These 29 Vegan Recipes Were All I Could Handle After A Long Day

After a day that felt like three rolled into one, even lifting a spatula seemed like too much. That’s why having 29 vegan recipes lined up was the kind of rescue anyone could use. Each one makes the idea of cooking feel less like a chore and more like a shortcut to being fed without stress. By the end, the only thing heavy was the sigh of relief.

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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Cabbage Soup

You know those recipes where you just want to throw everything in a pot and let it do its thing? Cabbage Soup is one of those meals that hits the spot after a long day. It’s warm, filling, and great for when you need something nourishing and simple. Plus, it’s packed with plenty of veggies to keep you feeling good.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Soup

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.

Some days, pasta is the only answer. That’s where Lentil Bolognese comes in to save the day. It’s hearty, filling, and pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta for a meal that feels homemade without requiring too much effort. You can whip it up quickly, and it makes leftovers that just get better.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl

Ever just crave a customizable meal you can throw together? Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl is the answer to that. It’s got everything you need to keep things fresh and flavorful after a chaotic day. Plus, it’s super flexible, so you can swap out things depending on what you have. Dinner doesn’t get more versatile than this.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Mushroom lovers, listen up. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff is a no-brainer for nights when you’re too tired to think but want something hearty and reliable. Pasta meets rich, earthy flavors in a meal that feels indulgent while still being plant-based. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl at the end of the day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Lettuce wraps always feel like such a lighter way to enjoy dinner. Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF) bring bold, balanced tastes that somehow feel light but still super filling. They’re quick, handheld, and let you keep things simple in the best way. Perfect for piling up on your plate when you want something fresh.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Mexican Lettuce Wraps (GF)

Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

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.

Pot pies always remind you that dinner doesn’t need to be complicated to feel like something special. Homemade Vegan Pot Pie delivers that classic cozy feel, but with a fully plant-based twist. It’s hearty, comforting, and has all the nostalgia of a comforting homemade meal. You’ll love the warmth it brings to your evening.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

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.

Some recipes just have that wholesome, feel-good vibe. Marry Me Lentils is the perfect choice for nights when you want a meal that hits strong on flavor and comfort without being a hassle. It’s hearty and adaptable, so it works well as a main or alongside something else. This is one of those go-to dishes you’ll always crave.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Lentils

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.

Rice paper rolls always feel like a fun, hands-on kind of dinner. Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls nail that fresh, colorful vibe while still being super simple to put together. You can change up the fillings depending on your mood or whatever’s in your fridge. They’re great when you need a light, no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

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.

If you love tofu, this recipe is calling your name. Marry Me Tofu is one of those satisfying dishes you’ll go back to again and again, especially on busy nights. It’s comforting, protein-packed, and works well on its own or served alongside rice or veggies. Trust me, this one will make your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tofu

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Pasta nights are always a win, especially when you go for something like Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta. It’s rich, easy to make, and delivers big flavors while keeping things super manageable. The creaminess and sweetness of the sauce balance so well with the pasta. This one feels restaurant-worthy, but it’s all homemade!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

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.

Mushrooms and comfort go hand-in-hand after a long day. Mushroom Pie is one of those dishes that feels like cozy simplicity wrapped up in every bite. It’s hearty and filling, perfect when you want something that warms you from the inside. This one is great for sitting back and relaxing without needing anything fancy.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pie

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

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

Tacos never fail to hit the spot, no matter how chaotic the day feels. Roasted Cauliflower Tacos bring boldness in a super laid-back style. A crowd pleaser with tons of potential for creativity and tweaks to fit your vibe. They’re quick enough to whip up without overthinking and easy to enjoy while unwinding.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Potatoes have a way of fixing everything, no matter the mood or moment. Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft inside, ridiculously good to munch on. These little bites work well with minimal effort and can match whatever you’re pairing them with. You’ll end up going back for seconds without even noticing.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

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.

Simple freshness is underrated, especially when life gets busy. That’s where Cucumber Tomato Salad shines with its clean, crunchy, and effortless vibes. Perfect for tossing together when you want light and straightforward food after a long day. Grab a bowl, throw it together, and enjoy something that feels refreshingly easy.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad

Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe

Some snacks just hit differently when the day drags on. Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings Recipe makes that crunchy, snacky craving totally doable without too much fuss. They’re a great option if you’re looking to switch off and still enjoy something crispy. Pair them with anything or eat them solo – they’ve got that cool versatility.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Air Fryer Onion Rings 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 dishes shouldn’t be complicated, but they should still pack a little oomph. Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans manages to balance that comforting vibe with no-frills eating. It’s perfect for those days when you want something filling but don’t want to get lost in a recipe. It works just as well as a stand-alone meal or a solid side.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caribbean Rice and Beans

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.

Sometimes noodles just feel right without much explanation. Sesame Soba Noodles are simple, quick, and satisfying without all the hard work. It’s got a nice balance of ease while still giving you something that feels kinda special. Grab your chopsticks or a fork, this one’s easy to devour on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

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.

There’s something practical about pairing a plain grain with a pop of flavor. Easy Cilantro Lime Rice brings freshness to the table in the simplest way. It’s great when all you need is a bowl that tastes good with zero overthinking. You can pair it with almost anything or eat it as-is, depending on your energy level.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cilantro Lime Rice

Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Nostalgia hits different when you’re hungry for something easy. Vegan Chicken Nuggets keep it simple, straightforward, and super convenient for those lazy moments. They’re quick to cook, easy to enjoy, and throwback-worthy in all the good ways. A solid go-to when you just want something to snack on without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chicken Nuggets

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Even chaotic days deserve quick comfort on a plate. Easy Vegan Coleslaw fits the bill with its crunch and unexpected simplicity. Great to toss together with minimal work when you need a fast side to pair with your favorite meals. It’s all about keeping things hassle-free yet still giving you something decent to eat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Coleslaw

Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

A white dish with roasted root vegetables, including carrots, parsnips, red onions, and sweet potatoes, garnished with fresh dill and thyme. — Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Some meals are great for the oven when all you need is to relax after a tough day. Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables brings everything together in one pan with minimal cleanup afterward. It’s a mix of good hearty ingredients that hit the spot without being complicated. Perfect for when you want something warm and easy without much thought.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables

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.

Tired but still hungry for something bold? Vegan Rasta Pasta is packed with vibrant flavors and a creamy sauce that’s comforting. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you didn’t need to work hard for a dinner that feels special. Ideal for laid-back evenings where effort seems impossible.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Rasta Pasta

Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

When soups just sound right after a long day, here’s a great option. Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew balances richness with enough texture to keep you satisfied all night. It’s honestly a no-brainer meal that’s simple but hearty at the same time. You’ll definitely appreciate how easy it can be after a full day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew

Vegan Pasta Primavera

A colorful pasta salad with fusilli, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, peas, red onion, zucchini, and fresh basil leaves is served on a blue plate. — Vegan Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Pasta doesn’t always have to feel heavy, and this one keeps things fresh. Vegan Pasta Primavera combines everything you need for a dish that’s light but filling. It’s one of those meals that delivers great variety without being overwhelming at all. Throw this together quickly, perfect when you’re drained but hungry.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera

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.

You don’t need a fancy meal when you’re worn out. Best Vegan Chili is the kind of dish that feels comfortable and gets better the longer it sits. It’s an easy choice when you want something that sticks to your ribs without stretching your energy. Seriously, this works great for cozy, low-energy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Chili

Vegan Pasta Salad

A wooden bowl filled with bowtie pasta mixed with roasted zucchini, carrots, tomatoes, and herbs. — Vegan Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A quick, cold dish can sometimes be the perfect midweek answer. Vegan Pasta Salad mixes everything up into an easy-to-grab, no-fuss meal. It’s simple, filling, and a great make-ahead option if you’re feeling drained. Toss some together for a meal that takes no effort and tastes solid even the next day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Salad

Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

A close-up of a dish featuring black beans mixed with chopped onions and garnished with fresh green herbs. — Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Not everything from a restaurant needs to stay there. Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans makes weekday dinners quick without much thought. It’s straightforward and versatile enough for bowls, burritos, or anything you’re craving. You’ll appreciate how easy this is to whip together after running around all day.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Copycat Chipotle Black Beans

Best Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe

Need a soup that feels effortless but still checks all the boxes for dinner? Best Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe gives you a warm, hearty meal without too much trouble. It’s perfect for cold days or even days when you just feel like slowing down. Super adaptable and dependable all week long if you want leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Minestrone Soup Recipe

Ultimate Vegan Burger

Some meals don’t need utensils to be good, and this proves it. Ultimate Vegan Burger is a hand-held option for when knives and forks feel unnecessary. It’s filling and perfect for topping with whatever you’ve got in the fridge. This makes any night feel easy without sacrificing hunger.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger