Buzzfeed Vegan Holiday Recipes for Festive Plant-Based Meals

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing delicious meals that bring warmth and joy. If you’re embracing a vegan lifestyle or simply want to explore plant-based dishes this year, BuzzFeed’s vegan holiday recipes offer a fabulous collection of flavorful, festive options that will satisfy everyone at the table.

These recipes are not only vibrant and wholesome but also easy to prepare, making your holiday cooking stress-free and enjoyable. From savory mains to decadent desserts, BuzzFeed has crafted vegan dishes perfect for celebrating the season with compassion and creativity.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based cooking, these recipes bring together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors that make holiday meals memorable. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with guests who may be new to veganism, offering crowd-pleasing dishes that everyone will love.

Let’s dive into some of the best BuzzFeed vegan holiday recipes that will brighten your festive table this year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BuzzFeed’s vegan holiday recipes stand out because they combine simple, accessible ingredients with innovative twists that elevate traditional dishes. These recipes are thoughtfully crafted to maximize flavor without relying on animal products, embracing the richness of vegetables, legumes, nuts, and spices.

They are:

• Easy to make, even for busy holiday cooks
• Perfectly balanced for taste and nutrition
• Flexible enough to accommodate dietary preferences and allergies
• Designed to impress your guests with vibrant colors and textures

Plus, many recipes come with tips and variations to customize for your family’s preferences or to make ahead for added convenience. Whether you’re craving a hearty roast, a savory side, or a sweet treat, these recipes have you covered.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup canned coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot
• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Skillet or frying pan
• Food processor or blender (optional, for smoother texture)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil.
2. Cook lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a large saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.
3. Prepare sweet potatoes: While lentils cook, toss diced sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
5. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, chopped spinach, dried cranberries, maple syrup, lemon juice, and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle pecans evenly on top for a crunchy finish.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer texture, you can pulse the lentil and sweet potato mixture in a food processor before baking, creating a vegan lentil loaf that’s perfect for slicing.”

Here are some ways to make this recipe your own:

• Add mushrooms: Sauté 1 cup of diced mushrooms with onions for a deeper umami flavor.
• Swap nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check all ingredients if you have sensitivities.
• Add grains: Mix in 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra heartiness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chipotle powder for a subtle heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp winter salad, such as a kale and pomegranate salad with a lemon vinaigrette, to add freshness and texture contrast. You might also serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic mashed potatoes for a classic holiday spread.

For a festive touch, garnish plates with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. And don’t forget a warm glass of spiced apple cider or a vegan-friendly red wine to complement the meal perfectly.

Looking for more plant-based holiday inspiration? Check out the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or the hearty Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

Conclusion

BuzzFeed’s vegan holiday recipes offer a wonderful way to celebrate the season with dishes that are both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying an intimate meal, these recipes bring festive cheer through wholesome, plant-based ingredients that everyone will appreciate.

The blend of vibrant flavors, textures, and colors makes these dishes a highlight of any holiday table.

By choosing vegan recipes, you’re embracing a compassionate and healthful lifestyle without sacrificing any of the joy and tradition that come with holiday cooking. So why not try one of these recipes this year and create memorable moments around a kindness-inspired feast?

For more delightful ideas, don’t miss the Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the sweet and tangy Maple Bourbon Pickles Recipe to round out your vegan holiday menu.

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