15+ Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Ideas for a Festive Feast

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The holiday season is all about gathering with family and friends over delicious food and treasured traditions. But planning a Christmas dinner can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re balancing different dietary needs, like serving up a meal that keeps everyone, including your vegetarian guests, happy with tasty vegetable sides. No worries! We’ve rounded up over 15 mouth-watering vegetarian Christmas dinner dishes that everyone at the table will love.

From savoury starters and filling mains to irresistible sides and desserts, these recipes are packed with flavour and festive colour. Join us as we look through the dishes with you. Let your holiday meal be a true centrepiece for joy! 

Irresistible Holiday Starters to Kick Off the Feast

Start your holiday feast with these irresistible vegetarian appetisers that are sure to wow your guests from the first bite! From Stuffed Artichokes and Christmas Deviled Eggs to Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, these flavour-packed starters set the stage for a memorable meal. We’ll dive into each delicious option below!

Stuffed Artichokes

Ever seen artichokes transformed into tiny edible treasure chests? This Stuffed Artichoke appetiser revamps an ordinary vegetable into a delightful starter that’s perfect for your festive holiday spread. The tender artichoke works as an excellent vessel, helping to hold, heat, and flavour the stuffing.

The stuffing, packed with melted cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes, and garlic, is bursting with flavour. Each stuffed artichoke promises a bite filled with a blend of textures – crunchy from the breadcrumbs, chewy from the artichoke leaves, and creamy from the delectable cheese. It’s an appetiser that meanders on the right side of the filling – just enough to whet your appetite without spoiling the main meal.

Christmas Deviled Eggs

Turn a timeless classic into a festive favourite with these Christmas Deviled Eggs. These are no ordinary deviled eggs – we’re turning them into delightful little Christmas trees. The creamy egg yolk filling topped with fresh green herbs mimicking tree leaves and chopped red bell pepper acting as Christmas baubles make them visually appealing and enhance the flavour.

This appetiser delivers holiday magic in every bite, with fresh herbs and red bell pepper adding a festive twist! A stunning dish that’s sure to dazzle your guests from the very first taste.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Dip and mingle while waiting for the main course with this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. It’s a versatile appetiser that pairs well with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or your favourite cracker. To make it festive, the hummus gets a splash of colour from the roasted red peppers, bringing both taste and aesthetic appeal to the dip.

Adding the peppers gives this hummus a sweet, slightly smoky flavour that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, tangy chickpea base. It’s a swift and easy appetiser that you can whip up in minutes in your trusty slow cooker, but rest assured – its delectable taste will linger on your taste buds for much longer!

Cheesy Spinach Dip Christmas Tree

A festive twist on the ever-popular spinach artichoke dip, our Cheesy Spinach Dip Christmas Tree is as much a centrepiece as it is an appetiser. This edible masterpiece features flaky puff pastry stuffed with a decadent cheese-spinach filling moulded into an adorable Christmas tree shape. It adds a whimsical element to your table – one that is appetising and, oh, of course, conversation-starting!

This spinach dip doesn’t just look good; it also bursts with flavour. The creamy, cheesy filling enhances the umami taste of spinach, creating a treat that guests can’t resist. Served alongside crackers or strips of crusty bread, this appetiser will disappear off the platter in minutes, we promise!

Hearty Holiday Mains That Steal the Show

Christmas dinner is often all about that prime rib or turkey, but vegetarians deserve a main course that’s just as festive and satisfying, right? So, we’ve put together a spread of mouth-watering, meat-free main dishes packed with flavour and made to impress! From classic recipes with a vegetarian twist to creative new creations, these dishes are sure to be a centrepiece that even the pickiest eaters at your Christmas table will love.

Pasta with Vodka Sauce

Who doesn’t love pasta? It’s the perfect go-to for a stress-free vegetarian main course. This Pasta with Vodka Sauce is comforting and easy to make yet packed with flavour. The creamy sauce gets its unique depth from a mix of tomatoes and vodka, which adds a tangy kick that brings out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes. 

A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of freshness, while a little parmesan on top takes it over the top. Serve it hot, and get ready to watch your guests dig in with delight!

Also read: Creamy pasta with vodka!

Nut Roast

No Christmas dinner is complete without a classic roast, and for those looking for a vegetarian twist, the Nut Roast is the perfect option. This hearty “meat” loaf, made with chickpeas and mushrooms, is sure to impress your guests. 

The chickpeas bring a satisfying, meaty texture, while the earthy mushrooms add a rich, savoury note. A touch of herbs gives it that extra depth of flavour that makes it just as delicious—if not better—than a traditional roast. Serve it alongside mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting, veggie-filled Christmas feast everyone will enjoy!

Cauliflower Wellington

Get ready to wow your guests with the Cauliflower Wellington, an impressive vegetarian take on the classic Beef Wellington. Instead of beef, a whole roasted cauliflower takes centre stage, wrapped in a buttery puff pastry and baked to perfection. 

The cauliflower stays tender and juicy on the inside while developing a beautiful golden crust on the outside. With a blend of spices and a rich gravy on the side, this dish isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s flavoursome, too. It’s sure to steal the show at your holiday table, and your guests will be coming back for more!

You can check out our latest cauliflower recipes here. 

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A cosy and yet festive Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is just the dish you need for a vegetarian Christmas dinner. The pumpkin puree adds a hint of sweetness, lending a unique twist to the classic mac and cheese recipe.

Perfectly cooked pasta, smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a golden layer of crunchy breadcrumbs—this dish is the ultimate comfort food. The blend of creamy and crispy textures makes it the perfect cosy treat for a chilly Christmas evening, especially when you’re curled up by the fireplace.

Want to try macaroni cheese (mac and cheese)? Check out the recipe here. 

Vegan Mushroom Pot Pie

 

The Vegan Mushroom Pot Pie is a steaming hot treat filled with creamy gravy, sweet and tender veggies, and topped with a flaky pastry crust. Earthy mushrooms replace meat in this pot pie and offer as much satisfaction as their meaty counterparts.

It’s the ultimate hearty, comforting meal to enjoy with loved ones on a chilly holiday evening. The golden, flaky puff pastry adds a touch of festive elegance, while the rich filling makes every bite indulgent. And even though it’s completely plant-based, this pot pie is so delicious it’ll win over even the most dedicated meat-eaters!

If you’re a mushroom lover, you have to check out the 20 delicious mushroom dinner recipes!

Perfectly Savoury Sides to Complete Your Holiday Feast

The right side dishes can elevate any meal, adding depth and contrast to your main course. We’ve got a selection of vegetarian sides—like Stuffed Shells, Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes, Saag Paneer, Pear & Blue Cheese Tart, and Sizzled Sprouts with Pistachios & Pomegranate—that are a great way to shine. Let’s dig into each one below!

Stuffed Shells

If you like lasagna, you’re going to love our stuffed shells. Think of them as lasagna turned inside-out – mini shells are stuffed with creamy, garlicky ricotta and heavy cream cream cheese filling, then smothered in a hearty marinara sauce. The contrasting textures of the shell pasta and the creamy, cheesy filling create an intriguing mouthfeel.

These shells aren’t just a side dish; they also make an eye-pleasing addition to your holiday table. Soft yet holding its shape, creamy on the inside but firm on the outside, this side dish might steal the show!

Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes

You simply can’t go wrong with a classic like scalloped potatoes. Our Crock-Pot Scalloped Potatoes offer a creamy, cheesy, comforting side dish that can easily feed a Christmas crowd.

Made with simple ingredients and cooked low and slow in a crock pot, these potatoes turn out perfectly tender, soaking up the rich gruyère and sharp white cheddar sauce. Best of all, this hands-free dish lets you focus on other parts of your meal while the potatoes become a cheesy, melty delight.

Saag Paneer

For a touch of Indian flavour this Christmas, try making Saag Paneer! This rich, hearty curry is a favourite in Indian restaurants and is easy to whip up at home. 

Made with paneer (Indian cheese) and spinach simmered in aromatic spices, it’s a flavourful vegetarian dish. Serve it with rice or naan, and feel free to customise—swap in extra-firm tofu for a vegan version and use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free twist.

Also read: Palak paneer recipe!

Pear and Blue Cheese Tart with Walnut Pastry

Try the Pear and Blue Cheese Tart with Walnut Pastry for a show-stopping side. The sweet pears, tangy blue cheese, and nutty walnut crust create a delicious harmony of flavours. 

The crisp crust perfectly complements the soft pear and cheese filling, offering a variety of textures in every bite. Elegant and flavourful, this tart pairs beautifully with a simple salad and can double as a lighter vegetarian main. The savoury-sweet balance is sure to impress!

Sizzled sprouts with pistachios & pomegranate

Add a burst of festive cheer to your table with Sizzled Sprouts with Pistachios & Pomegranate. Imagine crispy sprouts, crunchy pistachios, and juicy pomegranates coming together in a vibrant, flavourful harmony. 

This colourful dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Simple yet festive, it celebrates seasonal produce and bright holiday colours, making it a unique and memorable addition to your Christmas dinner.

Irresistible Vegetarian Gravies and Sauces to Perfect Your Meal

What’s a feast without a rich gravy or sauce to bring everything together? Vegetarian gravies and sauces can elevate your meal, adding depth and flavour. From a creamy Three-Cheese Sauce to a savoury Butternut Squash Risotto, these options tie your dishes together for a satisfying experience. Let’s explore them below!

Three-Cheese Sauce

No one can deny the allure of a good cheese sauce, and a three-cheese sauce is a delight that’s hard to pass up. This sauce combines different types of cheese, each contributing its unique flavour and texture, resulting in a creamy and rich sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over pasta or vegetables. 

The indulgent mix of flavours would be a sure-shot crowd-pleaser at the dinner table. Plus, a generous dollop of this Three-Cheese Sauce can make any dish more festive, perfect for that special Christmas dinner!

Also read: Vegetables in cheese sauce recipe!

Butternut Squash Risotto

For something a little different, try Butternut Squash Risotto, which adds a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess to your meal. The squash’s subtle sweetness complements the savoury risotto, creating a dish that’s creamy but not too heavy. It’s a great side for your main course, and you can easily make it vegan by swapping chicken broth for vegetable stock. This rich, flavourful risotto is the perfect sauce to enhance any dish on your Christmas menu!

Sweet Finishes: Desserts to End Your Holiday Feast on a High Note

No Christmas Day dinner is complete without a sweet grand finale. Treat your taste buds to a selection of delicious vegetarian desserts that’ll leave everyone smiling. From the elegant Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Terrine to the wholesome Sweet Potato, Chestnut, and Apricot Loaf, each dessert brings festive cheer to every bite. You’re in for a joyful, sweet ending to your holiday feast!

Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Terrine

This Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Terrine is a vibrant twist on classic Christmas colours, offering a striking visual and a unique flavour experience. The creamy, tangy goat’s cheese is layered between beautifully glazed beetroot, creating a balance of sweet and tart. The result is a delicious blend of flavours that looks stunning and tastes amazing—making it a perfect finish to your festive meal.

Sweet Potato, Chestnut, and Apricot Loaf

To round off your feast, try the Sweet Potato, Chestnut, and Apricot Loaf. The combination of sweet potatoes, nutty chestnuts, and tangy apricots creates a burst of flavour with every bite. The loaf is moist, tender, and totally satisfying, offering a delicious dessert that hits the spot without overloading sugar. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, so you can enjoy this sweet treat without any guilt—making it the perfect way to end your holiday meal!

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian, looking to cut back on meat, or just want to try something different this holiday season, these healthy Christmas recipes and Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Ideas have you covered. From fresh takes on classic favourites to entirely new creations, each dish highlights the goodness of vegetarian ingredients.

Christmas is all about love, joy, and, of course, great food—so why not share these delicious meatless options with your loved ones? We promise they won’t even miss the meat! After all, it’s not about the turkey but the amazing food, the company, and the love that make the meal truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular vegetarian alternative to a turkey dinner at Christmas?

A popular replacement for the traditional turkey dinner at Christmas for vegetarians would be a Nut Roast. This tasteful loaf, filled with a blend of vegetables, lentils, and nuts, delivers a rich, hearty flavour that mimics the texture and robustness of a meat-based roast.

What veg do you have at Christmas?

The Christmas menu can include an array of veggies – Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, green beans, carrots, and parsnips are traditionally used. These can be roasted, mashed, or made into casseroles and served as delicious sides. Hearty vegetables like cauliflower and butternut squash also make excellent vegetarian main courses.

What do you eat for Christmas dinner in India?

In India, Christmas dinner varies by region but commonly includes dishes like roast chicken or turkey and flavourful pulao or biryani. In Kerala, appams with stew are popular, while in Goa, vindaloo and rich fruit cakes are staples. Sweets like kulkuls and neureos add a festive touch, and curries with rice are often enjoyed. The meal blends indian spices with Western holiday traditions, making for a hearty and flavourful celebration.