31 Delicious Easy Vegan Recipes to Start Your Plant-Based Journey (2024)

With over 30 easy vegan recipes, you'll find something to start your plant-based diet or add to your already-vegan menu. Not only is plant-based eating good for the environment and your body, but it can also be incredibly satisfying and tasty, especially with these hearty recipes. Grab your best chef's knife—you'll need it for all these veggies. Read on for some of our best vegan meals.

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Cauliflower Tartine With Romesco Sauce

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You'll get rave reviews from guests with this delicious open-faced sandwich—it looks high-maintenance but is super simple to make. Golden raisins and fresh parsley are in the mix to freshen and sweeten the delectable combo of Romesco and cauliflower, but you can try using cilantro and chopped dates for a different spin.

Make sure to buy vegan sourdough bread.

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02of 31

Meatless Meatball Subs

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Eggplant meatballs mixed with umami-rich mushrooms, served on fluffy whole-wheat hoagies? These sandwiches are so flavorful that your dinner guests will forget they're meatless. To make them vegan, make sure to skip the Parmesan cheese.

Try using nutritional yeast if you want the salty, savory flavor of cheese (minus the dairy).

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03of 31

Spicy Coconut Noodles

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This Asian-inspired dish gets its richness from coconut milk, tomato paste, and spices. Cooked in only 20 minutes from start to end, this tasty vegan dish can be made with rice noodles or fettuccine. It's sure to become a family favorite.

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04of 31

Southwestern Pasta Salad

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Avocado adds creaminess to the dressing in this vegan pasta salad. Topped with more avocado, black beans, and corn, this makes a refreshing, hearty salad that's perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve with tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

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05of 31

Winter Lentil Soup

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Use kale, leeks, and sweet potatoes in this warming one-pot meal. With so many veggies, this soup is filling and nutrient-rich. Skip the Parmesan for a completely vegan version.

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06of 31

Quick Nutty Noodles

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The star of this vibrant noodle dish is a slurpable sauce made with a few pantry staples, including apple cider vinegar, almond butter, and toasted sesame oil. The gluten-free soba noodles, which help soak up the sauce, are tossed with crunchy salt-marinated cucumber, peppery watercress, and quick-pickled radishes. What we love most about this flavorful plant-based meal is that it comes together in just 20 minutes.

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07of 31

Crispy Tofu Noodle Soup

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Crispy tofu is combined with rice noodles and Swiss chard in a vegetable broth flavored with ginger, garlic, tamari, and star anise for a nutritious and protein-rich meal. To ensure that the tofu browns, pat it dry before cooking.

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Three-Bean Chili With Spring Pesto

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Three types of beans—chickpeas, cannellini, and kidney—ensure this chili is filling and full of protein. Top with pesto for a refreshing twist, and serve with your favorite crusty (vegan) bread.

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09of 31

Fettucine With Vegan Cauliflower Alfredo Sauce

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While some of the main ingredients in traditional alfredo sauce are heavy cream and cheese, you can whip up a vegan version of this famous pasta sauce courtesy of healthy cauliflower. The versatile veggie combined with cashew milk and nutritional yeast creates a savory, creamy sauce that's dairy-free. Finish your bowl of pasta with a dusting of lemon zest and a shower of chopped, fresh parsley leaves.

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10of 31

Roasted Broccoli Pesto Pasta

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The savory pesto coating this pasta is made with roasted broccoli (florets and stems), almonds, lemon zest, lemon juice, arugula, olive oil, salt, and pepper. While the pesto calls for an optional dose of cheese, you can always use vegan-friendly nutritional yeast instead. Once the sauce is done, toss it with the pasta and top the finished dish with some extra broccoli florets and baby arugula.

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Swiss Chard With Chickpeas and Couscous

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Toasted pine nuts go a long way in providing flavor and texture to this sweet and savory dish. Chickpeas boost protein and help keep you full. The best part is this vegan meal cooks in just 20 minutes.

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12of 31

Hummus and Cucumber Toast

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On nights when you don't want to fire up the stove, try this hearty, plant-based toast. It features toasted whole-grain bread slathered with store-bought or homemade hummus. Topped with thinly-sliced Persian cucumbers, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of za'atar spice mix, you'll be wanting two slices of toast for a filling (and simple) dinner.

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13of 31

Linguine With Caper and Green Olive Sauce

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This simple pasta meal combines store-bought marinara sauce with Spanish olives and capers to give it an assertive, briny bite. Red pepper flakes give the dish a spike of heat. You'll love that it's easy to make and only takes 20 minutes.

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14of 31

Curried Eggplant With Tomatoes and Basil

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Eggplant's meaty texture makes it an ideal ingredient for vegan and vegetarian dishes. Chickpeas increase your protein count, while curry powder adds heat. To ensure that this meal is entirely vegan, use plant-based yogurt.

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15of 31

Cuban Black Beans and Rice

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Full of fiber and protein, you can eat this Latin American staple as a main or a side dish. Serve with a side salad, or add plant-based meat for an even heartier meal.

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16of 31

Torn Pita and Eggplant Salad With Parsley and Green Tahini

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Meaty eggplant helps make this a filling salad. You'll also find crispy pita rounds and fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, but the best part is the flavorful green tahini that ties the whole meal together.

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17of 31

Spicy Summer Squash Stir-Fry

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This colorful stir-fry (which comes together in just 20 minutes) is packed with healthy vegetables. Specifically, it combines summer squash, Japanese eggplant, and spicy red jalapeño slices. The whole thing is coated in a cornstarch-soy sauce and served over a hearty helping of white rice.

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18of 31

Cauliflower and Chickpea Stew With Couscous

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Cooking couscous is a fast process: Just cover it with hot water and allow it to steam for five minutes. While cauliflower and chickpeas already provide a nutritional component, this stew gets even more nutrients from raisins, spinach, and spices.

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19of 31

Chickpeas With Chard and Pan-Roasted Tomatoes

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Fresh lemon juice and golden raisins give this dish unexpected brightness and sweetness. Chickpeas boost the protein level, and brown rice provides healthy whole grains and fiber. This filling vegan recipe is excellent as-is, but you can add tofu or another meat alternative for an even heartier meal.

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Toasted Israeli Couscous With Corn and Herbs

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Upgrade your pasta salad game with this vegan dish—perfect for summer picnics and potlucks. The toasted Israeli couscous base is paired with juicy summer corn kernels and fresh herbs—basil, chives, and dill—plus caramelized onions for good measure. Trust us: You won't be longing for any meat here.

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Loaded Sweet Potatoes With Coconut and Kale

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For an easy vegan meal, load up a microwave-baked sweet potato with some of your favorite veggies. This particular recipe calls for a filling of kale cooked in a rich and spicy coconut sauce flavored with lime juice and fragrant curry powder. For a completely plant-based recipe, omit the butter or use vegan butter instead (found in Trader Joe's vegan foods selection).

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22of 31

Simple Red Beans and Rice

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A simplified take on the well-known Louisiana dish, these red beans and rice are sure to leave you satisfied and full. Red kidney beans are nutritious and are the main star of this dish, but the best part is it cooks in less than 30 minutes.

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23of 31

Carrot and Red Lentil Soup

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Carrots and red lentils combine with creamy coconut milk for a warm and comforting vegan soup. Ready in just 20 minutes, this meal works wonderfully with crusty bread for scooping up all the broth.

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24of 31

Lemony Lentil Soup

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Enjoy this simple-yet-filling soup in just 30 minutes. Red lentils add protein and texture, while vegetables supply much-needed nutrients. Top with roasted kale leaves for a new comfort-food favorite to add to your menu.

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25of 31

Jane Goodall's Lentil-Miso Soup With Spinach

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There are plenty of healthy vegetables in this soup recipe from Jane Goodall. Lentils add protein and fiber, while miso gives a rich, umami flavor. With so many hearty ingredients, this plant-based dish will leave you feeling full.

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Green Curry Noodle Bowls With Tofu

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This quick dinner recipe combines a curry coconut milk broth with tofu and broccoli. Feel free to swap other vegetables for the broccoli—snap peas, cabbage, or grated carrot also work. Serve with rice noodles (or rice) for a filling vegan dinner.

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27of 31

Squash, Mushroom, and Kale Soup With Dill

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You'll reap the health benefits of mushrooms and butternut squash with this delicious soup recipe. Orzo adds a bit of texture, and kale rounds out this dish. It's hard to believe such a hearty meal takes only 30 minutes to cook.

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28of 31

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili With Sweet Potatoes

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Loaded with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and two types of beans, this vegetarian chili packs a protein punch. After a quick 20 minutes of prep time, the slow cooker does the rest of the work, ensuring you have a warm meal when you get home. Serve with tortilla chips and skip the sour cream and cheese toppings for a hearty vegan meal.

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29of 31

Walnut Mushroom Bolognese

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This plant-based Bolognese sauce combines mushrooms and walnuts for a meat-like texture. When served with your favorite pasta, you get a delicious, hearty meal to add to your weekly menu. Use a non-dairy creamer and skip the cheese for a completely vegan dish.

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Skillet Polenta in Creamy Tomato Sauce

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Cooked polenta, white beans, and canned tomatoes make this an easy dish to cook. The result is a comforting meal that's perfect when served with crusty bread.

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31of 31

Spinach and Artichoke Quinoa Casserole

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The popular dip gets a twist in this casserole recipe. Non-dairy milk and cashew butter provide a creamy texture, while a potato chip topping adds crunch. Quinoa helps round out this fun and simple meal.

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31 Delicious Easy Vegan Recipes to Start Your Plant-Based Journey (2024)

FAQs

How do I start a plant-based vegan diet? ›

8 ways to get started with a plant-based diet
  1. Eat lots of vegetables. ...
  2. Change the way you think about meat. ...
  3. Choose good fats. ...
  4. Cook a vegetarian meal at least one night a week. ...
  5. Include whole grains for breakfast. ...
  6. Go for greens. ...
  7. Build a meal around a salad. ...
  8. Eat fruit for dessert.
Mar 28, 2024

What is vegan for beginners? ›

Basic vegans who don't eat any animals or products from animals. Raw vegans don't eat any animal products — or even any cooked food. Ostrovegans also don't eat any animal products — except oysters or similar bivalves.

Is plant-based the same as vegan? ›

Both meal plans have made headlines for their health benefits in recent years, and while they are similar, there are some key differences: Vegan diets eliminate all animal products, while plant-based diets do not necessarily eliminate animal products but focus on eating mostly plants, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, ...

Is peanut butter OK on a plant-based diet? ›

As with many food items, in its simplest form, peanut butter should always be vegan. The vast majority of peanut butters you find in grocery stores will therefore be fully plant-based. Traditional peanut butter is made from peanuts and often a small amount of salt or oil.

Can I eat eggs on a plant-based diet? ›

Eggs can and should be part of a plant-based diet, and these five suggestions showcase how easy it is to incorporate the incredible egg into your plant-forward dishes.

What is the healthiest plant-based food? ›

Whole grains: many whole grains are a vital source of protein and fiber. Oats, quinoa, brown rice, amaranth, and bulgur are hearty and satisfying options. Healthy fats: avocados, olive oil, coconut oil, flaxseed oil etc. Legumes: including green peas, chickpeas, beans, lentils, peanuts, and natural peanut butter.

Can you eat bananas on a plant-based diet? ›

A whole-foods, plant-based shopping list. Fruits: berries, citrus fruits, pears, peaches, pineapple, bananas, etc. Vegetables: kale, spinach, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, asparagus, peppers, etc. Starchy vegetables: potatoes, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, etc.

What are the 30 plant-based foods? ›

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, apricots, sweet potatoes, peaches, plums, melons, eggplant, lemons, lettuce, green beans, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, spinach, corn, Swiss chard, celery, beets, onions, cauliflower, cherries, bananas, mushrooms, parsnips, turnips, ...

What should a vegan eat everyday? ›

eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day. base meals on potatoes, bread, rice, pasta or other starchy carbohydrates (choose wholegrain where possible) have some fortified dairy alternatives, such as soya drinks and yoghurts (choose lower-fat and lower-sugar options)

What happens to your body when you first go vegan? ›

At the start of a change to a vegan diet, you could experience a variety of differences to your body. These may include being hungrier, getting gassier, a change in your skin or body odor, weight loss or gain, better or worse sleep, headaches, tiredness, or having more energy.

What are the 5 most important rules of a vegan diet? ›

5 diet rules vegans get right
  • Eat foods that are in season. This isn't a steadfast vegan "rule," but many people who consciously choose to eat vegan are also making other conscious (or even unconscious) decisions. ...
  • Fill up with fiber. ...
  • Plant your protein. ...
  • Eat those good-for-you fats. ...
  • You may need to supplement.
Aug 24, 2017

Is pasta suitable for vegans? ›

Most packaged pasta—including spaghetti, rotini, and any other type—is 100 percent vegan. To know for sure, simply check the ingredients on your package! Sometimes, you might see “egg” listed as an ingredient in “fresh” pastas, so avoid those—but generally, pasta contains no animal-derived ingredients.

Do vegans eat cheese? ›

Vegans do not eat cheese or any other dairy products because they are derived from animals. Dairy products involve the exploitation of animals for their milk, and so cheese made from animal milk is not considered part of a vegan diet. this includes cheeses made from sheep and goat's milk.

What do vegans use for milk? ›

The most popular varieties are soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk. Other popular brands are made from coconuts, peas, cashews, hazelnuts, or rice. Not so long ago, demand for vegan milks was tiny and only a few such products existed. But sales of non-dairy milks have exploded in recent years.

What is the first step to becoming vegan? ›

You could start by removing meat or dairy one day a week and go from there. Or you could try changing one meal at a time, having vegan breakfasts during your first week, adding a vegan lunch during week two and so on.

What is the downside of a plant-based diet? ›

Some studies have shown that those on a plant-based diet are found to have lower plasma vitamin B12 levels and higher levels of vitamin B12 deficiency than those who consume animal products. Vitamin B12 is an important cofactor in DNA synthesis, and deficiency can lead to anemia and severe neurological dysfunction.

What happens to your body when you start a plant-based diet? ›

Plants are high in fiber.

Eating a plant-based diet improves the health of your gut so you are better able to absorb the nutrients from food that support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Fiber can lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar and it's great for good bowel management.

How do you start a raw vegan diet for beginners? ›

To follow the raw food diet, ensure at least 75% of your food is raw. Most raw food diets are made primarily of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Grains and legumes are often permitted but usually need to be soaked or sprouted before eating.

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