The holiday season is my absolute FAVORITE time of year! For me, it’s always meant Christmas Eve with family and friends sharing a holiday meal around the dinner table.
Contrary to many stereotypes, being a vegan or vegetarian doesn’t mean missing out on a great dinner. To prove it, we’re sharing some vegetarian and vegan holiday dinner ideas that will satisfy plant-based and omnivore family members alike.
You can listen to us discuss the recipes in episode 399 of our podcast or read on for a summary and links to everything we discuss. Please note: This article has been recently updated to provide you with the latest information so the podcast may differ slightly from the post.
Vegetarian Zen is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a monetary commission. Additionally, the information presented is for educational purposes only. Always consult with your doctor. Learn More.
Planning Your Vegetarian or Vegan Christmas Dinner
Creating a memorable vegetarian or vegan Christmas dinner starts with setting the perfect mood. Here’s how to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Choose a Theme
Whether you’re going for traditional charm with holly and plaid (like us!), a modern minimalist vibe with clean whites and greenery, or a rustic touch with wooden accents and fairy lights, pick a theme to tie everything together. It’ll make your table feel more cohesive and festive.
Decorative Touches
Candles are an easy way to add warmth and elegance; opt for unscented ones to avoid competing with food aromas. Use festive napkins or a holiday-themed table runner for added flair. A centerpiece of seasonal greenery, cranberries, and pinecones can elevate your table without breaking the bank.
Guest Preferences
Double-check dietary needs and preferences. For example, are there gluten-free or nut-free guests? Planning ahead ensures everyone feels included at the table.
Practical Prep
When it comes to hosting, preparation is everything. Get ahead of the holiday stress with these tips.
Create a Shopping List with Simple Ingredients
Stick to wholesome, versatile staples like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, lentils, and coconut milk. Don’t forget holiday spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, plus essentials like vegan butter and garlic cloves. Jot down store-bought vegan items, such as roasts, puff pastry, or dairy-free cream, for convenience.
Prep Ahead
Save time by making certain dishes 1-2 days early.
- Stuffing Make it ahead and bake just before serving.
- Desserts Vegan cheesecake or vegan mince pies taste even better after chilling.
- Cranberry Sauce Homemade versions keep well in the fridge.
Store-Bought versus Homemade
It’s okay to blend convenience with homemade charm! A store-bought vegan roast or puff pastry can save hours in the kitchen, leaving you more time to focus on sides and desserts. Just dress up these ready-made items with fresh herbs, a creamy mushroom sauce, or a maple glaze for a personal touch.
With a little planning and creativity, your holiday feast will run smoothly and impress every guest at the table.
Show-Stopping Vegan Christmas Dinner Main Dishes
Every Christmas dinner needs a centerpiece—a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Here are some standout vegan Christmas dinner options that will impress your guests.
Vegan Roasts
Whether homemade or store-bought, a vegan roast can be the heart of your holiday meal. I’m normally not a fan of the faux meats but Field Roast does it pretty darn well!
For a homemade option, try a lentil loaf with a maple tomato glaze. If you’re short on time, there are plenty of excellent store-bought vegan roasts available that are packed with flavor and texture. This gorgeous vegetarian bake from Tesco Real Food makes for a delicious Christmas dinner alternative. It’s made with roasted butternut squash, mushrooms, chestnuts, and plenty of mixed
Serve with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce like this one from Simply Recipes. I love making cranberry sauce versus buying off the shelf since many contain preservatives and lots of extra sugar.
Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
For me, acorn squash is like Brussels sprouts. I thought I didn’t care for it, but it turns out that I may actually like it if it’s prepared well. In fact, the first time I had a stuffed roasted acorn squash was at a company Christmas party. My company was very thoughtful in offering a vegan Christmas dinner option for its plant-based employees. Even my omnivore co-workers were pretty impressed!
In our recipe, acorn squash is stuffed with quinoa, mushrooms, cranberries, and a few other goodies, making it a filling meal or a great side dish.
Vegan Wellington
This flaky pastry dish, stuffed with a savory mix of mushrooms, chestnuts, and onions, delivers a “wow” factor when sliced at the table. The layers of golden pastry and flavorful filling scream festive sophistication.
We previously shared this Vegan Mushroom Wellington recipe from Delicious Everyday in our post, 8 Simple Vegan Turkey Substitutes That Don’t Suck, but it got such great feedback here it is for an encore.
The dish features baby spinach, mushrooms, and caramelized onions wrapped in a puff pastry.
Nicole at Delicious Everyday even shares her own vegan puff pastry recipe in case you have a hard time finding one or just want to make your own.
Vegan Tamales
I can get tamales any day of the year down here in San Antonio, Texas, but there’s something extra special about tamales around the holidays. It’s not always easy to find the vegan variety, however, which is why we created this vegan tamale recipe.
For even more tips and recipes, check out, 5 Tips for Making Amazing Vegan Tamales Plus 5 Recipes.
Vegetable Pot Pie
Pot pie is one of my FAVORITE comfort foods. Larissa makes this vegetable pot pie for me at least once a month and it’s always sooooo good, ESPECIALLY on a chilly winter night.
This one is loaded with veggies and potatoes. I prefer white potatoes but if you’re a sweet potato fan, you can substitute those. It reheats very well, so you can enjoy this for several days as leftovers.
Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
Though shepherd’s pie is traditionally made with meat, this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie recipe is loaded with veggies and lentils and topped off with fluffy mashed potatoes.
Minimalist Baker is one of our go-to places for simple, mostly vegan recipes. This shepherd’s pie recipe is not only delicious but only takes about an hour of total time (prep + cooking).
Mushroom Lentil Loaf
While how a dish tastes is obviously more important than how it looks, I can’t help but LOVE how this Mushroom Lentil Loaf looks. It just looks so “festive!”
This recipe from A Virtual Vegan calls for lentils, walnuts, and mushrooms and is topped beautifully with cranberries. It’s just begging for a center spot on your holiday table!
Vegetarian Lasagna (with Vegan Options)
Lasagna is one of our favorite celebration meals (we seem to find something to celebrate at least once a month!). Our recipe is vegetarian (because it calls for cheese and eggs) but can easily be made vegan with a few simple substitutions. It reheats well and we have leftovers for days.
Perfect as a Christmas Eve dinner and reheats well as a Christmas lunch.
Vegan Pozole
A good hot and hearty soup on a cold winter night is SUPER cozy. Traditional pozole usually has pork, but this recipe from Forks Over Knives is 100% veggie.
In place of meat, this dish uses hominy, onions, potatoes, carrots, and chile peppers to create a hearty stew that’s sure to keep you warm.
Christmas Curry
From Jamie Oliver’s website, “It’ll put fire in your belly and tick all the boxes on the pure enjoyment front, which is exactly what you want! “
This Christmas Curry dish definitely deserves a spot on your Christmas menu. It’s loaded with chili, ginger, garlic, onions, and a variety of spices to “put a fire” in your belly.
For me, this might be a little light by itself as a main dish but would certainly do well as a light Christmas lunch.
Spanish Vegan Paella
Paella is a Spanish dish traditionally made with meat, but you definitely won’t miss the meat in this vegan version. Vegan Huggs does not disappoint with this colorful smoky meal that’s great as a side or as a main dish.
Note: While not necessary, you can use a paella pan to cook and serve!
Classic Holiday Side Dishes with a Vegan Twist
No holiday table is complete without a lineup of delicious side dishes. These vegan takes on traditional favorites will have everyone coming back for seconds.
comforting classics
Scalloped Potatoes
Swap the dairy for a creamy coconut milk and vegan butter sauce layered with thinly sliced potatoes. Top with breadcrumbs or nutritional yeast for a golden, crispy finish. It’s the ultimate comfort food for your holiday dinner. Here’s a recipe for scalloped potatoes from It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken.
miso carrots
Roasted carrots are great on their own. Add miso and they’re extra special. This dish is salty-sweet, full of umami, and incredibly simple to make. The carrots roast until tender and caramelized, while the miso glaze turns glossy and deeply flavorful.
Cabbage with Apples
This sweet-and-tangy side dish combines shredded red cabbage with sautéed apples, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup. It’s a vibrant, festive addition to your table. Here’s a recipe from Brand New Vegan.
Roasted Vegetables
A colorful mix of carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with garlic cloves, olive oil, and a drizzle of maple syrup. These caramelized veggies bring rich, earthy flavors to the meal. Check out this recipe from Our Salty Kitchen.
Broccoli and rice casserole
Our broccoli and rice casserole recipe is comforting and no-fuss. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of tender broccoli, with just the right amount of warmth and texture.
French Onion Soup
A plant-based twist on a cold-weather classic. Use caramelized onions, vegetable stock, and herbs for a rich, savory base. Top with toasted baguette slices and melted vegan cheese for an irresistible starter. Larissa makes this every so often and it’s one of our favorites! Check out our recipe here.
Holiday Essentials
Green Bean Casserole
If you’re anything like us, green bean casserole probably made an appearance at just about every holiday table growing up. In fact, it’s the first thing I go for when I’m cruising the Thanksgiving table. That creamy, savory filling paired with those crispy onions on top? Total comfort food.
But if you’re skipping dairy—or cooking for someone who is—you might be wondering if you have to say goodbye to this classic side. The answer is, you absolutely don’t!
This dairy-free green bean casserole delivers all the cozy, nostalgic flavor you love, minus the milk, cream, and canned soup.
Cranberry Sauce
Forget the canned stuff (it’s probably not vegan anyway!). Make a quick cranberry sauce with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and maple syrup. It’s sweet, tart, and perfect for balancing savory dishes. Here’s our recipe for vegan cranberry sauce.
Vegan stuffing
Combine cubed whole-grain bread with sautéed onions, celery, garlic, and plenty of fresh herbs like sage and thyme. Bake until the top is golden and crisp. Add roasted chestnuts or cranberries for an extra festive touch. Give this yummy recipe for vegan stuffing from School Night Vegan a taste.
Sweet Potato Casserole
Our vegan sweet potato casserole recipe is easy to make, easy to customize, and perfect for holidays(or any weeknight you want something extra cozy). If you’re cooking for mixed eaters, this one fits right in—no one will miss the dairy.
Gravy
Vegan gravy should be silky, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Our version checks all the boxes without relying on complicated ingredients. The flavor is deep and comforting, with a savory backbone from mushrooms, onions, and herbs. Even if you’re cooking for mixed eaters, this one wins people over fast.
Tips for Side Dish Success
- Balance flavors Pair rich, creamy dishes like scalloped potatoes with lighter sides like roasted vegetables or green salads for a well-rounded meal.
- Batch cooking Double your recipes for crowd-pleasing favorites like stuffing and mashed potatoes. Leftovers are a holiday win!
- Plating appeal Serve sides in colorful bowls or arrange them on large platters. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for an elegant touch.
With these revamped holiday classics, your vegan Christmas dinner will feel both familiar and exciting—perfect for impressing every guest at the table!
Delicious Vegan Desserts and Sweet Treats
No holiday meal is complete without indulging in some festive desserts. These vegan options are rich, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress even the most traditional dessert lovers.
Show-Stopping Desserts
Vegan Pumpkin Pie
This vegan version of a classic holiday dessert is naturally dairy-free thanks to full-fat coconut milk or cream and can easily be made gluten-free with your favorite GF pie crust.
Pecan Pie Dump Cake
If you’re short on time (or just not in the mood to roll out crust), this Pecan Pie Dump Cake recipe is reminiscent of a classic pecan pie, but simple! It comes together in one baking dish with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. This recipe also includes a vegan version so everyone can indulge.
Vegan sweet potato pie
Creamy, cozy, and packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this pie brings that Southern holiday magic to your fall dessert table—without the dairy or eggs.
Vegan Cheesecake with Raspberries
Made with a creamy cashew or tofu base and sweetened with maple syrup, this cheesecake from Love & Lemons is as smooth as its dairy counterpart. Top it with fresh raspberries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a tangy contrast.
Gingerbread Cake
This fluffy, spiced cake from The Banana Diaries captures the essence of the holiday season. Sweetened with molasses and topped with a silky caramel sauce drizzle, it’s a festive crowd-pleaser.
vegan apple crisp
This vegan apple crisp brings together tart Granny Smith and sweet Pink Lady apples, a warm cinnamon-spiced filling, and a golden, crumbly oat topping. It’s easy to prep, smells incredible while baking, and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.
Vegan Mince Pies
Swap butter for vegan pastry to create flaky, buttery crusts filled with spiced fruit and nut mixtures (and no suet, of course!). Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch that screams holiday cheer. Here’s a recipe to check out from Lazy Cat Kitchen.
Quick and Easy Sweet Options
Vegan Ferrero Rocher-Inspired Treats
Blend dark chocolate, coconut milk, and hazelnuts into bite-sized balls, then roll them in crushed
Chocolate Salami
A no-bake dessert from Vegan On Board made by mixing vegan tea biscuits or cookies,
Tips for Sweet Success
- Refined sugar alternatives Use coconut sugar, maple syrup, or dates for sweetness. These options add flavor depth and keep desserts more wholesome.
- Prep ahead Desserts like cheesecake and mince pies taste even better after chilling overnight because the flavors have time to meld.
- Festive presentation Use holiday-themed plates, sprinkle desserts with powdered sugar, or garnish with fresh cranberries and mint leaves for an extra festive touch.
With these vegan desserts, you’ll end your vegan Christmas dinner on a sweet and memorable note. Plus, they’re so good, no one will miss the dairy or eggs!
90-day online course based on Fran Costigan’s popular Vegan Baking Boot Camp.
Drinks and Small Bites to Impress Guests
Holiday gatherings aren’t just about the big dinner—they’re also about the sips and nibbles that set the tone. These vegan drinks and small bites will keep your guests happy while they wait for the main event.
Cozy Holiday Drinks
Creamy Vegan Hot Chocolate
Combine coconut milk, almond milk, cocoa powder, and a touch of maple syrup for the ultimate cozy drink. Top with dairy-free whipped cream or vegan marshmallows (Dandies are our faves!) for that extra festive touch.
Holiday Spiced Punch
Mix apple cider, cranberry juice, and a dash of orange juice with cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Serve warm or chilled for a fragrant, holiday-inspired drink. This recipe from Half-Baked Harvest can easily be made vegan by swapping out the honey for maple syrup.
Classic Mulled Wine
Heat red wine with holiday spices, orange slices, and a touch of maple syrup. Use a non-alcoholic red wine alternative for a family-friendly option. Here’s a recipe from Gimme Some Oven.
Easy Vegan Eggnog
This rich and creamy eggnog swaps traditional ingredients for for non-dairy ingredients. It’s spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. Here’s our tried and true recipe for vegan eggnog.
Tasty Vegan Christmas Dinner Appetizers
Black Bean Meatballs with Maple Tomato Glaze
These bite-sized delights from Shane and Simple are savory, smoky, and slightly sweet. Perfect served with toothpicks or on a platter with a creamy dipping sauce.
Carrot Ribbons Wrapped in Flaky Pastry
This recipe from We Want the Veggies is a creative vegan twist on pigs in blankets! Wrap marinated carrot ribbons in strips of dairy-free puff pastry, bake until golden, and serve warm.
Stuffed Mushrooms
One of my favorite appetizers! Hollow out button mushrooms and fill with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, and chopped herbs. Bake until tender for a delicious and easy finger food. Check out our recipe here.
If you’re looking for more vegan appetizers, check out our article, 10 Vegan Holiday Appetizers That Will WOW Your Guests.
Tips for Drinks and Bites
- Batch drinks Prep large batches of hot chocolate or mulled wine in a slow cooker to keep them warm and ready to serve throughout the evening.
- Make-ahead options Many appetizers, like stuffed mushrooms or black bean meatballs, can be prepped the day before and baked fresh just before serving.
- Presentation counts Serve drinks in festive mugs or glasses, and use holiday-themed platters for your appetizers. A garnish of fresh rosemary or cranberries can instantly elevate the look.
With these drinks and small bites, you’ll set the perfect tone for your vegan Christmas dinner, ensuring guests feel festive and satisfied from the very first sip to the last nibble!
Stress-Free Preparation Tips
The secret to a successful vegan Christmas dinner lies in smart planning and preparation. Follow these practical tips to keep things stress-free and enjoyable.
Timing is Everything
- Create a cooking timeline Write out a schedule for the big day, starting with dishes that need the most baking or resting time (like a vegan Wellington or dessert). Include time for reheating prepared sides and plating everything just before serving.
- Prioritize make-ahead dishes Prepare anything that can be made ahead—stuffing, cranberry sauce, and desserts like vegan cheesecake or gingerbread cake can all be prepped 1-2 days in advance.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Potato masher For silky mashed potatoes or smooth vegetable purées.
- Food processor Perfect for quickly chopping veggies, blending creamy sauces, or preparing dessert fillings.
- Baking trays and parchment paper Great for roasting vegetables, baking pastries, and making easy cleanup a breeze.
Avoiding Last-Minute Stress
- Prep ingredients in advance Chop veggies, measure spices, and portion out ingredients the night before. Having everything ready to go will save you time and headaches.
- Enlist help Turn your holiday prep into a fun activity by involving family or friends. Whether it’s setting the table or assembling appetizers, extra hands can make a big difference.
- Organize your kitchen Lay out tools, pans, and serving dishes before you start cooking. This avoids last-minute scrambling to find that one baking tray or whisk.
What to Prep 10-15 Minutes Before Serving
- Gravy and sauces Warm up creamy mushroom sauce or cranberry sauce right before serving.
- Roasts and veggies Give roasted veggies or your centerpiece a quick reheat in the oven to ensure everything is served piping hot.
- Final touches Add garnishes like fresh herbs, pomegranate seeds, or a drizzle of olive oil to elevate the presentation.
Minimizing Food Waste
Reducing food waste is a top priority for us not just around the holidays but every day. Here are a few tips to help:
Repurpose Leftovers
- Turn roasted veggies into a hearty soup.
- Use leftover vegan loaf slices for sandwiches.
- Crumble leftover dessert into parfaits or layered trifles.
Share the Feast
Encourage guests to take home leftovers in eco-friendly containers or create a food hamper to share the holiday spirit.
With these preparation tips, you can focus on enjoying the day rather than worrying about the details. A little planning goes a long way in creating a smooth and joyful holiday feast!
We hope we’ve given you some great ideas for vegan Christmas dinner recipes. If you’re looking for more ideas, here are a few cookbooks that might help you out.
To all of our friends who celebrate Christmas, we hope you have a merry one!
FAQ
What’s the best vegan alternative for a turkey centerpiece?
The best alternatives are visually stunning and packed with flavor. Consider a Vegan Wellington filled with mushrooms and chestnuts, stuffed butternut squash with cranberries and quinoa, or a store-bought vegan roast that’s ready to serve.
How can I make creamy vegan mashed potatoes?
Use a mix of plant-based butter and unsweetened dairy-free milk like oat or almond milk. Add garlic powder or roasted garlic for extra flavor, and mash until smooth with a potato masher or hand mixer.
Are there any easy vegan holiday appetizers?
Absolutely! Try black bean meatballs with maple glaze, carrot ribbons wrapped in puff pastry (a vegan twist on pigs in blankets), or stuffed mushrooms with breadcrumbs and herbs. They’re simple, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. You can check out our article 10 Vegan Holiday Appetizers That Will WOW Your Guests for more ideas.
Can I make vegan desserts without refined sugar?
Yes! Use natural sweeteners like maple syrup, coconut sugar, or dates. For example, a vegan cheesecake with a date-and-nut crust or an apple crisp sweetened with maple syrup are excellent options.
What’s the secret to a rich, flavorful vegan gravy?
Combine sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic with vegetable broth, a splash of soy sauce, and a thickener like flour or cornstarch. Add nutritional yeast for a savory depth, and finish with a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth.
How do I accommodate multiple dietary restrictions?
Plan dishes that are naturally gluten-free, nut-free, or soy-free, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a lentil loaf. Label dishes so guests can easily identify options that suit their needs.
Can I prepare most of the meal in advance?
Definitely! Desserts like vegan cheesecake or gingerbread cake can be made 1-2 days early. Cranberry sauce and stuffing are also great make-ahead dishes. On the day of, focus on fresh items like salads and reheating prepared dishes.
Are there any store-bought vegan options for Christmas dinner?
Many! Store-bought vegan roasts, dairy-free puff pastry, and pre-made sides like mashed potatoes or gravies can save time and effort. Check local grocery stores for seasonal vegan products.
What’s an easy, festive vegan drink to serve?
Hot chocolate made with coconut milk and topped with vegan marshmallows is a crowd-pleaser. For something spiced, serve mulled wine or a holiday punch with cranberry and apple cider.
