Delicious Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Ideas

Gone are the days when vegans/vegetarians had to make do with an overcooked nut roast & a plate of boiled vegetables at Christmas. Thanks to an increase in the popularity of plant-based diets, today's vegetarian Christmas dinners are just as festive, flavourful, and indulgent as their meaty counterparts. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, hosting plant-based guests, or simply looking to add variety to your festive feast, the Monty Booch Vegetarian Christmas Guide will help you create a Christmas dinner to remember.

Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Ideas

A vegetarian Christmas dinner needs a star dish, and there are plenty of options that can rival the traditional roast:

Stuffed Squash or Pumpkin
Roast a butternut squash or small pumpkin stuffed with a mix of wild rice, cranberries, chestnuts, and herbs. Its vibrant colours and hearty filling make it a stunning centrepiece.

Nut Roast & Field Mushroom Wellington
Take a classic nut roast to the next level by wrapping it in golden puff pastry. Add a layer of mushroom duxelles or cranberry sauce inside the pastry for extra flair.

Mushroom and Chestnut Tart
This rich and earthy tart combines sautéed mushrooms, caramelised onions, and roasted chestnuts in a crisp shortcrust base.

Plant-based Vegetarian Side Dishes

Vegetarian sides are often the unsung heroes of Christmas dinner. Here are a few ideas to elevate your spread:

Honey-Roasted Carrots & Parsnips
Swap honey for maple syrup to make this classic dish vegan-friendly. A sprinkle of fresh thyme or a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a sophisticated touch. If you're vegan, substitute honey for maple syrup. 

Spiced Red Cabbage
Slow-cook red cabbage with apples, cloves, and our very own Lady Sourmouth Kombucha for a sweet and tangy accompaniment.

Garlic and Herb Hasselback Potatoes
Thinly slice baby potatoes without cutting all the way through, then bake with garlic butter and rosemary until crisp and golden.

Brussels Sprouts with Chestnuts and Pomegranate Seeds
Sauté Brussels sprouts with chestnuts and finish with a scattering of pomegranate seeds for a dish that’s as festive as it is delicious.

Roasted Balsamic Brassicas
Toss brussels sprouts and cauliflower florets in oil and roast before adding balsamic vinegar to finish.

Festive Starters

Kick off the meal with elegant, vegetarian-friendly starters:

Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Salad
Layer roasted beetroot with creamy goat’s cheese, toasted walnuts, and rocket for a sophisticated, seasonal starter.

Chestnut Soup
A velvety soup made with chestnuts, leeks, and a splash of sherry makes a comforting and luxurious beginning to the meal.

Caramelised Onion Tartlets
Mini tartlets filled with sweet caramelised onions and topped with a crumble of blue cheese or vegan feta are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Mushroom & Walnut Pate
This mushroom & walnut pate is packed full of flavour and umani. We guarantee you won't miss the meat. 

Irresistible Desserts

Don’t forget dessert! Vegetarian and vegan desserts can be just as indulgent:

Christmas Pudding
A traditional Christmas pudding is already vegetarian. Make it vegan by swapping any suet in recipes for a plant-based alternative and using aquafaba or flaxseed as an egg replacement.

Chocolate Yule Log
A rich chocolate sponge rolled with ganache or whipped cream, then dusted with icing sugar for a snowy effect.

Spiced Pear and Almond Tart
Poached pears nestled in a frangipane filling create a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious.


This Christmas, let your vegetarian menu shine with these creative and delicious ideas. Whether you’re keeping it classic or trying something new, a vegetarian Christmas dinner can be as memorable and festive as any traditional feast. Happy cooking and Merry Christmas!