Indulge in the flavors of Italy without leaving your kitchen! These mouth-watering vegan recipes will transport you to the Mediterranean coast, where the air is filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and the sound of laughter. Say goodbye to expensive restaurants and hello to a world of culinary possibilities!
From classic pasta dishes to decadent desserts, these authentic Italian recipes are designed to be easy to make and enjoy at home. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty dinner, a light and refreshing drink, or a savory appetizer, we’ve got you covered.And if you can’t get enough of international cuisine, don’t worry – we’ve also got vegan Asian and Mexican recipes that are just as delicious. For more veggie-friendly inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of vegan soup recipes, slow cooker recipes, and jackfruit recipes.
Vegan Italian Recipes
Vegan Margarita Pizza
Indulge in a slice (or two) of plant-based goodness, as this delectable pizza recipe proves that you don’t have to compromise on flavor to go meat-free. With the option to use either homemade vegan mozzarella or a trusted store-bought alternative, this mouthwatering treat is sure to satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary preferences.
Vegan Minestrone Soup
In the world of comfort food, few dishes are as iconic as minestrone soup. This hearty, vegetable-packed staple is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nutritional powerhouse thanks to its star ingredient: beans. While traditional recipes may rely on animal products, this vegan version offers an accessible and adaptable alternative that can be tailored to suit even the most discerning palates.
Vegan Bolognese Spaghetti
While traditionalists may be familiar with the classic combination of spaghetti and meat-based Bolognese, this vegan version is sure to win over even the most devoted fans of the original. The addition of lentils lends a satisfying texture and depth of flavor, while the fusion of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes yields an explosive intensity that simply can’t be replicated with store-bought sauces.
Creamy Vegan Mushroom Risotto
Indulge in the rich flavors of this innovative dish, which expertly combines the savory essence of fresh mushrooms and the velvety smoothness of traditional risotto. Feel free to get creative with your mushroom selection – use a blend of your favorites or whatever ingredients you have available to craft a satisfying main course or side that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Vegan Arancini
In the world of Italian cuisine, the humble risotto is elevated to new heights when transformed into arancini – crispy fried rice balls filled with a creamy mushroom and pea risotto. The process begins by mixing the risotto with flour, followed by a dusting in bread crumbs, before being deep-fried until lightly crisped on the outside and still creamy within. This creative reuse of leftover risotto offers a fresh perspective on a familiar favorite, perfect for repurposing any surplus Arborio rice into a delicious new snack.
Vegan Lasagna
In just an hour, you can whip up a show-stopping vegan lasagna that will impress even the most discerning palates. The key to success lies not in exotic ingredients, but rather in cleverly combining familiar pantry staples with some fresh flavors and textures. Think cashews providing creaminess, nutritional yeast adding depth, and saucy noodles bringing it all together. Toss in some wilted spinach and melted vegan mozzarella for an added layer of complexity, and you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleasing, plant-based twist on the classic Italian dish.
Vegan Carbonara
Ditch the preconception that dairy-free carbonara can’t compare to the real deal! With a few clever substitutions, you can create a rich and satisfying dish that’s just as delicious. Start by using store-bought seitan bacon or making your own at home – whether it’s salty, smoky, or both is entirely up to you. Then, add some creamy cashews, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra depth of flavor, and a pinch of black salt to give it that familiar egg-like taste. The result is a carbonara that’s just as indulgent and satisfying as the traditional version, but with a dairy-free twist.
Vegan Pappardelle with Mushroom Ragout
Pairing fresh and dried mushrooms creates a rich and savory ragout that pairs perfectly with pappardelle noodles. The bold flavor of red wine adds a depth that complements the earthy tones of the dried mushrooms, while also allowing for a substitution of fresh mushrooms to still yield a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.
Vegan Gnocchi
With just a few humble ingredients from your pantry, a packet of store-bought vegan gnocchi, and some fundamental seasonings, you can whip up a heartwarming bowl of creamy delight that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. The secret to this satisfying dish lies not only in the simplicity of its preparation but also in the rich, summery flavor imparted by canned tomatoes, which remain vibrant and full-bodied all year round.
The Mean Green Pizza
Embracing versatility is key when it comes to pizza nights. With a simple yet adaptable base, creative liberties can be taken to craft entirely new flavor profiles. Take hummus and beet pizza for instance – the sweetness of the beets pairs surprisingly well with the savory tang of hummus. Alternatively, pesto adds a rich and herby note, while Indian-inspired pizzas smothered in crunchy chickpeas bring an exciting textural element to the table. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe an excellent foundation for experimenting and creating your own unique pizza creations.
Braised Green Beans with Tomatoes
Geoffrey Zakarian’s visually stunning photo of braised green beans in plum tomato sauce sets the tone for an impressive Italian-inspired side dish that’s sure to impress even the most discerning guests. This show-stopping accompaniment is surprisingly easy to prepare, as a rich and flavorful plum tomato sauce, infused with sweet peppers, savory onions, and briny olives, brings out the natural sweetness of the green beans. To let this culinary masterpiece truly shine, consider pairing it with a humble main course that won’t compete for attention.
Green Bean Pasta Salad
This delightful pasta salad is elevated by a rich and creamy mustard vinaigrette, which perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the green beans, kale, and cherry tomatoes. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – feel free to customize it with your preferred pasta shape and whatever seasonal vegetables you have available, making it a great addition to any meal or potluck.
Vegan Ravioli
Homemade ravioli with pomodoro sauce may seem daunting, but the use of canned tomatoes simplifies the process of making the sauce. Moreover, the ravioli dough only requires a few basic pantry ingredients, rendering it an accessible recipe for even the most novice cooks. As you gain confidence in forming the raviolis, you’ll soon find yourself wondering why you ever opted for pre-made alternatives in the first place.
Vegan Italian Desserts
Vegan Tiramisu
Unlocking the secrets to a rich and decadent vegan tiramisu, we find three key ingredients: chickpea flour, cashews, and dairy-free yogurt. Chickpea flour, also known as besan or gram flour, is the foundation of the sponge cake that soaks up the bold flavors of amaretto, coffee, and chocolate, allowing them to meld together in perfect harmony.
Orange Semifreddo
The iconic flavors of an Orange Creamsicle are reimagined in a decadent dessert fit for a luxurious dinner party. Semifreddos offer the perfect blend of richness and lightness, and this vegan rendition uses coconut cream and orange sorbet to create a creamy, dreamy treat that’s just as impressive as it is indulgent.
Chocolate Chip Cannoli
When crafting a vegan cannoli, the key lies in the combination of your chosen egg replacer and tofu, which adds a rich, creamy texture to the filling. To ensure the perfect shape, simply roll aluminum foil into tubes to mimic traditional cannoli forms. With this simple yet effective approach, there’s no reason not to give this classic Italian dessert a try and experience its delightful flavor for yourself.
Almond Biscotti
In the realm of indulgent treats, biscotti reign supreme. With their sweet and crunchy texture, it’s no wonder they’re a perfect pairing for a warm cup of coffee or enjoyed on their own at any time of day. The beauty of these almond biscotti lies in their versatility – not only do they cater to dietary restrictions by being vegan and gluten-free, but the simple recipe makes them ideal for gifting or enjoying with family and friends.
Vegan Affogato
Indulge in a decadent coffee dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare – just like affogato! This five-ingredient treat combines the rich flavors of chocolate, coffee, and caramel with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. For added convenience, pick up vegan caramel at your local store or whip up your own using vegan condensed milk.
Vegan Struffoli
In Italy, Struffoli is a beloved Christmas treat. However, this sweet delight can be enjoyed at any time of the year, as long as you’re willing to make some simple substitutions. A traditional coating for these bite-sized balls is honey, but we’ll be using vegan alternatives instead. This will involve swapping out regular honey for a plant-based version, along with vegan butter and replacing eggs with flax seeds or an egg replacer. The result is a deliciously indulgent treat that just happens to be vegan-friendly.
Vegan Italian Appetizers
Vegan Bruschetta
Bringing the flavors of Italy to your next gathering, this bruschetta recipe not only yields a delicious meal but also makes an impressive appetizer perfect for warm weather celebrations. To accommodate vegan and dairy-free guests, ensure the baguette is free from animal products and substitute soy yogurt in place of traditional cream-based spreads. This thoughtful touch will guarantee a hit with even the most refined palates.
Garlic Herb Focaccia
Customizing focaccia bread allows for endless possibilities, and this garlic and herb variety is a great example of how easy it is to make a delicious, vegan, and gluten-free option. With simple ingredients and a few key tips – including the importance of using sparkling water to achieve the perfect texture – you can create a flavorful loaf that pairs well with a range of other dishes.
Eggplant Caponata
In the world of Sicilian cuisine, Caponata is a beloved warm vegetable salad that’s just as enjoyable when served chilled. This vibrant recipe showcases an abundance of fresh flavors from eggplant, onion, tomato, bell pepper, and garlic. Its versatility makes it perfect for serving as an appetizer, accompaniment to crusty bread, or even a satisfying main course.
Vegan Panzanella
For those seeking a salad experience that goes beyond your average mix of greens, Tuscan panzanella is an excellent choice. By combining fresh summer vegetables such as cucumbers and tomatoes with chickpeas, quinoa, and grilled sourdough bread, this dish offers a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. The addition of a light vinaigrette provides the perfect balance of tanginess, elevating each component to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Vegan Italian Drinks
Vegan Rossini Cocktail
For a refreshing and visually appealing frozen cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion, try whipping up a Rossini. This vibrant drink combines the elegance of Prosecco with the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the tanginess of lemon juice, and the simplicity of sugar and ice. The result is a smooth and indulgent adult beverage that’s equally suitable for a cozy weeknight gathering or an impressive soiree.
Negroni Cocktail
With just three simple ingredients – gin, vermouth, and Campari – you can create a timeless Negroni. Elevate the flavors by adding an orange twist, which cleverly balances out the bitter notes from the liquor. This elegant aperitif is perfect for sipping before dinner, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to mix together in a glass, requiring no blender or complicated techniques whatsoever.
Peach Bellini
Indulge in the effortless charm of the Bellini, a sweet and tangy cocktail that’s ready to quench your thirst in no time. Simply combine a few juicy peaches with a drizzle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice, then pour the mixture into a glass filled with chilled sparkling white wine. The result is a refreshing drink that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to sip.
Aperol Spritz
Beat the heat with an Aperol Spritz that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful. While prosecco is the traditional choice, feel free to substitute in champagne for a slightly different twist. To keep your drink chilled without diluting its bold orange taste, simply freeze some Aperol into ice cubes before adding them to your glass.
What are *your* favorite vegan Italian recipes?
Summary
Discover the authentic taste of Italy with a vegan twist! This collection of mouth-watering recipes will transport you to the Tuscan countryside, even if you’re cooking in your own kitchen. With quick prep times and delicious flavors, these dishes are perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.