Quick & Easy Vegan Chili
This hearty chili is perfect for a chilly evening. Simply sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers, then add in your canned beans (kidney, black, pinto – whatever you like!), diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and vegetable broth. Simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Top with your favorite vegan toppings like avocado, shredded vegan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream (ensure it’s vegan!). This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for meal prepping throughout the week. You can even freeze portions for later.
One-Pan Roasted Vegetables with Chickpeas
Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness. Toss broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and chickpeas with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary and thyme work wonderfully). Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. This is a fantastic side dish or a complete meal on its own, and it’s super easy to prep ahead. The flavors actually improve after a day or two in the fridge!
Lentil Soup for the Soul
This comforting lentil soup is packed with protein and fiber. Sauté carrots, celery, and onions, then add red lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and curry powder. Simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added depth of flavor, you can add a bay leaf during the simmering process. This soup is incredibly versatile; feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini towards the end of cooking.
Vegan Quinoa Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This vibrant salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Cook quinoa according to package directions. While the quinoa is cooking, chop red onion, bell pepper, and cilantro. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, chopped vegetables, and a simple lime vinaigrette (lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper). This salad is best served chilled, making it ideal for meal prepping. Add some chopped avocado just before serving for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Make-Ahead Vegan Burgers
Skip the fast food and make your own delicious vegan burgers! Combine cooked lentils or black beans, breadcrumbs, chopped vegetables (onions, carrots), and your favorite spices (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika) in a bowl. Form the mixture into patties and pan-fry or bake until heated through and slightly browned. You can even freeze these uncooked for later use. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings – lettuce, tomato, vegan cheese, and onion rings are all great options.
Overnight Oats with Berries and Nuts
Start your day with a healthy and delicious breakfast. Combine rolled oats, your favorite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk work well), chia seeds, and a touch of maple syrup in a jar or container. Stir well and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with fresh or frozen berries, chopped nuts, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This breakfast is ready to go, making your mornings a breeze. Feel free to experiment with different fruits and nuts to change up the flavor profile.
Vegan Pad Thai
This flavorful Pad Thai is surprisingly easy to make. Use rice noodles, your favorite vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bean sprouts), tofu, and a homemade or store-bought vegan Pad Thai sauce. Stir-fry everything together until the noodles are cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges. This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping. Read also about best vegan meal prep
