I Had Nothing in Me—These 13 Easy Recipes Stepped In

When the energy tank is running on empty, quick fixes in the kitchen can feel like a lifeline. That’s when 13 easy recipes earn their spot, stepping in with no fuss and zero guilt trips. They’re the kind of dishes that handle the heavy lifting when motivation clocks out. It’s like outsourcing dinner without having to explain why you can’t be bothered.

Close-up of sliced cucumbers garnished with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes. — Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Easy Vegan Yellow Lentil Dal

You don’t need much effort to put together something comforting, and Easy Vegan Yellow Lentil Dal is proof. This dish is simple, hearty, and great for when you need a solid meal. It’s the kind of thing you can enjoy on its own or pair up with other sides. Whether for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s a reliable pick.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Yellow Lentil Dal

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice and chili peppers. — Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes you just need something to round out a meal, and Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice gets the job done. It’s so straightforward yet leaves you with that perfect consistency every time. Serve it as the base for almost anything or eat it solo when you’re craving simplicity. It’s a small effort with good payoff.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When you’re looking for a reliable protein option, Baked Tofu checks all the boxes. It’s easy enough to make but adds depth to bowls, wraps, or salads. You can season it however you like, and it still manages to fit into any dish. Whether it’s a main or a side, it’s a win.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

Creamy Peanut Sauce

A good sauce can pull everything together, and Creamy Peanut Sauce does just that. Use it for dipping, pouring over noodles, or even as a salad dressing. It’s one of those versatile things that works with almost everything. Trust me, this sauce will always come through for you.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Peanut Sauce

Indian Onion Salad

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

If you need a fresh, simple side, Indian Onion Salad should be on your radar. It’s great for adding some crunch and brightness to your meal spread. This dish pairs up perfectly with anything heavier you’re serving. Plus, it’s quick to whip up when time isn’t on your side.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

Egg Rolls

You can’t go wrong with Egg Rolls when you want a little crunch in every bite. They’re a quick snack, appetizer, or addition to a bigger meal. Serve them up on their own or with a dipping sauce to bring out even more. Either way, these are hard to beat for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

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.

There’s something comforting about meals that are simple yet satisfying. Sesame Soba Noodles delivers on ease and taste with just the right balance. It’s a reliable go-to meal when you need something quick and no-nonsense. Whether it’s lunch or dinner, it gets the job done without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

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.

Fresh, easy meals that you can actually enjoy making are always a win. Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls give a pop of color and a lot to look forward to. They’re light, versatile, and perfect for mixing and matching with what you have at home. Best of all, they’re a fun way to switch things up on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

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

Bold all-in-one meals are hard to beat. Spicy Thai Peanut Curry brings the right amount of richness and heat to your table. It’s flexible enough to be made on any busy weeknight without overthinking it. A warm, fuss-free option that always hits the mark.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

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.

Quick meals that don’t compromise on heartiness are always clutch. For that, Tofu Fried Rice brings together everything you need in one easy dish. It’s a versatile choice that works well for any time and any day of the week. You can experiment with it or keep it simple, but it’s always reliable.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Vegan Sushi

Close-up of three sushi rolls filled with rice, avocado, and vegetables, served on a brown rectangular plate with a small dish of soy sauce nearby. — Vegan Sushi. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Rolling something up for a meal feels both creative and practical. Vegan Sushi offers a fun, hands-on way to mix things up with a variety of customizable options. It’s a handy choice whether you’re eating solo or serving a group of people with different tastes. With its easy prep, it’s both quick and fun to make.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sushi

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

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

Simple stir-fries are great for living life on the go. Tofu Vegan Stir Fry is fast, manageable, and exactly what you want when time isn’t on your side. It’s got enough to keep things interesting without making a mess of your kitchen. Toss it all together for an effortless option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Crisp, fresh, and with just enough punch, this is not your average salad. Spicy Cucumber Salad keeps things straightforward and refreshing while delivering a little kick. It’s a great side dish to complement a heavier main or to enjoy on its own. With minimal effort, you still end up with something worthwhile.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad