Imagine a Christmas feast where ancient traditions meet modern magic, all through the simple joy of plant-based ingredients. Picture a table adorned with a Vegan Lentil Mushroom Meatloaf or a show-stopping Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington. Let the comforting aroma of rosemary and garlic-infused vegan roasts tantalize your senses. Don't forget creamy Mushroom Gravy or Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts, whispering festive cheer. Transform tofu into savory delights or silken desserts, and watch fresh herbs weave their green spells, adding zest to your creations. Your holiday gathering can be vibrant, flavorful, and only the beginning of your culinary adventure.
Main Points
- Vegan Lentil Mushroom Meatloaf combines traditional flavors with modern vegan cuisine for a nostalgic holiday dish.
- Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington serves as a visually striking and flavorful centerpiece for festive meals.
- Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip adds a festive touch with easy preparation and bold flavors.
- Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts are a simple yet magical seasonal side dish for holiday gatherings.
- Fresh herbs enhance flavor in vegan dishes, reducing the need for salt and adding complexity.
Origin of Vegan Christmas Traditions
Imagine, if you will, a Christmas feast where the scents of chestnuts and hearty vegetables fill the air, echoing the traditions of yesteryears when plant-based feasting was already a quiet whisper among holiday tables.
As you gather around the table, you can see how cultural influences have lovingly wrapped modern vegan celebrations in a tapestry of cherished traditions and fresh innovations.
This magical blend of history and creativity lets everyone partake in the joy of the season, celebrating the warmth of inclusivity with every delicious bite.
Historical Plant-Based Feasting
Once upon a time, long before the glistening lights and bustling holiday markets, ancient cultures gathered to celebrate winter with plant-based feasts. They delighted in the bounty of plant-based ingredients, crafting dishes that marked the changing seasons.
The notion of a Meatless Christmas isn't a modern invention but a cherished tradition woven from historical threads. Many religious customs included times of fasting during Advent, where meat was set aside, and vibrant, vegan-friendly meals took center stage. Imagine tables adorned with hearty grains, rich legumes, and root vegetables, all celebrating the earth's winter offering.
As the 19th century dawned, the winds of change blew through dinner tables, inspiring a shift towards healthier lifestyles and vegetarianism. This wave didn't bypass the traditional Christmas festivities. Instead, it added a new dimension to them, encouraging people to explore more plant-based options.
European celebrations like Poland's Wigilia embraced this ethos, showcasing meatless dishes bursting with flavor and tradition.
From these roots, contemporary vegan Christmas traditions have blossomed. They carry forward the essence of those early feasts—ethical and sustainable dining with innovative, mouthwatering recipes.
Your holiday table can consequently be a nod to history, a celebration of plant-based joy.
Cultural Holiday Influences
The tapestry of global traditions weaves a delightful story in which vegan Christmas customs find their roots. Picture ancient celebrations where fasting and abstaining from animal products were cherished rituals. These early practices, often part of religious observances, laid the groundwork for today's Vegan Christmas.
Embracing plant-based ingredients, these traditions have blossomed into a vibrant part of holiday festivities, reflecting a gentle shift towards sustainability and ethical eating. Imagine the Mediterranean, where tables overflow with vegetables, grains, and legumes, inspiring a cornucopia of modern vegan alternatives.
Diverse culinary backgrounds enrich the holiday table, allowing everyone to partake in the joyful season. From hearty stews to fragrant rice dishes, these influences draw from traditional cuisines, celebrating a meatless marvel that honors the earth's bounty.
As you explore this delightful culinary journey, you'll discover how contemporary vegan Christmas recipes borrow from regional flavors, crafting festive meals that are both versatile and rich. It's a celebration of inclusivity, where diverse culinary backgrounds come together, highlighting the power of plant-based ingredients to create a feast that's as joyful as it's nourishing.
Embrace this charming tradition and let your holiday be merry and green!
Modern Vegan Celebrations
Amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer, a modern vegan Christmas celebration blooms, inspired by a heartfelt awareness of animal welfare and sustainability. This holiday season, you might find yourself drawn to the warmth of vibrant plant-based gatherings, where vegan recipes transform classic Christmas dishes into delightful new traditions.
Imagine replacing the traditional roast with a show-stopping Vegan Wellington or a savory lentil-based masterpiece, each bite a proof of creativity and compassion.
As you gather around the table, the spirit of inclusivity blossoms. These plant-based diets invite everyone to the feast, ensuring that no one feels left out. The air is filled with the aromas of seasonal ingredients—root vegetables, nuts, and fruits—each adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth reminiscent of cherished holiday fare.
You can almost taste the harmony of flavors, a symphony of the earth's bounty.
With a tap of your finger, social media opens a world of ideas and camaraderie, connecting you to a growing community that celebrates plant-based cooking. This vibrant network shares and inspires, making it easier than ever to craft a Christmas meal that's both joyful and kind.
Plant-Based Staples Like Tofu
Imagine a holiday feast where tofu takes center stage, transforming traditional dishes into plant-based wonders. Picture a vegan roast made with firm tofu, its golden-brown crust glistening under the twinkle of fairy lights. This delicious vegan marvel sits proudly on your holiday table, infused with rosemary, garlic, and the warmth of festive spices.
As you slice through its hearty layers, the aroma whisks you away to a winter wonderland, where every bite is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Tofu, with its versatile charm, isn't just for main courses. Firm tofu, when marinated, becomes a savory sensation, perfect for stir-fries that dance with color and vibrancy.
And let's not forget silken tofu, the creamy magician of plant-based desserts. When blended just right, it turns into luscious cheesecakes and velvety mousses, satisfying every sweet tooth with its dairy-free delight.
Beyond its culinary magic, tofu is a powerhouse of nutrition. Each half-cup serving brings 10 grams of protein, along with calcium and iron, ensuring your holiday meals are as nourishing as they're enchanting.
Embrace tofu, and let it weave its wholesome spell this Christmas.
Top Ten Festive Vegan Dishes
Picture yourself in a cozy kitchen, the aroma of a Vegan Lentil Mushroom Meatloaf wafting through the air, mingling with the scents of a bubbling Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip.
As you prepare these festive delights, don't forget the grand finale—a Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington that promises to steal the show.
These dishes not only bring warmth and nostalgia to the table but also celebrate the magic of a plant-based Christmas feast.
1. Vegan Lentil Mushroom Meatloaf
How often do you stumble upon a dish that perfectly marries nostalgia with modern culinary flair? Enter the Vegan Lentil Mushroom Meatloaf, a festive delight that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
This hearty creation invites you to relish in the warmth of the holidays, where every slice is a harmonious blend of lentils and vegetables. It's a dish that whispers the cozy tales of yesteryears, while embracing the vibrant, plant-based ethos of today.
Consider the joys it brings to your holiday table:
- Nostalgic Aroma: The savory scent of lentils and mushrooms mingling in your kitchen evokes cherished memories of festive gatherings.
- Glistening Glaze: A tangy tomato or mushroom sauce crowns this masterpiece, adding a touch of elegance and flavor that enchants both vegans and non-vegans.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber, this meatloaf offers a nutritious twist on tradition, supporting your health during the bustling holiday season.
- Ease of Preparation: With minimal cooking time, it's a charmingly simple addition to your holiday meal planning, ensuring more moments spent with loved ones.
The vegan lentil mushroom meatloaf is more than a dish; it's a celebration.
2. Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip
Amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer, the Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip emerges as a quintessential appetizer that bridges tradition and modern tastes.
It's a delightful dish that combines fresh spinach, artichokes, and creamy plant-based cheeses, making it one of the best vegan Christmas recipes out there. Imagine serving it warm, with the aroma wafting through your home, inviting loved ones to gather around for a taste.
Here's why this crowd-pleasing appetizer deserves a spot on your holiday table:
- Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for those spontaneous festive gatherings.
- Inclusive and Thoughtful: By presenting a plant-based option, you guarantee everyone feels welcome, no matter their dietary preferences.
- Nutritionally Rich: The addition of nutritional yeast not only enhances its cheesy flavor but also offers a boost of vitamins, particularly B12.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with crunchy bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables to enhance the communal dining experience.
As you dip your crisp bread into the warm, velvety mixture, you'll find the magic of festive nostalgia in every bite, bringing smiles and stories to the table.
3. Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Among the myriad of festive vegan dishes, Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms stand out as a truly enchanting choice. Imagine presenting a vegan main dish that captures the heart and soul of holiday gatherings.
These mushrooms, with their robust umami flavor, offer a healthful alternative to traditional meat entrees, bringing warmth and delight to your table.
Picture this: a savory mixture of grains, vibrant vegetables, crunchy nuts, and perhaps a sprinkle of vegan cheese, all nestled within a rich, earthy mushroom cap. The preparation is a whimsical dance of cleaning, filling, and baking, culminating in a masterpiece in about 25 to 30 minutes.
Here's why they're unforgettable:
- Nostalgic flavors: Seasonal ingredients like cranberries and herbs evoke cherished holiday memories.
- Simple elegance: Their sophisticated appearance brings a touch of grace to any festive spread.
- Nutritional bounty: High in selenium, potassium, and dietary fiber, these mushrooms are as nourishing as they're delicious.
- Versatile charm: Adapt them to suit any palate by adjusting the filling to your heart's desire.
In the midst of laughter and joy, let these stuffed portobello mushrooms be the centerpiece of your holiday gatherings, a dish where health meets heart.
4. Vegan Shepherd's Pie Delight
As your table overflows with the laughter and joy of holiday gatherings, consider adding a dish that offers both comfort and delight: the Vegan Shepherd's Pie Delight. This charming creation features a savory lentil filling, seasoned with herbs and an orchestra of vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions.
Topped with a fluffy, creamy layer of mashed potatoes, it becomes the comforting centerpiece of your holiday meals, inviting both vegans and non-vegans to savor the goodness of plant-based eating.
Imagine the warmth it brings, like a cozy embrace on a chilly winter's night.
Here's why this dish captures the essence of the holidays:
- Nostalgic Whispers: The fragrant herbs and hearty lentils echo family traditions.
- A Symphony of Flavors: Each bite tells a story, from the earthy lentil filling to the creamy potato peak.
- Heartfelt Versatility: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices, adding a personal touch.
- Holiday Convenience: Make it ahead, allowing you more time to bask in festive joy.
Let the Vegan Shepherd's Pie Delight grace your table, weaving memories of warmth and togetherness, one delicious bite at a time.
5. Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington
Your holiday table's centerpiece could be none other than the enchanting Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington.
This splendid dish, wrapped in flaky puff pastry, reveals a rich and creamy filling of savory chestnut mushroom and herbs. It's an impressive centrepiece that captures the essence of festive vegan dining, transforming your holiday feast into a magical experience.
Picture the moment you slice into the Wellington, exposing layers of umami-rich mushrooms paired with the earthiness of chestnuts.
It's a culinary dance of flavors that will surely delight your senses and warm your heart. And the best part? With just an hour of preparation, you can craft this masterpiece in advance, ensuring a stress-free Christmas dinner.
To truly elevate your meal, pair this Wellington with delightful vegan side dishes that complement its flavors.
Here are four enchanting companions:
- Miso Roasted Brussels Sprouts – A savory delight that adds a tangy twist.
- Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes – A comforting classic that feels like a warm hug.
- Cranberry Sauce – A tart burst of color and flavor.
- Roasted Root Vegetables – Earthy goodness with a hint of sweetness.
This Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington isn't just food; it's a story of joy, togetherness, and inclusivity.
6. Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Imagine your table adorned with the vibrant colors and enticing aromas of festive dishes, where the Savory Chestnut Mushroom Wellington stands proudly.
Right beside it, you'll find the star-studded side dish, Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. These delightful orbs capture the sweet embrace of maple syrup mingling with the tangy kiss of balsamic vinegar, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The simple preparation, just a handful of ingredients, makes this dish a breeze to whip up during the holiday hustle.
As the Brussels sprouts roast, their natural sweetness emerges, their edges crisping to caramelized perfection. This vegan, gluten-free creation is a beacon of inclusivity, ensuring everyone at your gathering feels welcome and delighted.
Pairing these sprouts with any main course adds a touch of seasonal magic to your meal.
Here's why you'll cherish this dish:
- Nostalgic Flavors: Sweet maple and tangy balsamic evoke the warmth of holiday traditions.
- Simple Elegance: An easy recipe that doesn't skimp on taste.
- Textural Delight: Crispy, caramelized edges make every bite a joy.
- Inclusive Feast: Perfect for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Your festive feast awaits!
7. Hasselback Butternut Squash Recipe
When it comes to enchanting your holiday table, the Hasselback Butternut Squash is sure to captivate with its elegant fan-like design. This visually striking dish transforms an ordinary squash into a centerpiece that's both delightful and delectable.
Simply slice the squash into thin, evenly spaced segments, allowing the seasoning to seep into every nook and cranny, elevating the flavors to new heights.
Imagine the aroma of olive oil mingling with garlic and fresh herbs, topped off with a sprinkle of sea salt. This simple yet sophisticated plant-based meal is both hearty and satisfying, highlighting the creativity of vegan cooking. The best part? It requires only a modest list of five ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook.
Here's why you'll love it:
- Visually Stunning: Impress your guests with its unique, intricate appearance.
- Flavorful Experience: Each slice bursts with aromatic goodness.
- Effortless Elegance: Prepare this beauty in about 45 minutes.
- Seasonal Versatility: A perfect side dish for any holiday feast.
As the centerpiece of your festive gathering, the Hasselback Butternut Squash celebrates the joy of vegan cuisine with charm and nostalgia.
8. Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup
There's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup to evoke the cozy charm of the holiday season.
Picture yourself wrapped in a soft blanket, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg dancing through the air as this creamy concoction warms your soul.
This delightful dish, a medley of vibrant pumpkin and sweet potatoes, is made even creamier with a splash of coconut milk.
It's not just delicious; it's a healthy choice for your holiday gatherings, brimming with vitamins A and C.
Imagine the joy of serving this soup at your next festive feast.
Here's why it's a must-add to your holiday menu:
- Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you'll have a pot of goodness ready to delight your guests.
- Flavorful and Festive: The warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg make every spoonful a celebration.
- Nutritious and Nurturing: Packed with essential vitamins, it's as good for you as it's to eat.
- Perfect for Sharing: Easily made in large batches, it's ideal for family gatherings and potlucks.
This Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup isn't just a dish—it's a festive experience.
9. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Gravy
Ah, the allure of Creamy Vegan Mushroom Gravy, where each spoonful whispers tales of warmth and togetherness. Imagine a cozy gathering, the aroma of mushrooms mingling with thyme or rosemary, inviting you to indulge.
Made with a rich blend of mushrooms, vegetable broth, and plant-based milk, this gravy is the essence of holiday joy, perfect for drizzling over vegan roasts and creamy mashed potatoes.
Picture this at your festive table:
- The Comforting Embrace: Each taste transports you to cherished holiday memories, where laughter fills the air, and every bite feels like a hug.
- Inclusive Delight: Being gluten-free and dairy-free, it guarantees everyone can partake in the feast without worry.
- Quick Magic: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this decadent sauce, saving precious time for creating more memories.
- Silken Smoothness: With the help of cashews or silken tofu, the gravy boasts a creamy texture, offering a luxurious experience without animal products.
This gravy doesn't just complement your dishes; it completes them. It turns a simple meal into a celebration, reminding you that the heart of any holiday is togetherness, served one spoonful at a time.
10. Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash
Who can resist the enchanting allure of Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash, a dish that dances between sweet and savory with every bite?
Imagine this: tender cubes of butternut squash, caramelized to perfection, their vibrant orange and yellow hues brightening your holiday table. As a delightful vegan alternative, this dish doesn't just captivate the eyes; it nourishes the body with essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
The preparation is a whimsical affair. You'll start by cutting the butternut squash into cubes and tossing them with a drizzle of olive oil and maple syrup, a sprinkle of salt and pepper. A short trip to the oven—just 25-30 minutes—and voila, you have a dish that's perfect for any holiday meal.
Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to embrace the seasonal flavors even more.
Why choose Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash for your festive gathering? Here's why:
- Captivating colors: It's a feast for the eyes.
- Vegan-friendly: Everyone can enjoy it.
- Nutritious delight: Packed with goodness.
- Simple elegance: Easy to prepare yet sophisticated.
This dish promises to be a memorable highlight at your gathering!
11. Roasted Fall Vegetables With Rosemary
As you savor the sweet and savory dance of Maple-Roasted Butternut Squash, your holiday table awaits another vibrant star: Roasted Fall Vegetables with Rosemary.
Imagine the scene—rich, golden hues of roasted butternut squash mingling with the emerald glow of Brussels sprouts, all kissed by the tender embrace of rosemary. This dish captures the essence of holiday meals, bringing a nostalgic warmth to your festive gatherings.
Cooking these vegetables at a high temperature caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a tender interior and crispy exterior. The fresh rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy note that perfectly complements the vegetables' sweetness. This versatile dish lets you play with seasonal additions like beets or sweet potatoes, making it a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity.
Here's why this dish is a must-have for your holiday spread:
- Nostalgic Aroma: The rosemary's scent wafts through the air, evoking warm memories.
- Festive Colors: Jewel-toned vegetables brighten your table.
- Texture Magic: Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30-40 minutes, perfect for bustling holiday kitchens.
Let this charming dish be the heart of your holiday meals.
Use Fresh Herbs Generously
Imagine your kitchen filled with the enchanting scent of rosemary, thyme, and sage, each stirring up memories of cozy holiday gatherings.
Fresh herbs don't just whisper flavor into your vegan creations—they sing! Pair them wisely with your dishes, and remember to store them in a cool, damp cloth to keep the magic alive through your festive feast.
Enhance Flavors With Herbs
Have you ever wondered how a sprinkle of fresh herbs can transform your vegan Christmas feast into a culinary delight?
Imagine the aromatic dance of rosemary, thyme, and sage, each herb enhancing the flavors of your vegan dishes with a touch of magic. These vibrant sprigs add an aromatic complexity that complements the rich tapestry of plant-based ingredients, inviting every taste bud to join in the holiday merriment.
Picture a salad adorned with fresh parsley or cilantro, their bright green leaves not only enhancing its visual appeal but also adding a burst of freshness and brightness to every bite.
As you savor these herbs, you'll notice how they can replace or reduce the need for added salt, promoting a healthier feast while deepening the flavor profile of your vegan meals.
Infuse your oils with basil or oregano to create flavorful dressings and dips that will make your appetizers and side dishes the stars of the holiday gathering.
And when you stir generous handfuls of herbs into vegan soups and stews, they transform simple recipes into festive comfort foods, warming hearts and homes with their robust and satisfying taste.
Embrace the magic of herbs this Christmas!
Pairing Herbs With Dishes
After exploring the enchanting world of herbs, it's time to let their magic shine in specific dishes on your holiday table. Imagine a vegan roast, its savory depths enhanced by the earthy embrace of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage. These aromatic treasures transform simple ingredients into a symphony of warmth and aroma, a true delight for the senses.
In your salads, sprinkle parsley and dill to add a burst of freshness and brightness that balances the richer elements of your festive spread. Picture a vibrant green salad, its crisp leaves kissed by the citrusy zing of dill-infused dressing—it's a dance of flavors on your palate.
And don't forget the garnishes! Adorn your soups and appetizers with delicate sprigs of herbs, turning each dish into a visual and flavorful masterpiece. A delicate swirl of basil-infused oil atop a creamy soup adds both elegance and an unexpected twist.
For a touch of whimsy in your desserts, pair mint with chocolate or lavender with creams. These unique flavors introduce a sophisticated charm to your vegan holiday treats, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
Embrace the magic of fresh herbs, and let your culinary creations sing!
Herb Storage and Freshness
There's something truly enchanting about using fresh herbs generously in your vegan holiday dishes, and guaranteeing their freshness is key to capturing that magic. Imagine the vibrant flavor of basil, parsley, or thyme dancing through your kitchen, each leaf whispering secrets of the garden.
To preserve this charm, proper herb storage is essential. Picture yourself trimming their stems like a gardener with a gentle touch, nestling them into a glass of water, and covering them loosely with a plastic bag. This simple ritual in your refrigerator can keep their flavor profile as delightful as a winter wonderland.
But wait, there's more to this herbal fairy tale! Wrap your herbs in a damp paper towel or let their stems luxuriate in water, and they might stay fresh for up to two weeks. Just remember, like any good story, you must occasionally replace wilted or bruised characters to keep the plot exciting.
This guarantees your vegan dishes are always bursting with the freshest flavors, making each meal a festively aromatic masterpiece. So, embrace the nostalgia and whimsy of fresh herbs, and let them sprinkle their magic over your holiday creations.
Final Thoughts
As the snow drifts gently outside and the soft glow of twinkling lights fills the room, embracing a vegan Christmas can feel like a heartwarming journey into the unexpected.
Imagine your table adorned with creative meal options, where each dish tells a story of plant-based ingenuity. From the savory allure of vegan Wellington to the comfort of a lentil shepherd's pie, your holiday feast becomes a tapestry of flavors that delight both vegan and non-vegan guests.
Don't forget the vegan desserts that steal the spotlight—gingerbread cake and chocolate avocado mousse offer indulgence without dairy, making sure every sweet tooth is blissfully satisfied.
Plan and preparation are your best allies in creating a stress-free celebration. By communicating dietary needs early and incorporating handy store-bought alternatives, you'll glide through the festive season with ease.
Embrace the spirit of community through recipe sharing. Swapping ideas and feedback with fellow cooks not only enhances your holiday spread but also forges connections that warm the heart.
As you close this chapter of planning, know that your vegan Christmas table is more than just a meal—it's a celebration of creativity, compassion, and culinary adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Easy Vegan Substitutes for Traditional Christmas Desserts?
Imagine swapping traditional sweets for delightful vegan cheesecake alternatives. You can whip up plant-based cookies that melt in your mouth. Savor dairy-free eggnog's creamy charm, and indulge in nut-free desserts for a magical holiday treat.
How Can I Make a Vegan Christmas Meal Budget-Friendly?
Create a charming celebration by embracing affordable ingredients and seasonal produce. Budget meal planning's your secret weapon for party hosting. Whisk together thriftiness and nostalgia, transforming humble veggies into festive magic, leaving your wallet as jolly as Santa.
What Vegan Ingredients Can Enhance the Umami Flavor in Holiday Dishes?
You're on a flavor quest! Add mushroom broth, nutritional yeast, miso paste, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. These magical ingredients transform your dish into a nostalgic feast, echoing warmth and charm in every savory, umami-packed bite.
Are There Vegan-Friendly Wines and Beverages for Christmas Celebrations?
You're pondering holiday cheer, aren't you? Delight in vegan wine options with regional wine selections, or choose sparkling cider choices for a bubbly twist. Your holiday beverage pairings will be charmingly festive and perfectly nostalgic. Cheers!
Can I Prepare Vegan Christmas Dishes Ahead of Time and Freeze Them?
Of course, you can whip up delightful make-ahead meals! Freeze those holiday appetizers and flavorful sides. When the festive bell rings, your nostalgic feast awaits, as charming as a snow-dusted sleigh ride through memory lane.