15 Plant-Based Italian Recipes That Will Blow Your Mind

Somehow, plant-based meals got stuck with a bland reputation—these 15 Italian recipes are out here proving everybody wrong. They’re the kind of dishes that don’t try too hard but still end up stealing the whole table’s attention. Even the meat-lovers start looking confused halfway through the second helping. Italian comfort food without the usual suspects? Turns out, it hits just as hard.

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Lentil Bolognese

A pot of pasta with a tomato-based sauce, lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables on a light surface beside a bowl of grated cheese. — Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Imagine the rich flavors traditionally associated with Italian cuisine brought to life in a wholesome, plant-based form. Lentil Bolognese is a perfect example, with its hearty texture that makes for a fulfilling meal. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy classic flavors while maintaining a plant-based diet. This dish is great for an everyday dinner or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Vegan Amaretti Cookies

For those who love a sweet treat without any animal products, Vegan Amaretti Cookies are a wonderful choice. These cookies maintain the crumbly texture and aromatic sweetness you’d expect from the traditional version. Perfect with a cup of coffee or as a light dessert, they’re a surefire hit at any gathering. You won’t miss the classic ingredients one bit in this innovative take on a beloved treat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Vegan Minestrone Soup

Two bowls of soup with pasta and vegetables. — Vegan Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you need something warming and packed with nutrients, Vegan Minestrone Soup steps up to the plate. This soup offers a medley of flavors that come together in a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s a great option for meal prep or a family dinner, guaranteed to keep everyone happy and healthy. This soup proves that plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

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.

If you’re looking for something creamy and comforting, look no further than Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto. This dish brings a sweet and subtle twist to the traditional risotto, making it a standout dish. It’s perfect for an evening meal that feels special without a lot of fuss. This risotto showcases how simple ingredients can create a memorable and hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

For a touch of Tuscany in your kitchen, Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale is a solid choice. It combines simplicity with flavor, using plant-based ingredients that keep you satisfied and nourished. Ideal for a quick dinner or a wholesome lunch, this dish is both versatile and delicious. It’s proof that healthy eating can be easy and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

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.

Who says you need cheese to make a great lasagna? Vegan Lasagna is here to challenge that notion with layers of flavor that replicate the classic taste everyone loves. This dish is a crowd-pleaser at any dinner party or a comforting meal at home. Its rich, flavorful layers showcase the possibilities of vegan cooking.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

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.

Warm weather calls for dishes that are light yet fulfilling, and Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. It’s packed with fresh, grilled vegetables and herbs, tossed in a light dressing. This salad is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing meal at home. It’s a vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of the garden.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Marry Me Tofu

A bowl of creamy pasta salad with cubed noodles and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with fresh basil leaves and black pepper, served in a rustic dish on a brown cloth. — Marry Me Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re up for trying a dish that’s as intriguing as its name, Marry Me Tofu is a must-try. This dish combines spices and tofu in a way that’s bound to impress anyone. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or when you want to introduce friends to the wonders of plant-based cuisine. The flavors are so good, it just might elicit a marriage proposal!
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Dig into the rich and nutty flavors of Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta for a truly unique pasta experience. This dish is a testament to the versatility of nuts in vegan cooking, providing a rich texture and flavor that complements any pasta type. It’s a sophisticated choice for dinner parties or a comforting meal at home. Enjoy a twist on traditional Italian sauces with this inventive recipe.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Enjoy the fresh taste of spring any time of the year with Asparagus and White Bean Risotto. This dish pairs the earthiness of white beans with the crispness of asparagus, creating a balanced and flavorful dish. It’s perfect for a cozy meal that’s both filling and nourishing. This risotto is sure to impress with its creamy texture and depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

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 dish serves up a creamy, rich sauce that rivals its traditional counterpart. It’s a fantastic option for those who love creamy pastas but want to keep it plant-based. Great for a family dinner or a date night at home, this pasta will keep guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Alfredo Pasta

Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Garlicky Mushroom & Tomato Topping

Rethink pizza night with Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Garlicky Mushroom & Tomato Topping. This pizza combines a crispy, flavorful crust with a savory topping that will wow your palate. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional pizza but still delivers on flavor. Perfect for a fun meal with friends or a cozy night in, this pizza will change the way you think about vegan options.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Garlicky Mushroom & Tomato Topping

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.

Celebrate the bounty of the garden with Vegan Pasta Primavera. This dish is bursting with fresh vegetables and light, aromatic herbs that bring a pasta dish to life. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner on any day. This pasta showcases how simple ingredients can upgrade a meal to something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

Alfredo Sauce

Discover a new favorite with this creamy, dreamy Alfredo Sauce crafted from plant-based ingredients. It’s so rich and velvety, you’ll find it hard to believe it’s vegan. Perfect for drizzling over your favorite pasta or vegetables, it makes any meal a special occasion. This sauce is a game-changer in the world of vegan cooking.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Sauce

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Add a pop of color and flavor to your meal lineup with Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta. This pasta dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious, featuring a vibrant red pepper sauce that’s smooth and flavorful. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to spice up their pasta routine. Not only is it pleasing to the eye, but it also provides a hearty meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta