Exclusive:
Christmas is around the corner, but if you don’t fancy turkey with your trimmings, why not go meat-free? We’ve tried everything from nut roasts to no-turkey joints to find the ultimate festive veggie feast
As the festive season fast approaches, the supermarket shelves are packed with an array of vegetarian and vegan centrepieces, each promising to steal the spotlight at your Christmas table. From nut roasts with a twist to plant-based Wellingtons and creative halloumi dishes, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re meat-free or simply looking to switch things up this year.
But with so many options, which ones are truly worth your time or money? To save you the guesswork, we’ve taste-tested the latest offerings from your favourite supermarkets, judging them on flavour, texture, creativity, and how well they pair with classic trimmings. Here’s how the contenders stacked up, from festive showstoppers to the sadly forgettable.
Asda Hasselback Halloumi Roast with Honey Glaze, 292g, £6.00
This cheesy and creative main is crisp on the outside, gooey in the middle, and slathered in a sweet honey glaze that’s utterly delicious. It’s the perfect choice for those who like their mains indulgent. But gravy lovers, beware—this one’s a no-go for your jug of the good stuff. A creative hit, but not for traditionalists. 4/5
Sainsbury’s Mushroom & Chestnut Wellington, Taste the Difference, 500g, £7.50
This vegan Wellington has all the festive feels with its earthy mushroom and chestnut filling wrapped in golden pastry. But while it looks the part, it’s crying out for a sprinkle of salt or a splash of gravy to bring the flavours to life. Tasty but timid. 3/5
Tesco Plant Chef 2 Seasonal Seeded Roasts with Port Gravy, 290g, £2.50
Dense, seedy, and more effort to chew than fallen pine needles, these roasts are a bit of a struggle. The port gravy tries its best, but there’s just not enough of it to save the day. A budget option that needs some serious festive magic. 2/5
Aldi Specially Selected Root Vegetable & Brie Nut Roasts, 2x195g, £2.99
Aldi delivers a festive treat with these nut roasts. Packed with root veg and melty brie, they’re full of flavour and pair beautifully with the included sauce. Original, tasty, and an absolute bargain—this one’s a Christmas cracker! 4/5
Waitrose Plantliving Chestnut & Thyme Plant-Based Turkey Roast, £17.00, 1.12kg
Waitrose brings the wow factor with this plant-based turkey roast. Flavoured with chestnut and thyme, it’s meaty enough to make carnivores curious and comes with gravy and sides to complete the feast. Pricey, yes, but a worthy splurge for the big day. 4.5/5
Morrisons Plant Revolution No-Turkey Joint with Stuffing, 480g, £6.00
A safe but unspectacular option, this no-turkey joint is nice enough but fails to dazzle. The sage and onion stuffing adds a festive touch, but you’re unlikely to go back for seconds. Fine for a crowd, but not a showstopper. 3/5
Iceland, The No Meat Company Sage & Red Onion Stuffing, 400g, £6.00
Oh dear. This one tastes like it was made for the cat’s Christmas dinner. Mushy, bland, and thoroughly unappealing. If you’re tempted, resist! 1/5
M&S Collection Nut Roast, 500g, £10.00
This is nut roast done right. Rich, indulgent, and bursting with festive flavour, it’s a creative twist on a classic that delivers a real wow factor. It’s a little pricey, but for a Christmas treat, it’s worth it. 4/5
Lidl Deluxe No-Beef Wellington, 500g, £4.99
This Wellington gets points for its flaky pastry, but the soya and mushroom filling lets the side down. Bland and forgettable, it’s not quite up to festive centrepiece status. A near miss. 2.5/5
WINNER: Co-op Irresistible 2 Mushroom Wellington Parcels, 376g, £5.00
Absolutely irresistible! These parcels hit all the right notes with their buttery pastry and rich, savoury mushroom filling. They’re perfectly portioned and pair beautifully with trimmings. The festive veggie crown goes to Co-op! 5/5
