Easy Vegan Recipes To Make Cooking Feel Like Less Of A Chore With 29 Ideas

Making food shouldn’t require a pep talk, and this list of 29 low-effort vegan ideas gets that. They’re the kind of meals that don’t involve a time crunch or five open jars staring back from the counter. There’s no complicated dance—just simple ways to eat well without needing an afternoon off to pull it off. It’s food that works for people who don’t feel like working.

A close-up of a steaming pot of hearty cabbage soup in a tomato-based broth, garnished with fresh herbs. — Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Egg Rolls

These crispy rolls are perfect for snacking or sharing. Egg Rolls are filled with a mix of veggies and flavors that bring everything together in a neat little package. Great for dipping into your favorite sauce or enjoying as they are, they’re simple enough to make without feeling like a chore. Once you try them, you’ll want to keep them in rotation for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

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.

A warm meal is always welcome, especially with its hearty filling and flaky crust. Homemade Vegan Pot Pie packs a combination of ingredients into comforting bites. It’s filling yet light enough not to feel heavy after a plateful. Perfect for when you want something fulfilling but easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

A glass jar of granola spills onto a surface next to a white bowl filled with blueberries. — Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you need something quick to grab and go in the morning or for a midday break, this recipe is a solid option. Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds gives you crunch, sweetness, and a hint of tartness all in one bite. It’s easy to make, perfect for prepping ahead, and works as a quick snack or breakfast cereal. You can make a batch for the week and enjoy it guilt-free.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

For a hearty and quick dinner, this recipe has a rich and comforting texture. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff is simple while still giving off homestyle vibes. It’s filling without being too complicated, and the sauce makes it incredibly versatile. Great for when you want something fulfilling but don’t want to spend hours cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Sometimes you want a comforting bowl, but without too many steps or fuss. Asparagus and White Bean Risotto takes simple ingredients and turns them into a creamy rice dish. It feels fancy without requiring any special skills in the kitchen. You can whip it up quickly while still making it feel like you’ve put effort into dinner.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Pasta nights can be quick and easy, and this recipe makes them even simpler. Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta combines texture and creaminess for a twist on standard pasta meals. It’s earthy and goes well with any pasta shape you prefer to use. Perfect for when you want something stress-free but different from the usual marinara sauce.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

If you want a dish that’s both comforting and easy to pull together, this option works well. Vegan Green Bean Casserole has a creamy base that pairs well with fresh or frozen beans. The crunchy topping makes it hard to resist and gives it a finished feel. Good for serving to guests or as a cozy side for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Close-up of several roasted sweet potato wedges on parchment paper, garnished with chopped herbs. — Baked Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Great for snacks or a quick side dish, this is one to keep in mind. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges require little time to prepare and offer a bit of sweetness in each bite. Add your favorite spice mix or keep them simple to let their natural flavor come through. They work well for any meal without crowding your plate.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

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.

This quick recipe puts lentils at the center for a new take on an old favorite. Lentil Bolognese makes it easy to enjoy a pasta night without relying on meat-based sauces. It’s hearty and pairs well with spaghetti or whatever other noodles you have lying around. Plus, meal prep feels less like a hassle with something this easy.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Perfect for snacks or sharing, this is a go-to for those casual get-togethers or as a movie-night bite. Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip is creamy and versatile, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. The smooth texture makes it easy to pair with chips, bread, or crackers. With minimal work in the kitchen, it’s a no-fuss addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

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.

When you want something fast but rewarding, this burger stands out. Copycat Impossible Burger brings plant-based patties into your home for a quick meal. Easy to customize with toppings or pair it with fries, this burger is all about simplicity and flavor. Ideal for when you feel like cooking without all the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Impossible Burger

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

A solid option when you’re craving something hearty and simple to pull together. Baked Mushroom Rice combines earthy mushrooms and rice in a dish that works for lunch or dinner. With minimal cooking steps involved, it’s perfect for busy days when you don’t want to overthink. You can plate it up or serve family-style—it works perfectly both ways.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky. — Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For an easy comfort meal, this recipe may be just what you’re looking for. Vegan Mac and Cheese swaps out traditional ingredients for plant-based alternatives while keeping everything creamy. It’s quick, hearty, and something that’s easy to whip up on weeknights. A recipe like this can sweeten up a long day with a warm meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

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.

Dinner just got simpler with this tofu-based idea. Marry Me Tofu focuses on plant protein served with a light sauce that works with nearly anything you pair it with. Whether you want something quick for yourself or are bringing together a bigger meal, this recipe fits the bill. Great for experimenting with toppings or keeping it basic.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Easy Vegan Gluten-Free Crackers

Snacks don’t have to take hours to prepare, and this recipe proves it. Easy Vegan Gluten-Free Crackers give you a crunchy bite for whenever hunger strikes. It’s simple to make with just a few basic steps required. You can pair these with dips or keep them plain for a no-fuss snack option.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Gluten-Free Crackers

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them. — Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Takeout cravings are easy to manage when you can quickly whip up this recipe at home. Sesame Soba Noodles offer chewy noodles with a sauce that packs plenty of flavor. It’s easy to make and doesn’t take much time, perfect for busy evenings. Great for eating straight from the bowl or plating up a quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for simple ways to work with tofu, this is one to start with. Baked Tofu gives you crisp edges and a texture that’s versatile for pairing or eating on its own. It’s easy to cook and doesn’t require anything fancy. Once baked, you can toss it into salads, wraps, or even eat it as a snack.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap

Wraps are quick and easy to prepare when you need a no-stress meal. Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap packs a mix of crunchy and soft textures into a handheld bite. They’re great for packing lunches, grabbing on the go, or even a lazy dinner idea. You can switch up the extras inside to keep things interesting every time you make one.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Veggie Wrap

Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

A salad with arugula, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and a drizzle of creamy dressing on a white plate. — Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A simple option that works as a meal or a lighter side dish. Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad combines bold textures for easy plating. It’s quick to pull together while giving the impression you spent a little more time in the kitchen. Perfect for when you want something fresh and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Great for game nights or casual snacking, this recipe takes an easy spin on plant-based wings. Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are baked for minimal effort and turn out perfectly crispy. They’re easy to dunk into your favorite sauces or eat just as they come. A perfect way to spice up your snack game without the heavy prep.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Mushroom Pie

Four individual pot pies with flaky crusts on a round tray, one open to reveal a mushroom filling. — Mushroom Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When a warm meal is your goal but you don’t want the work, this is worth a try. Mushroom Pie puts mushrooms at the center of a flaky pie crust that’s comforting and filling. It’s perfect for pairing with simple sides or enjoying on its own. Plus, it feels homemade without needing too much effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Vegan Lentil Soup

A pot of lentil stew with cilantro garnish and a wooden spoon. — Vegan Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Soup doesn’t have to be complicated, and this recipe proves it. Vegan Lentil Soup brings earthy flavors served in a bowl that’s both quick and comforting. Great as a meal on its own or paired with bread, it’s versatile for lunch or dinner. You can prep ahead in batches or whip up a fresh pot in no time.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lentil Soup

Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

A plate of roasted cauliflower steaks garnished with chopped pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley. — Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for something hearty but plant-based, this fits perfectly. Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks require minimal prep and can even double as your main dish. You’ll get a crispy finish and feel like you’ve spent more time in the kitchen than you actually did. Great for experimenting with sauces or keeping it plain.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sometimes the simplest dishes turn out to be the most enjoyable ones. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables make cooking easy since everything goes onto one pan. It works as a side or even a quick meal if you need something flexible. Cleanup is even easier when everything bakes together.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Vegan Strawberry Granola Bars

When snacks feel boring, this recipe is an easy way to switch things up. Vegan Strawberry Granola Bars are simple to make and great for mornings or midday hunger. Prep ahead and have something ready when you need a quick bite. They’re sweet but also have enough crunch to keep them fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Strawberry Granola Bars

Overnight Vanilla Oats

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

No-cook meals can make mornings feel easier, and this recipe is one to bookmark. Overnight Vanilla Oats are creamy, filling, and super simple to throw together the night before. It’s convenient and feels like a treat even on busy mornings. Plus, it’s easy to customize with toppings or keep simple.
Get the Recipe: Overnight Vanilla Oats

Pico de Gallo

Sometimes you just need something fresh that can work with many dishes. Pico de Gallo is quick to chop up and adds bright flavors to tacos, chips, or even bowls. It’s easy to adjust depending on how much you want to make and is great for casual get-togethers. With minimal prep, it’s one to keep on hand for quick upgrades to dishes.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes are versatile, and this recipe focuses on their natural sweetness. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole brings them together in a dish that works as a side or main. It’s simple without being dull, and you can dress it up further if you like. Great for making ahead or serving warm out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Cabbage Soup

A hearty soup doesn’t need to be tricky to make, and this recipe keeps things simple. Cabbage Soup is quick to throw together while giving you a bowl full of warmth. It’s light without being boring and pairs nicely with bread or crackers. Perfect for when a quick, comforting meal is all you need.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Soup