Best Vegan Christmas Nut Roast Recipe for Festive Meals

Updated On: October 5, 2025

The festive season calls for comforting, hearty dishes that bring everyone together, and nothing says Christmas quite like a classic nut roast. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add a wholesome centerpiece to your holiday table, this best vegan Christmas nut roast recipe is sure to impress.

Packed with a rich combination of nuts, vegetables, and herbs, it delivers a delightful texture and deep savory flavors that rival any traditional roast.

This recipe offers a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, with wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and simple to prepare. It’s not only nutritious but also a crowd-pleaser that can accommodate various dietary preferences.

Plus, it pairs beautifully with all your festive sides and gravy. So, get ready to wow your guests with this delicious, plant-based centerpiece that embodies the spirit of Christmas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This nut roast is a celebration of textures and flavors, making it the ultimate vegan holiday dish. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Rich in Plant-Based Protein: The blend of nuts and lentils ensures a satisfying meal that keeps you full and energized.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
  • Customizable: You can swap nuts or add your favorite herbs and spices to tailor it to your taste.
  • Perfect for Entertaining: It slices beautifully and looks stunning on any Christmas table.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead and freeze for stress-free holiday cooking.

Ingredients

  • 150g mixed nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds)
  • 100g cooked green or brown lentils
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 100g chestnuts, chopped (optional but festive!)
  • 75g breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
  • 2 tbsp tomato puree
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
  • 100ml vegetable stock

Equipment

  • Food processor (for chopping nuts and mixing)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Loaf tin (approximately 20cm x 10cm)
  • Frying pan
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Baking paper or non-stick spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir and let it sit for 10 minutes until it thickens to an egg-like consistency.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your loaf tin with olive oil or line it with baking paper.
  3. Toast the nuts: In a dry frying pan over medium heat, lightly toast the mixed nuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Allow to cool slightly.
  4. Chop the nuts: Place the toasted nuts in a food processor and pulse a few times until roughly chopped — not too fine, you want some texture.
  5. Sauté vegetables: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in the frying pan, add the onion and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the grated carrot and chopped chestnuts, cooking for another 3 minutes.
  6. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, tomato puree, soy sauce, herbs, smoked paprika, flax egg, and vegetable stock. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  7. Combine well: Stir everything together until it holds together when pressed. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash more stock.
  8. Transfer to loaf tin: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
  10. Cool and slice: Let the nut roast cool for at least 15 minutes before removing from the tin and slicing. This helps it set and slice cleanly.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra festive touch, try adding dried cranberries or chopped apricots to the mix for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.”

  • Nut choices: Use any nuts you prefer such as pecans or hazelnuts. Keep a mix for texture.
  • Make it gluten-free: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
  • Herb variations: Swap thyme and rosemary for sage or marjoram to change the flavor profile.
  • Make ahead: The nut roast freezes well before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
  • Serving tip: Add a homemade mushroom gravy or vegan cranberry sauce to enhance flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories 280 kcal
Protein 10g
Fat 18g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 3g
Sodium 350mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan nut roast pairs beautifully with the classics and some modern twists alike. Serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich vegan gravy for a traditional feel.

For a fresh contrast, a vibrant winter salad with pomegranate seeds or a tangy cranberry sauce adds a lovely pop of color and flavor. Don’t forget a side of warm crusty bread or vegan stuffing to round out the meal.

Looking for more festive recipes? Try our Lump Of Coal Recipe for a sweet treat after your feast, or bake a delicious Marzipan Challah Recipe to accompany your dinner.

For the perfect dough to start your holiday baking, check out our Magic Dough Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan Christmas nut roast is a fantastic addition to your holiday menu, offering a delicious, nourishing alternative to traditional roasts. Its combination of nuts, lentils, and fresh herbs creates a dish that’s both satisfying and festive, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

By making this recipe, you contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate holiday meal without compromising on flavor or presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or exploring plant-based options for the first time, this nut roast is a comforting, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that embodies the warmth and joy of Christmas.

Don’t forget to explore more holiday favorites on our site to keep your festive spirit alive all season long!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Christmas Nut Roast

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan nut roast perfect for the holiday season. Packed with nuts, vegetables, and herbs for a festive centerpiece.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT80M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, cashews), chopped
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup cooked green lentils
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  3. In a large bowl, combine nuts, rice, carrot, lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, flaxseed mixture, soy sauce, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix well until ingredients are evenly combined.
  5. Press the mixture firmly into a greased loaf tin.
  6. Bake for 60 minutes or until firm and golden on top.
  7. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Marta K

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