Christmas Vegetarian Sandwich Recipes for Festive Meals

Updated On: October 8, 2025

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in festive flavors, and what better way to celebrate than with delicious vegetarian sandwiches that capture the essence of Christmas? Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or preparing a quick holiday lunch, these Christmas vegetarian sandwich recipes combine seasonal ingredients, warming spices, and fresh produce to make every bite a celebration of flavor and tradition.

These sandwiches are not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with vibrant colors and textures that will delight both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

From roasted vegetables and creamy cheeses to tangy cranberry sauces and nutty spreads, these recipes bring together the best of winter harvests. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy holiday days.

So, grab your favorite bread, and let’s dive into some festive sandwich creations that will warm your heart and fill your table with joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Christmas vegetarian sandwiches are a wonderful blend of comfort, nutrition, and holiday spirit. They are:

  • Nutritious and wholesome: Packed with fresh vegetables, nuts, and plant-based proteins.
  • Festive and flavorful: Featuring traditional holiday ingredients like cranberry, roasted root vegetables, and savory herbs.
  • Easy to make in advance: Perfect for holiday meal prep or last-minute guests.
  • Customizable: Adaptable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Perfect for sharing: Great for family gatherings, parties, or even a festive packed lunch.

Ingredients

  • 8 slices of hearty whole grain or sourdough bread
  • 1 cup roasted butternut squash, sliced
  • 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese or vegan cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula leaves
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced and caramelized
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg for the squash

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Medium skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Toaster or sandwich press (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash slices and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and if desired, a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for that extra holiday warmth.
  2. Roast: Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  3. Caramelize the onions: While the vegetables roast, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until soft and caramelized. Remove from heat.
  4. Toast the nuts: In a dry pan, lightly toast the pecans or walnuts over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  5. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on four slices of bread. Top each with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
  6. Add layers: On top of the cranberry sauce, layer the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, caramelized onions, fresh spinach or arugula, and toasted nuts.
  7. Close and serve: Top with the remaining bread slices. If desired, toast the sandwiches in a sandwich press or panini maker until the bread is golden and the filling is warmed through.
  8. Slice and enjoy: Cut sandwiches diagonally and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“Elevate your Christmas vegetarian sandwiches by swapping in roasted beets or sweet potatoes for a different twist. For a vegan option, use plant-based cream cheese and check your bread ingredients!”

  • Try different breads: Rye, multigrain, or ciabatta work beautifully with these flavors.
  • Add a spread: Try a layer of pesto or hummus for extra moisture and flavor.
  • Include cheese options: Crumbled feta or goat cheese pairs nicely if you’re not vegan.
  • Sweeten the sandwich: Add thin slices of apple or pear for a crisp, sweet contrast.
  • Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or a few slices of pickled cherry peppers for heat — check out our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for inspiration!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 Sandwich)
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 9 g
Fat 15 g
Carbohydrates 40 g
Fiber 6 g
Sugars 8 g
Vitamin A 120% DV
Vitamin C 30% DV

Serving Suggestions

These vegetarian Christmas sandwiches are best served warm or at room temperature alongside a light side salad featuring winter greens and a tangy vinaigrette. For a festive touch, add a cup of hot apple cider or a spiced herbal tea.

They also pair wonderfully with homemade soups — consider our Christmas Recipes Kerala for some inspiration on seasonal soups and stews.

For dessert, try something sweet and creamy like our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe to round out your meal with a delightful contrast to the savory sandwiches.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Christmas sandwiches are a fantastic way to bring festive cheer to your holiday table without the fuss. They capture the season’s best flavors and textures while being accessible and easy to prepare.

From the sweetness of roasted squash and cranberry sauce to the crunch of toasted nuts and fresh greens, every bite is a celebration of winter’s bounty.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based options to your holiday menu, these sandwiches will satisfy and impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and pairings to make the recipe your own.

And while you’re exploring festive dishes, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a side dish that complements these sandwiches beautifully.

Happy holidays and happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Christmas Vegetarian Sandwich

Description: A festive and flavorful vegetarian sandwich perfect for holiday gatherings. Packed with roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, and creamy cheese for a delicious seasonal treat.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 cup roasted butternut squash, sliced
  • 1 cup roasted Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme; roast for 20 minutes.
  3. Spread cream cheese evenly on 4 slices of bread.
  4. Layer roasted vegetables on top of cream cheese.
  5. Add baby spinach, cranberry sauce, and chopped walnuts.
  6. Top with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
  7. Cut sandwiches in half and serve immediately.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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