37 Vegan Lunch Recipes For Cold Days When Salad Feels Rude

When temperatures drop, lunch needs a different kind of energy, and I’ve gathered 37 vegan lunch recipe ideas that understand that shift. These are the kinds of meals I lean toward when cold air makes lighter options feel out of place. The focus here is on warmth, balance, and meals that feel like a real pause in your day, not an afterthought.

A bowl of roasted potato wedges covered in a creamy orange sauce and garnished with chopped herbs. — Patatas Bravas. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

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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.

On those frigid days when you’re bundled up in layers, this Vegan Chili feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. With every spoonful, you get a rich, hearty meal that’s incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes curling up on the couch so much better, especially when the weather outside isn’t cooperating. Perfect for meal prepping or lazy nights in, it’s filling and flavorful in all the right ways.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chili

Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

When the frost is biting, this Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew delivers on everything you need—coziness, heartiness, and incredible depth of flavor. It’s simple and rustic but has that “stick-to-your-ribs” comfort that makes winter feel less harsh. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or just need something warm to get through the cold, this stew feels like the ultimate cold-weather remedy. Plus, it’s an easy win for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew

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.

Cold days can still call for a slice of goodness, and this Vegan Pizza doesn’t disappoint. It’s indulgent enough to feel like a treat but still keeps things plant-based, which adds a little balance. This is one of those meals that works for everything—movie nights, casual dinners, or even sharing with picky eaters. There’s something about pulling it out of the oven and diving in that just makes winter feel easier.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pizza

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.

There’s nothing quite like this Vegan Mushroom Soup when you’re craving something rich and velvety to fight the chill. It’s earthy and smooth, with every bite designed to warm you up on the inside. Perfect for savoring slowly as the snow falls outside, it’s a soup that truly feels like comfort food at its finest. Pair it with some crusty bread or just enjoy it on its own—it’ll hit the spot either way.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mushroom Soup

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.

Who says poke bowls can’t work in the winter? This Vegan Poke Bowl has a way of feeling fresher and lighter, yet still completely satisfying, even when the weather is cold. With bold flavors and a colorful presentation, it’s one of those dishes that surprises you with how versatile it can be. It brings a little brightness to dreary days, which is always a win in my book.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Poke Bowl

Vegan Pot Pie

There’s something so comforting about this Vegan Pot Pie that it practically screams cold-weather perfection. It’s hearty, filling, and baked to golden-brown perfection—a dish that belongs on the table when it’s all about warming up. Whether you’re having dinner with family or just treating yourself, it’s a meal that brings joy to every bite. Cold winds can’t stand a chance against food like this.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pot Pie

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.

Pasta nights get an upgrade with this Lentil Bolognese, a meal that feels both cozy and hearty enough for winter evenings. It’s the perfect way to satisfy cravings without feeling too heavy, which is always a bonus after a long day. Whether you pair it with spaghetti, layers of lasagna, or something else entirely, it’s going to hit all the right notes. Once you taste it, you’ll see why it’s a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

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.

This Caribbean Rice and Beans is proof that you don’t need a tropical beach to enjoy bold, vibrant flavors. It adds a little warmth and sunshine to your plate, even when there’s snow outside. Pair it with your favorite veggies or enjoy it on its own—it’s endlessly versatile and perfect for meal planning. It’s the kind of winter recipe that makes dinner feel just a little more exciting.
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.

If you’re looking to bring some Mediterranean-inspired comfort to a chilly evening, this Layered Moussaka is exactly what you need. With its warming layers and hearty flavors, each bite feels like an escape to somewhere cozier. It’s a dish that’s made for sharing, though no one would blame you for keeping it all to yourself. The cold doesn’t stand a chance with this kind of meal waiting for you.
Get the Recipe: Layered Moussaka

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.

Some days, only a big bowl of stew will do, and this Veg Winter Stew exceeds all expectations. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with everything you want when the temperatures dip. Pair it with a cozy blanket and call it the perfect winter evening—it’s that good. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping, this stew just gets better as the days go on.
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.

Brussels sprouts take center stage in this Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole, proving they deserve so much more love during the winter season. Baked to perfection, it’s one of those dishes that warms you from the inside out while adding just the right amount of elegance to the table. Great for gatherings or just weeknight dinners, it’s one recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Marry Me Chickpeas

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

There’s a reason this Marry Me Chickpeas recipe feels like the talk of the town—it’s cozy, perfectly flavored, and has the kind of comforting vibes you want in cold weather. It’s one of those meals that hits all the right spots without much effort, making it a go-to when you’re feeling lazy. Serve it as a main dish or a hearty side—it’ll work beautifully either way. On chilly days, it feels like a win.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

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.

Comfort food gets an upgrade with this Mushroom Bolognese, a dish that’s as cozy as it is flavorful. It takes a classic favorite and brings a more plant-forward twist, which still feels indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prepping, it’s something that will keep you full and happy as the weather cools down. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a simple, comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese

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.

Winter meals should be flavorful and filling, and this Marry Me Lentils does both spectacularly. Its rich, hearty flavors make it something you’ll reach for on snowy days when nothing else seems quite right. The best part? It fits so seamlessly into both casual dinners and more elevated meals—everyone who tries it will be asking for the recipe. If lentils weren’t on your radar before, they will be now.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

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.

This Marry Me Tofu proves winter meals don’t have to be boring or bland—there’s plenty of flavor packed into every bite. It’s one of those dishes that satisfies whether you’re a tofu fan or just tofu-curious. The warming flavors make it the star of any cold-weather dinner, and it’s easy to see why it’s earned such a swoon-worthy name. Don’t be surprised if it works its way into your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

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.

This Mushroom Pie feels like the ultimate cold-weather treat. With its warm, savory filling and flaky crust, it’s the kind of dish that makes staying in on a frosty night feel luxurious. Perfect for family dinners or solo servings, it has that timeless, comforting vibe that’s hard to beat. Pair it with a side salad or enjoy it alone—it’s the kind of meal that works for any mood.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Plant-Based Vegan Spam

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

If you’re looking to try something new, this Plant-Based Vegan Spam might surprise you in the best way possible. It’s savory, satisfying, and completely unique while still feeling warm and nostalgic. Pair it with rice, between slices of bread, or however you like—it’s endlessly versatile and brings a bit of playfulness to cold-weather meals. Don’t knock it until you try it!
Get the Recipe: Plant-Based Vegan Spam

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.

This Red Lentil Soup is one of those recipes that feels like magic on cold, dreary days. It’s soothing, hearty, and packed with everything you want in a warm winter meal. Perfect for slow, relaxing evenings or quick weeknight dinners, this soup always delivers. Honestly, it’s one of those dishes that just feels better with every spoonful—ideal for warming up from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

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

Forget the idea of tacos being just a summer food—this Roasted Cauliflower Tacos recipe is here to change your mind. Perfectly satisfying and packed with bold flavors, it makes quick work of brightening up even the coldest days. Whether you’re hosting friends or just need a midweek pick-me-up, these tacos hit the spot. Who says winter meals can’t be fun and vibrant?
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Split Pea Soup

Nothing fights off the chill like a bowl of Split Pea Soup. It’s hearty, rich, and wonderfully classic, with a warmth that feels good right down to your toes. Whether you’re curling up with a book or sharing it at dinner, it’s one of those recipes that never fails to deliver. Load it up in your favorite bowl and let the coziness take over—it’s comfort food done right.
Get the Recipe: Split Pea Soup

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.

Few dishes look and taste as perfect for winter as this Stuffed Acorn Squash. It’s hearty, flavorful, and feels a little extra special for those chilly evenings when you need something warm. Serve it as a showstopping main or a hearty side—it works either way. It’s one of those meals that almost feels too pretty to eat but too good not to.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

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.

These Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos are the unexpected winter combo you didn’t know you needed. Full of hearty, satisfying flavor, they’re perfect for breaking through the cold-weather blues. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a quick lunch, these tacos are proof that winter food can be fun and exciting. Once you try them, they’ll definitely make the rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

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.

A big, satisfying burger can absolutely work in winter, and this Ultimate Vegan Burger is solid proof. It’s flavorful, hearty, and perfect for nights when you want something a little indulgent. Bring it to the table with fries, a salad, or enjoy it solo—it’s the kind of meal that fits wherever your mood takes you. Even on frosty days, burgers can still be the highlight.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

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.

Some dishes just bring warmth to your soul, and this Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole does it perfectly. It’s a no-fuss way to enjoy rich, cozy flavors while keeping things light and easy. Great for busy weeknights or even as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion. If you’ve been needing a winter favorite, this one might be it.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole

Thai Peanut Curry

Bold and beautifully warming, this Thai Peanut Curry is everything you want on a cold day. The rich, layered flavors make it feel like a cozy indulgence—perfect for weeknight dinners that still bring a hint of excitement. Pair it with rice, noodles, or even just on its own, and you’re set for a meal that always delivers. Winter might feel less cold with this in the rotation.
Get the Recipe: Thai Peanut Curry

Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

These Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce might be the snack you didn’t know you needed this winter. Crispy, flavorful, and a little playful, they’re perfect for everything from lazy afternoons to football game nights. Dip them in ranch or enjoy them plain—they have plenty of charm on their own. On frosty evenings, they offer a fun, cozy twist on snack time.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Ranch Sauce

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.

Who doesn’t love a warm casserole on a cold day? This Vegan Enchilada Casserole is packed with bold flavors that brighten up gloomy evenings and warm you to your core. It’s perfect for everything from family dinners to meal prep, with plenty of crowd appeal. If comfort food is what you’re craving, this casserole will check every box—it’s rich, satisfying, and hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Enchilada 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.

This Vegan Lasagna is the kind of layered goodness that turns winter nights into something a little more special. With its hearty and indulgent feel, it’s perfect for dinner with loved ones or simply treating yourself. It’s one of those meals that just screams comfort, the kind you can savor slowly as the cold settles outside. Lasagna on a chilly night? Always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

This Vegan Green Bean Casserole might just become the star of your cold-weather dinners. It’s warm, hearty, and has just enough crunch to keep things exciting. Perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions, it’s a dish that’s endlessly versatile without feeling fussy. You know the winter has officially arrived when casseroles like this start coming to the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean 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.

Bring a little island-inspired warmth to your winter with this Vegan Rasta Pasta. Its bold spices and creamy textures are like a getaway on a plate, perfect for cozying up while dreaming of sunnier days. Don’t be fooled by its summery vibes—this dish feels just as perfect when the chill sets in. It’s a delicious way to liven up your winter dinners without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

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.

Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this Vegan Hashbrown Casserole is that kind of dish everyone can love. It’s simple, hearty, and full of warming comfort that feels so right when the snow is falling outside. Great for family meals, potlucks, or even just a cozy weekend at home, it’s endlessly versatile. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a perfect fit for cold-weather cooking.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

There’s something about this Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole that feels absolutely timeless during the colder months. It’s rich, cozy, and just a little sweet, hitting that perfect spot between dessert and dinner. It brings easy nostalgia to the table while still feeling fresh and plant-based. Whether you’re serving it for the holidays or just want some cozy vibes, it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

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.

Few things beat the pure comfort of this Vegan Mac and Cheese on a cold, gray day. Creamy, satisfying, and full of warming flavor, it’s the kind of recipe you look forward to all day long. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or eating it straight from the pot (no shame), it’s always a hit. When the weather gets rough, you can always count on mac and cheese to make things better.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mac and Cheese

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.

If you’re craving a dish that’s bold and comforting all at once, this Vegan Tikka Masala has you covered. It’s full of spice and flavor, making every bite feel like a little burst of warmth. Perfect for winter dinners when you need something hearty yet exciting, this dish doesn’t disappoint. Pair it with rice for a complete, satisfying meal that can turn any cold day around.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tikka Masala

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.

This Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze recipe turns a classic winter veggie into something truly special. It’s crisp, flavorful, and has just the right hint of sweetness to keep things exciting. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, it feels like the perfect balance of simple and elegant. Cold days call for comforting recipes like this one, and it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

When you’re looking for something easy and crave-worthy, these Vegan Chicken Nuggets are the answer. They bring a crispy and satisfying bite that feels perfect for frosty evenings when salads just won’t do. Whether you’re dipping them in sauce or enjoying them plain, they’re a fun way to make any meal feel more comforting. On those lazy nights, they’re the perfect snack or quick dinner idea.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Patatas Bravas

If you’re dreaming of something warm with a little kick, this Patatas Bravas will check all the boxes. These crispy potatoes with a flavorful twist bring just enough heat to break through the winter chill. Great as a snack, side dish, or even a standalone meal, they’re versatile enough to impress every time. When comfort and bold flavors combine, you simply can’t lose.
Get the Recipe: Patatas Bravas