5 Alternative Festive Foods

Christmas may not be Christmas without turkey and all the trimmings, but why not add something new to your festive fare? As the sole vegetarian in my family (and though I’m lucky my mum enjoys the challenge!), I know it can be tricky to think of inspiring dishes other than the classic nut roast. That’s why I’ve made sure a few of these ideas are suitable – or can be tweaked - for veggies and vegans. Here are my top 5 alternative festive recipes...  

1. Aimee's Lentil Roast (Vegan)

With balsamic onion gravy. This will be the second meat-free Christmas for Aimee, our BTHOUGHTFUL contributor and the writer behind Wallflower Girl. She’s tried and tested this vegan-friendly recipe to get it just right and best of all, it takes just 10 mins to prep – just pop it in the oven after and you’re done.  

2. Salmon en croute - From Simone's Kitchen

Simone, of the blog Simone’s Kitchen, recommends making the pastry for this dish (it’s so easy), but you can buy it if you prefer. You can also easily swap salmon for mushrooms or beef if you need to cater for specific diets – or preferences!  

3. Almond, Thyme and Beetroot Galette

I’ve previously made Smitten Kitchen’s roasted leek and white bean galettes (delicious!), so I’m keen to try this more festive version from The Pool. You definitely need a bit of time to make these so try making the pastry in advance (up to 2 days). If you do make Smitten Kitchen’s recipe, I’d recommend using a touch more flour, especially on your hands, so the pastry doesn’t get too sticky and hard to manage. Either of these recipes makes for a really yum veggie Christmas main.  

4. Winter Root Salad + Citrus Dressing

This colourful side is the perfect accompaniment to Aimee’s Lentil Roast. It’s full of healthy stuff like beetroots, kale and juicy in-season clementines, with roasted cashews, almonds and seeds for a good amount of crunch.  

5. Aimee's Raw Christmas Pudding Bites

These festive puds are likely to be the talking point of your Christmas Day or ‘do’ – they’re so charming. But don’t be fooled by their indulgent appearance: the recipe itself is deceptively healthy and full of nuts, dates, veg and a sprinkling of spirulina powder.   Let us know if you have any alternative festive recipes of your own. Or if you try any of these out – we’d love to know how you get on.