Deliciously Inclusive: Vegan Recipes to Elevate Your Next Event

The rise of plant-based dining has made it easier to cater to guests with diverse diets when hosting, so there really is no excuse not to add at least a few vegan dishes to your party. Vegan recipes are versatile and delicious and highlight fresh, in-season ingredients that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or a festive dinner party, here are some foolproof vegan recipes that will impress even the most devoted carnivores at your table!

I’ve included the simplest forms of these recipes to help you have an idea of what they consist of. However, I recommend clicking the link to get a full feel of the recipe!

1. Starter: Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

A warm, comforting soup is the perfect way to kick off a meal, especially on cool nights. This roasted red pepper and tomato soup is both creamy and rich without any dairy.

Ingredients:

• 4 large red peppers

• 6 ripe tomatoes

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 cloves of garlic

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• Salt, pepper, and fresh basil to taste

Instructions:

1. Roast the peppers and tomatoes in a 400°F oven until slightly charred.

2. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until golden, then blend with roasted vegetables and vegetable broth until smooth.

3. Heat the mixture, season to taste, and serve with fresh basil on top.

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, and its vibrant color will add a beautiful touch to your table setting. If you’re up to it, you can even try making your vegetable broth instead of getting it at the market! Making your own also ensures that you know what's exactly in it!

2. Main Course: Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

For a main dish, these hearty stuffed portobello mushrooms are filled with a mixture of quinoa, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. They’re satisfying and packed with flavor, making them a hit with vegan and non-vegan guests alike.

Ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushrooms

• 1 cup cooked quinoa

• 1 cup spinach, chopped

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and remove the mushroom stems.

2. Sauté the onion, garlic, and spinach in olive oil until soft, then mix with cooked quinoa and sun-dried tomatoes.

3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the filling and bake for 20 minutes until tender.

4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

3. Side Dish: Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Pecans

This sweet and savory side dish will convert even the biggest Brussels sprout skeptics. The maple glaze caramelizes as it roasts, making these Brussels sprouts irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss the Brussels sprouts in olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.

2. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.

3. Add pecans during the last 5 minutes of baking for added crunch.

The maple glaze adds a warm, seasonal flavor, while the pecans bring a lovely crunch. This is a great support dish for any meal. The sweet and savory with a nice crunch, yum! I’m getting hungry just thinking about it.

4. Dessert: Chocolate Avocado Mousse

For dessert, this creamy chocolate avocado mousse is a decadent yet wholesome treat. The avocados give it a velvety texture, while the cacao adds a rich chocolatey flavor. I know, you read Avocado and thought, “Are you sure?” Just trust me on this!

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados

• 1/2 cup coconut cream

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1/4 cup maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.

2. Divide into small bowls and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

3. Top with fresh berries or coconut whipped cream.

This mousse is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth while keeping things light and plant-based. You can also add some delicious berries on top for a pop of color and flavor!

Hosting a vegan gathering doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. These recipes use simple, plant-based ingredients to create dishes that are comforting, festive, and full of flavor. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, these dishes will help you create a memorable, inclusive meal for everyone at the table. Happy Cooking!