I Made 29 Vegan Meals With Nothing But Pantry Staples And Stress

It’s wild what can be pulled off with a tired pantry and a brain running on fumes. These 29 vegan meals somehow came together without a single last-minute store run. They handled the empty fridge like it was a challenge on a game show. Things got mixed, baked, stirred, and occasionally questioned. But at the end of it all, something decent showed up on the plate every time.

Close-up of a vegan pot pie with a flaky crust, featuring visible corn, peas, carrots, and a creamy filling. A sprig of fresh herb and a sprinkle of black pepper garnish the pie. — Homemade Vegan Pot Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Maple Pecan Granola Recipe

When you’re craving something crunchy and sweet without leaving your pantry, this is a fantastic way to whip up a wholesome breakfast or snack. Maple Pecan Granola Recipe brings together simple ingredients for a versatile dish that can stand alone or top your favorite plant-based yogurt. It’s quick to prepare, stores well, and adds a lovely texture to your day anytime you need a boost.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Granola Recipe

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.

If you’re in search of a protein-packed idea that’s easy to pull together, this is a reliable option to explore. Baked Tofu brings out the best in tofu, offering a golden texture you’ll appreciate. It’s incredibly versatile and works excellently as a main dish, a salad topper, or even tucked into wraps. This is a great recipe to have on hand when you want something simple yet nourishing.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

Marry Me Chickpeas

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

For an easy and wholesome main dish, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Marry Me Chickpeas is perfect for creating a hearty meal straight out of pantry ingredients. It pairs wonderfully with rice, bread, or any side you enjoy, making it an adaptable choice. This recipe is a reliable go-to for a last-minute dinner plan.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

Buffalo Cauliflower Wings transform simple cauliflower into a delicious and irresistible snack or appetizer. The result is a crispy, flavorful, and lovely dish you can make for a cozy night or gatherings. They’re perfect when you’re in the mood for something fun.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Cauliflower Wings

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.

When you want crispy potatoes with a little extra flair, this is a terrific option you can try. Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes feature a fun, unique shape and golden texture that makes them a joy to eat. They’re a great addition to any meal or an excellent snack on their own. This recipe is perfect if you need something enjoyable and unique out of your air fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Accordion Potatoes

Creamy Peanut Sauce

If you want a versatile and flavorful addition to your meals, this recipe is a dependable choice. Creamy Peanut Sauce works beautifully as a dip, sauce, or dressing to enhance your favorite dishes. It’s quick to mix together, making it a fantastic option when time is limited. You’ll love how it turns simple ingredients into something truly enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Peanut Sauce

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.

On days when you need a fiber-packed snack or side dish, this recipe is a comforting choice. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges offer a naturally sweet flavor perfect for pairing with dips or enjoying on their own. They’re easy to prepare and are a healthier choice than traditional fries. This is one you’ll keep coming back to for its ease and simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet Potato Wedges

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

For a warming and lovely main dish, this recipe easily stands out. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff delivers a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with pasta or rice. It’s an excellent way to create a hearty meal using pantry staples and a few fresh additions. You’ll want to bookmark this for when you’re craving something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

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.

This recipe is worth a try if you’re looking for a light and refreshing side. Cucumber Tomato Salad brings together simple ingredients for a burst of freshness in every bite. It’s quick to assemble and pairs well with almost any main dish. This is ideal for moments when you need something simple and vibrant in your day.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

For a quick yet hearty main course, this recipe is a perfect match. Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta transforms pantry staples into a silky, flavorful sauce that coats pasta beautifully. It’s easy to make and feels both indulgent and nutritious. This is an excellent dinner option when you want something comforting yet wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

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.

Want an easy-to-make snack or meal that’s as colorful as it is versatile? Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls are packed with fresh textures and pair wonderfully with dips. They’re simple to prepare and ideal for when you want a hands-on meal. A fun option for weekday lunches or light dinners.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

For a snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and low-oil, this is a great one to try. Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe allows you to enjoy a classic treat without the heaviness of deep frying. It’s quick, easy, and perfect as an appetizer or a side to your main dish. Make these whenever you want some crunch in your meal.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Overnight Vanilla Oats

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

For a fuss-free breakfast idea, this option will win you over. Overnight Vanilla Oats is an easy make-ahead recipe that simplifies your mornings. You can pair it with various toppings to switch things up or simply enjoy its creamy goodness as is. A reliable choice for busy days when you want to start your morning right.
Get the Recipe: Overnight Vanilla Oats

Homemade Ketchup With Fresh Tomatoes

For a homemade twist on a condiment favorite, this recipe is a solid choice. Homemade Ketchup With Fresh Tomatoes showcases a fresher, more vibrant flavor than store-bought versions. It’s a great way to use what you’ve got in the pantry and ensure your sauces are completely vegan-friendly. Try this whenever you’re looking for a natural alternative for dipping or topping your meals.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ketchup With Fresh Tomatoes

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.

Need a quick and wholesome recipe that’s packed with protein? Marry Me Lentils brings pantry staples together in an easy, flavorful way. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, bread, or can even stand alone as a main. It’s a reliable choice for midweek meals when time and ingredients are limited.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

Moussaka

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

For something hearty and comforting, this recipe brings a plant-based twist to a classic dish. Moussaka is a layered casserole that combines creamy and filling layers to create a memorable meal. It takes pantry basics to the next level and offers a dish that works well for dinner gatherings or meal prep. You’ll love how satisfying this feels on the plate and palate alike.
Get the Recipe: Moussaka

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.

Marry Me Tofu uses simple steps to create a vibrant dish that pairs well with rice, noodles, or veggies. Each bite is delicious, and the recipe is easy to make within a short time. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll appreciate whenever you need something quick and energizing.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip

If you’re curious about making fries a little different, this is an option worth exploring. Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli Dip lean on the natural sweetness of carrots to create a snack or side that feels familiar yet unique. They crisp up beautifully without needing too much oil, making them a lighter option than traditional fries. Pair with the dip, and it’s an easy go-to for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Carrot Fries with Aioli 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.

Mushroom Pie is worth trying if you need a hearty and filling meal. This dish combines a flaky crust and a savory filling to make a simple pantry creation. You don’t need fresh produce for this, as the recipe leans on basic staples for a lovely result. It’s a wonderful option when your pantry needs a creative twist for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

A plate of sweet potato fries with a wooden spoon. — Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crispy and delicious, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries are an easy snack for any time of day. These fries cook quickly in the air fryer, saving time while delivering a perfectly golden finish. There’s no need to search for special ingredients since your pantry likely has everything to make this. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier alternative for a snack or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Two bowls of tomato soup with basil and tomatoes. — Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup is a versatile meal for lunch or dinner. This soup gets its depth from roasted ingredients that transform basic pantry staples into a comforting bowl. You don’t need anything fancy to achieve this, just roast, blend, and enjoy. It’s a good idea when you’re craving something warm and hearty without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

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.

A quick and enjoyable option, Sesame Soba Noodles are great for lunch or dinner. This recipe uses pantry staples to create something flavorful and balanced. Cook the noodles and toss them with the right mix to make an easy dish that’s both filling and refreshing. It’s perfect when you need something light yet lovely in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Roasted Potatoes

Close-up of vegan roasted potato wedges garnished with chopped parsley. The potato skins are slightly crispy and browned, with visible seasoning. — Roasted Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Who doesn’t love easy-to-make dishes like Roasted Potatoes? These come out golden and tender, with a hint of crispiness. With just essential pantry items, this recipe lets you whip up a crowd-pleasing side dish anytime. It’s a simple go-to when you need a failsafe option that works for nearly any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Potatoes

Vegan Apple Pie

Close-up of a baked pie with a golden brown lattice crust, revealing a caramelized filling underneath. — Vegan Apple Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re craving dessert, Vegan Apple Pie is a classic choice that’s easy to make from pantry staples. The crust brings a flaky texture, while the sweet filling makes it the star of the table. This recipe doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and the process is straightforward for beginners and pros alike. It’s a comforting dessert when you want something sweet without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Apple Pie

Spicy Cucumber Salad

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

Looking for something fresh and flavorful? Spicy Cucumber Salad turns basic pantry ingredients into a side dish with a kick. It’s quick to prepare and works well as a complement to heavier meals. This salad is perfect for adding a little spice and texture to your plate without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Close-up of a dish with crispy tater tots, green bell peppers, and a creamy sauce, topped with fried onions. — Vegan Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Ideal for a family dinner, Vegan Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. It layers pantry staples into a cozy, filling meal that everyone can enjoy. The tater tots on top get nice and crispy while the base stays rich and flavorful. It’s a fun and practical option when you want something simple but crowd-pleasing on your table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

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.

Sweet and savory meet perfectly in Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad, offering a refreshing and balanced dish. This recipe is simple and relies on items you may already have in your pantry. The flavors come together quickly for a dish that feels unique yet effortless. It’s a great choice when you want something too light but far from bland.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Vegetable Casserole

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

A one-dish wonder, Vegetable Casserole is an easy way to prepare a wholesome meal straight from pantry staples. It comes together as a cohesive mix of flavors and textures without needing fresh veggies. This dish works well for larger groups, making cooking stress-free and rewarding. When you’re looking for an all-in-one option, this casserole doesn’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Casserole

Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

When comfort food calls, Homemade Vegan Pot Pie steps in as a foolproof choice. The buttery crust pairs well with the savory filling for a hearty meal. You don’t need special items because everything that goes into this dish can come from basic pantry supplies. It’s a timeless option when you want something warm, reliable, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegan Pot Pie