Are you a beginner looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, but aren’t sure where to start? Look no further! Vegan cooking can seem intimidating at first, but with a few simple and delicious recipes under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to a compassionate and healthy lifestyle. In this article, we’ve compiled 18 easy vegan recipes that are perfect for beginners. From hearty curries and soups to sweet treats and snacks, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while also being gentle on the environment.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to mix things up a bit, our selection of simple and satisfying dishes is guaranteed to impress. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and get cooking with our easy vegan recipes!
Vegan Chickpea Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a staple of Indian cuisine, made with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and a blend of warming spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Lentil Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious lentils, veggies, and aromatic spices.
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
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Avocado Toast
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s ready in no time. This simple avocado toast recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread (toasted)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until it’s lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Vegan Banana Pancakes
Vegan Banana Pancakes Recipe
Start your day with a delicious and fluffy stack of vegan banana pancakes! Made with ripe bananas, oat flour, and maple syrup, these pancakes are a tasty and healthy breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup oat flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon vegan butter or oil, melted
– Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, rolled oats, maple syrup, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the mashed bananas, non-dairy milk, and melted vegan butter or oil to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Roasted Vegetable Pasta
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with the comfort of a hearty pasta dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or linguine)
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and onions)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and oregano on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine the roasted vegetables with the cooked pasta, adding salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hummus and Veggie Wrap
A delicious and nutritious wrap filled with creamy hummus, crunchy veggies, and a hint of Middle Eastern flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Spread the hummus on the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the sliced veggies on top of the hummus.
4. Sprinkle parsley over the veggies.
5. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Quinoa Salad with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing quinoa salad is perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner. The combination of fluffy quinoa, crunchy vegetables, and tangy lemon dressing makes it a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, lemon juice, parsley, cucumber, and bell pepper.
3. Toss gently to combine, season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Black Bean Tacos
This flavorful recipe combines the convenience of canned black beans with the freshness of lime juice and cilantro, making it a quick and easy vegan option for tacos. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, lime juice, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer while preparing tortillas.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with the black bean mixture, and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Coconut Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of creamy coconut oatmeal, packed with nutritious rolled oats, sweet shredded coconut, and a hint of tropical flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped fresh fruit or nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup water to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has a creamy consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the coconut flakes, heavy cream, honey, and salt until well combined.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors are fully incorporated.
5. Serve warm, topped with your choice of fresh fruit or nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your creamy coconut oatmeal!
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries
Elevate your snack game with these addictive Spicy Sweet Potato Fries, perfect for a movie night or a quick pick-me-up. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a spicy kick from Korean chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut into long, thin strips.
3. In a bowl, mix together oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Korean chili flakes.
4. Add the sweet potato strips to the bowl and toss until coated with the spice mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the fries in a single layer.
6. Drizzle with honey and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Chocolate Smoothie
Kick-start your day with a decadent and delicious vegan chocolate smoothie that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. This indulgent treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping it cruelty-free.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup frozen berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolatey-ness as desired.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just a few minutes.
Easy Tofu Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return the tofu to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are a game-changer for peanut butter lovers, with a perfect blend of nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. Made with simple ingredients and minimal effort, they’re the perfect snack or dessert to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan peanut butter
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon non-dairy milk
– 1 egg replacement (such as flax or chia eggs)
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, maple syrup, and egg replacement. Mix until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Stir in non-dairy milk and optional chopped peanuts or chocolate chips (if using).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned on the edges.
7. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Mushroom Risotto
This classic Italian dish is a perfect showcase for earthy mushrooms and creamy Arborio rice. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (5-6 minutes).
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushrooms. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add 1/2 cup broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments, stirring between each addition, until rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Falafel Wraps
Transform traditional falafel into a crispy, flavorful wrap with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen falafel patties (about 6-8 patties)
– 2 whole wheat tortillas
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place falafel patties on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each patty.
4. Drizzle with a little water and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble wraps by spreading hummus on each tortilla, followed by a few falafel patties, shredded lettuce, diced cucumber, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Mac and Cheese
Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Creamy, Cheesy Twist on a Classic Comfort Food!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter (such as Earth Balance)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond milk)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt vegan butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add non-dairy milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in paprika, black pepper, nutritional yeast, and vegan cheddar shreds.
8. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with additional vegan cheddar shreds (if desired) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes.
Fresh Mango Salsa with Chips
Experience the tropical twist on traditional salsa with this sweet and tangy recipe featuring fresh mango.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cilantro, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep time: 10 minutes, chill time: 5 minutes)
One-Pot Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables, all cooked to perfection in one pot. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Summary
Get started with vegan cooking with these easy and delicious recipes! Perfect for beginners, this collection includes 18 simple and tasty dishes to satisfy any craving. From comforting curries and soups to sweet treats like pancakes and cookies, there’s something for everyone. Try making a hearty lentil soup, a flavorful chickpea curry, or a crispy roasted vegetable pasta dish. You’ll also find satisfying snacks like hummus and veggie wraps, and indulgent desserts like vegan chocolate smoothies. With these recipes, you’ll be hooked on the plant-based lifestyle in no time!
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