When I Had No Energy And No Groceries I Still Made 29 Vegan Recipes

Energy was low, the kitchen was a ghost town, yet somehow there were 29 plant-based meals that came out of that mess. No shopping, no planning, just stubborn snacking in disguise. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was weirdly effective in that “I can’t believe this worked” kind of way. When everything feels like too much, winging it becomes your most dependable strategy.

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

A gochujang cabbage steak on a bed of white rice. — Gochujang Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cabbage might not seem exciting, but grilling it with bold flavors changes everything. Gochujang Cabbage Steaks are hearty and have a rich, smoky edge that makes them feel like a main dish more than a side. It’s something simple yet completely unexpected when prepared this way. You’ll never look at cabbage the same again after this.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Turning carrots into crispy fries is a healthy twist you didn’t know you needed. Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip bring crunch with less fuss than regular fries. They pair perfectly with a creamy dip, making them fun to eat while still being nutritious. It’s one of those things that feels snacky but smart.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

Best Vegan Chili

Close-up of a bowl of chili, topped with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The chili contains beans, tomatoes, and other visible vegetables. — Best Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This is one of those warm bowls that feels like it could be a full meal on its own. Best Vegan Chili is packed and hearty, with layers of simple flavors working together. It’s a dish that can be made quickly but feels like it took much longer. Just grab a spoon, and it’s a cozy time.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Chili

Homemade Ketchup With Fresh Tomatoes

This version stands out because it’s fresh and made from scratch, nothing like what you find in a bottle. Homemade Ketchup With Fresh Tomatoes tastes brighter and can be tailored to your personal preference. It’s versatile and great for dipping or adding to other dishes without too much effort. You’ll feel good knowing what’s actually in it.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ketchup With Fresh Tomatoes

Indian Onion Salad

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

This is a simple dish with a fresh crunch that works great alongside other meals or even solo. Indian Onion Salad brings bold, sharp flavors right into the mix without feeling like an overpowering choice. It’s quick prep makes it ideal for when you need something low maintenance. It’s one of those things you’ll want to keep making because it’s just so easy.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Crispy potato wedges served on a plate with a cup of coffee. — Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

These are a fun take on potatoes that make them crispy and unique without much prep. Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes stand out visually and texture-wise, and they’re perfect for dipping too. They’re one of those dishes that add variety to your plate even when everything else is simple. Plus, you can grab them with your hands for easy snacking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

This sauce turns a simple plate of noodles into something that feels more filling and creative. Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta is earthy and rich, making it different from typical pasta options. It’s smooth yet has a slight crunch that keeps it interesting. You’ll think twice about using store-bought sauces after trying this.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe

Eggplant gets a creamy makeover here that feels great as a dip or spread. Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe is smoky, simple, and works well to scoop up with bread or veggies. It’s versatile and doesn’t require much prep, making it easy to create whenever you need something quick. Once you try it, it’s hard not to repeat it.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe

Crispy Avocado Fries

Close-up of crispy, breaded Air Fryer Avocado Fries on a white plate. — Crispy Avocado Fries. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Avocados aren’t just for toast when you turn them into fries with a crispy layer. Crispy Avocado Fries offer a fun mix of creamy and crunchy textures all in one bite. It’s a quick snack or side that doesn’t feel heavy while still being satisfying. You won’t believe how good they are until you try them yourself.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Avocado Fries

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.

Making ice cream without dairy is easier than it sounds and opens up so many options. Dairy Free Ice Cream still feels smooth and indulgent without needing anything complicated. The best part is knowing it’s lighter and customizable without sacrificing quality. Once you try this, you might not go back to store-bought options.
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.

Adding grilled flavors to a pasta salad takes it from basic to much more interesting. Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad is straightforward yet feels a bit upgraded thanks to the smoky addition of veggies. It’s a dish that can be prepped ahead and enjoyed cold or warm depending on the day. Perfect for when you want something simple but not boring.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Mixed Bean Chili

Using multiple beans is a trick to get all sorts of textures into one bowl with little effort. Mixed Bean Chili is filling and doesn’t require fancy techniques to make. It’s quick without feeling hurried, and you can make it as mild or bold as you like. It’s perfect when you need an easy dish that works for meals or leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Bean Chili

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.

Soba noodles mixed with simple, bold flavors make for something quick but satisfying. Sesame Soba Noodles are light yet packed with texture, working great as a side or standalone meal. They’re straightforward to make and don’t require much cleanup. You’ll find it’s one of those reliable dishes for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Beans and greens come together in a pan for an easy one-pot option. Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale is light but still hearty enough to keep you full. It’s the kind of dish you can make with minimal prep and still feel like you’ve cooked something complete. You might make this one part of your regular routine.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Best Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe

A bowl of soup can be as filling as a full dinner when it’s done right. Best Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe layers simple ingredients so they feel more like a meal than a starter. It’s cozy without being too heavy, and it works well as leftovers the next day. This is one recipe you’ll want to make in big batches.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe

Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

Rice and beans are simple but can be upgraded with the right mix of flavors. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans make for a filling and easy-to-prep combo that works well during busy days. It’s one of those dishes where the ingredients do the work for you without too much fuss. Great for a quick dinner when you don’t want extra cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

Granola isn’t just a topping when it’s made thoughtfully. Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds adds texture and a little something extra to your mornings or snacks. It’s easy to make and feels homemade without needing a lot of time. This one works well on its own, in a bowl, or even as a grab-and-go option.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Blueberry Granola with Almonds

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed Red Skin Potatoes in a white bowl. — Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Taking cooked potatoes and smashing them before baking them makes them extra crispy. Crispy Smashed Potatoes bring crunch with a soft center, making them a star on the plate even as a side. They’re simple to prep and fun to eat, especially if you use your hands. It’s hard to mess these up, which makes them great for crowded meals or quick snacks.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

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.

Rolling up fresh vegetables isn’t just healthy, it’s fun to assemble and eat. Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls are light and visually appealing, making them easy to serve or snack on. They’re perfect for dipping and great for keeping things fresh without needing much work. You might find yourself making them again because of how versatile they are.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

A plate of watermelon salad with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves, served with a lime wedge. — Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Pairing sweet chunks of watermelon with bold, crumbly flavors feels unexpected in the best way. Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad is refreshing yet feels more like a dish than just fruit on a plate. The balance of textures makes it easy to enjoy during busy days. You’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Moussaka

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

This dish is layered and hearty with a mix of simple ingredients working together. Moussaka feels filling and is perfect when you want a warm meal that doesn’t need much cleanup. It’s a dish you don’t have to overthink, yet it feels fulfilling to assemble. Great for days when you need something simple but solid.
Get the Recipe: Moussaka

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.

Cauliflower turns into something surprisingly hearty when roasted just right. Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks are unique as a main or side because of their simple preparation. It’s one of those recipes that look a lot fancier than the work it takes to make it. You’ll probably want to make this again for how little effort it needs.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

A bowl of Thai peanut curry with carrots, beans and kale. — Spicy Thai Peanut Curry. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Curry can be fast and bold without needing complicated steps. Spicy Thai Peanut Curry mixes textures together in a way that keeps it interesting from start to finish. The creamy element with added spice makes it feel like more than a casual dinner. Perfect for when you want something flavorful but quick.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

Homemade Ratatouille

A close up of food. — Homemade Ratatouille. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Layers of veggies baked together create something simple yet complete. Homemade Ratatouille feels like a warm, balanced meal that’s great on busy nights. It’s straightforward to prepare, and everything comes together while using minimal tools. You’ll appreciate how it doesn’t need bells and whistles to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

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

Stir-frying is one of the fastest ways to make something fresh. Tofu Vegan Stir Fry combines easy-to-use ingredients into a warm dish full of mixed textures. It’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand, which keeps things flexible and easy. You can make this as heavy or light as you want without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

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.

Combining mushrooms into a baked dish makes it feel hearty without being too dense. Mushroom Pie is warm and filling, great for days when you want something baked but not overly complicated. It’s easy to slice and serve, making it ideal for sharing or eating solo. You’ll find it’s perfect for meals that don’t take lots of prep.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs. — Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Combining fresh veggies into a layered baked dish is an easy way to make a full meal. Vegetable Casserole is straightforward without needing anything too fancy, and it feels filling but not heavy. It’s a flexible option depending on what you have available. This is perfect for feeding multiple people or having as leftovers later.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

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.

Flavoring rice doesn’t have to take much time but makes a big difference. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice feels fresh without needing much effort and pairs well with so many dishes. It’s a recipe you can make quickly while still making something memorable. You’ll appreciate how easy it is on busy cooking days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Ultimate Vegan Burger

Making a burger from scratch feels better than relying on something already packaged. Ultimate Vegan Burger brings hearty textures into each bite without overcomplication. It’s a dish that feels filling without being heavy, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. You’ll want to keep this in rotation once you try it.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger