Looking for a show-stopping vegetarian centerpiece? Vegetable Wellington is the perfect elegant dish to serve for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or any special occasion. Layers of tender roasted vegetables, creamy herbed filling, and golden puff pastry create a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. This recipe combines seasonal vegetables with a savory mushroom duxelles for that iconic Wellington flavor, making it a vegetarian delight that rivals any traditional meat Wellington.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this Vegetable Wellington recipe is approachable yet impressive. In this article, we’ll break down everything: ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, variations, serving suggestions, and even a touch of culinary history.

Ingredients

Puff Pastry & Filling:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed, approx. 10×10 inches)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables:
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into thin ribbons
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and sliced
- 1 small eggplant, roasted and sliced
For Assembly & Finish:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional garnish)
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and eggplant lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 15–20 minutes until tender. Set aside.
Make Mushroom Duxelles:
In a medium skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms release moisture and mixture becomes paste-like, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in chopped spinach, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare Puff Pastry:
Roll out puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to ensure even thickness. Place parchment paper underneath for easy transfer.
Assemble the Wellington:
Spread a thin layer of ricotta over the center of the pastry. Top with the cooled mushroom duxelles. Layer roasted vegetables neatly over the duxelles, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Fold pastry edges over the filling, sealing with a gentle press. Flip so seam side is down, or leave seam side up for a rustic look.
Add Egg Wash and Garnish:
Brush the puff pastry with beaten egg. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
Bake:
Transfer Wellington to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, until pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Rest and Serve:
Let the Wellington rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm with a side of roasted potatoes, a light salad, or a creamy sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Vegetable Wellington

Don’t overfill: Too many vegetables can make the pastry soggy. Keep layers thin and balanced.
Dry ingredients well: Pat roasted vegetables dry with a paper towel before assembling.
Use cold puff pastry: This helps create a flaky texture that holds the filling beautifully.
Make ahead: Assemble the Wellington a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Brush with egg wash just before baking.

Variations

Vegan Version: Replace ricotta with cashew cream or almond cheese. Brush pastry with plant-based milk instead of egg wash.
Seasonal Vegetables: Swap in sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or mushrooms according to season.
Cheese Lovers: Add a layer of goat cheese or gruyere for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as the centerpiece for a festive holiday meal.
Pair with a light green salad and balsamic vinaigrette.
Complement with a red wine reduction or mushroom gravy for extra elegance.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

The Wellington dish is named after the Duke of Wellington and traditionally involves beef tenderloin wrapped in puff pastry. Vegetarian versions have gained popularity as plant-based diets rise, keeping the classic elegance without meat. Mushroom duxelles in this recipe mimic the savory richness of traditional beef Wellington, offering a luxurious, layered experience for vegetarians.

Recipe Highlights

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Difficulty: Medium

Vegetable Wellington is not only a feast for the eyes but also a satisfying, hearty main dish suitable for any celebratory occasion. With layers of colorful roasted vegetables, creamy filling, and golden puff pastry, it proves that vegetarian cooking can be as indulgent and festive as any meat-based dish.