Delicious Christmas vegetable recipes and side dishes perfect for the big day

Christmas dinner just wouldn't be Christmas dinner without all the trimmings.

In our opinion, they’re even better than the main attraction - whether that’s a turkey or a vegetarian Christmas pastry.

Think perfect roast potatoes, crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, and Brussels sprouts - trust us, they’re delicious with a little bacon and lemon. Leave space for festive spiced red cabbage, sweet glazed parsnips and mustard coated carrots too. 

Most can be made ahead and reheated on the big day, saving you precious time and oven space. If there’s any left (we can’t make any promises) they make a tasty addition to a Boxing Day feast too. 

Scroll down for plenty of festive food inspiration… 

Christmas vegetables recipes and side dishes 

Crispy roast potatoes 

This foolproof recipe shows you how to get perfect roast potatoes every time using either oil, goose fat or dripping. The results are indulgent - golden and crispy, but fluffy on the inside. 

See the full recipe: Crispy roast potatoes 

Brussels Sprouts with bacon

Transform Brussels sprouts into a salty, zingy Christmas side with just a little bacon and lemon. If this doesn't convert the haters, nothing will.

See the full recipe: Brussels sprouts with bacon.

Balsamic-glazed parsnips

A sticky balsamic glaze really enhances the flavour of these roasted parsnips, cooked with red onion and fresh rosemary.

See the recipe: Balsamic-glazed parsnips

Lusting after the other side dishes in the image above? Why not make our baked onion stuffing and carrots in mustard and honey too.

Festive red cabbage 

This easy red cabbage recipe is gently spiced with cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon. All you have to do is layer the red cabbage with sliced apples, cider vinegar and brown sugar and cook on a low heat for 1½ hours. It's worth the time - but you can always make it the day before and reheat when you're ready.

See the recipe: Festive red cabbage

Bread sauce

Homemade bread sauce is so much better than anything you can buy in the shops - if there's one day to go all out and make it, it's Christmas Day. Like Brussels sprouts, bread sauce has its super fans (and not such big fans). This easy recipe uses fresh breadcrumbs, stock, black peppercorns and a little creme fraiche.

See the recipe: Bread sauce

Cranberry sauce

Homemade cranberry sauce is so much better than shop bought and with this foolproof recipe, you'll never buy a jar again! It will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days so make ahead for a stress-free Christmas dinner.

See the recipe: Cranberry sauce

Happy Christmas cooking!