33 Vegan Lunch Recipes For Cold Afternoons That Refuse To Warm Up

Cold afternoons have a way of sneaking up on you, especially when you still want something plant-based that feels grounding and practical. That’s why these 33 vegan lunch recipes exist: to give you solid options when the day feels gray, and you want food that carries you through without fuss. I come back to collections like this when I want variety without overthinking every choice.

A bowl of split pea soup with carrots, celery, and herbs, with a spoon resting inside the bowl. — Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

Some days, it just feels like you need something hearty to keep the cold away, and this Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew does exactly that. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for those afternoons when you just want to hunker down. You’ll love how comforting and fulfilling it feels with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that sticks with you in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

A baked sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy pecan and oat crumble, with a serving scooped out, revealing the orange filling. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I always think there’s something magical about sweet potatoes during colder months, and this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole makes them even better! It’s perfectly warm and crisp, a combination that works beautifully for a cozy lunch or dinner. The air fryer gives it an irresistible edge, making it a standout on frosty afternoons. Whenever I’m looking for comfort in food, this one feels hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl. — Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s a certain charm to this Red Lentil Soup that goes beyond just being warm and hearty. It’s simple but never boring, the ultimate go-to after those long, chilly days. I’ve noticed that it’s the kind of recipe that just feels universally comforting; like a warm blanket in bowl form. Try pairing it with some crusty bread for a meal that feels as cozy as possible.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A plate of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with pine nuts on parchment paper. — Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want a side that feels just a little fancy, these Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze are always a good choice. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes them irresistible in any season, but they’re especially great when it’s cold. They have a way of making people go back for seconds without thinking twice. You’ll love serving them alongside almost anything, or even enjoying them as they are.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

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. — Caribbean Rice and Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I think there’s something so comforting about a bowl like this Caribbean Rice and Beans; it’s simple, flavorful, and feels just right when the weather refuses to warm up. It’s the kind of dish that makes a cold day feel a little brighter, with bold flavors to keep things interesting. You can enjoy it as a main or pair it with just about anything, and it always feels lovely.
Get the Recipe: Caribbean Rice and Beans

Layered Moussaka

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

There’s nothing quite like this Layered Moussaka when you’re in the mood for something hearty and indulgent. Every layer feels like it’s packed with comfort, creating a dish that’s impossible to forget. Perfect for those days when you’re looking for a little something extra, this recipe has a way of sticking with you. Even on the coldest days, it makes me feel like I’ve indulged in something truly enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Layered Moussaka

Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs. — Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you’re in need of a dish that feels comforting but doesn’t overcomplicate things, these Marry Me Chickpeas fits the bill every time. It’s cozy in the best way possible, with flavors that seem to get better and better as you eat. I’ve always found that recipes like this have a way of warming up both the body and the soul. If you’ve been searching for something that brings pure comfort to your day, this might be it.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

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 Lentil Bolognese redefines pasta night in the most satisfying way. The bold, hearty flavors feel like a perfect antidote to those colder evenings when you need something filling. It’s perfect whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with someone else. You won’t believe how much depth this plant-based dish packs into every single bite.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

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.

Some dishes just feel like winter comfort at its finest, and this Mushroom Pie is one of them. Every bite is warm, rich, and exactly what you need to keep chilly afternoons feeling manageable. It’s that rare combination of hearty and simple that everyone seems to love. Whether you enjoy it solo or as part of a larger spread, it’s a recipe that feels timeless.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Mushroom Bolognese

A plate of tagliatelle pasta topped with tomato sauce and chopped herbs, with a black fork resting on the side. — Mushroom Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I’ve found that this Mushroom Bolognese brings a whole new level of flavor to plant-based pasta dishes. It’s everything you want in a comforting meal; rich, bold, and fulfilling down to the last bite. Meals like these have a way of taking the chill right out of the air, making you forget all about the weather outside. Try it over your favorite pasta for an unbeatable dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese

Baked Mushroom Rice

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

Cozy and easy to love, this Baked Mushroom Rice is the kind of dish that feels perfect on a cold day. It’s simple enough for any occasion but has that touch of special warmth you need in winter. You’ll love how hearty and filling it is, especially when paired with a crisp salad or roasted veggies. Whether you’re settling in for lunch or dinner, this recipe won’t let you down.
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.

Childhood classics get a modern twist with this Vegan Mac and Cheese that’s every bit as warm and nostalgic as the original. Every forkful feels like pure comfort, making it ideal for frosty afternoons when you need that extra boost. Perfect for family meals, solo indulgence, or even sharing with friends; it’s a crowd-pleaser in every sense of the word! Who knew plant-based could satisfy this much?
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

Plant-Based Vegan Spam

Slices of Vegan Spam. — Plant-Based Vegan Spam. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’ve ever thought plant-based dishes couldn’t be surprising, this Plant-Based Vegan Spam will prove otherwise. It’s fun, versatile, and packed with creativity, making it something that stands out in the best way. Sometimes, dishes like these become instant favorites because they break all the rules and leave you wanting more. Whether you’ve tried similar recipes or not, this one’s bound to catch your attention!
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Vegan Spam

Ultimate Vegan Burger

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.

Bold flavors and hearty bites make this Ultimate Vegan Burger a standout option for chilly days. It’s fulfilling in every way, delivering that classic comfort with a plant-based twist. Despite the name, there’s absolutely nothing complicated about it; it’s all about big flavor without the fuss. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or even a party, this burger gets attention every single time.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A roasted acorn squash half filled with a stuffing of couscous, apples, nuts, raisins, and fresh herbs sits on a plate. — Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I’ll never get over the comforting elegance of dishes like this Stuffed Acorn Squash. It’s homey yet feels a little transformed, perfect for those chilly afternoons when you want to treat yourself. With every bite, it feels like you’re enjoying something truly special, I can’t imagine anyone not loving this. Whenever winter lingers too long, recipes like this are exactly what I reach for.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Veg Winter Stew

A bowl of lentil stew with potatoes and carrots, garnished with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by slices of crusty bread. — Veg Winter Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Few things compare to the comfort of this Veg Winter Stew on a freezing day. It’s hearty, wholesome, and hits the spot when you need something to warm you up from the inside out. Perfect for a slow, cozy lunch or dinner, it feels like the meal equivalent of fuzzy socks. If cold, gray days have you needing a boost, this stew has you covered.
Get the Recipe: Veg Winter Stew

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.

I always think casseroles are at their best when they’re simple yet packed with flavor, and this Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole absolutely nails it. Whether it’s a main feature or a side dish, it brings the kind of cozy vibes that make you go back for seconds (or thirds). There’s something about it that just feels like pure comfort. I don’t think winter meals get much better than this!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Fun, crispy, and perfect for dipping, these Vegan Chicken Nuggets take comfort food to an entirely new level. They’re fantastic for game nights, casual snacking, or even a quick meal when you’re short on time. They’ll remind you of a childhood favorite, but with a flavorful, plant-based twist. It’s comfort without compromise, and honestly, what’s better than that?
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

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. — Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Some meals just feel like they were made for cold weather, and this Vegan Chili is one of them. Bold, flavorful, and wonderfully warming, it’s perfect for an easy lunch or a low-effort dinner. I’ve found that dishes like these are unbeatable on frosty nights when nothing else seems warm enough. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll wish you discovered sooner!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chili

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Think of the ultimate comfort side dish, and this Vegan Green Bean Casserole probably comes to mind. Creamy and satisfying, it’s a modern version of the classic we all know and love, made even better with plant-based ingredients. No matter the occasion, it always feels like a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both nostalgic and delicious, this delivers.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside. — Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I don’t know about you, but there’s something about a great casserole that just screams comfort, and this Vegan Hashbrown Casserole is no exception. It’s the perfect option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner when you’re craving something hearty and filling. Every bite feels like a little slice of warmth, which I think we all need on cold days. Honestly, I don’t think there’s a wrong time for this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

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.

If you’re searching for a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Vegan Lasagna checks all the boxes. From the perfectly layered flavors to its hearty warmth, it’s the kind of dish that satisfies in every way. Perfect for family dinners or even just treating yourself, this lasagna knows how to make a lasting impression. Meals like these always make me feel like I’ve had the ultimate comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Vegan Mushroom Soup

A bowl of creamy mushroom soup with sliced mushrooms, herbs, and a spoon, with pieces of bread on the side. — Vegan Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smooth, cozy, and full of earthy flavors, this Vegan Mushroom Soup really brings the warmth on chilly, gray afternoons. It’s great when you’re in need of something light yet filling, with every spoonful hitting that perfect balance. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main meal, it’s the kind of recipe that never disappoints. Don’t forget to pair it with some fresh bread; it makes it even better.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Soup

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.

Cozy nights feel a little more fun with this Vegan Pizza front and center. Who says plant-based can’t be just as indulgent? With a perfect balance of sauce, toppings, and that signature cheesy goodness, this recipe gives you all the flavor and fun of your favorite takeout. Whether it’s for a low-key dinner or a movie night, this pizza will never let you down.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

Vegan Poke Bowl

A bowl of tofu cubes with sliced carrots, radishes, edamame, scallions, and sesame seeds, garnished with sauce, with black chopsticks on the side. — Vegan Poke Bowl. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I always find that meals like this Vegan Poke Bowl are a refreshing change for colder days. It’s light yet filling, making it perfect when you want something vibrant without feeling heavy. With colorful, layered flavors, it brings some brightness to even the dreariest of afternoons. Meals like these prove that comfort food can be fresh and exciting too.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Poke Bowl

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

For those times when you’re craving something sweet and savory, this Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole checks every box. It’s cozy, full of flavor, and works just as well for a quiet night in as it does for special occasions. There’s something so lovely about a dish that feels both familiar and exciting at the same time. Dishes like this truly shine when the weather won’t warm up.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Rasta Pasta

A close-up of penne pasta mixed with red and green bell peppers, onions, grated cheese, and sprinkled with chili flakes. — Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s a certain boldness about this Vegan Rasta Pasta that’s impossible to resist. It’s rich and creamy with just enough flavor to liven up even the most uneventful winter afternoon. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch or a more indulgent dinner, it always delivers that perfect balance between warmth and spice. Bring a little color to your plate and see why this one’s so popular!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

Vegan Tikka Masala

A skillet filled with chickpea and tofu curry in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. — Vegan Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I’ve always thought there’s nothing quite as comforting as a perfectly spiced dish like this Vegan Tikka Masala. It’s complex, rich, and exactly what you need when you’re craving warmth and bold flavors. Meals like these are made for slow, cozy evenings when you want to sit and enjoy every bite. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re seriously missing out!
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tikka Masala

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

A plate of tacos with red cabbage and cauliflower slaw. — Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Taco night just got a plant-based upgrade with these Roasted Cauliflower Tacos! They’re light but lovely, with bold, comforting flavors that work amazingly well in colder weather. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, these tacos are flexible enough for any kind of craving. Who says tacos are only for summer? These prove they’re made for all seasons.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Three tacos filled with black beans, tofu, and vegetables, topped with sauce and cilantro, served with lime wedges on a white plate. — Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

If you’re looking for a hearty yet light meal, these Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are an easy win. They’re full of flavor and feel just right for those afternoons when you need a little warmth and comfort. I love how dishes like these manage to be both filling and fresh at the same time. Once you try them, they might just become a regular option in your rotation!
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Thai Peanut Curry

There’s something so lovely about the rich, creamy flavors in this Thai Peanut Curry. It’s bold and warming in just the right way, making it the dish you turn to on a particularly chilly night. Meals like this instantly create an atmosphere of comfort with every bite. Whether it’s a solo meal or one shared, this recipe always leaves an impression.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Curry

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Fun, crispy, and easy to snack on, these Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce are basically the definition of comfort food. Perfect for casual meals or just an afternoon craving, they’re fulfilling from the first bite to the last. Pair them with their signature vegan ranch sauce, and you’ve got a winning combination. Who knew plant-based comfort food could be this good?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

Split Pea Soup

I always think there’s a sense of nostalgia tied to soups, and this Split Pea Soup somehow makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm hug. It’s thick, hearty, and exactly what’s needed when the chill just won’t let up. It’s one of those dishes that sticks with you, filling you up and comforting you all at once. From casual lunches to cozy dinners, this soup is always a winner.
Get the Recipe: Split Pea Soup