21 Vegetarian Recipes for Special Occasions You’ll Love

Are you planning a special event and looking for delicious vegetarian dishes to impress your guests? You'll find many elegant options, like stuffed portobello mushrooms, that are sure to please. These dishes are not only tasty but also look great on the table.

If you're looking for more ideas, we have a collection of 21 vegetarian recipes that are perfect for special occasions. These recipes include a variety of flavors and textures that will make your event unforgettable. You can find inspiration for your entire menu, from starters to desserts, and make your special event a huge success.

1. Elegant Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Elegant Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are a flavorful vegetarian dish.

Ingredients

• 4 Portobello mushrooms
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, cheese, onion, garlic, and parsley.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.

2. Roasted Vegetable Tart Recipes

Delicious roasted vegetable tart with caramelized flavors and flaky crust.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup of roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
• 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and place on a baking sheet.
3. Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg.
4. Arrange the roasted vegetables in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and parsley over the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush the pastry with the remaining egg and cut a few slits in the top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!

3. Hearty Vegetarian Main Courses

Vegetarian lentil and mushroom stew is a filling and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown or green lentils
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Add the chopped carrot and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and dried thyme.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
8. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

4. Decadent Desserts for Special Occasions

Indulge in rich, chocolatey goodness with this decadent dessert recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Melt the butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the cocoa powder until well combined.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then stir in the eggs one at a time.
5. Stir in the flour and salt until just combined.
6. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Fold the melted chocolate into the cake batter until well combined.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Fancy Finger Foods for Parties

Mini vegetable tartlets with flavorful fillings perfect for parties.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry
• 1/2 cup caramelized onions
• 1/2 cup roasted bell peppers
• 1/2 cup zucchini
• 1/4 cup goat cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into small squares.
3. Spoon a small amount of caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, and zucchini onto one half of each square.
4. Top with a small dollop of goat cheese.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry square over the filling to form a triangle.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm and enjoy.

6. Seasonal Vegetable Showstoppers

Vibrant seasonal vegetables take center stage in this colorful dish.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant
• 2 large zucchinis
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 large yellow bell pepper
• 2 large red onions
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the eggplant, zucchinis, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Slice the red onions into 1/4-inch thick rings.
4. Mince the garlic cloves.
5. In a large bowl, toss the sliced vegetables and minced garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
6. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
7. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
8. Serve the roasted vegetables hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

7. Rich and Creamy Pasta Dishes

Indulge in rich and creamy pasta dishes with this decadent recipe.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms and garlic in a little bit of oil until they're tender.
3. Add the vegetable broth, heavy cream, and thyme to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
5. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then top with parmesan cheese.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.

8. Vegetarian Casserole Delights

Savor the flavors of a hearty vegetarian casserole, packed with nutritious ingredients and rich textures.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of brown rice
• 2 cups of mixed vegetables
• 1 cup of vegetarian cheese
• 1/2 cup of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the mixed vegetables in olive oil until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and vegetarian cheese.
5. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.

9. Sophisticated Soups for Special Events

Creamy butternut squash soup perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a large bowl, toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast the squash in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
6. Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, and heavy cream to the pot.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
8. Purée the soup until smooth and serve hot.

10. Grilled Vegetable Skewer Recipes

Colorful vegetables grilled to perfection on skewers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup mushrooms
• 1 cup bell peppers
• 1 cup onions
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil and garlic.
4. Brush the mixture onto the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.

11. Exquisite Eggplant Dishes

Delicious eggplant dishes perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants
• 1 onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add the tomato sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
6. In a baking dish, create a layer of tomato sauce.
7. Arrange a layer of eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
8. Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
9. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese.
10. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Lavish Lasagna Variations

Rich layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese create a satisfying vegetarian dish.

Ingredients

• 8 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup grated parmesan
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, bell peppers, and onion until tender.
4. Stir in the garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and spinach.
6. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
8. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the sautéed vegetables.
9. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
10. Repeat the layers, starting with the noodles, then the marinara sauce, the ricotta mixture, the vegetables, and finally the cheese.
11. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

13. Vibrant Salad Creations

Vibrant Salad Creations is a healthy and invigorating dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup cucumber slices
• 1/2 cup carrots
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

14. Delectable Dumpling Recipes

Delicious vegetarian dumplings filled with savory ingredients and spices.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add water to the flour mixture and knead until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small balls and roll out each ball into a thin circle.
4. Place a tablespoon of the chopped cabbage, carrots, scallions, and garlic in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
6. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling ingredients.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the dumplings.
8. Cook the dumplings for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve the dumplings hot with soy sauce for dipping.

15. Savory Strata and Frittatas

Savory strata and frittatas are perfect vegetarian brunch options.

Ingredients

• 6 eggs
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the diced bell peppers and onions, and cook until tender.
4. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the shredded cheese, chopped spinach, and cooked vegetable mixture to the bowl, and stir to combine.
7. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

16. Elegant Egg Dishes for Brunch

Elegant egg dishes perfect for a sophisticated brunch gathering.

Ingredients

• 6 eggs
• 1 cup mushrooms
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/2 cup feta cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet and sauté the mushrooms until tender.
4. Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until wilted.
5. Pour the whisked eggs over the vegetable mixture and cook until the edges start to set.
6. Sprinkle the feta cheese over the eggs and transfer the skillet to the oven.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

17. Creative Crescent Roll Recipes

Flaky crescent rolls filled with sweet or savory ingredients make a delicious treat.

Ingredients

• 1 can of crescent rolls
• 1/2 cup of spinach and feta cheese
• 1/2 cup of sliced strawberries and cream cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped nuts
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the crescent rolls and separate into triangles.
3. Mix spinach and feta cheese, and place on one half of the triangle.
4. Mix sliced strawberries and cream cheese, and place on the other half of the triangle.
5. Fold the triangle in half to enclose the filling.
6. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Drizzle with honey and serve warm.

18. Incredible Indian-Inspired Dishes

Delicious Indian-inspired vegetarian dishes with rich flavors and spices.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt, to taste
• 2 cups water

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables, cumin powder, and coriander powder, and stir well.
5. Add basmati rice and stir to combine with vegetables and spices.
6. Add water to the pan and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
8. Season with salt to taste and serve hot.

19. Beautiful Brunch Buffet Ideas

Delicious quiche and fresh fruit create a perfect brunch buffet.

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch pie crust
• 2 cups mixed vegetables
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh fruit

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add shredded cheese and mixed vegetables to the bowl and stir.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Arrange fresh fruit on a platter.
8. Serve the quiche with fresh fruit and enjoy.

20. Stunning Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stunning Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious vegetarian dish.

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup black beans
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice, black beans, corn kernels, shredded cheese, and chopped tomatoes.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy.

21. Glamorous Grilled Vegetable Wraps

Grilled vegetable wraps offer a healthy and flavorful meal option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mixed vegetables
• 1/4 cup hummus
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 large tortilla wraps
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, until tender.
4. Spread hummus on each tortilla wrap.
5. Arrange the grilled vegetables on the tortilla wraps.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the vegetables.
7. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to enclose.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Conclusion

You'll wow guests with elegant stuffed mushrooms, yet simplify with hearty main courses. Decadent desserts will impress, while fancy finger foods bring intimacy. The contrast between rich flavors and healthy ingredients will leave a lasting impression, making your special occasion unforgettable, a perfect blend of sophistication and warmth.