Planning a festive holiday dinner doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially when your menu centers around a stunning vegan beef Wellington. This plant-based centerpiece is savory, rich, and wrapped in golden puff pastry, making it an unforgettable main dish for any winter celebration. With the right sides and a bit of prep work, you can create a holiday spread that’s both elegant and comforting.
Why a Vegan Beef Wellington Makes the Perfect Holiday Main
A classic Wellington is known for decadence, and the vegan version delivers that same dramatic presentation without any animal products. Whether you use a homemade lentil-mushroom filling or a packaged roast, the combination of mushroom duxelles, herbs, and flaky pastry creates deep, layered flavor. Plus, it slices beautifully—ideal for holiday dinners where presentation matters.
Watch the magic happen in our video tutorial, then try it yourself with the complete Plant-Based Beef Wellington recipe online.
Building the Perfect Holiday Menu
Round out your Wellington with a balanced spread of cozy, bright, and festive sides.
1. Garlicky Roasted Potatoes
Crispy roasted potatoes pair perfectly with the richness of the Wellington. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary before roasting. For technique tips, this guide is helpful:
https://www.loveandlemons.com/crispy-roasted-potatoes/
Pro Tip: Level up your potatoes with a creamy herb cheese to impress vegans and non-vegans alike.
2. Maple-Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Sweetness from maple syrup and the tang of balsamic bring out the best in roasted Brussels sprouts. They caramelize beautifully in the oven and add incredible depth to your holiday plate. Try a similar method here:
https://minimalistbaker.com/roasted-brussels-sprouts-with-balsamic/
3. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Gravy
A silky mushroom gravy ties the entire plate together. Its umami richness intensifies the flavors of both the Wellington and the sides. A reliable recipe can be found at:
https://itdoesnttastelikechicken.com/vegan-mushroom-gravy/
4. Citrus-Pomegranate Holiday Salad
A fresh salad helps cut through the heartiness of the meal. Mix leafy greens with citrus segments, pomegranate seeds, toasted nuts(or vegan bacon bits), and a zingy vinaigrette. Here’s a bright, festive version for inspiration:
https://cookieandkate.com/winter-salad-recipe/
5. Garlic-Herb Green Beans
Simple, crisp-tender green beans add color and balance. Sauté them with garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, and herbs. A similar style of preparation is shown here:
https://www.thefullhelping.com/simple-sauteed-green-beans/
Make-Ahead Tips for an Easier Holiday
One of the secrets to a stress-free holiday dinner is prepping in advance:
- Make the mushroom duxelles up to 48 hours ahead.
- Assemble the Wellington (without baking) and store it in the fridge overnight.
- Chop vegetables and store them in airtight containers until ready to roast.
- Prepare the gravy early and reheat gently before serving.
These steps allow you to enjoy more time with guests and less time tied to the kitchen.
A Dessert to Complete the Night
Round out your holiday menu with something warm, sweet, and seasonal. Apple crumble, chocolate peppermint mousse, or spiced pear tart all pair beautifully with a hearty Wellington. For a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make ahead, try this vegan apple crisp:
https://www.noracooks.com/vegan-apple-crisp/
Bringing It All Together
A vegan holiday dinner built around a show-stopping vegan beef Wellington is festive, flavorful, and memorable. This main dish sets the tone for an elevated plant-based feast while the sides, salad, and desserts round out a well-balanced celebration. With a little planning and a few make-ahead components, you can serve a holiday meal that feels both effortless and impressive.
