I Was Too Tired To Cook But These 29 Vegan Recipes Saved Me

The day felt long, and the thought of cooking brought a heavy sigh. No energy left, just hunger and an empty table. These 29 vegan recipes saved the moment without much effort. Each dish used simple steps, quick cooking, and easy ingredients. These meals made everything feel a bit better without extra work.

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.

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Indian Onion Salad

A bowl of red onion and cilantro salad on a table. — Indian Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some days you just need something quick and refreshing that hits the spot. Indian Onion Salad is simple but loaded with flavor, perfect when you don’t have the energy to cook. Tossed together in minutes, it’s a great addition to your meal or even a light snack. The combination of fresh, crisp onions with a tangy punch makes it a go-to option for lazy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

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.

Feeling wiped out but craving something sweet, Dairy Free Ice Cream is exactly what you need. Smooth, creamy, and ready to tackle your sweet tooth without any heavy lifting in the kitchen! It’s a guilt-free dessert that’s made for low-effort moments. Scoop it up into a bowl, grab a spoon, and let it brighten your evening in no time. Perfectly chilled and delicious, it’s your answer to a long day.
Get the Recipe: Dairy Free Ice Cream

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.

When you’re too tired to whip up anything complicated, Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad comes to the rescue. It’s an easy, wholesome dish packed with all the goodness without making you sweat over the stove. The grilled veggies add so much flavor, and with a simple toss, dinner is ready. It’s a lifesaver for those long days when cooking feels like a chore. Just grab a plate and enjoy the simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

You don’t have to slave away in the kitchen for a comforting meal. Asparagus and White Bean Risotto is creamy, filling, and perfect for those nights when you need something hearty without much effort. The beans and asparagus add texture and flavor, making it a perfect option after a tiring day. Toss it together and let it do its magic minimal work included.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe

When everything feels like too much, plop down with Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe for a light, flavorful bite. It’s smoky, creamy, and so simple to throw together, you’ll seriously thank yourself. Perfect with pita or veggies, it’s an effortless way to enjoy something delicious. No long prep needed, just scoop and dip away, letting it melt your stress. Your busy day deserves a break like this!
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe

Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Colorful vegetable spring rolls with carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers, served with peanut sauce. — Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Feel like you’re down to zero energy but still want something vibrant? Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls provide all the color and crunch without the heavy lifting. All you do is roll them up and they’re ready to go, fresh and easy. They’re a great way to stay light and nourished without spending too much time worrying about dinner. Pair them with your dipping sauce of choice, and you’re set for the night.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Harvest Salad

Too tired for anything fancy, Harvest Salad is your answer for a quick, wholesome fix that’s good to go in minutes. Packed with veggies and simple flavors, it’s perfect for when chopping a few ingredients is all the effort you can spare. Toss it all together, and you’ve got a meal that’s filling and refreshing. It’s one of those dishes that just makes life a little easier.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Salad

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.

Some nights all you have energy for is popping something into the oven. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges are easy, crispy, and just what you need when you’re running low on steam. Their natural sweetness pairs with your favorite dip, giving you a simple but delicious bite. The prep is minimal, and they’ll be ready before you know it. All you need to do is sit back and let the oven do the work.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

Feeling beat but still craving bold flavors, Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps deliver tacos in the easiest possible form no mess, no fuss. It’s all about quick assembly, and you’ve got yourself a fresh, gluten-free dinner in no time. The crunchiness and hint of spice make it a fun, low-energy meal option. Perfect for when cooking feels like too much work but hunger won’t wait!
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Some days are all about finding quick snacks without extra effort. Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe is light, crunchy, and just perfect for moments when cooking feels like a chore. Toss them in the air fryer, and you’re all set for something quick and yummy without breaking a sweat. Pair them with your dipping sauce, and you’ve got yourself a no-fuss treat. The perfect solution for a lazy afternoon or evening.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Close-up of a plate of rice garnished with chopped herbs and slices of lime. — Easy Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Forget the struggle of a big dinner plan, Easy Cilantro Lime Rice takes care of that in a few simple steps. It’s fresh, with a little kick of lime that makes it all pop without any extra work. Pair it as a side or make it the main event, it doesn’t demand much from you at all. Just toss the ingredients in and let your tired self enjoy the simplicity. Dinner doesn’t have to be hard when it’s this effortless.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Almond Pancakes

A stack of pancakes with strawberries on top. — Almond Pancakes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Some days breakfast for dinner feels like the ultimate easy fix Almond Pancakes fit right into that plan. They’re light, fluffy, and come together so easily, you won’t even notice how quick it is to make. Great for mornings, evenings, or whenever you need a pick-me-up meal without breaking a sweat. Serve them up plain or with your favorite topping, and just enjoy the simplicity. Cooking doesn’t have to wear you out.
Get the Recipe: Almond Pancakes

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Tired but still need something filling, Baked Mushroom Rice is a hearty meal that feels homemade without all the hard work. You can prep and toss it in the oven, letting it cook itself while you relax. The mushrooms add depth and flavor, making it perfect for those nights when you need comfort in edible form. It’s all about no-fuss cooking with a rewarding payoff.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice

Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles

Stack of red popsicles surrounded by sliced lemons and strawberries on a wooden surface with a basket in the background. — Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Long day and just need to cool off with something that takes next to no effort. Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles are sweet, tangy, and the perfect frozen treat to help recharge. All you do is freeze them and have instant relief for your tired self. They’re refreshing and great for when you need something quick but tasty.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

When you’re ready to give up on dinner but still want something comforting, Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta comes through for you. Rich, creamy, and incredibly easy to throw together, you’ll be surprised at how little energy it takes. The sauce pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta shape, making each bite worth it. There’s no need to fuss over complicated cooking with this dish. Heat, mix, and enjoy it’s that simple.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

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.

Some days, cooking can feel overwhelming, but Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for a quick fix when you’re drained yet hungry. With a light crunch and tangy-sweet flavor, it’s the kind of treat that doesn’t even feel like cooking. You’ll just toss, combine, and be done in no time. Suddenly, the day feels a little more manageable.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

Moussaka

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

You’re worn out, and the last thing you want is something tricky to prepare, but Moussaka has your back. With its comforting layers and rich flavors, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s vegan-friendly and surprisingly simple to pull off when you’re short on energy. Plus, it’s so filling that it’ll keep you powered up with minimal effort. Who says tired nights can’t still mean great food?
Get the Recipe: Moussaka

Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

Exhausted but still craving something delicious, Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip is your secret weapon. It’s ridiculously easy to whip together and has a bold kick that’ll wake up your taste when you need it most. You can serve it with chips, veggies, or even some bread for dipping It’s all about what works in the moment. You’ll surprise yourself with how easy it was to make something this good.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Buffalo Jackfruit Dip

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 cooking feels like a chore, Mushroom Pie is as easy as it is comforting. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor in every bite. Even if you’re low on energy, the preparation is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll have a dish that feels homemade and special without requiring tons of effort. Sometimes, simple is exactly what you need to perk up after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Too tired to experiment, Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole saves the day with its simple yet perfect approach. A combination of veggies and creamy goodness comes together so quickly, it’s hard to believe dinner is ready. You’ll get a hot dish that practically feeds the soul after the longest of days. Best part? It’s low-stress and perfect for when you just need to eat and relax.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Grilled Zucchini

Running on empty doesn’t mean settling for bland food. Grilled Zucchini is so simple and effortless that it feels like it practically cooks itself. Toss it on your grill or pan, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have a wholesome and flavorful plate. It’s perfect for those times when you’re too tired to deal with complicated recipes. Dinner doesn’t get much easier or fresher.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Zucchini

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

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

Some nights, even takeout feels like too much effort, but Tofu Vegan Stir Fry is the ultimate energy-saver. It’s quick, customizable, and uses basic pantry staples with minimal fuss. The flavors blend together beautifully, giving you a meal that feels both nourishing and effortless. Plus, cleanup couldn’t be simpler, which is always a bonus. You’ll thank yourself for choosing such an easy go-to.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Raw Lemon Slice

Feeling drained but still craving a boost, Raw Lemon Slice is here to brighten things up without any cooking required. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and the easiest snack to prepare when energy feels like it’s running low. Just a few steps, and you’ll have something light to enjoy without breaking a sweat. Sometimes simple treats are all you need on a tired day.
Get the Recipe: Raw Lemon Slice

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.

After a long day, you need something easy yet hearty, and Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto does exactly that. Creamy and packed with flavor, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare even when you’ve hit your limit. No fancy techniques are required, and you’re left with something that feels comforting and filling. It’s the perfect choice for when you just want to eat and unwind. You’ll love how minimal effort still leads to a great dish.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

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.

If cooking feels impossible, Cucumber Tomato Salad is a no-brainer option. It’s fresh, crunchy, and comes together in minutes, perfect for lazy evenings. You just toss everything together and enjoy—you don’t even need to do much chopping. It’s a simple fix for hunger without a lot of effort or cleanup. Sometimes, the easiest dishes can be the most rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Tofu Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with grilled tofu, diced carrots, peas, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of dark sauce, served on a red cloth. — Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Tired cooking nights call for quick, effortless solutions like Tofu Fried Rice. It’s a simple throw-together meal packed with enough flavor to keep life interesting. Basic ingredients come together in one pan, so cleanup is just as easy as the cooking itself. You’ll get a filling dish to silence your hunger without much thought. Those tired evenings just got a little easier.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Overnight Vanilla Oats

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

When you’re too wiped to prep anything, Overnight Vanilla Oats become a lifesaver. You mix it up once, let it sit, and breakfast or snack is already done by the time you need it. It’s creamy, comforting, and requires almost no effort. It’s perfect for those exhausted days when cooking anything just feels like too much. A meal ready when you wake up can make all the difference.
Get the Recipe: Overnight Vanilla Oats

Vegan Cashew Cheese Spread

Worn down but need something quick, Vegan Cashew Cheese Spread is the no-fuss solution for tired moments. Blend it up, and you’ve got a creamy spread ready for crackers, sandwiches, or veggies. It’s about as low-effort as it gets, making it ideal for when you need food but don’t want to overthink it. A simple choice for when energy feels impossible to muster.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Cashew Cheese Spread

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

After a long day, you’ll be glad for something like Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans. It’s a one pot wonder that lets you toss everything together with minimal effort. The flavors are bold and cozy without adding too many steps or complexity. You’ll have a filling meal ready before you know it, perfect for those tired moments.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans