There’s something magical about inviting friends—or your significant other—over for a “Come Dine With Me” style evening. The laughter, the friendly competition, and the chance to show off your culinary flair all combine for unforgettable memories!
But when it comes to choosing a menu that’s both crowd-pleasing and suitable for vegetarians, the challenge can seem real. That’s where this compilation of Come Dine With Me couples vegetarian recipes shines.
These recipes are designed for two but can easily be doubled for a dinner party, providing a variety of flavors and textures that will wow your guests, whether they are vegetarian or not. From a show-stopping main course to a vibrant starter and a decadent dessert, you’ll find everything you need for an impressive, plant-based dinner night at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes these vegetarian recipes perfect for a “Come Dine With Me” couples’ night? Each dish is crafted to be simple yet elegant, striking that sweet spot between easy assembly and restaurant-style presentation.
The ingredients are accessible, the flavors bold, and the finished plates are as beautiful as they are satisfying.
Whether you’re looking to impress your partner or dazzle friends with your cooking skills, these recipes are sure to spark conversation and leave everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, you’ll find they’re healthy, colorful, and full of plant-based goodness—no one will miss the meat!
Ingredients
Below, you’ll find the ingredients for a complete three-course vegetarian dinner for two. Each recipe is listed separately so you can mix and match, or prepare the whole menu for a truly special meal.
Starter: Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Medium beets, cooked and peeled | 2 |
| Mixed salad greens | 3 cups |
| Goat cheese | 2 oz |
| Walnuts, toasted | 1/4 cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Main: Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Jumbo pasta shells | 12 |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh spinach, chopped | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Marinara sauce | 2 cups |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Dessert: Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ripe avocados | 2 |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/4 cup |
| Maple syrup | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Sea salt | Pinch |
| Fresh berries, for serving | 1/2 cup |
Equipment
- Baking tray (for roasting beets and toasting walnuts)
- Large pot (for boiling pasta shells)
- Mixing bowls
- Oven-safe baking dish (for stuffed shells)
- Blender or food processor (for mousse)
- Whisk
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad spinner or colander (for greens)
Instructions
Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 40-50 minutes until tender. Let cool, then peel and slice into rounds or wedges.
- Toast the walnuts on a baking tray for 5-7 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Toss the salad greens with half the olive oil and arrange on two plates.
- Top with beet slices, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.
- Drizzle with remaining olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Creamy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Wilt the spinach in a skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Mix ricotta, spinach, egg, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Fill each shell with 1-2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture.
- Spread half the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange filled shells on top. Spoon remaining sauce over shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.
Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse
- Scoop avocado flesh into a blender or food processor.
- Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for best texture.
- Spoon into serving glasses and top with fresh berries before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Make it vegan: Substitute vegan cheese for goat, ricotta, and mozzarella. Try cashew ricotta or tofu-based cheeses for delicious results.
- Switch up the greens: Use arugula, baby kale, or even shredded Brussels sprouts in the salad for a twist.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle homemade croutons or roasted chickpeas on the salad.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of homemade chilli powder to the stuffed shell filling for a gentle kick.
- Dessert boost: For extra decadence, swirl a spoonful of almond butter into the mousse or sprinkle with chopped dark chocolate.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta shells or swap for zucchini boats as a base for the filling.
“The best dinner parties are about great food, laughter, and making everyone feel welcome. Don’t be afraid to add your personal flair to these recipes!”
Nutrition Facts
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving of the full three-course meal:
| Course | Calories | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beet & Goat Cheese Salad | 220 | 6 | 18 | 14 | 5 |
| Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells | 430 | 23 | 51 | 14 | 6 |
| Chocolate Avocado Mousse | 280 | 4 | 30 | 17 | 7 |
| Total | 930 | 33 | 99 | 45 | 18 |
Note: Actual values may vary based on brands and serving sizes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the salad with a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc or a sparkling elderflower mocktail for a refreshing start.
- Serve the stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a heartier main.
- Finish with mousse and a cup of rich espresso or herbal tea for the perfect ending.
- Set the scene: Dim the lights, add candles, and play your favorite dinner playlist for extra ambiance.
- For a bigger party: Simply double or triple the recipes to serve 4-6 guests. These dishes scale beautifully!
Conclusion
Hosting a “Come Dine With Me” style evening is all about bringing people together over food that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. These vegetarian recipes are designed to impress, whether you’re a seasoned cook or hosting your first dinner party.
With a balance of flavors, stunning presentation, and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll find yourself reaching for these dishes again and again.
For more plant-based inspiration, check out Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals or explore global flavors with Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals. Ready to get creative?
The possibilities are endless—so gather your ingredients, invite your favorite people, and let the dinner party magic begin!
Come Dine With Me Couples Vegetarian Recipes: The Ultimate Listicle
If you love variety for your dinner parties, here are 5 more unforgettable vegetarian recipes perfect for couples—or your next “Come Dine With Me” challenge!
-
Thai Red Curry with Tofu & Vegetables
- Rich, fragrant, and easy to customize spice levels. Serve with jasmine rice and fresh lime wedges.
- Find more Asian inspiration in our Asian Vegetarian Main Course Recipes for Every Meal.
-
Vegetarian Mushroom Wellington
- Hearty portobello mushrooms wrapped in golden puff pastry with a savory spinach filling. Perfect for a show-stopping main course.
- Try the festive Becel Vegan Mushroom Wellington Recipe for Festive Meals version too!
-
Chickpea & Vegetable Tagine
- Slow-cooked North African stew with chickpeas, apricots, and warming spices. Serve over fluffy couscous.
- Discover more chickpea magic in Chickpea Recipes Vegetarian Stew Ideas for Healthy Meals.
-
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Lentils & Quinoa
- Colorful peppers brimming with a protein-packed filling, topped with melty cheese or vegan alternative.
- Great with a side of Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love.
-
Lemon Posset with Fresh Berries
- A silky, citrusy British classic that’s vegetarian and utterly dreamy. Top with local berries for a modern twist.
- For a dairy-free finish, try Almond Pudding Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Dessert.
With these recipes in your arsenal, your next “Come Dine With Me” couples’ night will be nothing short of spectacular. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Feta
Description: A colorful vegetarian dish perfect for couples, featuring bell peppers stuffed with quinoa, vegetables, and feta cheese. This recipe is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare together.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, and zucchini for 5 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 more minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, feta, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 290 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 36 g
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