Even On My Bad Days, These 13 Vegan Recipes Under 500 Worked

ByMandy Applegate

Some days are a mess and dinner feels like one more thing going wrong, but these 13 vegan recipes under 500 managed to keep things together. No dramatic prep, no weird surprises, just meals that show up, do their job, and don’t add to the chaos. They’re the kind of backup plans that actually work without making things worse. It’s not magic, it’s just food that behaves.

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.
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Quinoa Salad

Close-up of a quinoa salad with chickpeas, chopped cucumber, parsley, red onion, and a light dressing, with a spoon partially visible.
Quinoa Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Packed with a mix of textures, Quinoa Salad delivers balance in every bite. It’s light but filling, making it a great option for days when you want something quick and versatile. Whether eaten solo or as a side, it feels like a meal that fits anywhere. Perfect for bad days when you need something easy that still feels wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa Salad

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.

Looking to keep things simple and satisfying? Sesame Soba Noodles bring a nutty flavor and comforting warmth in no time. This dish works great for lunches or dinners, especially when time isn’t on your side. It’s easy to dig into and doesn’t leave you feeling heavy afterward.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Vegan French Toast Casserole

Close-up of baked French toast with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with syrup in a baking dish.
Vegan French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Transitioning into something sweet, Vegan French Toast Casserole creates a cozy option that feels almost indulgent. It combines flavors and textures that work for breakfast but even slide into brunch with ease. It’s easy to make ahead, which is a huge plus on days when energy is low. Great as an occasional reward or something different to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan French Toast Casserole

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A bowl of fresh salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs, seasoned with black pepper, with a serving spoon.
Cucumber Tomato Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Light, refreshing, and reliable, Cucumber Tomato Salad delivers simplicity redefined. It’s a quick option that stays versatile, working as a side or part of a main meal. Easy to throw together but never feels boring to eat. On tired days, it can be the perfect burst of freshness without overthinking.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

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.

On days when you want comfort but can’t deal with complicated cooking, Mushroom Pie steps in. It’s hearty without being too much, and feels like a complete meal in itself. This fits perfectly when you crave something warm and filling during any meal. Plus, you won’t even miss non-vegan options—it stands strong on its own.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Dairy Free Ice Cream

A gold spoon scoops a portion of creamy, pale vanilla ice cream from a glass bowl.
Dairy Free Ice Cream. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Trying to escape the kitchen on tough days? Dairy Free Ice Cream can instantly make things better without much effort. It works as a snack, dessert, or an after-meal treat. You get all the enjoyment without the usual heaviness—it’s a great way to unwind and recharge.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fast, fresh, and bold, Pico de Gallo works as a dip or topping that brings a little excitement to simple meals. It’s easy to love and quick to make, requiring very little when energy is low. Perfect for pairing with chips, veggies, or even spreading across rice bowls. A small addition with a big impact on flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Close-up of a layered dish with melted cheese, corn, beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
Vegan Enchilada Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Feeling like you need something hearty but simple? Vegan Enchilada Casserole steps up without overwhelming you in the kitchen. It’s all about layers and texture, coming together into a dish that feels comforting but balanced. Great for dinner or any time you want something meaningful without spending ages cooking.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini slices garnished with chopped herbs on a light-colored plate.
Grilled Zucchini. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you just want something easy and warm, Grilled Zucchini keeps things straightforward. It’s simple to prepare and works well as a side or snack without weighing you down. The slight char on the slices brings flavors together nicely. Great for moments when you want veggies without a fuss.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Marry Me Lentils

A pan of lentil dish with spinach, fresh basil, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, garnished with lemon wedges.
Marry Me Lentils. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Need a go-to when energy is low but dinner still needs to happen? Marry Me Lentils is just the fix you might want. It’s filling and full of flavor, making it an easy pick for quiet evenings or rushed lunches. No fancy techniques required—it’s all about simplicity meeting substance.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

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.

Tired days call for easy plans, and Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables answers that. Everything can cook together without much attention while you do something else. It’s filling and works well at any time of the day. No fuss, just straightforward and wholesome goodness.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you need a quick dip or spread, Guacamole handles that easily. It’s creamy, smooth, and adds something extra to simple meals or snacks. Whether eaten solo or alongside another dish, it brings flavor without overdoing it. Perfect for moments when time and effort feel limited.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

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.

Want pasta night without too much hassle? Lentil Bolognese gives all the comfort you’d expect while keeping things plant-based. It’s hearty enough for filling up but won’t take ages to prepare. For tired days when classics are the answer, this option stays a reliable favorite.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

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