Vegan recipes, simple and delicious meals to try at home

Are you new to veganism or just looking for fresh ideas to spice up your plant-based meals? Vegan recipes have come a long way, and with so many quick and easy options available, it’s never been more enjoyable to explore vegan meals.

This guide is packed with quick and easy vegan dinner recipes for every occasion, from 20 minute weeknight dinners to show-stopping dishes that even non-vegans will love. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or a curious newbie, these easy vegan dishes are bound to become staples in your kitchen.

Why go vegan?

Going vegan is more than a diet. A lifestyle change helps your health, the environment, and animals. Studies have shown that a vegan diet can improve heart health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and even help with weight management.

Also, plant-based eating is better for the environment than diets high in meat. This makes it a more sustainable choice for our planet. You will discover countless easy and simple vegan recipes that make it easier than ever for you to get started.

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Essential ingredients for vegan recipes

Before diving into recipes, let’s look at some essential ingredients that make vegan meals satisfying and nutritious:

1. Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, black beans, and tofu provide essential protein and texture.
2. Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oats add fiber and keep you full.
3. Veggies: Crucial for flavor, color, and nutrients. Stock up on greens, root veggies, and seasonal produce.
4. Nuts and Seeds: such as almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, provide healthy fats and omega-3s.
5. Spices and Herbs: Add flavor to every dish with spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Use fresh herbs like basil and cilantro too.

With these essentials in hand, let’s dive into some easy vegan meals you can whip up with minimal effort.

1. Quick chickpea salad – vegan recipes

For a no-fuss vegan meal, a chickpea salad is perfect. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and tons of flavor.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Optional: Pico de Gallo for added flavor

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine all the veggies with the chickpeas.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss to combine and garnish with fresh herbs.

This is one of those easy vegan recipes you can customize with whatever veggies you have on hand. Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish.

2. Vegan pasta primavera – vegan recipes

Pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, and this vegan version is loaded with colorful vegetables. Quick, satisfying, and perfect for a busy night.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 12 oz pasta of choice (try whole grain or gluten-free if you prefer)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup spinach
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add zucchini and bell pepper, and cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and spinach, and cook them until the spinach wilts.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the veggies, season, and serve.

This easy vegan recipe proves that you don’t need dairy or meat to make a satisfying pasta dish!

3. Creamy vegan mushroom risotto

Looking for a comforting vegan meal? This mushroom risotto is creamy, savory, and feels luxurious without any dairy.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a bit of oil in a large pan and sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they’re soft and slightly golden.
3. Stir in the rice and let it toast for a minute or two.
4. Add vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously until you absorb each ladleful.
5. Once the rice is creamy and cooked through, stir in the nutritional yeast and season to taste.

This is an easy vegan meal that’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging on a cozy night.

4. Easy vegan tacos – vegan recipes

Tacos are a versatile, easy, and simple vegan recipe that’s perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 1 can of beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Corn tortillas

Optional Toppings:

• Salsa
• Vegan sour cream
• Lime wedges

Instructions:

1. In a pan, cook the beans and corn with a pinch of salt and pepper until warm.
2. Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
3. Fill each tortilla with the bean mixture, avocado, and any toppings you like.
4. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

These easy vegan tacos are ready in minutes and customizable with your favorite toppings.

5. Vegan chocolate chia pudding

Finish your meal with this delicious and easy vegan dessert. This chia pudding is rich in fiber, omega-3s, and tastes like a treat.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1-2 tbsp maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
• Fresh berries and nuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, cocoa powder, and maple syrup until well combined.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken.
3. Top with fresh berries, nuts, or coconut flakes before serving.

This simple dessert is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients.

6. Instant pot vegan stew – vegan recipes

Feel free to try this hearty Instant Pot vegan stew loaded with nutritious vegetables and beans. It’s ideal for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1 cup cooked white beans
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot.
2. Set it to high pressure and cook for 30 minutes.

Once done, release the pressure and season to taste.

7. Sheet pan stir fry – vegan recipes

A sheet pan stir fry is a fantastic option for meal prepping or a quick and easy dinner. This dish can be customized to include your favorite veggies and protein sources.

Ingredients for this vegan recipes

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cooked white beans or tofu cubes
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the vegetables and white beans on a sheet pan. Drizzle with soy sauce and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the veggies are tender and slightly charred.

Final thoughts on easy vegan recipes

Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle or simply incorporating more plant-based meals doesn’t have to be complicated. With these easy vegan recipes, you’ll find that preparing vegan dishes can be enjoyable and bursting with flavor. From chickpea salads to creamy risottos, there are endless possibilities for easy and simple vegan recipes. So, stock up on your favorite veggies, grains, and spices, and start creating delicious vegan meals today!

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