29 Easy Vegan Recipes That Make You Question Why You Didn’T Try This Sooner

It turns out making plant-based meals is way easier than it seems. With 29 simple vegan recipes, there’s no reason to overthink it or stick to the same old options. These dishes take minutes to put together and don’t require a new set of kitchen skills. Anyone who thought vegan cooking was complicated is in for a surprise.

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

If you’ve been looking for something light yet filling, your search ends here. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps are all about bringing vibrant flavors packed in crunchy lettuce leaves. Not only do they make a great lunch, but they also serve as a fun interactive dinner where everyone can make their wraps. Plus, they’re gluten-free, keeping the meal inclusive for those with dietary restrictions.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

You won’t miss the dairy once you’ve tried Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta. This dish brings a creamy texture and rich flavor together in a way that’s hard to believe it’s entirely plant-based. It’s perfect for weeknights when you’re looking for something comforting yet simple to prepare. It’s a great introduction to vegan pastas for skeptics and enthusiasts alike.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Vegan Almond Flour Pancakes (Gluten-Free)

Starting the day with Vegan Almond Flour Pancakes makes breakfast feel like a treat. Not only are they fluffy and filling, but also gluten-free, which means more people can enjoy them without worry. Pair it with your favorite toppings or fruits for a breakfast that feels indulgent yet is still healthy. It’s an easy favorite for both adults and kids.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Almond Flour Pancakes (Gluten-Free)

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

When you’re in the mood for something crunchy and fulfilling, Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes will hit the spot. These are not just any potatoes; their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them irresistible. Ideal as a side dish or a snack, they’re versatile and easy to pop into the oven. No wonder this dish quickly becomes a staple in many households.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

For those who love a bit of kick in their snacks, Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip is a game changer. This plant-based alternative to the classic buffalo chicken dip is both surprising and delicious. It’s perfect for parties, game nights, or when you just need a tasty snack. This dip proves that plant-based eating doesn’t mean missing out on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Say goodbye to the deep fryer with Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings. These onion rings achieve that desired crunchiness without all the oil, making them a healthier alternative. They are a hit at any gathering or just as a treat to yourself. Plus, making them in an air fryer means less mess and more enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

A bowl of cooked rice mixed with kidney beans, garnished with chopped herbs on top, placed on a light-colored surface with fresh greens on a wooden board in the background. — Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bring the flavors of the islands into your home with Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. This dish is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor that transports you straight to the Caribbean. It works great as a side or as a meal on its own. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce global flavors into your menu.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

A close-up of a dish featuring black beans mixed with chopped onions and garnished with fresh green herbs. — Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Craving your favorite Chipotle dish but want to keep it vegan? Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans are your solution. They capture that beloved flavor profile, making your homemade bowls or burritos taste like they’re straight from the restaurant. It’s an easy and flavorful addition to any Mexican-themed meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Close-up of a plate of rice garnished with chopped herbs and slices of lime. — Easy Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sometimes it’s the simplest dishes that pull a meal together, and Easy Cilantro Lime Rice is a perfect example. Its refreshing flavor complements a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries to tacos. Not to mention, it’s a breeze to whip up. This rice proves that you don’t need complex ingredients to make a meal shine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets

Kids and adults alike will love Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets. These nuggets offer a plant-based alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a side, they’re a perfect pick. And they prove that cauliflower can indeed be exciting.
Get the Recipe: Tasty Vegan Cauliflower Nuggets

Egg Rolls

Who doesn’t love a good Egg Roll? These vegan versions pack all the authentic flavors without any of the meat. They’re perfect for parties, as appetizers, or when you’re simply craving something savory and crisp. Plus, homemade always tastes better, giving you another reason to try making these yourself.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

A close-up of a pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, red onions, and seasonings in a white bowl. — Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad takes your pasta game to a whole new level. The charred flavor of the veggies combined with pasta makes for a refreshing yet hearty meal. It’s ideal for meal prep or as a side dish at your next BBQ. This salad demonstrates how grilling can transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

A casserole dish brimming with golden-brown bread crumbs, tender rice, and vibrant broccoli florets, this vegan cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a wonderful blend of flavors. — Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When comfort food is calling, Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole answers with a resounding yes. This dish brings coziness and flavor together, showing that vegan cheese can indeed melt hearts. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you need something to warm you up from the inside. Plus, it’s a hit with kids, making veggies something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Harvest Salad

If you’re looking for something fresh yet fulfilling, Harvest Salad is the way to go. This dish combines seasonal veggies and nuts in a way that’s both fulfilling and nutritious. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side. And it’s another reminder of how delicious eating your veggies can be.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole takes a much-maligned veggie and turns it into the star of the show. This casserole is creamy, inviting, and might just change some minds about Brussels sprouts. It’s a great dish for gatherings, showing off the versatility of vegetables. Who knew Brussels sprouts could be this good?
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Close-up of a vegan pot pie with a flaky crust, featuring visible corn, peas, carrots, and a creamy filling. A sprig of fresh herb and a sprinkle of black pepper garnish the pie. — Homemade Vegan Pot Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s nothing like a Homemade Vegan Pot Pie to make your day better. This comforting dish encapsulates warmth, with a flaky crust and hearty filling, all made without animal products. It’s perfect for when you need a hug in the form of food. This pot pie is sure to become a favorite in any vegan or non-vegan household.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Mango Banana Smoothie Bowl

Start your day or refuel in the afternoon with a Mango Banana Smoothie Bowl. This vibrant dish is not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s an energizing option that’s as delicious as it is healthy. Customize it with your favorite toppings for an extra treat.
Get the Recipe: Mango Banana Smoothie Bowl

Vegan Alfredo Pasta

A plate of creamy fettuccine alfredo garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

You won’t believe it’s not dairy when you taste Vegan Alfredo Pasta. This creamy dish captures the essence of a traditional Alfredo sauce, all while being entirely plant-based. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or when you want to indulge yourself. It’s proof that vegan pasta can be just as decadent as its traditional counterparts.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Alfredo Pasta

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto is a testament to the fact that hearty doesn’t have to mean meaty. This dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with the goodness of vegetables and beans. It’s a lovely meal for those nights when you want something special without too much fuss. Plus, it’s a beautiful way to enjoy asparagus.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs. — Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re aiming to impress, Marry Me Chickpeas might just be your secret weapon. This dish is so flavorful and fulfilling; it’s been known to win hearts. It’s perfect served over rice or with a side of bread. It’s a humble reminder of how delicious and versatile chickpeas can be.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Overnight Vanilla Oats

Three jars of oatmeal with berries and maple syrup. — Overnight Vanilla Oats. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For those mornings when you need a quick breakfast, Overnight Vanilla Oats are a lifesaver. Prepare them the night before, and you’ll wake up to a delicious, creamy bowl of oats waiting for you. They’re customizable with your favorite fruits and nuts, making breakfast something to look forward to. Plus, they’re a healthy start to any day.
Get the Recipe: Overnight Vanilla Oats

Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

On a cold day, nothing beats the warmth of Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew. This dish is not only comforting but also bursting with flavors and nutrients. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal and fulfilling for the whole family. It shows just how hearty vegan meals can be.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Colorful vegetable spring rolls with carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers, served with peanut sauce. — Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls are as fun to make as they are to eat. This dish is a colorful way to get in your veggies, with the added joy of dipping them in your favorite sauce. They’re perfect for a light meal or as appetizers during a get-together. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one go.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Vegan Pasta Primavera

A colorful pasta salad with fusilli, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, peas, red onion, zucchini, and fresh basil leaves is served on a blue plate. — Vegan Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Vegan Pasta Primavera offers a fresh take on pasta, loaded with seasonal veggies. This dish is light, flavorful, and ideal for when you want a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition. It’s another example of how pasta doesn’t need meat or dairy to be thoroughly enjoyable. Plus, it’s a colorful addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

A plate of tacos with red cabbage and cauliflower slaw. — Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Forget everything you thought you knew about tacos with Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. This dish is a unique twist on a classic, embracing the robust flavors of roasted cauliflower wrapped in a soft tortilla. Perfect for a casual dinner or feeding a crowd; these tacos are a crowd-pleaser. They’re a fun and delicious way to get more veggies into your diet.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Vegan Spam

Vegan Spam might sound like an oxymoron, but it’s a real, tasty option for anyone looking to reduce their meat intake. This version brings a familiar yet entirely plant-based element to meals. It’s great fried up for breakfast or sliced into sandwiches. It’s a creative and flavorful alternative that surprises many.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spam

Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Sweet corn risotto in a skillet on a wooden cutting board. — Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto is a creamy, dreamy dish that’ll make you forget all about meat-based meals. It combines the sweetness of corn with the subtlety of leeks in a risotto that’s both comforting and luxurious. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home, and it’s another dish that showcases the versatility of vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Vegan Strawberry Granola Bars

For a snack that hits the spot, Vegan Strawberry Granola Bars are the answer. They’re chewy, sweet, and perfect for on-the-go moments. Whether you’re heading to work or out for a hike, these bars are a great companion. Plus, making them yourself means you know exactly what’s in them – no hidden nasties.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Strawberry Granola Bars

Ultimate Vegan Burger

Whoever said vegans couldn’t enjoy a good burger hasn’t tried Ultimate Vegan Burger. This burger is juicy, flavorful, and satisfies any burger craving. It’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, or any time you want a meat-free option. Impress your friends and family with this plant-based take on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger