Even Spider-Man needs a little help in the kitchen sometimes. Tom Holland, the blockbuster actor known for scaling buildings and saving the world on screen, is on a more grounded mission off-screen: mastering the art of vegetarian cooking to impress his fiancée, Zendaya. With the “Challengers” star often tied up on film sets, Holland has turned to a trusted family source for culinary backup—his younger brother, Sam Holland, a professional chef.

How to Cook for a Vegetarian Partner? Tom Holland’s Simple Solution

For many, adapting to a partner’s dietary preferences can be a challenge. Tom Holland’s experience is a relatable tale of trial, error, and the occasional call for takeout. While Zendaya was busy filming in Boston, Holland took on dinner duty. He admitted to Nick Grimshaw and Angela Hartnett on the Dish podcast in December, “I’m a fine cook. I really enjoy cooking. I’m starting to venture into a lot of vegetarian cooking. My girlfriend’s vegetarian.” However, he was candid about the results, noting, “They haven’t been great. There have been a few like, ‘Let’s just order-ins.'”

His solution was a direct line to expertise. Sam Holland, 25, recently released his cookbook, Kitchen Kickstart, filled with beginner-friendly recipes. Recognizing the perfect opportunity to provide support, Sam specifically guided his famous brother through the plant-based section. “I’m especially proud of the veggie section. Zendaya has a plant-based diet, and I sent those recipes Tom’s way as he was on dinner duty… He went through them one by one and really enjoyed them,” Sam told The Times.

A Chef in the Family: Sam Holland’s Culinary Influence

The dynamic between the Holland brothers adds a layer of charm to this story. While Sam is a trained chef, he good-naturedly downplays his family’s skills in the kitchen. “They are all probably a bit worse than beginner cooks,” he joked to The Times, referring to Tom and their other brothers, Paddy and Harry. This humble assessment, however, hasn’t stopped Tom from confidently claiming his own prowess, telling the Dish podcast, “I’m a fine cook.”

This insider support system highlights how the Holland family navigates the spotlight, relying on each other for normal, everyday help—like sharing a good recipe. Sam’s cookbook, designed to be accessible, proved to be the perfect tool to ensure his brother could successfully put a wholesome, meat-free meal on the table.

Beyond Takeout: Zendaya’s Signature Dish

It’s not a one-way street in the Holland-Zendaya kitchen. While Tom is diligently following his brother’s instructions, he is quick to praise his fiancée’s own culinary skills. He revealed a particular favorite: “I actually love Zendaya’s spicy vodka fusilli thingamajiggy that she does,” he said, affectionately using a playful name for the pasta dish and ultimately calling it “delicious.” This glimpse into their home life shows a couple who shares responsibilities and appreciates each other’s efforts, even if the results are sometimes hit-or-miss.

The couple, who got engaged in late 2024, is building a life together that balances red-carpet glamour with relatable domestic moments. While Tom Holland might be a superhero to millions, at home, he’s just a guy trying to cook a great vegetarian meal for the woman he loves, with a little help from his brother. It’s a testament to the fact that even in Hollywood, the way to the heart is often through the stomach.

Must Know

What is Zendaya’s diet?
Zendaya maintains a primarily plant-based or vegetarian diet. This has inspired Tom Holland to explore and cook more vegetarian meals at home.

What is Sam Holland’s cookbook called?
Sam Holland, Tom’s brother, is a chef and the author of the new cookbook titled Kitchen Kickstart, which features a section of beginner-friendly vegetarian recipes.

Can Tom Holland cook?
By his own admission, Tom Holland considers himself “a fine cook” who enjoys it. He has been actively learning to cook vegetarian dishes to accommodate Zendaya’s diet, though he admits some attempts have led to ordering takeout.

What is Tom Holland’s favorite dish that Zendaya makes?
Tom Holland has expressed great affection for Zendaya’s “spicy vodka fusilli,” which he described on a podcast as delicious.

Are Tom Holland and Zendaya engaged?
Yes, multiple reports confirmed that Tom Holland and Zendaya got engaged in late 2024.