Vegan Food: 10 Easy Recipes to Try Today

Are you interested in trying out some vegan recipes but don’t know where to start? Look no further than these 10 easy vegan recipes! It can be challenging to find wholesome and delicious vegan meals that are quick and straightforward to prepare while still being budget-friendly. Luckily, veganism has come a long way in recent years, and there is now a plethora of options available for those looking for plant-based meal ideas. These recipes are perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to add more healthy, cruelty-free meals to their rotation.

The Benefits of Veganism

Veganism is not just a dietary choice. It’s a lifestyle that aligns with your ethical values and concerns for the environment. The benefits of veganism are numerous and impactful for both you and the world around you. Here are some major benefits that going vegan can bring:

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Did you know that animal agriculture is one of the leading causes of climate change? The meat and dairy industry generates around 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

By choosing to eliminate animal products from your diet, you are reducing your carbon footprint. A vegan diet requires only one-third of the land needed to support a meat and dairy diet. Additionally, it produces only one-eighth of the greenhouse gas emissions. Such a diet can help prevent deforestation, soil erosion, and depletion of fresh water resources.

Moreover, the use of fossil fuels and other energy-intensive resources used to produce and transport animal products is significantly reduced by adopting a vegan lifestyle. As a result, a vegan diet contributes to a healthier and cleaner planet.

Promotes Animal Welfare

Veganism is rooted in compassion for all living beings. By going vegan, you are taking a stance against animal cruelty and exploitation. You join millions of others in promoting animal welfare and reducing their suffering.

The meat and dairy industry engages in practices such as factory farming, where animals are kept in small, confined spaces for their entire lives, injected with hormones and antibiotics, and subjected to cruel slaughter. Such practices cause immense physical and psychological pain to the animals.

By adopting a vegan lifestyle, you choose to boycott these immoral practices and instead consume plant-based products, which don’t involve any exploitation or harm to animals.

Improves Overall Health

Transitioning to a vegan diet can improve your overall health. It is often associated with lower rates of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer.

Vegan foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as fiber, potassium, and magnesium. They offer a wide range of health benefits such as improved metabolism, weight loss, improved digestion, and lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, vegan foods are generally low in saturated fats and high in healthy fats that are essential for a healthy body.

• Here are ten easy vegan recipes to get you started on your vegan journey:
• Lentil soup
• Vegan chili
• Vegan pizza
• Vegetable stir fry
• Chickpea curry
• Toasted quinoa and chickpea salad
• Sweet potato tacos
• Grilled portobello mushrooms with avocado salsa
• Vegan lasagna
• Spaghetti with vegan meatballs

Now that you’re aware of the benefits of veganism, you can make a conscious effort to adopt a vegan lifestyle. Not only will you be making a positive impact on your health, but you’ll also be contributing to a better world for all living beings.

Easy Vegan Recipe #1: Vegan Chili

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying dish for a chilly night, vegan chili is the way to go. Not only is it packed with protein and fiber from the beans, but it’s also loaded with veggies and spices for a wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor. Follow this easy vegan chili recipe for a comforting dinner that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the bell peppers and zucchini and sauté for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.
6. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve the chili hot with your favorite vegan toppings, such as avocado, cilantro, or vegan sour cream.

Easy Vegan Recipe #2: Chickpea Salad Sandwich

If you love a good sandwich, but are looking for a healthier, more plant-based option, try this easy vegan chickpea salad sandwich recipe. It’s a high-protein and flavorful twist on a classic sandwich that can be whipped up in minutes. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons of vegan mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of spicy brown mustard
• 2 tablespoons of diced onion
• 2 tablespoons of diced celery
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of whole grain bread
• Lettuce and tomato slices for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until they are partially mashed, but still have some texture.
2. Add the vegan mayonnaise, spicy brown mustard, diced onion, diced celery, and fresh lemon juice to the bowl and stir until everything is well combined.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Scoop the chickpea salad mixture onto two slices of whole grain bread.
5. Top with lettuce and tomato slices, if desired, and finish with another slice of bread on top.
6. Repeat with the remaining two slices of bread and the remaining chickpea salad mixture.
7. Cut each sandwich in half and serve.

That’s it! This vegan chickpea salad sandwich is a delicious, healthy, and easy lunch option that’s perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. It’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet while still enjoying all the flavors of a classic sandwich. Give it a try and see how you like it!

Easy Vegan Recipe #3: Vegan Tacos

If you are a fan of Mexican cuisine, you know that tacos are a staple food. Sadly, many tacos contain meat and are not suitable for vegans. Luckily, creating a vegan version of this tasty dish is easy and delicious. This recipe uses plant-based protein sources like tofu or tempeh to make sure your tacos keep you satisfied and happy.

Ingredients:

• 12 hard or soft tortillas
• 1 block of firm tofu or 1 package of tempeh
• 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 2 Tbsp. taco seasoning
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 Tbsp. fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 can of black beans
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup vegan sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven or toaster oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Wrap tortillas in foil and place them in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until they are warm and crispy.
3. Cut the tofu or tempeh into small cubes or crumbles, depending on your preference.
4. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil on medium heat. Add the tofu or tempeh and cook until it is slightly browned on all sides.
5. Add taco seasoning, garlic powder, and salt to the tofu or tempeh and mix it well. Continue to cook for another minute or two.
6. In another skillet, sauté the chopped red onion, red and green peppers for about 5 minutes until they are tender. Add the cilantro at the end.
7. Rinse and drain the black beans and heat them up in a saucepan on low heat.
8. Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions.
9. Now it’s time to assemble your vegan tacos. Take a warmed tortilla and add some of the tofu or tempeh mixture, onions and peppers, rice, beans, vegan sour cream, and sliced avocado.
10. Wrap the tortilla, and enjoy!

Vegan tacos are a delicious and easy solution for those who are looking for plant-based versions of their favorite foods. You can get creative with your fillings, create different textures or spice levels, and enjoy these tacos any time of the day. You can feel full and satisfied without consuming animal-based products thanks to this amazing vegan recipe.

Easy Vegan Recipe #4: Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a staple in many households, especially during colder months. Not only is it comforting and filling, but it’s also easy to make and packed with plant-based protein. This recipe is perfect for those who want a warm and cozy soup that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of green lentils
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped
• 2 medium-sized carrots, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 2 cups of water
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley, lemon wedges

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and coriander and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chopped celery and carrots and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and water. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges (if desired).

This recipe is a great option for meal prep; you can make a big batch of lentil soup and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s also a budget-friendly option, as lentils are often inexpensive and can be bought in bulk. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your liking. You can add in other vegetables, such as spinach or kale, or add a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat. Overall, this easy vegan lentil soup is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a hearty and healthy meal.

Easy Vegan Recipe #5: Vegan Stir Fry

When it comes to quick and easy vegan meals, stir fry is always a great option. This dish is packed with veggies and flavor, and can be served over rice or noodles for a filling meal. Here is a simple and delicious recipe for Vegan Stir Fry:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, snow peas, and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for another 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable broth, cornstarch, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes.
5. Pour the sauce over the veggies in the skillet and stir well to coat.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the veggies are fully coated.
7. Remove from heat and serve over rice or noodles.

This Vegan Stir Fry recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also customizable to fit your preferences. You can swap out the veggies for your favorites, or even add some tofu or tempeh for added protein. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal in no time!

Easy Vegan Recipe #6: Vegan Pizza

Pizza is a staple food loved by many, and vegans are no exception. With this easy vegan pizza recipe, you can customize your toppings and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without the use of animal products.

Ingredients:

• 1 prepared pizza crust
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup vegan cheese shreds
• 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup sliced red onions
• 1/4 cup sliced olives
• 1/4 cup chopped pineapple
• A pinch of salt and black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.

2. Place the prepared pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone.

3. Spread the pizza sauce on top of the crust.

4. Sprinkle vegan cheese shreds over the sauce.

5. Add your desired toppings, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, red onions, olives, and pineapple.

6. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese has melted.

8. Slice and serve hot.

Tips:

• Use store-bought pizza crust or make your own using a vegan recipe.
• Experiment with different toppings to create your own flavor combinations.
• Try using homemade garlic or pesto sauce for a twist on traditional pizza.

Easy Vegan Recipe #7: Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you’re missing the comfort of mac and cheese since going vegan, we have the perfect recipe for you. This vegan mac and cheese recipe is a classic comfort food made with plant-based ingredients that will satisfy your cravings. The ingredients include cashews, nutritional yeast, non-dairy milk, and a few other pantry staples that make this recipe a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours or overnight
• 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter or coconut oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions in a large pot of salted water until tender but still firm to the bite.
2. While the macaroni is cooking, drain and rinse the cashews and add them to a high-speed blender or food processor with 1 cup of water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the nutritional yeast, arrowroot powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, non-dairy milk, and half of the vegan butter or coconut oil to the blender or food processor with the cashew cream. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot over low heat. Pour the sauce over the macaroni and stir well to combine.
5. Stir in the remaining vegan butter or coconut oil and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

This recipe makes about 6 servings and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months.

Easy Vegan Recipe #8: Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

If you’re looking for a comforting and filling meal that’s also vegan-friendly, then look no further than this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie recipe. This dish uses lentils or beans as the protein source and mashed potatoes for a comforting topping. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 cup of cooked lentils or beans
• 1 cup of vegetable stock
• 2 tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 tbsp of soy sauce
• 1 tsp of dried thyme
• 1 tsp of dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups of mashed potatoes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until it’s fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Add the carrot and celery and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Add the lentils or beans, along with the vegetable stock, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, and simmer for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the mixture to thicken up so that it’s not too liquidy, but still saucy.
5. Spoon the lentil/bean mixture into a large oven-safe dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top.
6. Bake for around 20 minutes until the mashed potatoes are golden and slightly crispy on top.

And that’s it! This Vegan Shepherd’s Pie is a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be customized in so many different ways. Add some vegan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch, or sprinkle some nutritional yeast over the mashed potatoes for added umami flavor. However you choose to make it, this dish is sure to become a staple in your vegan recipe arsenal.

Easy Vegan Recipe #9: Vegan Baked Ziti

Vegan Baked Ziti is a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easy to make and can be made in under an hour. The tasty flavors of this dish come from the plant-based cheese and veggies that make it a plant-based meal the entire family will love. This recipe is perfect for individuals who are trying to go vegan or for those who have been vegan for a long time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 jar of vegan marinara sauce
• 1 cup of vegan ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of vegan parmesan cheese
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 yellow squash, chopped
• 1/2 cup of diced onions
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Boil the ziti pasta according to the instructions on the package, drain and set aside.
3. In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil, and then add the onions, garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash. Sauté for 5 minutes until tender and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, marinara sauce, vegan ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of vegan mozzarella cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
5. Pour the pasta mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and sprinkle with the remainder of the vegan mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This Vegan Baked Ziti recipe is a great meal to add to your weekly meal rotation. It is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner. This recipe is ideal for those who are looking to reduce their dairy intake or for those who want to try something new in their plant-based diet. So, get your family and friends together and enjoy this delicious vegan pasta dish!

Easy Vegan Recipe #10: Vegan Chocolate Cake

Who wouldn’t want a slice of moist and rich chocolate cake on any occasion? And the good news is that vegans can also indulge in this delicious dessert without any guilt. Here’s an easy recipe for making a vegan chocolate cake that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup water

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) cake pan and set aside.

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar, vegetable oil, white vinegar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Add 1 cup of water and mix until smooth and well combined. The batter will be thin, but that’s alright.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool for a few minutes in the pan, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

You can serve the cake as is, or if you want to make it extra decadent, you can top it with some vegan chocolate ganache or frosting. You can also sprinkle it with some powdered sugar or fresh berries for some added flavor and color.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a delicious vegan chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

FAQs on Easy Vegan Recipes

Switching to a vegan diet may seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and resources, it can be a breeze. Read on for answers to some common questions about vegan cooking and how to make the transition to plant-based eating with these 10 easy vegan recipes.

How do I replace eggs in baking recipes?

Eggs are commonly used in baking to add moisture, structure, and binding. Fortunately, there are many vegan substitutes you can use instead of eggs, such as:

• 1/4 cup applesauce, mashed bananas, or pumpkin puree per egg for moisture and binding
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water for binding
• 1/4 cup silken tofu blended with the other wet ingredients for structure and moisture

What are some dairy substitutes I can use in vegan recipes?

Dairy products like milk, cream, cheese, and yogurt can be easily swapped out for plant-based alternatives like:

• Almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk for liquid-based recipes
• Cashew, tofu, or coconut cream for thickening sauces or making cheese alternatives
• Nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds for a cheesy flavor
• Cashew or coconut yogurt for a creaminess to recipes

Where can I find plant-based protein sources?

Getting enough protein on a vegan diet is essential, but it’s easier than you might think. Here are some excellent sources of plant-based protein to incorporate into your meals:

Source	Grams of Protein per 100g	Serving Size
Lentils	9	1/2 cup cooked
Chickpeas	8	1/2 cup canned
Tofu	8	1/2 cup
Tempeh	15	1/2 cup
Quinoa	4-5	1/2 cup cooked
Seitan	25	1/2 cup
Chia Seeds	4	1 tablespoon
Hemp Seeds	9	1 tablespoon
Peanut Butter	8	2 tablespoons

What are some easy vegan recipes to start with?

If you’re new to vegan cooking, these simple and delicious recipes are a great place to start:

• Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
• Spaghetti with Vegan Meatballs
• Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
• Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
• Classic Vegan Potato Salad
• Loaded Vegan Nachos
• Pesto Zucchini Noodles
• Vegan Sloppy Joes
• Curry Lentil Soup
• Baked Sweet and Sour Cauliflower
• Roasted Vegetable Bowls with Tahini-Lemon Sauce
• Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

With these easy vegan recipes and tips, you’ll be well on your way to plant-based eating in no time.

Happy Cooking with These 10 Easy Vegan Recipes

It’s been great sharing these delicious and easy-to-make vegan recipes with you. We hope that you’ve enjoyed reading our article about vegan food and that you’ll give these recipes a try in your own kitchen! Don’t forget to share your own cooking experiences and tips in the comments below. Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you again here at our blog for more exciting content!