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If you need some quick recipes to make this holiday season look no further! These vegan holiday recipes take 30 minutes or less so that you can enjoy the day with your friends and family and not be stuck in the kitchen the whole day.

A collage of four vegan holiday recipes including roasted brussels sprouts, mac and cheese, gnocchi, and sweet potato pie.

I’m bringing you the best 30 minute recipes to share this holiday season. Trust me when I say that these recipes will not disappoint! However you may be celebrating this year, these recipes will make sure that you can enjoy the day.

If this is your first holiday season as a vegan or maybe you have a vegan family member that you’re cooking for, no one has to miss out on a traditional holiday meal! These holiday dishes are quick and easy so you don’t have to stress about what to make!

Yes, cooking is always a big part of the celebrating, but no one actually wants to be stuck in the kitchen right? The best part in my opinion is being able to sit around the table sharing the meal, not the actual cooking part.

Without further ado, here are the best 30-minute vegan holiday recipes!

Appetizers

These delicious vegan holiday appetizers are perfect to prepare before the big meal and they take no time at all!

Vegan Fruit Dip

Creamy vegan fruit dip in a bowl, surrounded by various types of fruit.

For a quick and easy appetizer, make a vegan fruit dip! It comes together in a matter of minutes and is perfect to make days in advance. Serve with in-season fruit, graham crackers, marshmallows, or even cookies!

Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

A bowl of vegan artichoke dip with sliced vegetables.

This is the best vegan spinach artichoke dip you’ll ever taste and it’s loved by vegans and non-vegans alike! It’s loaded with spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and the creamiest sauce! This gluten-free and vegan artichoke dip is so easy to make and it’s ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect to serve guests at your holiday party!

Pistachio Nut Cheese with Cranberry Jelly

Pistachio cheese wheel with a couple slices removed.

As far as appetizers go, we love to make it easy and simple, but distinctive and scrumptious. This gorgeous Pistachio Nut Cheese with Cranberry Jelly makes a delicious appetizer without special culinary tricks.

Healthy Vegan Creamed Spinach

Vegan creamed spinach in a cast iron skillet.

Indulge in the ultimate quick and healthy vegan creamed spinach recipe that boasts boss-level flavor and is ready in just minutes. A must-have addition to your Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner table that will leave everyone impressed with its deliciousness.

Coconut Ambrosia Fruit Salad

Coconut ambrosia fruit salad in a serving bowl.

Coconut Ambrosia Fruit Salad is a new take on a classic salad that makes a perfect side, fruity breakfast, or even a lite dessert! Fluffy vegan marshmallows sweeten the deal and add some fun, and the juicy fresh fruit, crunchy nuts, and a creamy sauce are what make this dish a keeper.

Side Dishes

These side dishes are incredible—you can’t go wrong! So many options in under 30 minutes, it’s hard to choose.

Maple Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy maple balsamic brussels sprouts on a serving platter.

Achieve crispy, caramelized perfection with these maple-glazed balsamic vinegar Brussels sprouts!  Elevate your holiday side dish game with only 5 ingredients, enticing even the pickiest eaters to savor these delectably glazed sprouts.

Healthy Vegan Cornbread (Gluten Free)

Healthy Vegan Cornbread

This vegan twist on the classic cornbread recipe is a must-try recipe. Easy to make, and both delicious and healthy, it’s crafted without oil and refined sugar, ensuring a tasty yet wholesome vegan side.

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Dairy free green bean casserole in a baking dish.

Enjoy a traditional green bean casserole crafted without dairy, using only nine ingredients. It’s vegan and gluten-free, combined with quick preparation, making it an ideal side for busy nights or festive holiday meals!

Healthy Mashed Potatoes

Healthy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes that are dairy-free, vegan, and healthy! The perfect side to accompany any meal that the whole family will love!

Easy Vegan Gravy

Easy Vegan Gravy Oil Free

The richness and creaminess of this vegan gravy is irresistible! It’s perfectly savory just as gravy should be! Plus, it’s made from whole food plant based ingredients, ensuring a wholesome addition to your holiday meals.

​Air Fried Roasted Cubed Sweet Potatoes

Air fried sweet potato cubes in a bowl with a fork picking up a couple pieces.

If you have an air fryer, you probably know how quick and easy it is to roast vegetables! While you can make these savory roasted sweet potatoes in an oven, they’ll be on the table in just 15 minutes with an air fryer! Like it sweet? Drizzle with maple syrup instead and toss with ground cinnamon—yum!

The BEST Stove Top Vegan Stuffing

Vegan stuffing in a serving dish with a spoon.

This is a classic stuffing recipe, the perfect side dish for any holiday event, made vegan! It’s also oil-free, requires just 9 ingredients, and can be made in less than 30 minutes.

Lemon Garlic Green Beans

Recipe with frozen green beans on a serving platter with lemon slices and topped with lemon zest.

This green bean recipe with frozen green beans makes it a breeze to prepare for holiday meals. No need to thaw, simply toss in a pan with seasonings and enjoy!

Vegan Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Red cabbage coleslaw in a bowl.

Vegan red cabbage coleslaw is an excellent holiday side dish. Not only is it packed with nutrients but it’s also a beautiful hue that will complement your holiday table easily!

Maftoul Salad (Vegan Couscous Salad)

Salatat maftoul couscous salad in a serving bowl with a spoon.

A flavorsome couscous salad that makes an ideal accompaniment for any meal. This salad is fresh, nutritious and colorful.

Super Easy Vegan Cranberry Sauce

A bowl of vegan orange cranberry sauce.

Experience the stunning jewel-toned hues of this vegan cranberry sauce, a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy notes. Effortlessly crafted in just 15 minutes, this delightful creation requires only three simple ingredients!

Sesame Green Beans With Garlic

A platter of sesame green beans with garlic.

Garlicky and charred green beans. A quick and easy side dish. Ready in 15 mins.

Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, Apple Stuffing

Plate of stuffing next to a casserole dish full of stuffing.

This butternut squash, brussels sprouts stuffing with apples is almost the star of the show. It’s so colorful and even reduces the need for extra veggies, if you prefer. This beautiful dish is easy to make if you use butternut squash that is already cut up from your grocery store. It roasts very quickly this way.

Main Dishes

You won’t find the typical vegan holiday roast or shepherd’s pie as the main course since those require long baking prep and baking times but these meals will make a wonderful centerpiece to your holiday feast! Quick, easy, and oh-so delicious!

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A plate of vegan pumpkin mac and cheese.

This creamy vegan pumpkin mac and cheese is super easy to make in just 15 minutes with less than 10 ingredients! This vitamin A-packed, fall-inspired pasta dish is gluten-free, nut-free and oil-free too!

Chickpea Patties

Chickpea patties served on a white platter, and topped with hemp aioli and fresh dill.

Achieve golden perfection with these well-seasoned chickpea patties—crispy outside, tender inside, and ready in only 30 minutes! Whether air-fried or baked, these naturally vegan delights are not only packed with plant-based protein and fiber but also make an excellent choice for a festive holiday main dish!

Mini Vegan Pot Pies

Two mini vegan pot pies on a plate with some of the filling spilling out onto the plate.

Yearning for a dose of classic comfort food? Make these easy vegan mini pot pies with simple ingredients with light, flaky pastry is brimming with flavorful veggies and coated in a luscious, creamy gravy!

Instant Pot Whole Roasted Cauliflower in Indian Masala

A roasted whole cauliflower covered in a creamy sauce.

Whole roasted cauliflower, served with a thick creamy Indian Masala Sauce. A perfect centerpiece for the holiday season, this dish is sure to wow the crowd. Exotic yet easy to make. Can be made ahead of time. Vegan and gluten-free but full of rich flavors and aroma.

Vegan Gnocchi with Tomato Cream Sauce

Vegan gnocchi with tomato cream sauce in a pan, topped with fresh basil.

Try this Vegan gnocchi cooked with a creamy vegan tomato sauce. This tomato sauce recipe requires only 7 ingredients and less than 15 minutes for the perfect healthy holiday dinner recipe!

Hearty Vegan Stew

A bowl of hearty vegan stew topped with fresh thyme.

This hearty Vegan Stew recipe is perfect for the cold weather. Make it on the stove top or in a slow cooker for chilly nights: it’s comfort food heaven!

Gluten-free Stuffed Shells with Vegan Almond Ricotta

A plate of stuffed shells with almond ricotta cheese.

Revamp a classic Italian dinner with these Gluten-Free Stuffed Shells featuring Vegan Almond Ricotta and a homemade sun-dried tomato sauce! This comforting family meal ensures satisfied bellies and warm hearts for everyone to enjoy.

If you can’t find the Almond Ricotta in stores for the stuffed shells, try this Cashew Ricotta.

Vegan Pumpkin Risotto

Vegan pumpkin risotto on a plate with a fork.

This mouthwatering one-pot vegan pumpkin risotto makes for a truly delicious vegan holiday meal. Sage and pumpkin create a winning combination in this creamy and dreamy dish.

Silky Vegan Mac and Cheese

Silky vegan mac and cheese in a skillet.

This velvety and cheesy Vegan Mac and Cheese is a plant-based twist on the ultimate comfort food classic. Loaded with veggies and plant-based protein, this quick and easy 30-minute recipe is poised to become your family’s favorite indulgence perfect for holiday dinners and family gatherings.

Tofu Stuffed Peppers

A row of bell pepper stuffed with tofu.

Tofu stuffed peppers are loaded with spices and meat-free. An excellent dish to enjoy as a classic appetizer or as a vegetarian dinner.

Vegan Pumpkin Pasta

A plate of vegan pumpkin pasta.

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this luscious Vegan Pumpkin Pasta. The sauce beautifully accentuates the pumpkin’s deliciousness, offering a rich and creamy texture without any dairy. This hearty pasta is sure to be a holiday favorite!

Desserts

We have classics like cookies and pies plus some more creative ones to mix it up this year.

Vegan No Bake Cheesecake

Two no bake vegan cheesecakes in glasses topped with raspberry sauce and fresh raspberries.

If you need a quick and easy dessert, make this simple no-bake vegan cheesecake, requiring only 7 ingredients and no blending or baking. Rest assured, taste is not compromised; this cheesecake is absolutely delicious! Perfect for dinner parties, it’s a hassle-free treat that will impress your guests.

Crustless Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of crustless sweet potato pie on a plate topped with vegan whipped cream.

Experience the beloved flavors of grandma’s classic Southern sweet potato pie in a simpler, healthier, and crust-free version! This Gluten-Free Crustless Sweet Potato Pie is vegan, top-8 allergy-free, paleo, creamy, and sweet. A quick, healthy, lower-carb, and sugar-free twist on the classic dessert, making it a winning recipe for the holiday season!

Paleo Pumpkin Cookies

Coconut flour pumpkin cookies on a flat surface.

These pumpkin cookies are vegan, paleo, and gluten free. They’re soft, chewy, and spiced just right.

Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding

A mug of pumpkin pudding.

This effortlessly simple dessert is super easy to make. While pumpkin pie typically takes an hour or more to make, you can enjoy the same traditional flavors with this pumpkin spice chia pudding. Whether using fresh cooking pumpkin or canned, this quick treat is ready in a flash, making it the perfect easy holiday dessert.

3 Ingredient Vegan Rice Pudding

A bowl of vegan rice pudding with a swirl of mixed berry sauce.

Discover the velvety texture of this incredibly creamy vegan rice pudding, featuring aromatic jasmine rice cooked in a blend of almond milk and coconut milk. Paired with a tempting swirl of homemade cinnamon berry sauce, it serves as a delightful option for both a holiday breakfast and dessert!

Drinks

What would a meal be without some festive drinks? These are ones the whole family will love that can be served before or after the meal.

Homemade Vegan Eggnog

A glass of vegan eggnog topped with a sprinkling of cinnamon.

A beautifully rich and creamy vegan eggnog that’s a crowd-pleaser. Easily make your own and never have to worry about buying it again!

Non-Alcoholic Pear Cider

A hand holding a glass of pear cider.

Pear Cider offers a delightful spin on the timeless classic of Apple Cider. Make it your new favorite beverage for the fall and holiday seasons, especially fitting for large gatherings and festive celebrations.

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Cherry almond thumbprint cookies.

30+ Vegan Holiday Recipes in 30 Minutes

5 from 1 vote
Author: Rachel
Make these cherry almond thumbprint cookies for a quick vegan holiday dessert! Enjoy vegan thumbprint cookies that are buttery, chewy and just require 8 simple ingredients.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 16 cookies

Ingredients  

  • 1 cup pecans or walnuts
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup all-natural almond butter or peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
  • cup cherry jam
  • raw almonds chopped, optional

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • To a food processor, add pecans, oats and salt. Pulse until you achieve a course flour.
    1 cup pecans, 1 cup rolled oats, ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Next, add the flour, maple syrup, nut butter and applesauce to the food processor. Pulse to combine ingredients at first, then run the food processor on low until a dough starts to form. Scrape down the sides as needed. If the dough is too dry and crumbly, add 1-2 more tablespoons of applesauce and pulse to combine. If dough is too sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons more of flour and process.
    1 cup whole wheat pastry flour, ½ cup maple syrup, 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce, ½ cup all-natural almond butter
  • With a tablespoon or cookie scoop, scoop some dough into slightly wet hands and roll into a ball. If desired, roll the ball in chopped/crushed almonds before placing on the prepared baking sheet.
    raw almonds
  • Using your thumb or the back of a tablespoon, gently press into the center of the dough ball to make a little crevice. If you notice the edges of your cookies cracking, gently smooth them back together again with your fingers.
  • Spoon 1-2 teaspoons of jam into each cookie crevice, making sure to smooth it out evenly.
    ⅓ cup cherry jam
  • Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool before removing from the baking sheet.

Notes

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container on the countertop for a few days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 183kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 41mg | Potassium: 159mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 1mg
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
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Which vegan Christmas recipes are you planning to make this year? Let me know in the comments! Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas and happy holidays!

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