Set the Table for a Holiday Plant-Based Dinner
Tis the season to find joy all around you. At Nikken, we’re focused on bringing joy to your plate.
If you’re looking for some delicious plant-based meat substitutions for the next holiday dinner, look no further. Luckily, vegan holiday meals can be just as tasty and bring as much holiday spirit to the table as well as any other traditional dish.
Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of a plant-based diet and how you can incorporate these recipes into all of your holiday meals!
The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet
It’s no surprise why the plant-based diet trend is continuing to grow in popularity – it’s good for you!
This food lifestyle focuses on meals that are derived from plants. The ingredients you choose will range from fruits and vegetables to beans, legumes, nuts and seeds. Beyond plants, whole grains and oils are also vital ingredients in the plant-based diet.
Even without meat on the plate, you can still supplement your dish with all of the necessary fats, proteins, carbohydrates and vitamins required for optimal health. Plus, meals tend to be higher in fiber and other phytonutrients.
As far as health benefits go: Studies show that a plant-based diet helps reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers and depression. Overall, a balanced plant-based food diet plays a significant role in improving mental and physical functions.
With that said, choosing plant-based alternatives for your holiday meal ensures you enjoy a delicious feast without all the not-so-jolly guilt that’s normally associated with Christmas dinner!
Plant-Based Dishes That Bring on the Holiday Cheer
Set the table with these popular plant-based holiday dishes that are sure to fill your home with holiday cheer.
THE MAIN: Vegan Nut Roast
A vegan nut roast is the perfect appetizer turned centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. This dish combines root vegetables, hazelnuts, mushrooms and fresh herbs to create a delicious and visually appealing meal! Be sure to top it off with parsnip crisps for that perfect crunch.
THE STARCH SIDE: Plant-Based, Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are one of the most popular traditional holiday dishes. Your guests will be surprised to learn that these plant-based mashed potatoes are vegan because they are just as creamy and delicious as any other mashed potato dish! In other words, this meal is completely dairy-free, but you’d never know it.
THE GREEN SIDE: Green Bean Casserole
Another holiday favorite is the green bean casserole. This plant-based alternative includes a flavor-filled onion topping that is nicely crisped to give you that satisfying crunch. Who said vegan holiday meals couldn’t taste delicious?
THE DESSERT: Vegan Christmas Pudding
No holiday meals are complete without the perfect, tasty dessert. This vegan Christmas pudding dish is packed with raisins, dried figs, sultanas and, of course – some rum! Serve this dish warm and pair it with some vegan ice cream – you and your guests won’t be disappointed!
As with any great dish, whether it’s the Christmas centerpiece or not, the key is to combine tasty ingredients that enhance the flavors and mouthfeel of the meal.
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This holiday season, give yourself the gift of all-natural, plant-based ingredients in the new year – with the help of the food scientists at Nikken Foods. We’ve been the leading manufacturer in high quality, specialty ingredients since 1964, and we’d love to introduce you to the benefits of a plant-based diet that never sacrifices on taste or tradition. Contact us today!
Happy Holidays from your friends at Nikken Foods!
