Looking for a hearty, satisfying vegetarian main dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions? Nut roast is a classic choice that combines wholesome nuts, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs to create a delicious centerpiece that even meat-eaters will love.
Unlike many vegetarian dishes, nut roast offers a wonderful texture and rich flavor that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, this collection of the best vegetarian nut roast recipes will inspire you to create something truly memorable in your kitchen.
In this post, you’ll discover multiple variations of nut roast recipes, each with unique ingredients and flavor profiles to suit your tastes. From traditional nut roasts with mushrooms and carrots to creative versions with lentils, quinoa, or sun-dried tomatoes, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
Plus, I’ll share tips for perfect roasting, ingredient swaps, and ideas for serving. Ready to dive into the comforting world of nut roasts?
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nut roast offers a fantastic blend of textures and flavors, combining crunchy nuts, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s a protein-packed, nutrient-dense alternative to meatloaf that satisfies both vegetarians and omnivores alike.
The beauty of nut roast lies in its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite nuts, veggies, and seasonings.
Additionally, nut roast is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days or holiday feasts. It freezes well, reheats beautifully, and pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a rich gravy.
This dish is not only delicious but also nourishing, offering fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
Ingredients
Classic Nut Roast
- 200g mixed nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds)
- 150g breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 150g mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 100g cooked brown lentils
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
- 100ml vegetable stock
Variations and Extras
- Replace lentils with cooked quinoa for a lighter texture
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a tangy twist
- Include chopped fresh herbs like parsley or sage for extra aroma
- Top with grated cheese or a nut crust for added crunch
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Food processor (optional, for chopping nuts and veggies)
- Frying pan or skillet
- Baking tin or loaf pan (approx. 9×5 inches)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your loaf pan with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Toast the nuts: Place mixed nuts in a dry frying pan over medium heat and toast for 5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool, then roughly chop or pulse in a food processor.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same pan, heat olive oil and add chopped onion, garlic, mushrooms, and grated carrot. Cook for 7-10 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the chopped nuts, breadcrumbs, cooked lentils, tomato puree, and soy sauce.
- Add sautéed vegetables to the bowl with dry ingredients and mix well.
- Bind the mixture: Beat the eggs with vegetable stock and pour into the nut mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine into a sticky, moldable dough. If vegan, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) instead.
- Transfer and press: Spoon the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press down firmly to compact it.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Cool slightly: Remove from the oven and let the nut roast cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
“For a firmer nut roast, allow the mixture to rest in the fridge for an hour before baking. This helps it set and slice cleanly.”
- Nut options: Use a combination of walnuts, pecans, almonds, and cashews for varied texture and flavor.
- Vegetable add-ins: Try adding finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or sweet potato for extra nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes to give your nut roast a unique kick.
- Glaze ideas: Brush the top with cranberry sauce, tomato ketchup, or a balsamic glaze during the last 10 minutes of baking for a delicious finish.
- Make it vegan: Swap eggs with flax or chia seeds and use vegan Worcestershire sauce instead of soy for a fully plant-based roast.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 14 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sugar | 3 g |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Nut roast pairs beautifully with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and rich vegetarian gravy. For a lighter meal, serve slices on a bed of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette or alongside steamed green beans and quinoa salad.
For a festive touch, add cranberry sauce or a dollop of horseradish cream on the side. You can also incorporate this nut roast into sandwiches or wraps with fresh lettuce and mustard for a delicious lunch option.
Conclusion
Nut roast is a timeless vegetarian dish that delivers both comfort and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to tailor the recipe to your preferences, making it suitable for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to holiday celebrations.
With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and easy preparation, this collection of the best vegetarian nut roast recipes is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and seasonings to create your perfect nut roast. For more delicious vegetarian ideas and comforting meals, be sure to explore our other recipes like Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe, Cheese Penny Recipe, and Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!
đź“– Recipe Card: Best Vegetarian Nut Roast
Description: A hearty and flavorful nut roast packed with nuts, vegetables, and herbs. Perfect as a main dish for vegetarians and vegans alike.
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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Toast the chopped nuts in a dry pan until golden.
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- In a large bowl, combine nuts, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Press mixture firmly into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until firm and golden on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 25 g
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