The number of people opting for a meat-free diet is on the rise (especially the younger generation), and chances are at least one of your Christmas guests will be a vegetarian or vegan. With traditional holiday staples like roast turkey, goose-fat potatoes, and smoked salmon off the table for them, you might be wondering: What on earth will I serve?
Well, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! The growing demand for plant-rich dishes means there’s no shortage of delicious, festive options to choose from. No more boring boiled veg or uninspired sides. This year, why not try something that’ll impress everyone at the table? From festive canapés to stunning main courses, here are some easy ideas to ensure your plant-based guests feel fully included. And who knows—your meat-eating guests might even start feeling a little food envy. 😉
Start Strong with Canapés & Bubbles 🍾✨
First impressions are everything, so it’s a great idea to begin the festivities with a bang. Christmas dinner is often served later in the day, and having a selection of canapés waiting for your guests when they arrive will prevent any “hangry” moments as everyone gathers around the Christmas tree. If you’ve got some chilled bubbles to hand, you'll kick things off in the best possible way.
Here’s a simple canapé recipe that’s sure to impress:Thinly slice 2 red onions and cook them on low heat with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Stir them occasionally for about 10-15 minutes, until they’re soft and golden. Then, chop and stir in 80g of marinated sundried tomatoes.Now, roll out a sheet of puff pastry onto a baking tray, spreading 3 tablespoons of tomato paste evenly across it. Cut the pastry into 5cm squares and top each one with the onion and tomato mixture. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and pop them into the oven at 190°C for 15 minutes. Voilà! Delicious canapés ready to serve.
Make the Veggie Dish a Star 🌟
If you’re looking for a showstopper main course that everyone can enjoy, try this whole roasted cauliflower pilaff with cucumber and mint raita. It’s incredibly simple but looks absolutely stunning on the plate. The golden roasted cauliflower takes the spotlight in this spice-filled, one-pot wonder, paired with fluffy baked rice and fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with everything else—whether you’re serving meat or not.
This dish is not just beautiful, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and will make your plant-based guests feel like they’re the star of the show.
Delightful Desserts (Because We All Need Something Sweet) 🍐
Okay, I’ll admit it—I’m not the biggest fan of traditional Christmas puddings or mince pies. But I am all about creating something that feels just as special, if not more so! For a festive, plant-based dessert that’s a little different, I love to poach pears in beetroot juice with a couple of cinnamon sticks. The beetroot gives the pears a beautiful pink hue, and the cinnamon adds a lovely, warming spice.
The best part? You can poach the pears the day before and leave them in the liquid overnight, so you’re one step ahead when Christmas Day arrives. I serve mine with my super easy dairy-free Banana Nice-Cream—a simple, creamy treat that everyone can enjoy.
A Christmas feast for everyone 🌿
As you can see, creating a festive meal that caters to your plant-based guests doesn’t need to be complicated or restrictive. With just a little planning and a few tasty dishes, you can make a Christmas feast that everyone—whether they’re veggie or not—will love. So why not go ahead and give these ideas a try? Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness, and I bet they’ll be talking about the meal long after the last crumbs have been cleared.
Here’s to a delicious, plant-powered Christmas where everyone feels included and celebrated. 🎄💚
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