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Blog post by Chef Lisa Brown
The holiday season is a time for connection, reflection, and of course, delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or bringing a dish to share, plant-based meals can shine just as brightly as the traditional fare. With the right flavors and ingredients, you can create a holiday spread that everyone will love.
Today, I’m sharing two of my favorite plant-based recipes that are perfect for the season: Sprouted Lentil Mushroom Wellington and Winter-Spiced Pear Galette. These dishes combine festive flavors with wholesome, nourishing ingredients, ensuring you can eat well, live well, and be well while celebrating.
Sprouted Lentil Mushroom Wellington: A Festive Centerpiece
A true showstopper for any holiday gathering, the Sprouted Lentil Mushroom Wellington brings together hearty lentils and savory mushrooms wrapped in a golden puff pastry. This dish not only looks impressive but is packed with flavors that make it the perfect plant-based alternative to traditional holiday roasts.
Why You'll Love It:
A Holiday Showstopper: This dish is perfect for special occasions and looks as beautiful as it tastes.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Flexible & Flavorful: Customize with different herbs or add a tangy mushroom gravy for extra indulgence.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
2 cups sprouted lentils (or cooked lentils)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 sheet vegan puff pastry, thawed
Plant-based milk, for brushing
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add mushrooms, thyme, smoked paprika, and tamari. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and the mixture thickens.
Stir in lentils and nutritional yeast. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then allow to cool.
Roll out the puff pastry on a flat surface. Place the cooled filling in the center and fold the edges over. Seal the pastry.
Brush with plant-based milk for a golden finish.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown.
Serve with a side of cranberry sauce or mushroom gravy for extra festive flair.
Winter-Spiced Pear Galette: A Simple, Yet Elegant Dessert
What’s a holiday spread without a decadent dessert? This Winter-Spiced Pear Galette is both rustic and elegant, with its tender crust and spiced pear filling. The warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger perfectly complement the sweetness of the pears, creating a comforting treat for the season. Best of all, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love It:
Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Galettes are the easiest way to make a beautiful dessert.
Seasonal & Festive: The combination of pears and spices makes it perfect for cozy holiday moments.
Customizable: Switch pears for apples, or add a handful of chopped nuts for a little crunch.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 sheet vegan pie crust or puff pastry
3 ripe pears, thinly sliced
2 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp ground ginger
1 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp cornstarch
Plant-based milk, for brushing
Optional: chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, toss the pear slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, maple syrup, and cornstarch.
Roll out your pie crust or puff pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the pears in the center, leaving a 2-inch border.
Fold the edges of the pastry over the pears, creating a rustic edge. Brush the crust with plant-based milk.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the pears are tender.
Let the galette cool slightly before garnishing with chopped pistachios. Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Elevate Your Holiday Experience with Personalized Culinary Services
As the holiday season approaches, you deserve to enjoy every moment with your loved ones—without the stress of meal planning or cooking. Let me help you create a memorable dining experience with delicious, plant-based dishes that not only nourish your body but also enhance the joy of your celebrations. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping festive centerpiece or a comforting dessert, these recipes can bring warmth and flavor to your table.
If you're seeking a seamless, elevated holiday dining experience, I offer personalized services designed to make your celebrations truly special. From private dinner parties to weekly meal prep, and even plant-based cooking classes, I’m here to provide nourishing meals that allow you to focus on what matters most: connecting with your family and friends.
Visit www.freeflowinghealth.com to discover how I can help bring vibrant, healthy meals directly to your table this season. Let’s make this holiday unforgettable!
Wishing you a festive, joyful, and nourishing holiday season! ✨
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