50+ Flavorful St. Patrick’s Day Dairy-Free Recipes for Special Feast

St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in delicious food, but if you’re following a dairy-free lifestyle, you might find it challenging to find recipes that meet both your dietary needs and the festive spirit of the holiday.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to avoid dairy, there are plenty of vibrant, flavorful dishes to enjoy.

In this blog post, we’ve gathered 50+ dairy-free recipes that celebrate the essence of St. Patrick’s Day while being kind to your gut and taste buds.

From hearty mains like Dairy-Free Irish Stew and Vegan Shepherd’s Pie to delicious desserts like Irish Oatmeal Cookies and Dairy-Free Apple Cake, you’ll find a wide variety of dishes to serve up during your celebration.

So grab your green apron and get ready to create a festive, dairy-free feast that everyone can enjoy!

50+ Flavorful St. Patrick’s Day Dairy-Free Recipes for Special Feast

Whether you’re hosting a big St. Patrick’s Day feast or enjoying a quiet meal with friends and family, these 50+ dairy-free recipes provide a diverse selection of dishes that will satisfy every craving.

From savory stews and hearty casseroles to refreshing salads and indulgent sweets, you no longer have to miss out on the traditional flavors of this beloved holiday.

Embrace the green, the vibrant, and the dairy-free with these creative recipes that will make your St. Patrick’s Day unforgettable.

No matter your dietary preferences, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy – all while keeping it festive, delicious, and free from dairy.

Dairy-Free Irish Potato Soup

This creamy Irish potato soup is a comforting dish perfect for St. Patrick’s Day. It uses coconut milk instead of cream, making it dairy-free without sacrificing richness. The hint of leeks and fresh herbs adds an authentic Irish touch.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup canned coconut milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and leeks, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute.
3. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully blend in batches in a stand blender.
5. Stir in coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reheat gently if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This dairy-free Irish potato soup is creamy, flavorful, and hearty enough to satisfy everyone at your St. Patrick’s Day gathering. The coconut milk blends beautifully with the other flavors, making it a comforting and allergen-friendly option for the occasion.

Vegan Irish Soda Bread

This dairy-free version of classic Irish soda bread retains the traditional taste and texture but uses plant-based ingredients. The golden crust and soft interior pair beautifully with soups or as a standalone treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar or regular sugar
• 1 ¼ cups unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flours, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. In a small bowl, combine almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes to create a vegan buttermilk substitute.
4. Slowly pour the buttermilk into the dry ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it into a ball. Avoid over-kneading.
6. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet, and cut a deep “X” across the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Allow to cool slightly before slicing.

This vegan Irish soda bread is quick, easy, and perfect for celebrating Irish heritage without compromising dietary needs. Its rustic charm makes it a centerpiece at any St. Patrick’s Day table.

Dairy-Free Shamrock Shake

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a vibrant green shamrock shake that’s completely dairy-free. This creamy treat uses coconut milk and a touch of peppermint extract to replicate the festive flavor of the classic.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 frozen bananas
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave syrup
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 2-3 drops natural green food coloring (optional)
• Whipped coconut cream, for topping
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine coconut milk, frozen bananas, maple syrup, peppermint extract, and food coloring in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Pour into glasses and top with whipped coconut cream.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra festive touch.

This dairy-free shamrock shake is a refreshing and guilt-free way to enjoy a sweet St. Patrick’s Day treat. The creamy texture and minty flavor make it a hit for both kids and adults, while its vibrant green color adds festive cheer.

Dairy-Free Colcannon (Irish Mashed Potatoes with Kale)

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made of mashed potatoes and greens. This dairy-free version swaps butter and cream with olive oil and almond milk, creating a smooth, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (warm)
• 3 cups kale, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add green onions and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Return the potatoes to the pot and mash using a potato masher.
5. Gradually mix in warm almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and stir well to combine. Serve hot.

This dairy-free colcannon retains the rich, comforting texture of the original while adding the nutritional benefits of kale. It’s a wholesome, plant-based side dish that pairs wonderfully with any St. Patrick’s Day meal.

Irish Lentil Stew (Dairy-Free)

This hearty Irish-inspired lentil stew is packed with vegetables and protein, making it a perfect main course for a cozy St. Patrick’s Day dinner. It’s entirely dairy-free but offers rich and comforting flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute.
3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove bay leaves before serving.

This lentil stew is warming and packed with flavor, offering a nutritious and satisfying option for those celebrating St. Patrick’s Day while avoiding dairy. Its rich texture and earthy taste make it an instant favorite.

Dairy-Free Matcha Pancakes (Green for St. Patrick’s Day)

These fluffy matcha pancakes are naturally green and entirely dairy-free, making them a fun and festive breakfast for St. Patrick’s Day. The subtle earthy flavor of matcha pairs beautifully with sweet maple syrup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp matcha powder
• 2 tbsp coconut sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to create a vegan buttermilk.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, coconut sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Add the vegan buttermilk and melted coconut oil to the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and grease lightly with coconut oil.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or coconut whipped cream.

These matcha pancakes bring a fun splash of color to your St. Patrick’s Day breakfast. The dairy-free recipe ensures everyone can enjoy them, while the matcha adds an antioxidant boost and a hint of sophistication.

Dairy-Free Irish Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic Irish dish, and this dairy-free version replaces the traditional creamy mashed potatoes with a coconut milk-based topping. The hearty lentil and vegetable filling make it a satisfying and flavorful St. Patrick’s Day dinner.

Ingredients:
For the Filling:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup green lentils, cooked
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
• ½ cup canned coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain, mash, and mix with coconut milk, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
5. Add lentils, peas, and vegetable broth. Simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Transfer the filling to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and slightly crisp. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

This dairy-free shepherd’s pie is both comforting and wholesome, with a rich lentil filling and fluffy potato topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that showcases traditional Irish flavors with a plant-based twist.

Dairy-Free Irish Apple Cake

This lightly spiced apple cake is a delightful St. Patrick’s Day dessert. Made without butter or milk, it’s moist, tender, and filled with chunks of juicy apples. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup coconut oil, melted
• ¾ cup coconut sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 large apples, peeled and diced
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and almond milk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the diced apples and pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

This dairy-free Irish apple cake is a delicious and easy way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The warm spices and sweet apples create a comforting dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.

Dairy-Free Creamy Spinach Soup

This vibrant green spinach soup is a nod to the colors of St. Patrick’s Day. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture without dairy, while the spinach keeps the soup light and nutrient-packed.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup canned coconut milk
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the diced potato and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the potato is tender.
3. Stir in the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until wilted.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or carefully blend in batches in a stand blender.
5. Return the soup to the pot, stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper. Reheat gently if needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chives.

This creamy spinach soup is a festive and nutritious addition to your St. Patrick’s Day menu. Its bright color and silky texture make it both visually appealing and delicious, perfect for a cozy celebration.

Dairy-Free Guiness-Style Stew with Tempeh

This hearty, flavorful stew captures the essence of a traditional Irish Guinness stew but is made completely dairy-free and plant-based with tempeh as a protein substitute. The deep flavors from the stout beer and vegetables create a satisfying dish for your St. Patrick’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 block tempeh, crumbled
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup Guinness-style stout (make sure it’s dairy-free)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add crumbled tempeh and sauté for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the potatoes, vegetable broth, stout, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the stew has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

This dairy-free Guinness-style tempeh stew is rich and comforting with its deep, earthy flavors. It’s the perfect plant-based dish for St. Patrick’s Day that doesn’t skimp on heartiness or tradition.

Dairy-Free St. Patrick’s Day Green Smoothie

Start your St. Patrick’s Day off right with a vibrant, nutrient-packed green smoothie. Made with spinach, banana, and coconut milk, this smoothie is a great way to celebrate with a healthy and refreshing twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
• ½ cup frozen mango chunks
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp spirulina powder (optional for added color and nutrition)
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients into a blender: banana, spinach, coconut milk, mango, chia seeds, and spirulina powder.
2. Blend until smooth, adding ice cubes for a thicker texture if desired.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.

This dairy-free green smoothie is a refreshing and energizing way to kick off your St. Patrick’s Day. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it’s the perfect breakfast or midday pick-me-up that’ll keep you feeling vibrant all day.

Dairy-Free Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

This crunchy and tangy slaw is a fresh, dairy-free side dish that pairs perfectly with any St. Patrick’s Day meal. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing adds a refreshing element to the festivities.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 2 medium carrots, julienned or grated
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
4. Let the slaw sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This dairy-free cabbage and carrot slaw is a bright, crisp side dish that adds a tangy balance to heavier St. Patrick’s Day meals. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and provides a nice contrast to rich dishes like stews or shepherd’s pie.

Dairy-Free Corned Beef and Cabbage with Tempeh

A plant-based take on the classic Irish corned beef and cabbage, this dish uses tempeh to replace the traditional corned beef. The flavors are rich, savory, and comforting, making it a perfect dairy-free dish to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 1 block tempeh, sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small head cabbage, quartered
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced tempeh and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove tempeh and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
3. Add potatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
4. Add cabbage and cook for another 10-15 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and the cooked tempeh. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, ensuring each plate has plenty of tempeh, cabbage, and potatoes.

This dairy-free corned beef and cabbage with tempeh offers all the flavors of the traditional dish with a plant-based twist. It’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and the tempeh adds a satisfying texture and rich flavor that mimics the classic corned beef.

Dairy-Free Irish Oatmeal Cookies

These dairy-free Irish oatmeal cookies are filled with oats, raisins, and warm spices, making them a perfect snack or dessert for your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. The coconut oil ensures a chewy texture, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring out the rich flavor of the oats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ½ cup coconut oil, melted
• ¾ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup raisins or currants (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Stir in raisins and nuts, if using.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack.

These dairy-free Irish oatmeal cookies are the perfect sweet treat for St. Patrick’s Day. The combination of oats, spices, and raisins makes them a comforting dessert that’s perfect with a cup of tea.

Dairy-Free Vegan Irish Stew

This hearty and flavorful Irish stew is made with a medley of root vegetables and lentils, making it a perfect vegan and dairy-free option for your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. It’s packed with nutrients and bursting with traditional Irish flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add carrots and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Cover and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils and potatoes are tender.
5. Add kale or spinach and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

This dairy-free vegan Irish stew is a rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your guests. The combination of lentils, root vegetables, and fresh greens creates a filling and wholesome meal that embodies the essence of traditional Irish comfort food without dairy.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!