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Here are fun vegan dinner recipes to spice up your dinner routine. If you are on the vegan diet you might be craving variety. These will give you new meals to inspire your cooking!
Contents hide
1 🍽️ Why These Work
2 🥒 Beginner Tips
3 Minimize Kitchen Time
4 Pasta Dinners
5 Mexican / Hispanic Dinners
6 Stews / Soups / Chilis
7 Sweet Potato Recipes
8 Tofu Recipes
9 Other Dinner Recipes
10 Common FAQs
Here are some of my favorite recipes! I am not completely vegan, but I do believe in eating healthy and would love to grow into a diet that leads our family to eat fewer processed foods.
I choose ingredients from the outside aisles of the grocery store and use the inside aisles less and less. This list helps me find creative meals using no processed foods.
Creative recipes such as these, allow me (and you too, if you are a beginner!) not to be intimidated by veganism.
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🍽️ Why These Work
- Simple dinner ideas. I hate long and complex recipes, so these are quick and easy to make.
- Eliminate processed foods. There really isn’t a lot of need for them, especially when meals can taste this good.
- Create wholesome meals you and your family can enjoy
- New recipes for your meal rotation.
- Save leftovers for meal prepping for lunches or dinners
These are healthy and a great alternative when you are trying to save money too. Try them, and you will see for yourself.
🥒 Beginner Tips
If you are new to the vegan world, you might feel a little overwhelmed. Let me walk you through some tips that might really help you gain focus. Also take your time adjust to shopping/planning and eating differently.
Note: If you’re like us, you might be just adding a few plant-based meals to your cooking routine per week. It helps us eat a bit healthier each week!
Plan Time In The Kitchen
Make sure that when you are starting out, plan to spend a bit more time in the kitchen until you figure out the tips and tricks for speeding up your meal preparation. Give yourself a buffer and allow time to prep veggies, cook, etc.
Fresh Ingredients
You will spend more time at the grocery store picking up fruits, veggies, etc. Step out of the box and try new ingredients to diversify your menu. This is a great time to pick up some vegetables that you normally don’t cook with.
Prep Snacks
Prep snacks and such for when you are away from home. This will help prevent you from running into an issue where you can’t find snacks at a convenience store that fit what you are looking for. Plus, it will help you save money on pricey items that you buy out of convenience.
Don’t Be Afraid
Don’t be afraid to try new things, or say no to food that doesn’t fit your new diet. You will probably need to eliminate some things from your current meal rotation, but that’s ok! Enjoy the new and tasty meals that you’ll make.
Keep A List
If you happen to try new recipes, make sure to keep a list of recipes you enjoy. That way you can create a solid meal plan and keep it in your rotation for meals for lunch or dinner.
The same thing goes for pre-packaged foods. If you find you like a particular brand or flavor keep track for future purchases.
Minimize Kitchen Time
Not a big fan of spending a ton of time in the kitchen? I don’t blame you! Here are some quick and easy tips to help speed up your time when cooking.
- If you don’t want to spend time chopping, consider buying pre-cut veggies and fruits. This can help the prep on cooking speed up, if you don’t mind paying a little extra.
- I love to meal prep. You can meal prep and even make freezer meals that you can just toss in the oven for later. This is a great way to spend an hour a week in the kitchen, getting meals ready to pack for lunches, eat for dinner, etc.
- Find easy dinner recipes that have minimal ingredients, simple prep, but offer great flavor. That is where this list below will come in handy!
- When trying new dishes, look for a couple that have a couple of the same ingredients so you don’t have leftovers that spoil. You are using the same concept you would when you shop normally. If you only need a tablespoon of cilantro, try to find another recipe with cilantro so you don’t waste.
Pasta Dinners
Here are some pasta dinners that will help fill that hearty void with creamy sauces, loads of veggies, and tons of flavor. These are a treat the whole family.
30 Minute Easy Vegetarian/Vegan Pasta Recipe
I can’t help but crave pasta frequently! This vegetarian pasta is exactly what you need when you need a carb fix! Plus, it’s packed with lots of nutrient-rich foods.
The Easiest 25 Minute Vegetable Lo Mein to Make Tonight
This is a quick 15 minute meal to make when you are busy during the week and still want to strive to keep your vegan diet. This vegetable lo mein recipe can hold its own against any veggie lo mein I’ve had from a restaurant. Dare I say that I even like it way more than the actual takeout version, which I usually find a little too heavy for my tastes. I know it’s a vegetable lo mein recipe… and there are actually no lo mein noodles in sight. I used spaghetti instead since I figured almost everyone has that on-hand and is familiar with cooking spaghetti.This is a great one to be a “starter” vegan recipe as it proves you are just eating clean and there isn’t anything too crazy about it.
Easy Chow Mein Recipe
Photo Credit:wonkywonderful.com
You don’t have to stand in line waiting to buy this scrumptious chow mein. You can quickly whip some up at home, and it tastes better too.
Slow Cooker Ratatouille Pasta
Photo Credit:thecompletesavorist.com
If you’re looking for a hearty Italian recipe that will keep you filled up, then you have met your match. Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, garlic, onions, basic, pasta, and pasta sauce steals the show.
Vegan Bolognese
Photo Credit:www.lazycatkitchen.com
The vibrant flavors in this vegan bolognese will leave you begging for another helping. It only takes 20 minutes to make, so it’s terrific on those busy weeknights.
Vegan Creamy Garlic Lemon-Pepper Pasta
Photo Credit:www.blissfulbasil.com
I love serving pasta because it’s inexpensive, and everyone seems to go wild for it. This recipe has big flavors, and everyone will rave about it.
Easy, Flavorful 15-Minute Vegan Peanut Noodles
Photo Credit:delightfuladventures.com
Dinner couldn’t be any easier with these 15 Minute noodles. I love having a collection of meals like this one that can be done faster than we waiting in a drive thru line. This proves with proper planning, we can eat at home healthier and for a fraction of the cost.
Cauliflower Pasta with Roasted Pumpkin {GF, Vegan}
Photo Credit:avocadopesto.com
This one is both vegan and gluten free! Add in that it is whipped up in under 30 minutes using creative ingredients on an old classic, I am won over.
Mexican / Hispanic Dinners
These are some delicious Mexican dinners that are bursting with Tex-Mex flavor. Skip ordering takeout and stay in and enjoy a few new recipes to try out soon. These are great for plant-based dinners.
Puerto Rican Habichuelas Guisadas
This flavorful dish is an inexpensive way to fill everyone up while keeping their taste buds happy! It has beans, peppers, onion, potatoes, garlic, Adobo, and a delicious tomato base.
Raw Vegan Tacos!
Photo Credit:asimplepantry.com
You can make these tasty tacos in around 15 minutes! What could be easier than that? They provide the right amount of seasonings, heartiness, and heat.
Easy 3-Ingredient Vegan Rolled Tacos
Photo Credit:eathealthyeathappy.com
Guess what! You can make these vegan rolled tacos with only 3 ingredients. They are a lovely way to save money while enjoying something that tastes great too.
Vegetarian Mexican Stuffed Peppers {45 Minutes}
Stuffed peppers are a treat as well. If you want cheese for this, reach for a vegan cheese that will add the perfect topping to the peppers.
Stews / Soups / Chilis
Here are some of my favorite soups, chilis, and stews to consider adding to your rotation. These vegan stews are full of protein, veggies, and flavor in each spoonful. These are also great recipes for meal prepping for dinners during your week.
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili
Photo Credit:www.gimmesomeoven.com
Just because it’s chili doesn’t mean that it has to have meat in it. Enjoy all the traditional flavors of chili, but a vegan version. It’s amazing!
White Bean Soup
This vegan White Bean Soup is simple, hearty and ready in under an hour, making it the perfect weeknight meal. If you are on WW, it’s only 4 points as well. This one is a true keeper.
Slow Cooker Mushroom Barley Stew
Photo Credit:www.stockpilingmoms.com
You’ll love that this barley stew isn’t just a fantastic dinner idea, you can make it as a freezer meal also. So simple to make too!
Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup
Photo Credit:www.mydairyfreeglutenfreelife.com
Not only is this soup vegan, but it’s also gluten-free and dairy-free too. Every bite is filled with navy beans, seasonings, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Slow Cooker Lentil and Pumpkin Chili
Photo Credit:www.healthy-delicious.com
You’ll find that this chili is protein-packed, has delicious fire-roasted tomatoes, and some pumpkin puree to give you an amazing amount of depth in this meal. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work.
Vegan Jambalaya
Photo Credit:www.cilantroandcitronella.com
You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to make this terrific Cajun-inspired dish. It’s flavorful, simple to make, and will win over a hungry crowd.
Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili Recipe
Photo Credit:www.thatswhatchesaid.net
Put together a SUPER quick dinner with this tasty chili whipped up in minutes. Anything involving my Instant Pot gets thumbs up for me!
Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe {Ninja Foodi + Instant Pot Options}
This is one of my favorite soups . Minestrone soup is great reheated so it makes a wonderful meal prep option for lunches or quick dinners for later in the week.
Instant Pot Chipotle Lentil Soup (Topped with Zoodles)
Photo Credit:www.easycookingwithmolly.com
This vegan dinner recipe is leftover-friendly, healthy and is AMAZING! This is a great one to think ahead for meal prep lunches.
Thai-style Potato and Corn Chowder
Photo Credit:www.therusticfoodie.com
Thai Style Potato Corn Chowder is a hearty but light soup that’ll warm you up during the colder months. Make extra as this one reheats well for lunches.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili with Quinoa
Photo Credit:www.dinner-mom.com
This hearty chili takes just 30 minutes to make and is freezer friendly! I can’t tell you how high this one needs to move up on your list! Under 30 minutes and freezer friendly means we can whip this up in a skinny minute on a Sunday and freeze for a future date when life is crazy!
Vegan Stewed Chickpeas {30 Minutes}
Here is a 30-minute dish that you can pair with rice or cauliflower rice. It is one of my favorites. Chickpeas make this dish distinct, loaded with flavor, and satisfying.
Sweet Potato Recipes
Here are some nutrient-rich sweet potato recipes. From a classic buddha bowl to a casserole. These are not your ordinary baked sweet potato recipes.
Buddha Bowls
Photo Credit:www.dinneratthezoo.com
Every bite is filled with protein and has lots of yummy vegetables. Perfect for entertaining or when you are looking for a healthy, quick meal to serve the family.
Sweet Potato Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Photo Credit:www.therusticfoodie.com
I love super easy meals like these that rely on just a few simple ingredients and come together quickly. I am always a huge fan of recipes with minimal ingredients yet makes a fan favorite! That is an art!
The All Time Family Favorite Vegan Shepherd's Pie (Gluten & Dairy Free)
Photo Credit:www.fitfoodienutter.com
Get your comfort food on with this healthy and hearty classic! I love the spin of the sweet potatoes.
Tofu Recipes
Tofu is a great ingredient to use in so many types of recipes. Here are a few that I think you all might enjoy trying out.
Sheet Pan Tofu with Peanut Sauce
Photo Credit:www.mysequinedlife.com
Definitely a must-make! I love when I have creative ways to try using more tofu in my life. Add in a sheet pan and I am won over!
Crispy Tofu with Orange Pecan Quinoa
Photo Credit:www.thehealthyhomecook.com
Learn how to make perfect crispy tofu by making this! Maybe you have been hesitant to try tofu, this one has great instructions and with a tangy orange flavor, it is a great one to try out!
Other Dinner Recipes
Here are a few more dinner ideas I wanted to leave you with. That way you can truly get tons of ideas to add into your meal plan. I am the type who enjoys variety!
Quick and Easy Vegan Buddha Bowl
I make this Vegan Buddha Bowl when I don’t feel like cooking but still want to eat healthy. It takes just ten minutes and you can pretty much use whatever you have on-hand.You won’t believe how simple this Buddha bowl is to make! My favorite thing is how versatile it is too. You can add in all your favorite ingredients like black beans, spinach, rice, and so much more.
Vegan Chickpea Tuna Salad {10 Minutes}
Dive in to this chickpea tuna salad. It takes just 10 minutes to make and is great on bread, serve with crackers, or stuff in a cucumber for a lower carb option.
Vegan Stewed Chickpeas {30 Minutes}
Stewed chickpeas is one that is tasty paired with rice. Full of flavor, quick meal that the whole family can enjoy. You will want to make this stewed chickpea dish over and over again.
Best Vegan Crockpot Refried Beans
Refried beans can be great for adding to a tortilla to make a bean wrap, creating taquitos with and more. Creamy, savory, and a great source of protein.
Homemade Vegan Spaghetti Sauce {30 Minutes}
Pair this vegan spaghetti sauce with noodles or even zoodles if you are a fan of zucchini noodles. Serve with a salad or garlic bread and ring the dinner bell.
Spanish Beans with Tomatoes {easy, 20 mins}
Photo Credit:veggiedesserts.com
This easy gluten free meal is using ingredients already found in our pantries so there is no mystery here. It is so easy and so delicious!
Eggplant Caponata Skillet
Photo Credit:www.savorytooth.com
It’s one of the fastest vegan dinners on this list, and you can pair it with pasta, or even use it as a pizza topping! Serve this versatile low carb vegan as a great meal prep lunch idea.
Quinoa Stuffed Squash with Almonds and Apricots
Photo Credit:eatingrichly.com
For a meal that feels special and fancy, try this one that includes almonds and apricots. Creative twists on old favorites will definitely keep me eating at home.
Falafel Waffles (V+GF)
Photo Credit:thebellyrulesthemind.net
Have breakfast for dinner tonight with these amazing Vegan Falafel Waffles. Add lots of veggies on the side for a full meal.
Curried Okra and Eggplant
Photo Credit:beyondmeresustenance.com
Curried Okra and Eggplant over rice for an exotic and healthy dinner. If you aren’t sure you like curry, try this one out to expand your flavors!
Cauliflower Tabbouleh
Photo Credit:www.everydayeileen.com
Serve with pita bread for a fresh 15 minute dinner. Add a crispy side salad or fresh fruit and you have a filling meal on the table in less than one episode of your favorite show!
Sticky Sesame Cauliflower
Photo Credit:chocolatecoveredkatie.com
Just thinking about this sticky cauliflower makes my mouth water. This low carb version of sticky chicken is out of this world, and you’d barely notice it’s cauliflower!
Black Bean Salsa Burgers (15 Minute Recipe)
Photo Credit:www.veggieinspired.com
If you are a fan of burgers (and who isn’t), you can still enjoy a juicy burger made with black beans instead. They are great for parties and get-togethers!
Vegan Sloppy Joes
Photo Credit:minimalistbaker.com
While these aren’t the traditional sloppy joes you grew up eating, they are positively delicious! Smoky, spicy, and flavorful, it’s hard to resist eating more than one.
Rice And Dal
Photo Credit:www.brokefoodies.com
This Indian inspired dish is filled with protein and is full of bright colors and flavors. Turmeric, cayenne pepper, red lentils, coriander seeds, onions, garam masala, topped over rice to give you a complete meal.
Common FAQs
What Does It Mean To Be Vegan?
When you eat a vegan diet, you do not eat anything that comes from an animal. This includes dairy, eggs, and in most cases, even honey. A vegetarian may still eat dairy and eggs, but not the meat itself.
Why Choose to Eat Vegan?
Eating a vegan diet allows you to get all the necessary proteins and nutrients from beans, plants, fruits, and vegetables. This also allows your body to absorb the necessary nutrients without having to deal with all the other processed junk put into our foods.
This leads to a healthier lifestyle and our bodies tend to agree with it.
Is peanut butter vegan?
Most peanut butters are indeed vegan. But, you will find that some brands are not. So make sure to read the label before buying.
I hope you found several recipes to light your fire to try new meals dinners and expand your current recipe box. The variety is huge so you will not be left bored or tired of the same old dishes night after night.
Until you get used to eating vegan, it will require a little bit more planning, just like anything new we try to embark upon. Grab a menu planner and shopping list and use these tools until you get the hang of what you are needing to buy at the store. This Organizational Binder has both sheets for you to download for free to get you jump started!
Let me know how you like these recipes! I love reading your comments on what you find fits your family!
Ginny
Hi!
Ginny Collins is a passionate foodie and recipe creator of Savor and Savvy and Kitchenlaughter. Indoors she focuses on easy, quick recipes for busy families and kitchen basics. Outdoors, she focuses on backyard grilling and smoking to bring family and friends together. She is a lifelong learner who is always taking cooking classes on her travels overseas and stateside. Her work has been featured on MSN, Parade, Fox News, Yahoo, Cosmopolitan, Elle, and many local news outlets. She lives in Florida where you will find her outside on the water in her kayak, riding her bike on trails, and planning her next overseas adventure.
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