If you’re searching for a centerpiece that will truly wow your guests and satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike, this Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe is your golden ticket. Bursting with cozy, herby flavors and wrapped in a perfectly crispy crust, this dish combines hearty lentils, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant greens into a gorgeous, aromatic parcel. Each bite is like a holiday hug, making it an unforgettable addition to any festive table. Trust me, once you try this stromboli, it’ll become your go-to recipe for celebrating with plant-based joy and delicious flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role to create a well-balanced and flavorful Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe. From the savory spices to the wholesome lentils, these essentials come together to build a taste and texture you’ll fall in love with.
- 1 pound pizza dough: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for that extra touch of love and freshness.
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown): The hearty protein base that holds all the flavors together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies during sautéing.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth for an inviting aroma.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Introduces warmth and a subtle kick that wakes up the palate.
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped: Earthy and meaty, they add wonderful umami richness.
- 1 cup spinach (or kale), chopped: Brings vibrant color and a fresh, slightly bitter balance.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: The quintessential holiday herb that lends a woodsy, comforting note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a gentle herbal brightness that complements the lentils beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers fragrant pine-like hints that elevate the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Injects a smoky warmth that rounds out the filling.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Seasoning is key to balance and bringing all components together.
- ¼ cup vegan cheese shreds (optional): Melts into gooey pockets of creamy indulgence inside the stromboli.
- 2 tablespoons plant-based milk (for brushing dough): Helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown, glossy crust.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when serving.
How to Make Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the stromboli from sticking and to help with easy clean-up — this simple step sets the stage for perfectly baked stromboli every time.
Step 2: Sauté the Flavor Base
In a skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until lightly softened and translucent. Then toss in minced garlic and chopped mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and become tender. The aroma here is incredible and lays a rich foundation for the lentil filling.
Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients
Stir in your cooked lentils, chopped spinach or kale, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture until the greens are wilted and everything is heated through. Let this rustic filling cool slightly so it’s easier to handle in the next step. This well-seasoned filling is what brings that festive magic to the pie.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll your pizza dough into a 12-by-16-inch rectangle. This size provides just the right amount of dough to encase the filling securely and bake evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Stromboli
Spread the lentil filling evenly down the center of the dough, leaving about two inches of dough clear along the edges. If you’re including vegan cheese, sprinkle it over the filling now to get those melty, luscious bites. Fold the sides and the ends of the dough over the filling, pinching tightly to seal the edges. This step is crucial to keep all those delicious flavors locked inside as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the stromboli seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the top lightly with plant-based milk to encourage a beautiful golden-brown crust. Cut 3 or 4 slits across the top to let steam escape, helping the interior cook evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust turns gorgeously golden and crisp.
Step 7: Final Touches Before Serving
Let the stromboli rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow the filling to settle. Then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Slice it up and serve warm to enjoy the full harmony of flavors and textures that make this a holiday showstopper.
How to Serve Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or even some crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a side of tangy marinara sauce can elevate the experience and provide a lovely contrast to the filling’s earthiness.
Side Dishes
This stromboli pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dotted with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries for a festive touch. Roasted root vegetables or a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup also complement the heartiness and make for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings, serve the stromboli sliced into thick, generous rounds on a wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs and colorful sides. You could even create individual mini strombolis for a fun, party-friendly presentation that lets everyone savor their own personal feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep slices separate with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their crispness.
Freezing
To enjoy this stromboli later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that lovely golden crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Absolutely! Green or brown lentils work best because they hold their shape nicely, but you can experiment with whichever lentils you prefer as long as they’re cooked and not mushy.
Is it necessary to use vegan cheese?
Vegan cheese is optional here. Including it adds a creamy, melty texture that some love, but the stromboli is flavorful and satisfying even without it. Feel free to skip it if you prefer.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Just be sure to warm it slightly before assembling to make rolling easier.
What can I substitute for spinach if I don’t have any?
Kale, Swiss chard, or even finely chopped broccoli rabe can add a similar texture and earthiness. Just cook it down enough so it wilts before using.
How do I make my stromboli crust extra crispy?
Brushing the dough with plant-based milk before baking and allowing steam to escape through slits helps create a crispy crust. Baking on parchment also ensures even heat distribution for that perfect crunch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe enough if you want to bring warmth, flavor, and a show-stopping centerpiece to your holiday meal. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers a festive flair that will have everyone asking for seconds. Go ahead and treat your loved ones to this heartwarming, delicious dish — I promise it will earn a special place in your holiday traditions!
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Festive Vegan Lentil Stromboli Recipe for a Holiday Showstopper Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Festive Vegan Thanksgiving Lentil Stromboli is a flavorful and hearty holiday dish that combines savory lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs wrapped in golden, crispy pizza dough. Perfect as a show-stopping vegan centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table, this stromboli balances earthy lentils with vibrant spinach and subtle smoky spices, all baked to perfection for a comforting and impressive meal.
Ingredients
Stromboli Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 cup spinach (or kale), chopped
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup vegan cheese shreds (optional)
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons plant-based milk (for brushing dough)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Sauté Vegetables and Assemble Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and chopped mushrooms; cook until mushrooms soften and release their juices. Add cooked lentils, chopped spinach, dried sage, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the spinach wilts and all ingredients are well combined. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle, ensuring an even thickness for uniform baking.
- Fill Dough: Spread the lentil mixture evenly down the center of the dough, leaving about 2 inches of space on each edge. If using, sprinkle vegan cheese shreds over the filling for added flavor and creaminess.
- Seal Stromboli: Carefully fold the sides and ends of the dough over the filling and pinch all edges tightly to seal the stromboli and prevent filling from leaking out during baking. Place the stromboli seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare for Baking: Brush the surface of the stromboli with plant-based milk to promote browning and a shiny crust. Using a sharp knife, cut 3–4 small slits on top to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the stromboli in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, slice, and serve warm for a festive and delicious holiday dish.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach if desired.
- Vegan cheese is optional but adds a nice richness to the filling.
- Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent filling leakage.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best texture.
- Use cooked lentils that are firm but tender for optimal filling texture.
