For a long time, those of us who eat plant-based have been on the sidelines for holiday meal considerations. In a time when we want to connect more with our loved ones, it can be awkward when there isn’t something meat or dairy-free we can eat around the table.
Thankfully, whether you’re preparing the dinner spread for your family gathering, or are bringing a dish to a potluck, there are so many more options now for those who prefer a vegan, plant-based meal, or simply want to enjoy the holidays like everyone else.
Preparing for holiday gatherings
The best way to impress with a great plant-based meal or dish is to get ahead with your prep. If you don’t already know what you’re going to make, settle on one or a couple of recipes first. If you need to go to a few places to get your ingredients, you can put your shopping list together well ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling last minute on a holiday, when the stores are typically busy.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Charcuterie boards with vegan meats, vegan cheese, jams, and fruit
- Vegan roasts
- Vegetable side dishes: Roasted yams, brussels sprouts, etc.
- Mashed potatoes with mushroom or miso gravy
- Desserts
- Vegan wine or bubbly beverages
- Small gifts or stocking stuffers
There are SO many veg-friendly recipes online—you can find them on Pinterest, from the plant-based cooks you might already follow, or take a look at some of our favorites featured on vKind and enjoy the deliciousness.
If you need to brush up on your cooking skills, you could even take a class in your area, which will give you a recipe you’ll already know how to make!
Shopping for what you need
Aside from your local grocery store, you can support a vegan grocer or online retailer to ensure that you have everything you need to make your star dishes. It’s so important to support these businesses and the ones you’ll be buying gifts from to keep the VegEconomy™ going during the holidays.
Also, there’s no shame in ordering in! There are lots of vegan bakeries, caterers, and other vegan food businesses that deliver and save you time if cooking doesn’t work for your schedule.
Serving your holiday meal
If you’re hosting, set out a festive tablecloth, dishes, cutlery, glassware, and napkins in advance to save time. For a pro move, set out easy-to-find decorations like leaves, twigs, and name tags.
Food is a great conversation starter. When guests ask what you used to make your impressive dish or where you got a certain product, it’s a great opportunity to share more about the vegan businesses you support, and why.
Finally, don’t stress about the details! The holidays are a great time to ask for help if you need it, and quality time is way more important than perfecting the presentation.
Search vKind’s app or website for all of your holiday meal preparations or gift-giving needs. You can also download our curated guide of companies that are part of the VegEconomy™ here.
Happy holidays!
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