29 Plant-Based Meals To Win Over Even The Toughest Crowd

Some people hear “plant-based” and assume it’s all salads and sadness. These 29 meals will shut that down fast with bold flavors and hearty portions that keep everyone coming back for seconds. Even the ones who swear they need meat on their plate might start rethinking things. Just don’t mention it’s plant-based until after they clear their plate.

Mixed Bean Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Best Vegan Nut Roast

Close-up of a nut roast topped with cranberry sauce and garnished with fresh herbs, served on a white plate. — Best Vegan Nut Roast. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Friends and family gatherings often call for a centerpiece dish that everyone can enjoy. A Best Vegan Nut Roast brings a hearty and rich flavor that appeals to both plant-based eaters and meat-lovers alike. It stands as a testament to how fulfilling plant-based meals can be. Whether it’s a holiday or a casual weekend dinner, this dish fills the room with a welcoming aroma that promises a fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Nut Roast

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

When you’re craving something comforting and creamy, turn to a Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff for a fulfilling experience. This dish proves that a cream-based sauce doesn’t need dairy to deliver depth and richness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the most skeptical guests might gravitate toward for seconds. Reminiscent of classic stroganoffs, it’s proof that plant-based meals can echo traditional favorites.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Copycat Impossible Burger

Close-up of a burger with a plant-based patty, lettuce, and sauce in a bun. — Copycat Impossible Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who says a burger requires meat to be irresistibly good? A Copycat Impossible Burger challenges all your preconceived notions with its impressive flavors and textures. It’s a fantastic option for BBQs or when you just want a casual yet substantial meal. Leave guests guessing the ingredients with this plant-based twist on a classic American staple.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Finger foods are the life of a party, and Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce offer a crispy, dunkable treat that’s sure to please. They’re perfect for game day, children’s parties, or just as a snack. These nuggets challenge the idea that you need meat to enjoy a crunchy and fulfilling bite. Paired with a rich, vegan ranch sauce, they’re a testament to the versatility of plant-based cooking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

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.

Picture sitting down to a colorful dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans serves up comfort in a bowl, with flavors that transport you to a sunny Caribbean beach without any fish or meat involved. It’s an easy way to introduce plant-based meals to anyone who’s hesitant about missing out on flavor. This dish is a simple, tasty way to bring some island flair to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Forget what you thought about basic side dishes being an afterthought. Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes offer a golden, crispy exterior that’s sure to capture attention. They prove that plant-based doesn’t mean bland, with each bite bursting with flavor. Serve them up at your next gathering, and watch them disappear fast – they’re that irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap

When you need a quick and wholesome meal, an Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap has got you covered. It’s a convenient choice for lunch on the go or a simple, healthful dinner. Packed with fresh veggies, it showcases how plant-based meals can be both nourishing and fulfilling. Plus, it’s customizable to suit everyone’s taste, making it a win-win for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

A gochujang cabbage steak on a bed of white rice. — Gochujang Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Turn up the heat with some Korean-inspired Gochujang Cabbage Steaks that will impress spice lovers. They bring an unexpected kick to the plant-based table. This dish can easily become the star of the show, offering a bold flavor that makes it a memorable main course. Show off this spicy, savory dish at your next dinner and it might just steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Egg Rolls

Introduce your guests to a plant-based appetizer that rivals any traditional recipe with homemade Egg Rolls. They’re stuffed with a savory filling that entices anyone to reach for more. These rolls illustrate how a few simple twists can make a classic dish entirely plant-friendly. Setting these down on your appetizer table is a surefire way to spark conversation and appetites.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Tofu Vegetable Noodle Stir Fry. Photo Credits: Two City Vegans — Tofu Vegan Stir Fry. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Stir-fries have a way of making dinner quick, simple, and scrumptious. A Tofu Vegan Stir Fry brings a variety of textures and a savory sauce that ties everything together. It’s a versatile dish that encourages even skeptics to try a bite, often leading to unexpected praise. Use it as an opportunity to show off how tofu can truly shine when seasoned and cooked with care.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

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.

Take advantage of grilling season with a Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad that’s the perfect side or main course for any outdoor gathering. Charred vegetables give a smoky depth that even grill masters will appreciate. This twist on pasta salad keeps things light and fresh while proving that plant-based dishes can hold their own at any barbecue. It’s bound to become a requested favorite at potlucks and picnics.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Vegan Ham Recipe

A glazed meatloaf with a crosshatch pattern sits on a white platter, garnished with parsley. Two slices are cut from one end. — Vegan Ham Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Holiday meals and special occasions often call for a signature dish, and a Vegan Ham Recipe serves exactly that purpose for plant-based eaters. It surprises guests with its similarity to traditional ham in both flavor and texture. Serving this can spark conversations on how plant-based cooking has evolved to replicate familiar tastes. It’s a celebration of innovation in the kitchen, perfect for impressing a diverse crowd.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ham Recipe

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.

Risotto has a certain elegance to it, and a Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto is no exception. It brings a gentle sweetness and creaminess that can convince anyone of the merits of plant-based eating. With each spoonful, it strengthens the argument that gourmet experiences don’t need animal products. Enjoy sharing this dish when you want to add a touch of sophistication to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Harvest Salad

A refreshing and hearty Harvest Salad packed with seasonal produce can be the refreshing dish that brings balance to any meal. It’s a beautiful blend of colors and nutrients that showcases the best of what plant-based ingredients offer. It works well as an entrée or a side, adaptable for any dining occasion. With its freshness and variety, this salad is anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Give your pasta nights a new spin with an Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta that’s as rich and savory as any classic Italian dish. It offers an unexpected nutty flavor that complements the pasta beautifully. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, it’s likely to raise some eyebrows in pleasant surprise. This dish is a nod to the wonders plant-based ingredients can create in traditional cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

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.

Everyone loves a good casserole, and a Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole has all the makings of a comfort food classic. It’s cheesy, it’s warm, and it just so happens to be completely plant-based. It’s ideal for those nights when you need something filling and reminiscent of childhood favorites. Present it on family nights and watch as people dig in without hesitation.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

A light yet fulfilling meal, Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu is as versatile as it is tasty. It’s a fresh option for lunch or a light dinner, and it’s packed with a variety of textures. The addition of tofu provides a protein boost that keeps you fueled. Serve this up for a casual meet-up, and watch how everyone enjoys the clean, fresh flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad With Tofu

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Celebrate the flavors of spring any time of year with an Asparagus and White Bean Risotto. It highlights an often-overlooked vegetable and creates a creamy texture to win over guests. It’s a gentle way to introduce someone to the idea that plant-based meals aren’t just salads. Enjoy when you’re looking for a meal that’s both sophisticated and heartwarming.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Vegan Spam

Adventure into the realm of plant-based alternatives with your own version of Vegan Spam. This dish stands out as a conversation starter due to its unique concept. It can be used in a variety of ways, making it a fun experiment for brunch or dinner. Surprise your friends and family with a creative take on a familiar, albeit unexpected, product.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spam

Moussaka

A pan of cooked lasagna topped with melted cheese, black pepper, and chopped parsley. — Moussaka. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with a plant-based take on Moussaka. This dish layers richness and heartiness in a way that’s emblematic of Greek cooking. It asks for reconsideration of what constitutes comfort food. Enjoy a taste of tradition with this revamped classic and let everyone marvel at its fulfilling qualities.
Get the Recipe: Moussaka

Vegan Winter Stew

A bowl of lentil stew with potatoes and carrots, garnished with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by slices of crusty bread. — Vegan Winter Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Embrace the coziness of colder days with a hearty Vegan Winter Stew. It warms you from the inside out and pairs perfectly with your favorite crusty bread. Its robust flavors demonstrate that plants can indeed stand their ground against traditional meaty stews. Let this be your go-to when you want a meal that’s heartening and simply wonderful on a chilly evening.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Winter Stew

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Evoke the rustic flavors of Italy with a Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale. It’s a one-pan wonder that saves on dishes and upgrades dinner time. The simplicity is key, allowing each ingredient to shine and demonstrate just how fulfilling a skillet meal can be. Lean into this dish when you want a time-saving, yet delicious meal that feeds the soul.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Baked Mushroom Rice

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet. — Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Side dishes can be the hidden gems of a meal, and Baked Mushroom Rice aims to prove just that. It offers a savory complexity that makes it much more than just a side. It’s a dish that could easily find its way to the center of the table. It shows that a plant-based side dish can be anything but secondary, carrying flavors that demand recognition.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Vegan Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of vegetable lasagna showing layers of pasta, assorted vegetables, ricotta cheese, and tomato sauce with a breadcrumb topping. — Vegan Lasagna. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

No need to miss out on Italian favorites with a stunning Vegan Lasagna. Layers upon layers of plant-based goodness culminate in a dish that’s as familiar as it is novel. It bridges the gap between traditional tastes and plant-based preferences. Serve this at your next family dinner and watch as diners of all ages ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

When you’re in the mood for something filling that has a hint of sweetness, whip up a Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew. This dish is a showcase of how well different plant-based textures and flavors can meld together. It’s hearty enough to be the main course and has a subtle sweetness that’s quite fulfilling. Let it be the comforting presence at your dining table, especially during the cooler months.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Marry Me Chickpeas

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

Make a lasting impression with a dish that’s as charming as its name, Marry Me Chickpeas. It offers up a promise of flavor that could very well seal the deal on your plant-based courtship of friends and family. It’s a testament to how a simple legume can become the star of a dish. Serve these to anyone who’s on the fence about plant-based meals and prepare for accolades.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

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

Taco night gets a healthy twist with Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. These aren’t just tacos; they’re an experience in how plant-based meals can be fun and playful. Crunchy, roasted cauliflower provides a fulfilling texture that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a creative way to include vegetables in your weekly routine that won’t feel like a chore.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

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.

Spring into any season with a colorful and vibrant Vegan Pasta Primavera. It’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach with all the garden-fresh produce involved. This dish redefines pasta night with a fresh plant-based perspective. It’s the kind of meal that gets everyone around the table, excited to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

Mixed Bean Chili

For those nights when you need a bit of spice and everything nice, a Mixed Bean Chili comes to the rescue. It’s a fulfilling blend of ingredients that provides a tasty kick to warm up your evening. A chili cookoff contender, it may just surprise the traditionalists with its depth of flavor. It’s an inviting dish that begs for you to gather around and enjoy each steaming bowl.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Bean Chili