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How to survive the holidays as a vegan (plus five delish recipes)

A vegan diet certainly has its benefits (think: a boosted immune system, glowier skin and less inflammation). Besides, who doesn't feel fresher eating tons of fresh fruits + veggies?

But ngl, sticking to a restrictive food plan during the holiday season is far from easy. With holiday parties and delish dishes at every corner, it's hard to keep on your plant-based path.

DW—We've got the tips you need to enjoy every minute of the holiday season, without stressing about what you're going to eat next.

*Don't* feel bad about your food choices

Whatever you do, don't feel guilty about your plant-based diet. Your choice is totally valid, so don't let others make you feel high-maintenance. "Relatives may have a lot of questions on why you're not eating certain meals around this time of year. Keep loud and proud on why you're vegan," says Lily Swann Frost from Beatnic, a vegan restaurant chain based in New York. If someone hands you a dish you can't eat, simply smile, thank them for the offer and tell them you're a vegan.

Offer to bring your own dish

Heading to Thanksgiving at Grandma's? Tell her that you'll bring one of your own recipes to share. "Bring something quick and easy that you love to eat, even if it's mac 'n' cheese!" says Swann Frost.

Whether it's vegan mashed potatoes or an autumn harvest salad, toting your own treats to the table will make sure you have something to nosh on. Not to mention that your fam will appreciate the extra help in the kitchen.

Need some extra inspo on what to bring—or simply what to cook up this holiday break? Try these tasty vegan entrees, apps and treats.

1. Vegan burrito

Vegan Heaven

This quick and easy meal is perf for beginners. It only takes between 10 and 15 minutes to prepare. Most of the ingredients come canned, which means it'll save you the hassle of having to cook it in advance. The only thing you'll have to prep is the rice.

2. Chickpea tuna salad

@amywilichowski @Garianne this chickpea ‘tuna’ salad is DIVINE #foodtiktok #easyrecipe #fyp #vegan #plantbased ♬ original sound - Amy Wilichowski

TikToker Amy Wilichowski's viral chickpea salad recipe is sure to have you addicted.

3. Pretzel bites

The Simple Veganista

Who can resist the doughy goodness of pretzel bites? Well, you can now make your own thanks to The Simple Veganista. Pair with any dipping sauce (we like honey mustard) and you're good to go.

4. Cajun pasta

Contentedness Cooking

This tasty Cajun pasta only takes 30 minutes to prepare. This meal has everything your body needs to feel fab. It's rich in proteins, flavor and is v. easy to make.

5. Smoothie bowl

@brennan.kai Reply to @miradoodles here are all my secrets 🤫 #smoothie #smoothiebowl #vegan #plantbased #nicecream #fruit #recipe #softserve #acaibowl #zerowaste #lowwaste #plasticfree ♬ Young Folks - Shindig Society

Smoothie bowls are a fun, new twist to the classic smoothie! They're easy to make, too—just blend your fave frozen fruits with coconut milk. Luckily, TikToker Brenann Kai is an expert at making these delicious bowls and shows us how to get the best consistency. Once you've watched her vids, grab a spoon and enjoy!