10+ Easy Vegetarian Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals

Planning meals can be a challenge, especially when trying to incorporate healthy options.

Easy vegetarian recipes offer a delicious way to enjoy nutritious meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just exploring meatless options, these recipes can fit into your busy life.

There’s a wide variety of simple dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying.

From quick stir-fries to hearty grain bowls, you can create meals that everyone will love. Exploring these easy vegetarian recipes can lead to discovering new favorites for your dining table.

1) Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese pasta salad is a simple and tasty dish. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. You’ll enjoy fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

To make this salad, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, drain and rinse it under cold water. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy.

Next, chop cherry tomatoes and fresh basil. Combine these with the cooled pasta in a large bowl. Add mozzarella balls for a creamy texture.

Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top. Toss everything together gently so the flavors mix well. Serve this dish fresh or let it chill in the fridge for a while.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mozzarella balls
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water.
3. Chop the cherry tomatoes and basil.
4. In a bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Toss gently and season with salt and pepper.

2) Air-Fryer Tofu

Air-fryer tofu is a simple and tasty dish. It gets crispy in just minutes, making it perfect for quick meals. You can enjoy it in salads, wraps, or on its own.

To start, you will need firm tofu. Drain it and press out excess water to get the best texture. Cut the tofu into cubes for even cooking.

Then, toss the cubes in your favorite seasonings. You can use soy sauce, garlic powder, or any spices you like.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned tofu in the fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer. Cook for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu
• Soy sauce
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Cooking Instructions

1. Drain and press the tofu.
2. Cut tofu into cubes.
3. Mix tofu with soy sauce and garlic powder.
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place tofu in the basket.
6. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.

3) Spaghetti Squash Burrito Bowls

Spaghetti squash burrito bowls are a fun, tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal. The spaghetti squash serves as a great base, giving you a light and nutritious alternative to rice or pasta.

You can fill these bowls with your favorite ingredients. Try adding black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a southwest flair. Top it off with salsa and cheese for extra flavor.

These bowls are also versatile. You can easily make them vegan by skipping the cheese or using plant-based options. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week.

Ingredients

• 1 spaghetti squash
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
3. Place the squash cut-side down on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes until tender.
5. Scrape the flesh with a fork to create strands.
6. Mix in beans, corn, tomatoes, and salsa.
7. Top with cheese if desired. Enjoy!

4) Lentil Soup with Whole Grain Pita

Lentil soup is a warm and filling dish that’s easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Pair it with whole grain pita for a healthy and satisfying option.

You’ll enjoy the flavors of fresh vegetables and spices that come together in this recipe. Lentils are full of protein and fiber, making this soup not only tasty but also nutritious.

To serve, you can warm the whole grain pita in the oven for a bit. This adds a nice crunch to your meal and makes each bite even better.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Whole grain pita

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until soft.
3. Stir in carrots and cumin, then cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25-30 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve with warmed whole grain pita.

5) Mushroom Stroganoff over Quinoa

Mushroom stroganoff over quinoa is a comforting and delicious dish. It’s perfect for a quick dinner and is vegetarian-friendly. The creamy sauce blends beautifully with the mushrooms, making every bite satisfying.

Start by cooking quinoa according to package instructions. While the quinoa cooks, you can prepare the stroganoff.

Sauté fresh mushrooms in a pan with a little oil until they are tender. Add garlic and onions for extra flavor.

Pour in vegetable broth and a splash of white wine. Stir in some cream or a dairy-free alternative for a rich texture. Season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.

Once everything is ready, serve the stroganoff over the fluffy quinoa. Enjoy this hearty dish that’s full of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup cream or dairy-free alternative
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth until fluffy.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
5. Stir in cream and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve stroganoff over quinoa.

6) Coconut & Squash Dhansak

Coconut & Squash Dhansak is a quick and easy vegetarian curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It features butternut squash, coconut milk, lentils, and spinach.

The creamy coconut milk adds a rich flavor while the lentils bring in protein. You can enjoy this dish with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 500g butternut squash, peeled and chopped
• 100g diced onions
• 4 heaped tbsp lentils
• 400ml coconut milk
• 100g spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the butternut squash and lentils.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Cook for about 20 minutes until the squash is tender.
6. Add the spinach and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm with rice or naan.

7) Falafel Burgers

Falafel burgers are a tasty and healthy option for dinner. They are made from chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices. You can easily prepare them in one bowl.

To get started, you’ll need some simple ingredients. These burgers are great for a quick meal or to impress friends at a gathering.

You can serve your falafel burgers with yogurt dill sauce. This adds a nice flavor and creaminess.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 1/4 cup parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon flour

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas.
3. Add all the ingredients and mix well.
4. Form into patties.
5. Place the patties on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

8) Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet

This Marry Me White Bean & Spinach Skillet is a tasty and easy vegetarian dinner. You can whip it up in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Start by sautéing garlic and onions in a skillet. Add in rinsed white beans and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts. The creamy texture makes it comforting and satisfying.

For extra flavor, you can add herbs or spices of your choice. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup cream (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté garlic and onion until soft.
3. Stir in the white beans and vegetable broth. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Optional: Stir in cream and season with salt and pepper before serving.

9) Creamy Courgette Lasagne

Creamy courgette lasagne is a delightful vegetarian dish that’s both comforting and delicious. It combines layers of courgette, creamy cheese, and rich tomato sauce.

You can use fresh or grilled courgettes. The creaminess comes from ricotta and mascarpone cheese, giving it a lovely texture. Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor.

This lasagne is perfect for any dinner occasion. It’s easy to prepare and can impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 large courgettes (zucchini)
• 250g (about 9 oz) ricotta cheese
• 250g (about 9 oz) mascarpone cheese
• 400g (about 14 oz) tomato sauce
• Fresh basil leaves
• Lasagne sheets
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Slice the courgettes into thin ribbons.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, mascarpone, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread a layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish.
5. Layer lasagne sheets, courgette, and cheese mixture.
6. Repeat layers until ingredients are used.
7. Top with tomato sauce and basil leaves.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

10) Spicy Kale and Bean Soup

This Spicy Kale and Bean Soup is a warm and comforting dish. It’s packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to make!

Start by heating olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, garlic, and some chili flakes for a kick.

Next, include chopped kale and rinsed beans. Pour in vegetable broth and let it simmer. This helps the flavors blend together nicely.

Finish with your favorite spices. You can adjust the heat to your liking. Serve it hot for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 2 cans white beans, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft.

3. Stir in chili flakes.

4. Add chopped kale and rinsed beans.

5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

7. Season with salt and pepper before serving.