Vegan dinner recipes can help you eat more plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

These recipes use ingredients like vegetables, legumes, grains, and plant-based proteins to create tasty and satisfying dishes.

You can find vegan versions of classic comfort foods as well as creative new meal ideas to expand your cooking skills.

Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just looking to add more meatless meals to your routine, having a variety of dinner recipes is key.

This collection offers options for quick weeknight meals and more elaborate weekend cooking projects.

You’ll discover recipes for pasta, curry, rice dishes, soups, and more – all without any animal products.

1. Chickpea Curry

Chickpea curry is a tasty and easy vegan dinner option. You can make it in about 25 minutes with simple ingredients.

Start by sautéing onions in coconut oil until soft.

Add garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

Next, stir in chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Let the curry simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

For extra veggies, toss in some spinach near the end of cooking. Serve your chickpea curry over rice or with naan bread for a filling meal.

2. Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy vegan dish perfect for chilly nights. It’s a tasty twist on the classic, using lentils instead of meat.

The base is made with hearty lentils, carrots, onions, and mushrooms. These ingredients create a savory filling packed with protein and flavor.

Top it off with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting crust. You can even use mashed cauliflower for a lighter option.

This meal is easy to make and great for meal prep. You can cook it in about an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to boost the flavor. A splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce can also add depth to the dish.

3. Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff is a tasty twist on the classic dish. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor.

To make it, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet.

Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.

Create a sauce using plant-based ingredients like cashew cream or coconut milk. Mix in some vegetable broth, mustard, and seasonings for extra flavor.

Thicken the sauce with cornstarch or flour. Simmer everything together until it’s creamy and delicious.

Serve your vegan stroganoff over pasta, rice, or your favorite grain. It’s a satisfying meal that’s sure to please vegans and non-vegans alike.

4. Butternut Squash Risotto

Butternut squash risotto is a creamy, comforting vegan dinner option. To make it, you’ll need to roast cubed butternut squash in the oven until tender and golden.

While the squash cooks, prepare the risotto base.

Sauté leeks or onions in vegan butter, then add garlic and Arborio rice. Stir the rice until it becomes translucent.

Gradually add warm vegetable broth to the rice, stirring constantly. This process takes about 20-25 minutes.

Once the rice is creamy and cooked, mix in the roasted squash.

For extra flavor, you can add sage or other herbs. Top your risotto with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy contrast. This dish is perfect for cozy fall evenings.

5. Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Quinoa stuffed peppers are a tasty and filling vegan dinner option. You can make them by cooking quinoa with spices like chili powder and cumin.

Mix the cooked quinoa with corn, black beans, and pico de gallo for added flavor and texture.

Stuff this mixture into bell peppers and bake them in the oven.

For a Mediterranean twist, try adding vegan sausage and non-dairy feta to the quinoa filling. You can also include lentils for extra protein and fiber.

These colorful stuffed peppers are packed with nutrients and make a satisfying meal. They’re perfect for meal prep and can be customized with your favorite veggies and spices.

6. Cauliflower Tacos with Avocado Crema

Cauliflower tacos are a tasty vegan dinner option. To make them, you’ll roast cauliflower florets with taco seasoning and oil in a 400°F oven.

While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the avocado crema.

Blend ripe avocados with lime juice, cilantro, and plant-based milk for a creamy sauce.

Warm your taco shells and fill them with the roasted cauliflower.

Top with the avocado crema, shredded cabbage, and fresh cilantro.

These tacos are customizable. You can add other veggies or adjust the spices to suit your taste. They’re quick to make and packed with flavor.

7. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas

These enchiladas combine sweet potatoes and black beans for a tasty vegan meal. Start by roasting cubed sweet potatoes with spices like cumin and paprika.

While the potatoes cook, prepare the black beans and enchilada sauce.

Warm tortillas and fill them with the sweet potato-bean mixture.

Roll up the tortillas and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and bake until heated through.

Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or vegan sour cream if you like. These enchiladas make a filling dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition.

8. Thai Peanut Noodles

Thai Peanut Noodles are a tasty and quick vegan dinner option. You can whip up this dish in about 15 minutes.

Start by boiling your favorite noodles. While they cook, make a simple peanut sauce with peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.

Add some veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and bok choy for crunch and nutrition.

Toss everything together in a large bowl or wok.

For extra protein, try adding baked tofu cubes.

Garnish with chopped peanuts, green onions, and cilantro to boost the flavor.

This versatile meal works well hot or cold. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

9. Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a tasty vegan twist on an Italian classic. To make it, slice eggplant into thin rounds and salt them to remove bitterness.

After rinsing, coat the slices in a batter made from plant milk, flour, and spices. Bake the coated eggplant until golden and crispy.

Layer the baked eggplant in a dish with tomato sauce and vegan mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, then bake until the cheese melts and bubbles.

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. You can serve it with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.

10. Vegan Pad Thai

Pad Thai is a popular dish you can easily make vegan. Start by cooking rice noodles according to package instructions.

In a large skillet, sauté tofu cubes until lightly browned. Add garlic, green onions, and chili for flavor.

Mix in vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. Pour in a sauce made from coconut aminos, lime juice, and a touch of maple syrup.

Toss everything together with the cooked noodles.

Top your vegan Pad Thai with crushed peanuts, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

11. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are a tasty vegan alternative to pulled pork. To make them, start by draining canned jackfruit and shredding it with a fork.

Season the jackfruit with BBQ spices and cook it in a skillet with a bit of oil. Add BBQ sauce and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender.

Pile the saucy jackfruit onto buns and top with coleslaw for added crunch.

You can make a quick slaw by mixing shredded cabbage with lime juice and a pinch of salt.

These sandwiches are easy to customize. Try different BBQ sauce flavors or add extras like pickles or avocado slices.

12. Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty and filling vegan dinner option. To make them, cut zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides to create boat shapes.

Fill the zucchini boats with a mixture of your favorite vegetables, grains, and plant-based proteins.

Popular options include chickpeas, quinoa, and chopped vegetables.

Season the filling with herbs and spices to add extra flavor. You can also top the boats with vegan cheese for a gooey finish.

Bake the stuffed zucchini boats in the oven until they’re tender and the filling is hot. Serve them as a main dish or as a side to complement other vegan meals.

13. Vegan Alfredo Pasta

Vegan Alfredo pasta offers a creamy, dairy-free twist on the classic Italian dish. You can make this comforting meal using simple ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and plant milk.

Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to package instructions.

While it cooks, blend soaked cashews with garlic, lemon juice, and plant milk to create a smooth sauce.

Heat the sauce in a pan, adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Toss the cooked pasta with the warm sauce and sprinkle with herbs like parsley or basil.

This vegan Alfredo is quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. You can add veggies like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

14. Lentil Bolognese

Lentil Bolognese is a tasty vegan twist on the classic Italian sauce. You’ll love this hearty, plant-based version that’s packed with protein and flavor.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Add garlic, herbs, and spices for extra depth. Then, stir in lentils, tomatoes, and vegetable broth.

Let the mixture simmer until the lentils are tender and the sauce thickens. This typically takes about 30 minutes.

Serve your Lentil Bolognese over your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal.

This recipe is versatile and forgiving. You can add mushrooms for a meatier texture or red wine for richness. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting pasta dish without meat.

15. Chana Masala

Chana masala is a tasty vegan dish made with chickpeas and spices. You can make it easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by sautéing onions in a pan. Add garlic, ginger, and spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin.

Next, toss in chickpeas and crushed tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

For extra creaminess, you can add some coconut cream. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh cilantro. Serve your chana masala with rice or naan bread for a filling meal.

16. Vegan Pizza with Cashew Cheese

Vegan pizza with cashew cheese is a tasty plant-based twist on a classic favorite. You can make cashew cheese by blending soaked cashews with water, salt, and seasonings.

Spread your homemade cashew cheese on a pizza crust and add your favorite toppings.

Try sliced tomatoes, mushrooms, artichokes, and onions for a delicious combination.

Bake your pizza at 425°F for about 25 minutes. For a crispy crust, flip it halfway through cooking.

Serve your vegan pizza hot and enjoy the creamy, dairy-free cheese alternative.

This recipe is customizable, so feel free to experiment with different toppings and seasonings to suit your taste.

17. Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

Spinach and artichoke pasta is a tasty vegan dinner option. You can make it in one pot for easy cleanup.

Start by cooking your pasta of choice according to the package instructions.

While the pasta cooks, prepare a creamy sauce using blended cashews or vegan cream cheese. Add garlic, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice for extra flavor.

In a large pan, sauté chopped artichokes and fresh spinach until wilted.

Mix in the cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

For added texture, top your pasta with toasted breadcrumbs before serving. This dish is filling, nutritious, and full of flavor.

18. Vegan Lasagna

Vegan lasagna is a comforting and satisfying plant-based version of the classic Italian dish. You can make it with layers of pasta, savory tomato sauce, and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

For the filling, try using a mixture of vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms.

You can also add crumbled tofu or plant-based meat substitutes for extra protein.

To create a creamy texture, make a vegan béchamel sauce using plant milk, flour, and nutritional yeast.

Layer everything in a baking dish and bake until hot and bubbly.

Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.

19. General Tso’s Tofu

General Tso’s Tofu is a tasty vegan twist on the classic Chinese-American dish. You’ll need extra-firm tofu for the best results. Press it well to remove excess moisture.

Cut the tofu into cubes and coat with cornstarch. This helps create a crispy exterior when fried.

Cook the tofu in a hot skillet until golden brown on all sides.

For the sauce, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and vegetable broth. Add garlic and ginger for extra flavor.

Pour the sauce over the crispy tofu and let it simmer until thick.

Serve your General Tso’s Tofu over rice with steamed broccoli on the side. This dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.

20. Harissa Roasted Vegetables

Harissa roasted vegetables are a tasty and spicy vegan dinner option. You can use a mix of cauliflower, carrots, peppers, and onions for this dish.

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

In a bowl, mix olive oil with harissa paste.

Toss the chopped veggies in this mixture to coat them evenly.

Spread the coated vegetables on a baking sheet.

Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and spices like cumin and turmeric.

Roast for about 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.

For extra protein, add chickpeas to the mix. They’ll get crispy and flavorful alongside the vegetables.

Serve your harissa roasted vegetables over rice or quinoa for a filling meal.

21. Vegan Ramen Bowl

Vegan ramen is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for dinner. You can create a rich broth using vegetable stock and miso paste. Add garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for depth of flavor.

For the noodles, choose your favorite ramen or rice noodles.

Prepare a variety of toppings like seared bok choy, sliced mushrooms, and crispy tofu. You can also include corn, seaweed, or bean sprouts.

Customize your ramen bowl with different vegetables and seasonings.

Add a splash of soy sauce or chili oil for extra taste.

This versatile dish is great for serving at potlucks or family dinners.

22. Tofu Stir Fry

Tofu stir fry is a quick and tasty vegan dinner option. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The dish combines crispy tofu with colorful veggies and noodles. A flavorful sauce ties everything together.

You don’t need to press the tofu, saving you time and effort. Just cube it and toss it in the pan.

Mix and match your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots work well.

Add some noodles for a filling meal.

This recipe is flexible, so you can easily adjust it to your taste.

It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge.

23. Vegan Jambalaya

Vegan jambalaya brings Creole flavors to your dinner table without animal products. You can make this hearty dish in one pot using rice, vegetables, and plant-based protein.

Start by sautéing vegan sausage in a large pot. Set it aside and cook onions, peppers, and celery in the same pot. Add garlic, spices, and tomatoes for flavor.

Mix in rice and veggie broth, then simmer until the rice is tender.

Stir in beans or more veggies for extra nutrition. Add the vegan sausage back in at the end.

This easy meal is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and adjust the spice level to your liking.

24. Mushroom and Spinach Wellington

You can make a delicious vegan Wellington using mushrooms and spinach. Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until golden brown.

Mix in some fresh spinach and let it wilt. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Roll out vegan puff pastry and place the mushroom-spinach filling in the center. Carefully fold and seal the pastry around the filling.

Brush the top with plant-based milk for a golden finish.

Bake in a preheated oven until the pastry is puffed and crispy.

This Wellington makes an impressive centerpiece for your vegan dinner table.

Serve it sliced with your favorite gravy or sauce.

25. Vegan Sushi Rolls

Vegan sushi rolls are a fun and tasty dinner option. You can make them at home with just a few ingredients.

Start with sushi rice, nori sheets, and your favorite veggies. Popular choices include avocado, cucumber, and carrot.

For a protein boost, try adding tofu or tempeh. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb version.

Don’t forget the sauces! Soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger are classic choices.

You might also like spicy mayo made with vegan mayo and sriracha.

Rolling sushi takes practice, but it’s worth the effort. Use a bamboo mat to help you get tight, even rolls.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Meals

Vegan meals pack a powerful nutritional punch. They offer a wide range of health benefits from plant-based proteins to essential vitamins and minerals.

Plant-Based Protein Sources

Vegan diets can provide all the protein you need. Beans, lentils, and peas are great sources of protein and fiber.

Nuts and seeds also pack a protein punch. Try adding almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds to your meals.

Tofu, tempeh, and seitan are versatile protein options. You can use them in stir-fries, sandwiches, or salads.

Whole grains like quinoa and oats boost your protein intake too. Mix them with veggies for a balanced meal.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Vegan meals are rich in vitamins and minerals. Leafy greens like kale and spinach provide iron and calcium.

Fortified plant milks offer vitamin B12 and vitamin D. Choose soy, almond, or oat milk to boost your nutrient intake.

Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamin C. This helps your body absorb iron from plant sources.

Nuts and seeds provide zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Add a handful to your meals for extra nutrition.

Nutritional yeast is a great source of B vitamins. Sprinkle it on popcorn or pasta for a cheesy flavor and nutrient boost.

Tips for Cooking Vegan Meals

Cooking tasty vegan meals is easy with the right techniques and ingredients. These tips will help you create flavorful dishes and find great substitutes for animal products.

How to Enhance Flavor

Use herbs and spices generously. Garlic, ginger, cumin, and smoked paprika add depth to vegan dishes.

Try roasting vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness. Toss cauliflower, carrots, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasonings before baking.

Don’t forget umami flavors. Nutritional yeast, miso paste, and mushrooms can add a savory taste to your meals.

Acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can brighten flavors. A splash of balsamic vinegar can transform a simple vegetable stir-fry.

Common Vegan Substitutes

Replace eggs in baking with mashed banana or applesauce. Use 1/4 cup for each egg.

Swap dairy milk for plant-based options like almond, soy, or oat milk.

These work well in most recipes.

Instead of butter, try coconut oil or vegan margarine for baking and cooking.

Use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor to sauces and soups.

Replace ground meat with lentils or crumbled tofu in tacos and pasta sauces.

Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can substitute for egg whites in meringues and mousses.