a blend of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, wrapped in a flaky puff pastry crust. This dish is not only visually stunning, but it's also packed with flavor and nutrients. Serve it with a side of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Mushroom and Chestnut Stuffed Squash
If you're looking for a dish that screams Christmas, then this mushroom and chestnut stuffed squash is the one. Roasted acorn squash is filled with a savory mixture of mushrooms, onions, chestnuts, and herbs, creating a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Plus, this dish is packed with nutrients and fiber, making it a healthy option for your holiday meal. Add some festive pomegranate seeds on top for a pop of color and sweetness.
Quinoa and Lentil Stuffed Peppers
For a protein-rich and gluten-free option, try these quinoa and lentil stuffed peppers. The filling is a mixture of cooked quinoa, lentils, diced vegetables, and Christmas spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It's then stuffed into bell peppers and baked until tender. This dish is not only delicious but also vegan-friendly. Serve it with a side of roasted brussels sprouts for a complete and nutritious meal.
Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna
If you're a pasta lover, don't worry, we've got you covered. This butternut squash and spinach lasagna is a vegetarian twist on the classic Italian dish. Layers of lasagna noodles, creamy butternut squash puree, and garlicky spinach create a hearty and flavorful meal. Top it off with some grated Parmesan cheese and sage leaves for a touch of richness and festivity.
Conclusion
This holiday season, don't be afraid to step outside of the traditional Christmas dinner box and try something new. These vegetarian Christmas dinner recipe ideas will not only impress your guests but also add some variety and nutrition to your holiday spread. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to switch things up, these dishes are sure to satisfy and become new holiday favorites. Give them a try and see for yourself!