Winter may not be the most ideal season for vegans and vegetarians seeking fresh, plant-based options. As the temperature drops, our cravings shift towards warm, comforting meals that provide sustenance and coziness. It’s during these chilly months that we reach for recipes featuring nutrient-dense ingredients like avocados, black beans, and chickpeas.
Soups, stews, and flaky pastries become the perfect solutions for a cold winter’s day, providing the warmth and nourishment our bodies crave.
Moreover, maintaining optimal health during this season requires incorporating foods that support immunity and fend off common winter ailments like colds and sniffles.
To help you navigate the season with ease, I’ve curated a list of 21 scrumptious vegan and vegetarian winter recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Green Shakshuka with Chard, Zucchini and Peas – Best Vegetarian Winter Recipe!
I’m a sucker for Jack’s Wife Frieda’s green shakshuka in NYC – there’s something about the cozy atmosphere that keeps me coming back. But when I stumbled upon Lindsay’s version with tomatillos and cilantro, my curiosity was piqued. Tomatillos are amazing, but they feel like a West Coast ingredient to me, and they’re not as common on the East Coast where I’m based. So, I started wondering what other ingredients could work as a base for a green shakshuka sauce that feels more local and comforting.
Flipping through my old cookbook, one recipe caught my eye: my mom’s green goddess soup. It was a blend of zucchini, chard, and cilantro with a squeeze of lemon juice. When I first tried it, I was surprised by how tasty it was, despite the unappealing color. The combination of earthy zucchini and chard gave the soup a hearty base, while the cilantro and lemon juice added brightness without making it feel heavy.
This got me thinking – maybe my mom’s green goddess soup could inspire a new kind of green shakshuka base that balances those same flavors without tomatillos. It’s amazing how our tastes evolve over time. Now, I’m excited to experiment with bringing my mom’s recipe into a shakshuka format, inspired by Lindsay’s unique take on the classic dish.
Vegetarian High Protein Coconut Curry Red Lentil Soup
Allow me to introduce you to the humble lentil, often overshadowed by more exotic legumes but secretly a powerhouse in Indian cuisine. Its versatility has earned it a spot in many a plant-based eater’s repertoire. Despite their small size, lentils pack a nutritional punch – one cup boasts an impressive 18 grams of protein, along with iron, fiber, magnesium, and calcium. In my book, that makes them a superfood worth getting to know.
Over the past year, I’ve made it a point to incorporate them into my cooking, adding them to everything from hearty soups to fresh salads. They’re my go-to for completing any meal, especially when animal protein is off the menu. One dish in particular has become a staple in our household: easy coconut curry red lentil soup. This creamy, comforting concoction has won over even the pickiest of eaters – including my kids!
It’s a game-changer, and I’m thrilled to have it as a regular in our weekly rotation.
Low-Carb Mexican Cauliflower Rice Comfort Food Recipe
Mexican rice, a staple side dish in many cuisines, is surprisingly adaptable to keto diets. By substituting regular rice with cauliflower rice, individuals on a ketogenic diet can still indulge in this flavorful favorite without compromising their dietary goals.
The winning combination of sautéed onions, garlic, jalapeños, tomatoes, and bell peppers, seasoned with paprika, cumin, coriander, and other spices, yields a keto-friendly version that’s every bit as vibrant and aromatic as its traditional counterpart. The cauliflower rice plays a clever accomplice, absorbing the rich flavors so seamlessly that it’s almost undetectable.
In short, this keto Mexican rice is an absolute fiesta for the palate! The best part?
It’s a testament to the versatility of cauliflower rice, which can effortlessly replace traditional grains in many recipes and retain their original zest.
Vegan Penne Alla Vodka with Tomatoes and Cashews
Indulge in a delectable vegan pasta dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour. With just 10 ingredients at your disposal, you can whip up this creamy delight in under 30 minutes. The foundation of the dish lies in a harmonious blend of onions, garlic, oregano, and a splash of vodka – a flavorful combination that will leave you wanting more. The addition of vibrant tomatoes adds a pop of color, while cashews bring a luxurious touch with their rich, smooth texture.
Serve this satisfying pasta alongside a crisp house salad and your favorite Italian red wine for a cozy, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Cozy Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Indulge in a satisfying vegetarian dinner with spinach and ricotta stuffed shells, a dish that combines rich flavors with ease of preparation. Each jumbo shell is carefully filled with a savory blend of creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan cheese, complemented by wilted spinach, aromatic garlic, and a medley of seasonings. The result is a bold and comforting culinary experience that can be achieved in under 30 minutes, leaving everyone at the table completely satisfied.
Orecchiette Vegetarian Pasta with Broccoli Sauce, Shallots, Miso, and Lemon Zest
While orecchiette isn’t a pasta I typically gravitate towards, this recipe had me hooked from the start. The harmonious blend of melted cheese, tender broccoli, caramelized shallots, and the subtle yet tangy flavors of miso, lemon zest, and balanced seasonings creates an unforgettable culinary experience.
This dish has a depth that satisfies your appetite, an explosion of flavor in every bite, and just the right amount of zing to keep things engaging.
To be honest, it’s so captivating that I’m already considering making it again!
Best Vegetarian Lasagna with Leeks, Fennel, Red Onions, Zucchini, Mushrooms, Carrots, Cherry Tomatoes, Kale, Herbs and Spices
Imagine sinking your teeth into a vegetarian lasagna so packed with flavor, even the most devoted meat-eaters will be converted. It’s an undertaking worth the extra effort, as layer upon layer of mouthwatering ingredients meld together in perfect harmony. The foundation is rich and creamy, courtesy of velvety faux-ricotta and melted mozzarella, all wrapped up in a savory marinara sauce.
But it’s the supporting cast that truly makes this dish shine: tender leeks, pungent fennel, sweet red onions, zucchini bursting with freshness, earthy mushrooms, vibrant carrots, juicy cherry tomatoes, peppery kale, and a medley of fragrant herbs and spices all working in concert to create a true masterpiece. Each layer builds upon the last, crafting a hearty, plant-based lasagna that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
German Style Instant Pot Roasted Potatoes
Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of roasted potatoes with the bold flavors of Germany. Look no further than these vibrant rosemary potatoes, bursting with colorful vegetables and an aromatic garlic herb blend. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they’re also ridiculously easy to prepare, making them the ideal accompaniment to any meal. Start by cooking the potatoes to tender perfection under pressure, then toss them with a savory mix of sautéed onions and peppers.
The result is a golden-brown delight that’s sure to elicit oohs and ahhs from everyone at the table. And the best part? This vegan and gluten-free side dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
Roasted Winter Teriyaki Brussels Sprouts
Imagine a delightful medley of flavors and textures in every bite – that’s what you’ll get with these roasted Brussels sprouts. By cooking them to a perfect crispiness in the oven, we unlock their natural sweetness and add a depth of flavor through a 5-ingredient teriyaki sauce. Whether served as a side dish or an appetizer, this Teriyaki twist on a classic veggie is sure to impress.
With a harmonious balance of crispy, savory, and sweet notes, these sprouts are the perfect addition to any meal – a true showstopper that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What to do With Citrus Zest?
There’s no need to discard those vibrant citrus peels, especially when you’re working with organic fruit. In fact, dried citrus zest is an incredibly valuable ingredient that can elevate dishes throughout the year. Take my mother’s example: when she visited last winter, she grated the zest from my homegrown navel oranges and Meyer lemons, then froze it in small portions. As a result, I now have a steady supply of fresh, citrusy flavor to add to my cooking.
Moist and Delicious Crowd-pleasing Sicilian Whole Orange Cake
A delectable winter dessert, Sicilian Orange Cake is renowned for its moist and flavorful composition. What sets it apart is the use of an entire orange – peel and all – which imbues the treat with a bold and fragrant essence. This cake’s natural aroma and sweetness are perfectly harmonious when paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for cozy gatherings.
Brown Butter Mashed Turnip {Rutabaga} with Roasted Garlic – Yummy Addition to Any Occasion!
Transforming the Humble Turnip: A Rich and Creamy Delight The combination of nutty brown butter and mellow roasted garlic elevates the humble turnip into a decadent side dish that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients, this recipe is perfect for adding a unique twist to your next special occasion or everyday meal.
A simple yet impressive option that’s bursting with rich flavor, this Brown Butter Mashed Turnip with Roasted Garlic is a must-try for anyone looking to add some excitement to their plate.
Dreamy Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these delectable roasted garlic mashed potatoes. A show-stopping side dish for any special occasion or cozy Sunday gathering, they seamlessly blend rich textures and deep flavors to steal the spotlight. Their ease of preparation belies their satisfying complexity, making them an impeccable match for your favorite heartwarming main courses.
Quick Vegan Roasted Sweet Potato Pasta Sauce
Indulge in the rich flavors of this creamy vegan sweet potato pasta sauce, where comfort meets health. This nutrient-dense delight is perfect for pairing with your favorite pasta dish – or get creative and transform it into a cozy, nourishing soup for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Honey Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Apples Recipe to Cozy Family Gathering or Potluck
Within half an hour, you can effortlessly prepare this scrumptious Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Apples recipe, perfect for impressing your guests at family gatherings, cozy dinners, or potlucks. The simplicity of the dish is matched only by its depth of flavor, thanks to just four ingredients. A harmonious balance of sweet honey, earthy Brussels sprouts, and tart apples creates a truly crowd-pleasing side that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
While Minerva Dairy has kindly sponsored this post, rest assured that all opinions expressed are my own.
Easy Homemade Roasted Brussel Sprouts Fettuccine Alfredo
In a surprising yet harmonious union, roasted garlic and Brussels sprouts join forces with creamy white sauce in this vegan reimagining of the classic Alfredo. The roasted elements bring a subtle earthiness, which is expertly juxtaposed by the silky smoothness of the fettuccine’s coating. Each forkful is a masterclass in flavor balancing, as the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts is beautifully offset by the richness of the sauce.
This plant-based reinvention is sure to wow even the most discerning palates, offering a delightful twist on a timeless favorite.
Mixed Citrus Winter Salad with Honey-Balsamic Vinaigrette
Indulge in the sweet and savory charm of this Mixed Citrus Salad, a revitalizing twist on traditional fruit salads. The kaleidoscope of citrus hues and succulent flavors are harmoniously paired with a homemade honey-balsamic vinaigrette, offering an effortless yet impressive way to elevate any meal, regardless of the season.
Best of Apple Parsnip Vegetarian Soups!
Experience the harmony of sweet and earthy notes in every spoonful of Apple Parsnip Soup. This velvety treat not only captures the essence of autumn, but its comforting warmth makes it a delightful companion any time of year. As a standout addition to your soup repertoire, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. Enjoy it as a light and satisfying lunch or dinner starter.
Roasted Sweet Beets with Orange and Maple Glaze
Elevate your roasted beets with a sweet and tangy twist! A drizzle of orange and maple glaze infuses these tender roots with a depth of flavor, making them an ideal side dish for any time of year. The harmonious blend of the beets’ natural sweetness and the citrusy zing of the zest is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
20 Minute Risotto with Asparagus, Peas, Spinach and Shrimp | Healthy Comfort Food
Indulge in a 20-minute culinary masterpiece that’s as healthy as it is impressive! This pressure-cooked risotto recipe boasts an abundance of fresh asparagus, peas, and spinach, providing a significant nutritional boost. With its creamy texture and vibrant green color, this dish looks like it was plucked straight from a gourmet restaurant menu. The real showstopper?
It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with your protein of choice – whether that’s succulent lemon-pepper shrimp or something else entirely. And the best part? This recipe is brought to you in partnership with Crock-Pot Express, but rest assured that all opinions expressed here are my own genuine thoughts.
No Bake Orange Almond Protein Bars for Weeknight Dinner
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors and textures with these No-Bake Orange Almond Protein Bars. Soft, chewy, and subtly sweet, they’re a treat that’s not only delicious but also meets various dietary requirements – vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. The cake-like texture makes them an excellent choice for kids to enjoy as well. Packed with protein, these bars are an easy way to supercharge your family’s nutrition any day of the week.
And if you’re looking for more comforting, nutritious options, be sure to explore our collection of 21 cozy vegan and vegetarian winter recipes perfect for those who crave hearty soups, baked pastas, and casseroles.
Instructions
For a delicious and nutritious winter, explore our collection of healthy vegetarian and vegan recipes. Simply click the link below each dish to access the full recipe and cooking instructions. Once you’ve tried one (or two, or three…), be sure to share your creation by posting a photo under my Pinterest pin!