10 comforting vegetarian mains for winter

By Jess Spiro, 11 March 2021

Vegetarians, this one is for you. We’ve rounded up some of the most comforting and hearty vegetarian mains, perfect to stave off that winter chill. Your meat-eating counterparts are even going to want a bite, we promise.

1. Sunshine dhal with coconut and cauliflower

Lentils truly are the vegetarian MVP, and dhal will always warm you up from the inside out. This one scores double points for sneaking in extra cauliflower.

Sunshine dhal with coconut and coriander recipe

2. One-pot chickpea-and-tomato pasta

A great pantry-based dinner, this pasta is quick-cooking and deeply satisfying.

One-pot chickpea-and-tomato pasta recipe

3. Lentil-and-butternut cottage pie

Is there a better dish to make in the depths of winter than cottage pie? This veggie version will also freeze well, so you can double up for future dinners.

Lentil-and-butternut cottage pie recipe

4. Roast cauliflower lasagne

Dare we say this cauliflower lasagne might even rival the classic meaty version?

roast cauliflower lasagne

Roast cauliflower lasagne recipe

5. Bean curry

Beans are another great hard-working pantry item for vegetarians, and this curry shows them off perfectly. Serve alongside fluffy rice and naan breads, and roll leftovers into a wrap for a warming winter lunch.

Bean curry recipe

6. Gnocchi with Romesco sauce and grated hazelnuts

When it comes to vegetarian gnocchi dishes, pesto is the commonly used sauce. And while we love a good pesto, this Romesco option feels a little more winter-appropriate.

Gnocchi with Romesco sauce recipe

7. Savoury oats with creamy leeks, mushrooms and Parmesan

This is peak cosiness. Don’t let the addition of oats put you off, consider them something of an alternative grain.
Savoury oats with creamy leeks, mushrooms and Parmesan recipe

Savoury oats with creamy leeks, mushrooms and Parmesan recipe

8. Creamy pumpkin risotto

Risottos are constantly doing the most for vegetarians, and this pumpkin version is one of our favourites.
creamy pumpkin risotto

Creamy pumpkin risotto recipe

9. Melanzane alla Parmigiana

Vegetarian or not, melanzane is a proven crowd-pleaser and perfect for a chilly evening.


Melanzane alla Parmigiana recipe

10 Twice-baked cheese soufflés

Are these an excuse to cheese for dinner? Yes, they are. But if you serve them alongside a punchy winter salad and fresh bread, you’ve got yourself a fancy little supper set-up.

Twice-baked cheese soufflés recipe

Jess Spiro

Article by Jess Spiro

Jess Spiro is a freelance food writer, chef and restaurant critic based in Cape Town, who can often be found in search of the next great plate of food. Follow her on Instagram @jess_spiro to see what she's eating.
View all articles
Load more

Comments