Your Guide to a Plant-Based Holiday
As we all travel home for the holidays, we will surely be greeted by feasts with family and friends. Many traditional holiday menus are centered around a meat entree but for vegans, vegetarians and those just looking for a lighter choice, plant-based alternatives are the way to go. You can still enjoy the flavors of the season and the comfort of your distinguished guests while honoring your dietary preferences.
Not sure what recipes will satisfy this holiday? Below is a sample menu we think would surely make the season bright!
Appetizer: Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Soup
Warm up with this gluten and dairy-free creamy roasted red pepper tomato soup. It is simple to make and requires just 30 minutes from start to finish. It is rich in flavor so it is perfect to simply sip on, yet equally as great to use as a dipper for a plant-based grilled “cheese” or with oven-fresh bread.
Entree: Vegan Caesar Salad
The classic Caesar salad is a hit almost anywhere you go and, with a few tweaks, is easily able to be made vegan-friendly. This recipe even includes a homemade dressing recipe for the salad that sounds delicious and filling as it contains nutritional yeast as one of the key ingredients.
Side Dish I: Five-Spice Roasted Carrots With Toasted Almonds
Inspired by traditional Chinese cuisine, this recipe blends the earthy taste of carrots with ancient spices and almonds to make a caramelized side dish that will wow the taste buds of all of your guests.
Side Dish II: Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Are you a fan of the classics? If so, this recipe is for you. While potatoes are naturally vegan, the butter that is often added to make them mashed is not, but this delicious recipe will have you wondering why you ever felt the need to add butter in the first place.
Dessert: Vegan Pumpkin Pie
With just 9 ingredients, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds or thirds (we won’t tell)! Want to make this treat even more delectable? Top it off with homemade coconut-free vegan whipped cream! This is a 5-minute recipe and you’ll be lucky to keep it around that long— it’s just that good!
These recipes are tried and true by the staff here at The Edge and we want to see what you create this holiday season! If you make any of these recipes or have one of your own that you think we should try, tag us on Instagram @theedgemag! We wish you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays!
Cover photo from Nora Cooks.