15 Plant-Based Italian Recipes That Are Secretly Simple

Nobody needs another recipe that takes five hours and a minor meltdown to finish. These 15 plant-based Italian recipes are secretly simple but still look like you know what you’re doing. They’re the kind of dishes that make you want to high-five yourself before dinner even starts. No judgment if you take all the credit and say it’s a family secret.

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

This post has affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you.

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

You won’t need a ton of ingredients to whip up something nutritious and enjoyable with Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale. It comes together in one pan, so you won’t be left with a sink full of dishes. This dish is perfect for those nights when you want a cozy meal without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s packed with greens and proteins, making it a win for both your body and your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

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.

A game changer for anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals, Lentil Bolognese is hearty, filling, and brings all the comfort of traditional pasta dishes without the meat. Perfect for a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, it’s a versatile recipe that belongs in your rotation. And honestly, you won’t miss the meat one bit with this on your table.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

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.

Something about Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto feels fancy without being pretentious. This dish is perfect for when you aim to impress someone or just want to treat yourself to something enjoyable. Despite its luxurious feel, it’s surprisingly uncomplicated to make. You end up with a creamy, comforting risotto that’s ideal for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Vegan Amaretti Cookies

A real treat for anyone looking to indulge their sweet tooth while sticking to a plant-based diet, Vegan Amaretti Cookies are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, making them simply irresistible. These cookies are perfect alongside your afternoon coffee or as a light dessert. They’re uncomplicated to bake, so you can easily whip up a batch whenever the craving hits.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Amaretti Cookies

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.

Comfort food is easily taken care of with Vegan Lasagna, a dish that’s layered with rich flavors blending perfectly in every bite. Great for when you have friends over or just need something substantial to get you through the week. What makes it even better is that it reheats beautifully, making your effort last for days.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Alfredo Sauce

Going vegan doesn’t mean skipping out on creamy textures and flavors, especially with Alfredo Sauce. Perfect for those who love the classic taste but need or choose to avoid dairy. You can toss it with your favorite pasta for an easy meal that feels indulgent. Plus, it’s quick to make, making you reconsider why you ever bought store versions.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Sauce

Vegan Minestrone Soup

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

Filling you up with goodness is what Vegan Minestrone Soup does best. It’s loaded with vegetables, making it both hearty and healthy. A bowl of this soup is just right for those days when you crave a bit of comfort without the heaviness associated with non-vegan options.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Minestrone Soup

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.

Look to Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad when you want something light yet fulfilling. This dish packs in flavors and textures, making it a great side or a light main course. It’s colorful, sure to be a hit at any meal, and a fun way to get those veggies in a delicious and appealing manner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Turning a classic dish into a plant-based staple, Asparagus and White Bean Risotto is as creamy and filling as it is elegant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or guests, this risotto is sure to impress without too much effort. It’s a straightforward option for enjoying a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Rustic and rich, Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta is a dish that proves simple ingredients can create memorable meals. This pasta is a nod to the heart of Italian cooking with a focus on enhancing natural flavors. Quick to make, it leaves a lasting impression with every bite. If you’re looking to shake up your pasta nights, this is the way to do it.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

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.

Marry Me Tofu could be the dish that convinces anyone of the potential of tofu. Showing off how versatile tofu can be with great texture and flavor, it’s an excellent choice for a special dinner or when you want to add something different to the table. And who knows, it might just seal the deal with tofu skeptics!
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Garlicky Mushroom & Tomato Topping

When pizza night rolls around, no need to feel left out with Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Garlicky Mushroom & Tomato Topping. This alternative is crispy, flavorful, and totally customizable – a great way to sneak in some veggies while still enjoying a familiar favorite. Whether you’re vegan or just exploring new options, this pizza ticks all the boxes for a fabulous meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Garlicky Mushroom & Tomato Topping

Vegan Alfredo Pasta

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

Taking a classic and turning it into something everyone can enjoy, Vegan Alfredo Pasta is creamy, comforting, and completely dairy-free. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It proves that plant-based eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Alfredo Pasta

Vegan Pizza

Close-up of vegetable pizza with artichokes, mushrooms, zucchini, and red peppers on a baked crust, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegan Pizza. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Changing the game for pizza lovers, Vegan Pizza lets you enjoy that classic pizza experience without dairy. With a variety of toppings and a hearty crust, the absence of traditional cheese won’t be missed. It’s a fantastic option for gatherings, movie nights, or whenever you need a quick fix for that pizza craving.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta offers a vibrant and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare. Ideal for those evenings when you crave something special but don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen for hours. The sauce is smooth, striking the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It pairs beautifully with any pasta shape, ensuring versatility for dinner any night.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta