For those new to the world of plant-based cooking, finding delicious and easy-to-make vegan recipes can be a game-changer. Our collection of favorite vegan dishes for beginners is designed to cater to all skill levels and experience, ensuring that even the most novice cook can whip up a tasty meal in no time.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, our roundup of easy vegan recipes has got you covered. And, if you’re craving more, be sure to check out our other recipe collections, including cheap vegan meals, vegan soups, wraps, sandwiches, and meal prep ideas – all perfect for beginners looking to get started with vegan cooking.
Easy Vegan Chickpea Noodle Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of a steaming hot bowl of noodles with a twist – add savory and aromatic flavors by incorporating vegan chickpea noodles infused with the pungency of garlic. This humble dish transforms from a simple starter into a satisfying and filling main course, sure to satisfy your cravings.
Tofu Pesto Sandwich
Indulge in the harmonious union of flavors with this delectable Shredded Tofu Pesto Sandwich. The velvety texture of vegan pesto, expertly blended with olive oil, creates a culinary symphony that will leave you singing praises. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, every bite is a masterclass in gastronomic delight.
Easy Vegan Spanish Chickpea and Spinach Stew
Indulge in the rich culinary delights of Spain with this delectable chickpea and spinach stew that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast. A harmonious blend of pungent garlic, earthy cumin, and a hint of cayenne pepper, all infused into a savory tomato sauce, awaits you in every spoonful.
Easy Vegan Mediterranean “Tuna” Salad
Within half an hour, you can create a mouthwatering Mediterranean salad, whether served in pita bread or on top of sandwich bread. This flavorful dish is packed with a medley of ingredients like artichokes, chickpeas, and capers, resulting in a delightfully fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos
Imagine a Sunday evening where the whole family gathers around the table to savor a delectable meal together. It’s not every day, but when we do make time for that special occasion, why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Take buffalo cauliflower bites as an example. By coating them in panko breadcrumbs and serving them on spinach tortillas with a rich pesto cream sauce, you’ll be treating your taste buds to a delightful experience. The idea of it is already making me crave more.
Israeli Couscous Salad
Experience the convenience of whipping up a delicious restaurant-quality salad in just 30 minutes, without having to leave the comfort of your own home. The key lies in incorporating fresh and nutritious ingredients like artichoke hearts and olives, which combine to create a harmonious medley of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Easy Vegan Minestrone Soup
Are you tired of staring at a messy fridge? Cleaning it out can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can also lead to culinary inspiration! Take the opportunity to create a delicious Italian-style dish by combining leftover vegetables and aromatic herbs like onions, garlic, bay leaf, and basil. This simple yet satisfying meal will not only make your kitchen more organized but also provide a tasty way to repurpose excess ingredients.
Spanish Beans with Tomatoes
Satisfy your taste buds and ease your cooking woes with this scrumptious bean stew, perfect for a quick and effortless meal. With its simplicity in preparation, utilizing just a handful of pantry staples and fresh veggies such as lima beans and canned tomatoes, this hearty dish is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Its versatility also makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of meals, including rice, making it a great option for any gathering or everyday dinner.
Easy Vegan Pesto Vegetable Soup
Imagine a warm and inviting bowl of goodness that captures the essence of summer – this dish is exactly that. By combining sautéed vegetables, pasta, and a rich homemade pesto, you’ll create an easy meal that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. With its simple yet satisfying flavor profile, this soup will quickly rise to the top of your list of favorite comfort foods.
Easy Vegan Zucchini ‘Meatballs’
In a culinary celebration of creativity and whimsy, this scrumptious dish brings together the humble ingredients of zucchini, chickpeas, garlic, oats, and fresh herbs to create a delectable main course that’s as impressive as it is effortless. With a mere 15 minutes dedicated to preparation, this recipe is an ode to the power of simplicity and flavor combination, making it an ideal option for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Easy Chickpea Stew
The age-old adage ‘a family that eats together stays together’ takes on new meaning when sharing a hearty meal like this chickpea stew. The trifecta of harissa paste, smoked paprika, and ground coriander brings a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. And let’s not forget the crowning glory – a dollop of creamy cashew goodness that ties everything together.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Indulge in the rich flavors of your homemade soup, crafted with a medley of textures and aromas. A harmonious blend of vegan butter, earthy mushrooms, pungent garlic, and subtle spices will transport you to a world of comfort food. With a mere 20 minutes spent in the kitchen, you can create this sumptuous, creamy, and velvety masterpiece from scratch.
Portobello Mushroom Steak
Indulge in the rich flavors of Portobello mushrooms by marinating hearty slices in a one-of-a-kind combination of a delightful sauce variation and molasses. As they absorb the complex flavors, grill them to perfection, achieving a tender texture reminiscent of a juicy steak, and savor a truly satisfying dinner.
BBQ Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
Imagine yourself savoring a delightful al-fresco dining experience, where the warmth of the sun is matched only by the flavors of your vegan ranch dressing-covered BBQ chickpea lettuce wrap. The sweetness of pineapple chunks, the pungency of onions, and the crunch of peppers come together to create a truly enchanting summer meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
15-minute Peanut Noodles
The crown jewel of my culinary repertoire is undoubtedly the delectable Peanut Noodles dish, a harmonious blend of silky noodles, rich peanut sauce, and a medley of fresh, crunchy vegetables. This delightful meal requires mere minutes to prepare and involves minimal cooking time, making it an ideal solution for a quick and satisfying midweek dinner.
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Indulge in the flavors of Thailand with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious – vegan pineapple fried rice. Using leftover rice, you can whip up a vibrant and mouth-watering meal that’s not only healthy but also takes you on a culinary journey to Southeast Asia. The sweet and tangy combination of pineapple and spices will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Bangkok, without ever leaving your kitchen.
Easy Vegan One Pot Hummus Pasta
Indulge in a culinary delight that’s as effortless as it is delectable. This 5-ingredient hummus pasta, cooked to perfection in just one pot, is the ultimate solution for busy days when you need a satisfying meal in a flash. With only 15 minutes of cooking time required, this recipe lets you skip the hassle of multiple pots and pans, leaving you with more time to enjoy your culinary creation. Add a sprinkle of vegan parmesan on top for an added layer of flavor that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Chickpea Artichoke Bliss Bowl
Savoring a culinary masterpiece can be a transcendent experience, evoking feelings of bliss and delight. To create this unforgettable moment, simply combine chopped vegetables with potatoes, then let the oven work its magic in a cozy bake. The end result is a healthy, nirvanic dish that’s sure to transport your taste buds to a higher plane.
Black Bean Tacos with Avocado Sauce
Indulge in the ultimate flavor explosion with this quick and easy recipe for black bean tacos, elevated by a rich and creamy avocado sauce that’s sure to become your new go-to. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can savor every bite of these delectable treats.
Southwestern Pasta Salad
Looking for a refreshing and healthy twist to add to your next BBQ or potluck gathering? This vegan pasta salad recipe is sure to impress! By combining nutritious ingredients like black beans, avocado, and cherry tomatoes with a zesty lime dressing, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or using it as a side, this salad is the perfect addition to any outdoor gathering.
Easy Vegan Red Lentil Fritters
Indulge in the culinary delight of vegan heaven, where the harmony of flavors and textures converges to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. The perfect blend of crispy vegetable potato fritters, succulent red lentils, and a refreshing green salad, all complemented by the bold and spicy kick of sriracha mayonnaise, makes for an entrée that is impossible to resist.
Easy Vegan Vodka Sauce Pasta
With a flourish, I can now declare that I’ve mastered the art of infusing a classic vodka sauce pasta with an unexpected depth of flavor. The addition of red pepper flakes lends a bold, spicy kick, while the subtle essence of vodka adds a sophisticated twist to this comforting dish. As I savor each bite, the tangy, rich flavors meld together in harmony, a true culinary triumph.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures with this delectable dish that’s sure to become a household staple. Comprising just four essential components – sweet potatoes, creamy hummus, crunchy chickpeas, and rich tahini sauce – this mouthwatering meal is a true crowd-pleaser.
Thai Drunken Noodles
Indulge in a culinary delight as the umami flavors of pressed tofu, rice noodles, and sautéed vegetables meld together in perfect harmony. This vegan masterpiece is elevated by the brightness of fresh basil and the tanginess of lime wedges, resulting in an exhilarating meal that will leave you craving for more.
Grilled Veggie Wraps
Experience the reinvented twist on a timeless favorite with this scrumptious recipe. The combination of air-fried vegetables and added spices yields a flavor explosion that will have you hooked from the very first bite.
Easy Vegan Sun-dried Tomato Pasta
Veggie Fajitas
Indulge in the simplicity of cooking fajitas with this mouthwatering dish that’s ready in no time. With just a handful of essential ingredients like sautéed mushrooms and onions, coupled with the richness of olive oil, you can effortlessly prepare a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to delight both the young and old.
Instant Pot Paella
The culinary masterpiece before me was a harmonious blend of earthy mushroom, luscious sweetness, and tantalizing heat. Each component worked in perfect concert, creating a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience. The subtle yet distinctive presence of saffron added an aromatic layer of complexity, elevating the dish to new heights. As I savored each bite, I was struck by the sheer depth of flavor and texture, making it impossible for me to resist devouring every last morsel.
Mushroom Ragu
Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of pasta that’s perfect for meal prep – that’s exactly what this mushroom ragu pasta sauce delivers. With over an hour of cooking time invested, the end result is well worth the effort. The best part? You can freeze any leftovers, ensuring you always have a tasty and satisfying option on hand whenever you need it.
Sloppy Joes
Take your evening meals to the next level by whipping up a Sloppy Joe. This delectable dish boasts an impressive array of tantalizing flavors and aromas courtesy of ingredients like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, which add depth and complexity to each bite.
Curry Ramen Noodles
Indulge your senses with the harmonious blend of sesame oil, curry paste, and an array of vegetables, elevated by the richness of coconut milk and the satisfying bite of ramen noodles. To take it to the next level, incorporate a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a dash of spicy jalapeno slices for a flavor experience that will leave you craving more.
Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your cravings for a nutritious meal with a rich and creamy vegan macaroni and cheese dish that’s bursting with vitamins and minerals from its colorful medley of vegetables. This easy-to-prepare recipe not only promises a delightful taste experience but also delivers a boost to your overall health, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a satisfying plant-based meal option.
Greek Mac and Cheese
Indulge in a delightful vegan Greek macaroni and cheese experience that will leave you craving for more! This delectable dish is packed with a rich, creamy sauce, infused with the pungent flavors of sautéed red onion and garlic. To elevate this culinary masterpiece, simply add some crumbled Violife feta or your go-to topping, transforming it into a newfound obsession that will have you hooked.
Pesto Pinwheels
Transforming a handful of ingredients into delectable pinwheels has never been easier! With just white beans, pesto, spinach, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes on hand, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. The process is surprisingly similar to crafting mini sushi rolls, as the key lies in rolling them up tightly – a simple yet satisfying approach that yields a delightful outcome.
Easy Vegan Egg Salad
Savoring the Flavor: A Quick and Delightful Protein-Packed Recipe
The journey of creating this recipe is a treat in itself – it’s an effortless, enjoyable, and satisfying experience. The harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t appreciate a meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes? The thrill of cooking up something delicious and nutritious in no time is a reward in itself.
Saucy Ramen Noodles
As a self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I take great pleasure in whipping up a culinary masterpiece in my kitchen. Case in point: this delectable vegan saucy ramen noodles recipe that never fails to leave me feeling content and craving more. What I love most about this dish is its ease of preparation – with just a few simple steps, I can craft a richly flavored and utterly satisfying meal that truly hits the spot.
Veggie Spring Rolls
Transforming your meals with ease is just a roll away! Creating veggie spring rolls is an excellent way to add excitement to your dining experience. With preparation time of only 20 minutes, these delectable treats are ready to devour alongside their spicy peanut dipping sauce counterpart. What’s more, you can effortlessly prepare a large batch and store them in the fridge for later enjoyment.
Easy Vegan Quick Fried Rice
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this quick and easy fried rice recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – use up any combination of fresh or frozen veggies you have on hand to create a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Roasted Tomato Sandwiches
Imagine if a culinary phrase were an actual dish – that’s what comes to mind when I think of the quintessential effortless delight: a roasted tomato sandwich. This mouthwatering treat is elevated by the creaminess of avocado, the peppery punch of arugula, and the tender sweetness of juicy tomato slices, making it a guilt-free indulgence like no other.
Cheesy Black Bean Tacos
Indulge in the comforting flavors of your childhood with this 20-minute dairy-free delight. A harmonious blend of black beans, tangy salsa, and creamy vegan cheese comes together to create a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Stuffed Peppers
This mouthwatering dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring an assortment of vegetables, aromatic herbs, tempeh, and rice. To prepare, simply sauté the ingredients in a pan and then transfer them to the oven where they’ll emerge with a beautifully caramelized finish. Feel free to add some baby spinach or beans for added variety and nutrition.
Easy Vegan Cheese Pasta Salad
Savoring the flavors of Italy without leaving home – that’s exactly what this delightful pasta salad promises to deliver. With just under 30 minutes of prep time, you can create an ambrosial dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. The secret lies in the combination of fresh and vibrant ingredients like cherry tomatoes, onion, basil, and a drizzle of red wine vinegar. This Italian-inspired delight is sure to transport your taste buds to the Tuscan countryside without requiring a single ticket or luggage.
Summary
Here, we’ve curated a selection of our go-to easy vegan recipes that are perfect for beginners. These quick and delicious plant-based meals are sure to become family favorites. With prep times as short as 20 minutes, you can have a nutritious dinner on the table in no time.
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.