Holidays are a time for laughter and love, caring and sharing. Nothing brings people together more than sharing a colorful, tasty, terrific meal.

Traditional holiday fare invariably includes meat as a main course. Vegetarian entrees are not difficult to imagine or create and desserts pose no problem at all. But how do you cater for vegetarian main meals during the festive season?

The secret to creating a great main meal for all to share is to keep as much of the meal as possible the same. Vegetable accompaniments, salads and crusty bread rolls can be enjoyed by all.

Winter Warmer
For winter holidays you can't go past a great roast and Baked Cashew Loaf is a rich flavorsome roast vegetarians will love.

Ingredients:
teaspoon oil
2 cups cashew pieces, chopped
1 onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
250g mashed tofu
1 carrot, grated
cup freshly chopped parsley
2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce

Method:
Brush oil over a loaf tin
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined
Press mixture into tin and bake at 375degrees F (190C) for 40 minutes

A dollop of your favorite sauce, vegetable puree or dressing adds interesting taste, texture and color to the loaf.

As a bonus, just like roast meat, leftover loaf makes a great sandwich filling.

Summer Sizzler
Barbecues are a favorite all around the world for summer holiday gatherings. Lentil patties, soy and tofu burgers and sausages are all common sights on the hotplate today. Remember to take care to keep the juices and flavors separate by cooking on separate hotplates.

To add a festive feel to your holiday barbecue, Carnival Kebabs are an easy to prepare vegetarian addition which will be enjoyed by all.

Ingredients
2cm chunks of fruit, vegetables and tofu
Pineapple, zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, mushrooms, steamed baby potatoes, eggplants, peppers and onions all do well on the barbecue.

Method:
Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for 1 hour
Thread chunks of fruit and vegetables onto skewers, alternating to create a colorful display
Place skewers on barbecue turning regularly until golden brown.

To add zest to your kebabs allow the food to marinate for at least an hour before cooking.

Marinade:
1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
Juice of lemon
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tablespoon freshly grated root ginger

Holidays are about coming together, not highlighting differences. By keeping much of the meal the same, your guests will enjoy a common meal and you'll save time in planning and preparation.

Learn more about this author, Marie Hurley.
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