Getting started with a plant-based lifestyle can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to cooking. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 easy vegan recipes that are perfect for beginners. From hearty soups and savory stir-fries to sweet treats and comfort foods, these recipes will help you get started on your vegan journey.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a student looking for quick and easy meals, our selection of vegan recipes has something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all incredibly delicious and packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
So, let’s get started! Here are 18 easy vegan recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Simple Vegan Lentil Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and healthy curry that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basic Vegan Stir-Fry
This recipe is a versatile base that can be customized with your favorite vegetables, seasonings, and sauces to create a delicious and satisfying vegan meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup snow peas, sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas; stir-fry for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with soy sauce (or tamari) and salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Avocado Toast
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines creamy avocado with crunchy whole grain bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (such as whole wheat or baguette)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado evenly on top of the toasted bread.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quick Vegan Pasta with Tomato Sauce
Satisfy your pasta cravings with this simple and flavorful vegan recipe that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 1 can (14.5 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the tomato sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your quick and delicious vegan pasta with tomato sauce!
Healthy Banana Oatmeal
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the comforting warmth of oatmeal. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy morning meal that will keep you full until lunchtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the almond milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low; cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has thickened.
3. Stir in the sliced banana, honey, and salt.
4. Cook for an additional minute, or until the banana is heated through.
5. Serve warm, topped with chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your healthy and satisfying breakfast!
Vegan Black Bean Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these simple and delicious vegan black bean tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the black beans to the pan, stirring to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the black bean mixture onto tortillas and adding your choice of toppings.
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Buddha Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and a tangy tahini sauce. Perfect as a quick and easy meal or as a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Toss bell peppers, sweet potato, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and lemon juice.
5. To assemble the bowls, divide cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini sauce. Garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
A comforting vegan twist on a classic comfort food, this creamy macaroni and cheese recipe is a game-changer for plant-based pasta lovers. With a rich and velvety sauce made from cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and spices, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.
3. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth.
4. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in blended mixture and whisk continuously for about 5 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with creamy sauce. Toss until coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Tofu Scramble
Easy Tofu Scramble
A plant-based twist on the classic breakfast scramble, this recipe is a game-changer for vegan mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs or egg substitute (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the crumbled tofu and cook until lightly browned, breaking up with a spatula as needed.
5. Add the sliced bell peppers and smoked paprika. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If using eggs or egg substitute, scramble them in with the tofu mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Beat the heat with this creamy and delicious vegan peanut butter banana smoothie that’s perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. With only a few ingredients, you can enjoy a treat that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (make sure it’s free from animal products)
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pot Vegan Chili
This hearty vegan chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, all cooked in one pot! With a rich and smoky flavor profile, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Hummus Wrap
Simple Hummus Wrap Recipe
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with creamy hummus, crunchy vegetables, and savory chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spread the hummus evenly over the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
2. Arrange the chickpeas on top of the hummus, followed by the cucumber and bell peppers.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe that’s ready in minutes.
Vegan Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these fluffy vegan pancakes drizzled with pure Canadian maple syrup. Made with simple ingredients and a few basic steps, this recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together plant-based milk, canola oil, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Transform sweet potatoes into crispy fries, baked to perfection and seasoned with a hint of spice. This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional French fry recipes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
5. Spread the sweet potato strips out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy and delicious vegan chocolate chip cookies, made with wholesome ingredients and a hint of chocolatey goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 egg replacement (such as Ener-G Egg Replacer or flaxseed)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet vegan chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter, sugars, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the egg replacement and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Vegan Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish with a vegan twist, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegan oil (such as canola or coconut)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce (make sure it’s vegan)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or other garnishes of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for about 2 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the fried rice to a serving platter; garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, or other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of spices and beans, with a kick of heat from the jalapeños. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the black beans, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get started with vegan cooking with these 18 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From comforting classics like creamy mac and cheese to international flavors like chickpea curry, there’s something for everyone. Wholesome options include lentil soup, roasted vegetable bowls, and healthy banana oatmeal. Indulge in sweet treats like vegan chocolate chip cookies or satisfy your cravings with quick and easy meals like vegan pasta with tomato sauce or black bean tacos. These recipes are sure to make transitioning to a plant-based diet a breeze!
