Camilla – Page 7 – Family Feast

You’ll find a dozen dairy-free holiday recipes that are simple to make and easy to share. Follow clear steps for mains like herb-roasted turkey breast or a mushroom-walnut lentil loaf, add bright sides such as maple-glazed carrots and roasted Brussels sprouts, and finish with pumpkin pie bars or chocolate avocado mousse. Ingredients are common, techniques are straightforward, and timing is practical—keep going to see each recipe and how to pull the meal together. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup With Coconut Milk A cozy, creamy roasted butternut squash soup that’s naturally dairy-free and silky thanks to coconut milk. Ingredients: 1 medium butternut squash (about 2–3 lbs), halved and seeded 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp ground cumin 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred) 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (plus extra for garnish if desired) 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness) Fresh thyme or chopped cilantro for garnish (optional) Toasted pepitas or crusty bread for serving (optional) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the cut sides of the squash with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast the squash 35–45 minutes, until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Let cool slightly. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt; sauté until soft, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Scoop the roasted squash flesh into the pot, discarding the skin. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook 5–10 minutes to let flavors meld. Use an immersion blender (or transfer in batches to a blender) and puree until smooth and silky. Stir in the coconut milk and maple syrup (if using); warm through but don’t boil. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, drizzle with extra coconut milk, and garnish with thyme, cilantro, or toasted pepitas if desired. Enjoy a bowlful of warm, comforting goodness—perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic and Lemon A fragrant, juicy herb-roasted turkey breast brightened with garlic and lemon — perfect for a small dairy-free holiday centerpiece. Ingredients: 1 (3–4 lb) bone-in turkey breast, skin on 3 tbsp olive oil 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme) 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Zest of 1 lemon 2 tbsp lemon juice (from 1 lemon) 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional) 1 ½ tsp kosher salt 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or turkey stock (or water) 1 small onion, quartered 1 lemon, halved Fresh herb sprigs for roasting (rosemary/thyme) — optional How to Make: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon (if using), salt, and pepper to make a paste. Gently loosen the skin over the breast with your fingers and rub about half the herb paste directly onto the meat under the skin. Spread the remaining paste over the skin. Place the quartered onion and lemon halves in the bottom of a roasting pan and set the turkey breast on top, skin-side up. Tuck herb sprigs around if using. Pour the stock into the pan (not over the skin) to keep the meat moist during roasting. Roast for 60–75 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast (not touching bone) reads 160°F (71°C). Baste once or twice with pan juices if you like. If the skin browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the remaining time. Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest uncovered for 15–20 minutes; carryover heat will bring the internal temp to about 165°F (74°C). Slice the breast against the grain and spoon pan juices over the slices. Serve warm with roast vegetables or your favorite dairy-free sides — and enjoy the bright, garlicky aroma filling your holiday table! Mushroom and Walnut Lentil Loaf Earthy Mushroom & Walnut Lentil Loaf — hearty, savory, and totally dairy-free. Ingredients: 1 cup dry brown or green lentils, rinsed 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 medium onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 10 ounces mushrooms (cremini or button), finely chopped 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired) 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped) 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) 2 large eggs (or 2 flax eggs: 2 tbsp ground flax + 6 tbsp water, mixed and rested) 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional) For topping (optional): 2 tablespoons ketchup or BBQ sauce mixed with 1 teaspoon maple syrup How to Make: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment or lightly oil it. In a medium pot, combine lentils and broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess and let cool slightly. While lentils cook, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and chopped mushrooms to the skillet and cook until mushrooms release liquid and it evaporates, about 6–8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in tomato paste, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, thyme, sage, and smoked paprika; cook 1–2 minutes to combine. Remove from heat. In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils lightly with a fork or potato masher — leave some texture. Add the mushroom mixture, chopped walnuts, breadcrumbs, eggs (or flax eggs), remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper to the lentils. Mix until well combined; the mixture should hold together. Add a splash of water or extra breadcrumbs if too wet/dry. Transfer mixture to the prepared loaf pan, pressing firmly and smoothing the top. Spread the ketchup/BBQ topping evenly over the loaf if using. Bake 35–45 minutes until firm and golden on top. Let cool in the pan 10 minutes before slicing. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy a slice of cozy, savory comfort — perfect for holiday tables or any night you want a hearty, dairy-free centerpiece. Maple-Glazed Carrots With Toasted Pecans Sweet, buttery-tasting carrots dressed in maple and crowned with crunchy toasted pecans. Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch slices (or baby carrots) 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted dairy-free margarine) 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) 1/3 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped 1 tablespoon maple syrup (extra, for drizzling) 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss the carrots with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until evenly coated. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until carrots are tender and beginning to caramelize. While carrots roast, heat a small skillet over medium heat and toast the pecans for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned — watch closely so they don’t burn. Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the carrots and drizzle the extra tablespoon of maple syrup on top. Finish with chopped parsley if using, and serve warm. Enjoy the sweet, nutty sparkle — perfect as a holiday side or any time you want cozy flavor! Sage and Apple Quinoa Stuffing A cozy, savory stuffing that’s herb-forward, slightly sweet, and naturally dairy-free. Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa (uncooked), rinsed 2 cups vegetable broth or water 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped 2 celery stalks, diced 2 apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried sage) 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried) 1/2 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional) 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional) Zest and juice of 1 lemon Salt and black pepper, to taste 2–3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or melted dairy-free butter substitute (for finishing, optional) How to Make: Cook the quinoa: combine rinsed quinoa and broth (or water) in a pot, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly. While quinoa cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and celery and sauté 6–8 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in apples and cook 4–5 minutes until they start to soften. Add garlic, chopped sage, and thyme; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Transfer the cooked quinoa to the skillet (or combine in a large bowl) and stir to combine with the vegetables and apples. Fold in toasted nuts and dried cranberries if using, then add lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste; drizzle 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute and toss to coat. If you want a warm stuffing, transfer to an ovenproof dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes to meld flavors and crisp the top slightly (optional). Serve warm as a side or spoon into a roasted squash or poultry cavity for a festive presentation. Enjoy the fragrant, slightly sweet flavors—this sage and apple quinoa stuffing makes every holiday plate feel homey and bright! Vegan Green Bean Casserole With Crispy Shallots Crisp-tender green beans smothered in creamy mushroom gravy, topped with crunchy, caramelized shallots — holiday comfort without the dairy. Ingredients: 1½ lb (about 700 g) fresh green beans, trimmed and halved 2 tbsp olive oil, divided 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped 10 oz (280 g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 tbsp all-purpose flour 2 cups unsweetened plain almond milk (or other unsweetened plant milk) 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari 1 tsp Dijon mustard ½ tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 3 large shallots, thinly sliced into rings 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired) 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for extra savory flavor) 1–2 tbsp vegan butter or additional olive oil for the breadcrumbs Lemon zest (optional, for finishing) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and blanch 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and plunge into ice water to stop cooking; drain again and set aside. While beans cook, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook 6–8 minutes until browned and their liquid evaporates. Add chopped onion to the mushrooms and cook 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat, cooking 1 minute to remove raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the almond milk while stirring, then add vegetable broth, soy sauce, Dijon, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. In a small skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegan butter) over medium heat. Add thinly sliced shallots and sauté 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp, stirring often to avoid burning. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast (if using), and 1–2 tbsp melted vegan butter or oil. Toss until crumbs are evenly coated and slightly golden. Toss the blanched green beans with the mushroom gravy until well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top, then scatter the crisp shallots over the crumbs. Bake 15–20 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden. If you want extra color, broil 1–2 minutes while watching carefully. Remove from oven, zest a little lemon over the top if using, and let rest 5 minutes before serving. Dig in — this creamy, crunchy vegan green bean casserole is sure to be the hit of your holiday table! Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Dairy-Free) Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes — all the comfort, none of the dairy. Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1- to 2-inch chunks 4–6 cloves garlic, peeled (adjust to taste) 1 cup unsweetened plain plant milk (almond, oat, or soy), warmed 3–4 tablespoons olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute, plus extra for finishing 1/4 cup unsweetened plain dairy-free yogurt or 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for extra creaminess/savour) 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish) How to Make: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt. Add the whole garlic cloves to the pot with the potatoes. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender when pierced, about 15–20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and garlic well and return them to the hot pot for a minute to steam-dry any excess moisture. Mash the potatoes and garlic with a potato masher or ricer until mostly smooth. Stir in the warmed plant milk a little at a time and the olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute until you reach your desired creaminess. If using, fold in the dairy-free yogurt or nutritional yeast for extra richness. Season with salt and pepper and taste, adjusting as needed. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle a little extra olive oil or dairy-free butter on top, and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley if you like. Serve warm and enjoy the garlicky, creamy comfort — perfect alongside your holiday favorites! Cranberry-Orange Chutney Bright, tangy cranberry-orange chutney — a zesty dairy-free holiday must-have. Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) fresh or frozen cranberries 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1–2 oranges) Zest of 1 orange 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider or apple juice 1/4 cup (60 g) finely chopped red onion or shallot 1/4 cup (40 g) golden raisins or chopped dried cranberries (optional) 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger) 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground allspice (or a pinch of cloves) 1/4 tsp kosher salt 1–2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (to taste) 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola) or a small pat of dairy-free butter (optional, for sautéing) How to Make: Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion or shallot and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the grated ginger and spices (cinnamon, allspice) and cook 30 seconds to bloom the flavors. Add the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and apple cider. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the chutney thickens. If using, stir in the raisins or dried cranberries about halfway through cooking so they plump. Taste and season with salt and 1–2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, adjusting sweet-tart balance as desired. Remove from heat and let cool slightly — the chutney will thicken further as it cools. Transfer to a jar or serving bowl and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor (can be served warm if preferred). Enjoy spooning this bright cranberry-orange chutney over roasted turkey, vegan roasts, or simple crackers — it’ll bring holiday cheer to every bite! Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Reduction Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts glazed with a tangy-sweet balsamic reduction — holiday side perfection. Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (use maple for fully dairy-free) 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little depth) 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional for crunch) Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness) How to Make: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread the sprouts cut-side down on the prepared sheet in a single layer so they roast evenly. Roast for 20–25 minutes, until deep golden and crisp on the edges, shaking the pan once halfway through. While the sprouts roast, combine the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup (or honey) in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and cook until reduced by about half and syrupy, 6–8 minutes. Stir in Dijon if using. Taste the reduction and remove from heat; it will thicken more as it cools. Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl, drizzle with the balsamic reduction, and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with toasted nuts and lemon zest if you like, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best contrast of crisp edges and sticky glaze. These sprouts are guaranteed to disappear fast — enjoy! Garlic and Rosemary Roasted Sweet Potatoes Crisp-edged, herb-scented roasted sweet potatoes that pair perfectly with any holiday spread. Ingredients: 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes 3 tablespoons olive oil 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried) 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness) Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness) Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly oil it. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. If using, drizzle the maple syrup over the potatoes and toss again for a light glaze. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between pieces so they roast instead of steam. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the edges are browned and the centers are tender when pierced with a fork. In the last 2 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the lemon zest over the potatoes if using, then return to the oven. Remove from the oven, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of rosemary if you like. Serve warm and enjoy the garlicky, rosemary-scented goodness that’s sure to steal the holiday spotlight! Pumpkin Pie Bars With Oat Crust (Dairy-Free) Sweet, spiced pumpkin pie in easy, handheld bar form — perfect for holiday baking without the dairy! Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed) 1 cup almond flour 1/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar) 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted 2 tbsp maple syrup 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) 1/3 cup full-strength canned coconut milk (shake can first) 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp ground cloves (or pumpkin pie spice) 1/4 tsp salt 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot) mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry) How to Make: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment, leaving an overhang. Pulse the rolled oats in a food processor a few times until roughly chopped but not powdery. In a bowl, combine oats, almond flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir in melted coconut oil and 2 tbsp maple syrup until the mixture holds together when pressed. Press the crust firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust 10–12 minutes until lightly golden; remove and let cool slightly while you make the filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, coconut milk, 1/3 cup brown sugar, vanilla, 1 tsp cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir in the cornstarch slurry until fully incorporated and smooth. Pour the pumpkin filling over the warm crust and spread into an even layer. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. Cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge at least 2 hours (overnight is best) for clean slicing. Use the parchment overhang to lift the slab from the pan, cut into bars, and serve. Optional: dust with cinnamon or top with dairy-free whipped cream. Enjoy these creamy, spiced pumpkin bars — a cozy, dairy-free holiday treat everyone will love! Chocolate Avocado Mousse With Sea Salt Silky, rich chocolate mousse that’s dairy-free, decadent, and finished with a flake of sea salt. Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados (medium to large), peeled and pitted 1/3 to 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (adjust to taste) 1/3 cup maple syrup or agave nectar (more or less to taste) 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or coconut), plus extra to thin if needed 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Pinch of fine sea salt, plus flaky sea salt for finishing Optional: 1–2 tablespoons melted dairy-free dark chocolate for extra richness Optional garnishes: fresh berries, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or mint leaves How to Make: Scoop avocado flesh into a food processor or high-speed blender. Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, vanilla, and a pinch of fine sea salt. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust sweetness, cocoa, or milk to reach your preferred consistency and flavor. If using, stir in melted dairy-free chocolate for extra depth, or blend briefly to combine. Spoon mousse into serving dishes or ramekins and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Just before serving, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and add desired garnishes. Enjoy a spoonful of velvety, chocolatey bliss — dairy-free never tasted so indulgent! Conclusion You’ve got a full dairy-free holiday menu that’s easy to make and share. Pick a main, add two to three sides, and finish with one of the desserts. Plan timing so the oven and stove get used efficiently, and prep items like chopping and roasting the day before when you can. Want a simple serving plan that keeps food warm and worries low? Follow the recipes, set a clear timeline, and enjoy the meal together.