Vegan sandwiches are a tasty and easy lunch option for both kids and adults. They offer a great way to enjoy plant-based meals without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. These sandwiches can be packed for work, school, or enjoyed at home.
You can make many types of vegan sandwiches using veggies, spreads, and meat alternatives. From classic PB&J to creative veggie combos, there’s a vegan sandwich for every taste. These recipes are often simple to make and can be customized to fit your preferences.
1. Avocado and Chickpea Smash
This tasty sandwich filling combines creamy avocado with protein-packed chickpeas. To make it, mash chickpeas and ripe avocado together in a bowl.
Add flavor with lime juice, cilantro, and green onions. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of cumin for extra zest.
Spread the mixture on toasted bread and top with crisp lettuce or sprouts. You can also add sliced tomatoes or cucumbers for extra crunch.
This sandwich is quick to make and perfect for a nutritious lunch. It’s full of healthy fats and fiber to keep you feeling full and energized.
2. Smoky Tofu BLT
This vegan twist on a classic sandwich swaps bacon for smoky tofu. Slice extra-firm tofu thinly and marinate it in a mix of soy sauce, maple syrup, and spices.
Pan-fry the tofu slices until crispy and browned. Toast your bread and spread vegan mayo on each slice.
Layer the crispy tofu, juicy tomato slices, and crisp lettuce on the bread. Add mashed avocado for extra creaminess if you like.
This sandwich packs all the flavors of a traditional BLT with a plant-based spin. The smoky tofu provides a satisfying, protein-rich alternative to bacon.
3. Tempeh and Spinach Delight
This tasty sandwich brings together the hearty texture of tempeh with the freshness of spinach. Start by marinating tempeh slices in soy sauce, maple syrup, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Pan-fry the marinated tempeh until golden brown and crispy. Layer it on whole grain bread with fresh spinach leaves, sliced tomatoes, and vegan mayo.
For added crunch, try adding some thinly sliced cucumber or sprouts. You can also spread some hummus or avocado on the bread for extra creaminess.
This sandwich is packed with protein from the tempeh and nutrients from the spinach. It’s a filling and nutritious option for lunch or a quick dinner.
4. Roasted Red Pepper and Hummus
This sandwich combines two Mediterranean favorites for a tasty vegan meal. Spread creamy hummus on your bread of choice. Add sliced roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky flavor.
You can use store-bought hummus or make your own. Homemade roasted red pepper hummus adds extra zest. Layer in some crisp cucumber slices and juicy tomatoes for freshness.
Top with leafy greens like spinach or arugula. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs like basil or oregano finish it off nicely. This protein-packed sandwich will keep you satisfied for hours.
5. BBQ Jackfruit Slider
BBQ jackfruit sliders are a tasty vegan twist on pulled pork sandwiches. You’ll love the meaty texture and smoky flavor of this plant-based option.
To make these sliders, start by shredding canned jackfruit. Mix it with BBQ spices and sauté in a pan with onions and garlic. Add BBQ sauce and simmer until the jackfruit is tender and flavorful.
Pile the BBQ jackfruit onto small buns and top with coleslaw for added crunch. These mini sandwiches are perfect for parties or as a fun weeknight dinner.
You can customize the flavors by using different BBQ sauces or adding extra spices. Serve with sweet potato fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
6. Buffalo Cauliflower Sub
This spicy sandwich packs a flavorful punch. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut a head of cauliflower into thick steaks. Mix buffalo sauce with garlic powder, chili powder, and olive oil. Dip each cauliflower steak in the sauce.
Bake the cauliflower for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. After baking, toss the cauliflower in more buffalo sauce and return to the oven for 5 minutes.
Let the cauliflower cool slightly before assembling your sandwich. Add lettuce, tomato, and red onion to a sub roll. Place the buffalo cauliflower on top and enjoy your zesty vegan creation.
7. Grilled Portobello and Pesto
Grilled portobello mushrooms make a tasty sandwich filling. You can marinate them in balsamic vinegar and olive oil for extra flavor.
Grill the mushrooms for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. The heat brings out their meaty texture and rich taste.
Spread vegan pesto on your bread for a burst of basil and garlic. You can make your own pesto or buy a plant-based version at the store.
Add some fresh greens like arugula or spinach for a peppery crunch. Tomato slices give a juicy boost to your sandwich.
This combo offers a satisfying mix of smoky, savory, and herby flavors in every bite.
8. Curried Sweet Potato Wrap
You’ll love this flavorful vegan wrap packed with nutrients. Start by cooking lentils until tender and par-boiling cubed sweet potatoes.
Mix the cooked lentils and sweet potatoes with curry spices for a zesty kick. Spread hummus on a tortilla and add spinach for freshness.
Pile on the curried sweet potato and lentil mixture. Top with crunchy sunflower seeds for extra texture. Roll it up tightly and enjoy this satisfying plant-based meal.
This wrap is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. It’s portable and keeps well in the fridge for easy meal prep.
9. Spicy Black Bean Tortilla
This tasty vegan sandwich packs a flavorful punch. Start by heating oil in a pan and sautéing onions and garlic until golden. Add black beans, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne for a spicy kick.
Warm a tortilla and spread the bean mixture in the center. Top with fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, corn, and avocado slices. For extra zest, sprinkle cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Roll up your tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. You can enjoy it as is or grill it briefly for a crispy exterior. This protein-rich sandwich makes a satisfying lunch or quick dinner option.
10. Eggplant and Olive Tapenade
This sandwich combines roasted eggplant with zesty olive tapenade for a Mediterranean-inspired treat. To make it, slice an eggplant and brush with olive oil. Roast the slices in the oven until soft and lightly browned.
While the eggplant cooks, prepare the olive tapenade. Blend olives, capers, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor until chunky. Spread the tapenade on bread slices and top with the warm roasted eggplant.
For extra flavor, add some fresh arugula or basil leaves. This sandwich offers a delicious mix of textures and tastes that you’ll love. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
11. Mexican Street Corn Tortilla
This tasty vegan sandwich puts a twist on Mexican street corn. Start with a warm corn tortilla as your base. Spread a layer of creamy vegan mayo on the tortilla.
Next, add a generous helping of charred corn kernels. Sprinkle on some vegan parmesan and a dash of chili powder for flavor. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a zesty kick.
Finish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of vegan sour cream. Fold the tortilla in half to create an easy-to-eat handheld meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes this a delicious vegan take on a classic Mexican street food.
12. Artichoke and Sun-Dried Tomato
This sandwich packs a flavor punch with tangy artichoke hearts and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. Start with crusty bread like ciabatta or a baguette for the perfect base.
Spread vegan pesto on both sides of the bread. Layer sliced tomatoes, vegan mozzarella, chopped artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Add some fresh arugula for a peppery crunch. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar brings it all together. This Mediterranean-inspired combo is both tasty and satisfying.
For extra creaminess, try adding smashed white beans seasoned with herbs and lemon juice. The beans pair well with the artichokes and tomatoes while boosting the protein content.
13. Walnut and Lentil Loaf
Walnut and lentil loaf makes a hearty vegan sandwich filling. You can easily prepare this protein-packed dish at home.
Start by cooking lentils until tender. While they cool, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pan.
Mix the cooked lentils with the sautéed veggies, toasted walnuts, and seasonings like sage or fennel. Add oats or flour to bind the mixture.
Press the mixture into a loaf pan and bake until firm. Let it cool before slicing for sandwiches.
This savory loaf works well on crusty bread with lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo. It’s filling, nutritious, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
14. Zesty Zucchini and Hummus
This sandwich brings a fresh twist to your lunch routine. Start with two slices of whole grain bread. Spread a generous layer of hummus on both slices.
Slice zucchini thinly and grill or roast it with a sprinkle of lemon juice and herbs. Layer the zucchini on one slice of bread.
Add some crisp lettuce and sliced tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. You can also include red onion or sprouts if you like.
Close the sandwich and enjoy your zesty creation. This combo offers a nice balance of creamy hummus and tangy zucchini.
15. Mushroom and Vegan Cheese Melt
This sandwich combines earthy mushrooms with melty vegan cheese for a delicious plant-based treat. Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in a pan with some olive oil until they’re browned and tender.
Add garlic and seasonings like paprika, onion powder, and black pepper to enhance the flavor. Place the cooked mushrooms on bread slices and top with your favorite vegan cheese.
Pop the sandwich under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can add extras like sautéed onions or bell peppers for more texture and taste.
This hearty sandwich is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. It’s packed with umami flavor from the mushrooms and satisfying creaminess from the vegan cheese.
16. Tofurky and Cranberry Relish
This sandwich combines the savory taste of Tofurky with sweet and tangy cranberry relish. Start by toasting two slices of bread until golden brown.
Spread a layer of vegan mayo on one slice. Add a few slices of Tofurky on top. The plant-based protein gives the sandwich a hearty texture.
Spoon cranberry relish over the Tofurky. The fruity flavor balances the savory notes. Add some fresh spinach or lettuce for a crisp element.
Top with the second slice of bread and cut diagonally. Enjoy this sandwich for a tasty lunch or quick dinner. It’s perfect for using up holiday leftovers too.
17. Herbed White Bean and Tomato
This tasty vegan sandwich combines creamy white beans with fresh tomatoes and herbs. To make it, mash white beans with garlic, olive oil, and your favorite herbs like basil and oregano.
Spread the herbed bean mixture on bread slices. Top with juicy tomato slices and leafy greens like spinach or arugula.
For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or vegan mayo. This protein-packed sandwich makes a quick and satisfying lunch or light dinner option.
18. Orange-Ginger Chickpea Salad
This zesty sandwich filling brings a burst of flavor to your lunch. Mash chickpeas in a bowl and mix with orange zest, grated ginger, and a splash of orange juice.
Add finely chopped celery for crunch and vegan mayo for creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the mixture on whole grain bread and top with fresh spinach leaves. The bright citrus notes and warming ginger create a refreshing twist on traditional chickpea salad.
You can prep this filling ahead of time for quick sandwiches throughout the week. Try it in a wrap or on crackers for variety.
19. Peanut Butter and Banana
Peanut butter and banana sandwiches are a tasty vegan option. They’re quick to make and packed with protein and nutrients.
To create this sandwich, spread peanut butter on bread slices. Add banana slices on top. You can toast it for extra flavor and crunch.
For a twist, try grilling the sandwich. Spread vegan butter on the outside of the bread. Cook it in a pan or panini press until golden brown.
You can also add extras like jam or melted dark chocolate. These additions make the sandwich even more delicious.
This simple yet satisfying meal is perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. It’s a great way to fuel your body with plant-based goodness.
20. Scrambled Tofu Breakfast
Scrambled tofu makes a tasty vegan breakfast sandwich. To make it, crumble firm tofu into a pan with oil. Add spices like turmeric for color and flavor.
Cook the tofu for about 5 minutes, stirring often. You can mix in veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra nutrition and taste.
Serve your scramble on toasted English muffins or bread. Top with vegan mayo, avocado slices, or microgreens for added texture. This protein-packed sandwich will keep you full and energized.
You can prep the tofu mixture ahead of time for quick assembly on busy mornings. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination.
21. Banh Mi with Seitan
Banh mi with seitan offers a tasty vegan twist on the classic Vietnamese sandwich. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures in this plant-based version.
Start by marinating sliced seitan in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. This gives the protein a savory kick. While it soaks, pickle some carrots and daikon radish in rice vinegar for a tangy crunch.
To assemble, spread vegan sriracha mayo on a crusty baguette. Add the marinated seitan and top with pickled veggies and fresh cilantro. The result is a satisfying sandwich with a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory notes.
22. Vegan Chicken Salad
Vegan chicken salad is a tasty plant-based twist on a classic sandwich filling. It uses chickpeas or other protein-rich alternatives to mimic the texture of chicken.
You can make this salad with mashed chickpeas, chopped celery, and vegan mayo. Add some grapes or diced apples for a touch of sweetness.
For extra crunch, mix in some chopped almonds or walnuts. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like dill or parsley to boost the flavor.
Spread your vegan chicken salad on whole grain bread or stuff it into a wrap. It’s perfect for picnics, quick lunches, or easy dinners.
This protein-packed sandwich filling will keep you full and satisfied. It’s a great option if you’re looking for plant-based meals that are simple to make and delicious to eat.
23. Falafel and Tahini Sauce
Falafel and tahini sauce make a tasty vegan sandwich combo. You can bake or fry chickpea-based falafel patties for a protein-packed filling.
Stuff your pita pocket with crispy falafel, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce. Add lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion for crunch and flavor.
Make tahini sauce by mixing tahini paste with lemon juice, garlic, and water. This tangy, nutty dressing perfectly complements the spiced falafel.
For extra flavor, try adding herbs like parsley or cilantro to your falafel mix. You can also sprinkle some za’atar seasoning on top for a Middle Eastern twist.
24. Mozzarella Tomato Basil
You can enjoy a tasty vegan version of the classic Caprese sandwich. Start with two slices of toasted bread. Spread vegan pesto on one slice.
Layer vegan mozzarella slices, fresh tomato, and basil leaves on the other slice. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Press the two halves together gently. You can eat it cold or heat it in a panini press for a warm, melty treat.
This sandwich combines creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil. It’s a perfect light lunch or snack on a warm day.
25. Chickpea Avocado Dill
This tasty sandwich combines chickpeas, avocado, and dill for a creamy and flavorful vegan meal. You’ll mash chickpeas and mix them with ripe avocado, lemon juice, and chopped dill.
Add minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped pickles for extra crunch and tang. Green onions bring a mild oniony flavor to the mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread this filling on whole grain bread, a bagel, or stuff it in a pita. Top with fresh veggies like tomato slices, red onion, or leafy greens for added nutrition and texture.
This sandwich provides plenty of protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied. It’s quick to make and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
26. Sweet Potato and Kale
Sweet potato and kale make a tasty and nutritious vegan sandwich filling. Roast sweet potato slices until tender and slightly caramelized for a naturally sweet flavor.
Sauté kale with garlic and olive oil until wilted. This adds a nice green crunch to your sandwich.
Spread vegan mayo on whole grain bread. Layer the roasted sweet potato and sautéed kale. Add some red onion slices for extra zing.
For more protein, you can add mashed chickpeas or sliced tempeh. A sprinkle of pumpkin seeds gives a nice crunch.
This sandwich is packed with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based goodness. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
27. Pomegranate and Beet
This sandwich combines sweet and earthy flavors for a unique taste experience. Start with two slices of hearty whole grain bread.
Spread a thin layer of vegan cream cheese on each slice. Add roasted beet slices to one side of the sandwich.
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the beets for a burst of juicy sweetness. Add some fresh arugula or spinach for a peppery crunch.
Close the sandwich and enjoy the mix of textures and flavors. The bright red beets and pomegranate seeds make this sandwich visually appealing too.
28. Sriracha Tempeh Wrap
Spice up your lunch with a Sriracha Tempeh Wrap. This zesty sandwich packs a flavorful punch. Start by slicing tempeh into thin strips and cooking them in a skillet until golden brown.
Mix Sriracha sauce with vegan mayo for a creamy, spicy spread. Spread this on a large tortilla or wrap. Add the cooked tempeh strips on top.
Load up your wrap with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. For extra crunch, toss in some shredded carrots or cabbage. Roll it all up tightly and enjoy your tasty, protein-packed meal.
29. Vegan Tuna Salad
Vegan tuna salad is a tasty plant-based alternative to the classic sandwich filling. You can make it using chickpeas as the main ingredient.
Mash the chickpeas in a bowl, leaving some chunks for texture. Add vegan mayo, diced celery, and red onion for crunch and flavor.
Mix in mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Some recipes include tahini or maple syrup for extra richness.
You can customize your vegan tuna salad with add-ins like pickles, capers, or sunflower seeds. Pulse the mixture in a food processor for a finer texture if desired.
Spread this delicious filling on bread or serve it with crackers for a satisfying meal.
30. Cucumber Mint Hummus
Cucumber mint hummus sandwiches offer a refreshing twist on classic vegan fare. To make them, spread a thick layer of hummus on your favorite bread.
Top the hummus with thin cucumber slices for a cool crunch. Add fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor.
You can enhance the taste with a sprinkle of black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice. These sandwiches are perfect for hot summer days.
They’re quick to make and packed with plant-based protein. Try them for a light lunch or cut them into small triangles for party snacks.
Health Benefits of Vegan Sandwiches
Vegan sandwiches can be a tasty and nutritious meal choice. They often pack in lots of veggies, whole grains, and plant-based proteins.
Nutritional Advantages
Vegan sandwiches are usually low in saturated fat and cholesterol. This can be good for your heart health. They’re often high in fiber, which helps digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Many vegan sandwiches have lots of vitamins and minerals. You can get vitamin C from veggies like bell peppers and tomatoes. Leafy greens add iron and calcium to your meal.
Plant-based proteins in vegan sandwiches help build and repair your body. These proteins often have less fat than animal proteins. They can also be easier for some people to digest.
Common Ingredients and Their Benefits
Whole grain bread is a popular base for vegan sandwiches. It gives you complex carbs for energy and fiber for gut health. Some breads are fortified with B vitamins and iron.
Avocado is a creamy spread used in many vegan sandwiches. It’s full of healthy fats that are good for your skin and brain. Avocados also have potassium, which helps control blood pressure.
Hummus is another common vegan sandwich spread. It’s made from chickpeas, which are high in protein and fiber. Hummus also contains tahini, a good source of calcium and healthy fats.
Leafy greens like spinach or kale add crunch and nutrients. They’re packed with vitamins A and K, important for eye health and blood clotting. These greens are also low in calories but high in antioxidants.
Tips for Making Delicious Vegan Sandwiches
Great vegan sandwiches start with the right ingredients and a few key techniques. Focus on choosing flavorful breads and spreads to build a tasty foundation.
Choosing the Right Bread
Pick breads that add flavor and texture to your sandwich. Whole grain, sourdough, and rye offer hearty options. Ciabatta and baguettes give a nice crunch.
Try toasting the bread to add crispness. This works well for sandwiches with moist fillings like roasted veggies.
For gluten-free choices, look for breads made with rice, quinoa, or millet flour. These can be just as tasty as wheat-based breads.
Flatbreads and wraps make good alternatives for lighter sandwiches. Pita pockets are perfect for stuffing with lots of veggies and spreads.
Creative Spread Options
Spreads add moisture and flavor to vegan sandwiches. Hummus is a classic choice that comes in many flavors. Try roasted red pepper or garlic hummus for extra taste.
Mashed avocado makes a creamy base. Mix in some lemon juice and herbs for more flavor.
Nut butters aren’t just for PB&J. Almond or cashew butter pairs well with sliced apples or banana.
For a tangy kick, try vegan mayo mixed with mustard or hot sauce. You can also make spreads from blended beans or lentils.
Olive tapenade or sundried tomato paste add rich flavors to Mediterranean-style sandwiches.