40 Plant Based Dinner Recipes

Vegan or not, healthy meals are a breeze - Try one of my favorite 40 Plant-Based Dinner Recipes for veggie-forward and meat-free ideas.

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Whether you’re vegan or just looking for healthier dinner options, add a little pizzazz to your meals with these 40 Plant-Based Dinner Recipe ideas guaranteed to satisfy you. Packed with protein, easy to make, and delicious – try some of these out in your weekly meal rotation; you won’t be disappointed! Whether it’s hearty meat-free meatballs, crazy good curries, or you’re favorite comfort foods, you’ll find a cornucopia of healthy weeknight meals below!

Table of Contents

  1. WHat does plant based mean?
  2. Tips for plant based meals
  3. HOw to include plant based recipes in your meal plan
  4. best plant based dinner recipes
  5. Plant based tacos and burgers
  6. Grain and pasta salads
  7. frequently asked questions
  8. full list of recipes

A plant-based diet doesn’t have to restrict you from enjoying all your treasured recipes. Sometimes, it’s a simple exchange of ingredients to remove meat from your diet and replace it with nutritious and diet-friendly foods. Let’s start you on the right path to more comforting, satisfying, and easy-to-make plant and vegetable-based dinners the whole family will love.

WHat does plant based mean?

Plant-based foods revolve around vegetables, whole grains, legumes, seeds, and nuts. They typically eliminate processed ingredients and animal products, including meat, eggs, and dairy.

Swap out a few meals or side dishes a week with plant-forward dinner recipes to balance a whole-food diet with your family’s favorites.

Tips for plant based meals

  • Avoid overly processed ingredients. Many plant based and meat free ingredients can be loaded with salt and additives. Seek out whole plant foods that are as close to their natural form as possible. Don’t worry – you can keep your diet clean using these less processed ingredients while still fully satisfying your cravings! 
  • Go green and leafy! Try different kinds of green leafy vegetables such as kale, collards, Swiss chard, spinach, and other greens. They are so versatile and add great texture and earthy flavors to your recipes. You can grill, steam, grill, braise, or stir-fry them to keep their nutrients and flavor.
  • Give a plant based makeover to some of your family favorites. For example, replace the meat in your favorite chili with beans or lentils, use chickpeas for a hearty stew or filling grain bowl, or make a nutrient-dense vegetable the star of the show, like cauliflower steaks or eggplant lasagna!
  • Utilize starches in your recipes. Whole grains, potatoes, pumpkin, legumes, and other foods high in starch provide energy and keep you full longer. Make sure you have those within reach to bulk up meals, if needed.

HOw to include plant based recipes in your meal plan

  • Go meatless on Mondays. Pick one day a week to make vegan-prepared meals if you’re not completely plant based and testing the waters. Pick something you’re familiar with that exchanges the meat for veggies, such as a shepherd’s pie with dairy free mashed potatoes and a hearty vegetable filling.
  • Prep for the week. If you’re feeling uninspired or worried you won’t stick to vegan recipes, gather the recipes you’re interested in making and prep for them all in one day when you’re feeling motivated. It will put you ahead of the week and make dinners come together quicker.
  • Make a hearty salad. Start with a nutrient dense lettuce, add some grains, a few vegetables, and a dressing. There’s so many possibilities for building a plant based dinner around a salad! Try something festive, like a hummus bowl with Mediterranean flavors like olives, red onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes.

best plant based dinner recipes

It’s easy to swap out dinners for plant-based recipes, and here’s a list of ideas to make it easier. Choose from easy plant-based dinner ideas, pasta dishes, and Lebanese-inspired recipes to soups, stews, burgers, and tacos. You’ll never have to sacrifice your favorite dinners when you have complimentary healthy plant based meals on your side!

Easy plant based dinner ideas

  • Crispy Tofu Bites – Add these easy air fryer tofu bites to a salad or pasta, or combine them with some tasty side dishes for a healthy and flavorful meal.
  • Cauliflower Chickpea Curry – Easy to make and mild in spice, this curry is a well balanced and healthy meal that’s perfect for the whole family.
  • Ratatouille – This classic French recipe is loaded with veggies for a hearty dish that is wonderfully with fresh flavors and nutrient-dense ingredients.
  • Meatless Meatballs – Made with chickpeas and walnuts, these meat-free meatballs are full of flavor and delicious with marinara sauce over spaghetti for a comfort meal the whole family will enjoy.
  • Curried Red Lentils – This curry recipe has a creamy tomato-based sauce with sweet potatoes and aromatic Indian spices. If you’ve never tried a curry recipe before, this one is a great one to start with!
  • Stir Fried Cauliflower Rice – Quick to make and loaded with flavor, this veggie fried rice is a low-carb, gluten-free twist on the classic! Top with baked tofu or crispy chickpeas for a full dinner.
  • Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers – Made with plant-based protein, including quinoa and beans, for a healthy, hearty, and delicious meal that vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike will love!
  • Lentils Shepherd’s Pie – If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly meal, you’ll love this meatless version of the classic comfort dish. Mushrooms and quinoa as the base, and then loaded with colorful vegetables that cook in a rich gravy.
4 image collage of easy plant based recipes.

Plant based pasta recipes

  • Pumpkin Pesto Kale Pasta – Made with pumpkin seeds and kale, this magical green sauce is fresh, zesty, and flavorful. Substitute a vegan parmesan for a plant based dinner.
  • Creamy Bell Pepper Pasta – Pasta made with only 6 ingredients. It’s vegan, simple-to-make & customizable with any protein for an easy weeknight meal.
  • Hummus Pasta – A healthy, creamy Mediterranean-inspired pasta recipe! It’s all made in one pot and ready in 15 minutes – perfect for a weeknight meal!
  • Cauliflower Alfredo – Creamy, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free homemade Alfredo sauce with less fat & less calories as compared with the original recipe. Toss in some broccoli for more veggies.
  • Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes – Quick, easy, and absolutely amazing, this Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is one of my favorite easy weeknight meals and a great way to use up a lot of tomatoes! 
  • Creamy Vegan Cashew Tomato Pasta – Lightly caramelized onions and garlic, with just a hint of spice and bright tomatoes, create this beautifully silky cashew pasta sauce.
  • Lemon Pasta – This simple but delicious lemon spaghetti is the perfect weeknight meal when you are short on time. So easy to make, but it results in such a fresh and vibrant dish.
4 image collage of vegan pasta recipes.

Plant based soups & stews

  • Chunky Vegetable Stew – This easy Vegetable Stew is so comforting and hearty perfect for a weeknight dinner. Each bite is chock full of chunky veggies in a robust savory broth.
  • Eggplant Chickpea Stew – Middle Eastern Eggplant Stew is a rich dish with chickpeas in a zingy harissa tomato base gravy. It’s quick, easy, and ready in just 30 minutes!
  • Sweet Potato Chili – This sweet potato chili recipe is packed full of flavor and healthy ingredients. Plus, it’s grain-free, dairy-free, and fuss-free – a perfect bowl of hearty goodness.
  • Roasted Butternut Squash Soup – Healthy, vegan, and so comforting, this silky smooth butternut squash soup is easy to make, and the coconut milk adds an additional depth of flavor and creaminess.
  • Zucchini Orzo Soup – This Orzo soup recipe is full of veggies, including zucchini, carrots, and tomatoes. It’s made with all vegetarian ingredients – perfect for meatless Monday!
  • Chickpea Noodle Soup – This Vegetarian Chickpea Noodle Soup is made with a few items and is full of plant-based protein to keep you feeling full for hours – perfect even as a meal!
  • Vegetarian Tortilla Soup – Quick to prep and full of bright and zesty Mexican flavors, this tortilla soup is made with quinoa to really fill you up.
  • Vegan Corn Chowder – Vegan Corn Chowder is an easy soup recipe made with fresh or frozen corn, potatoes and light coconut milk, then blended to create a rich and creamy texture!
4 image collage of plant based soups and stews.

Lebanese Plant based vegetable sides

  • Vegan Cauliflower Pita Sandwiches – Filled with roasted cauliflower generously seasoned with bright Mediterranean spices, fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tahini!
  • Lebanese Mujadara – Mujadara is a Middle Eastern lentils and rice recipe made w caramelized and pan-fried onions. You only need three ingredients to make this simple vegan, protein-rich meal!
  • Cassava Stew (Yabeh) – This delicious West African yabeh is a cassava, and sweet potato spiced stew that’s hearty, filling, and easy to make. Vegan and gluten-free.
  • Lebanese Crispy Falafel – This authentic crispy Lebanese falafel recipe is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with chickpeas, herbs, onion & spices – vegan, gluten-free, and protein-rich.
  • Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup – Learn how to make this authentic healthy Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup in 30 minutes! Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s vegan, hearty, and so filling!
4 image collage of vegan Lebanese recipes.

Plant based tacos and burgers

  • Tofu Tacos – Treat your family to these delicious vegan tofu tacos. Served with a crunchy cabbage slaw, they are quick and easy to make for a meat-free dinner option!
  • Walnut Tacos – This Vegan Walnut Taco is a great alternative to classic ground beef tacos. Quick and easy to make, these walnut tacos are a delicious and filling meatless recipe!
  • Tempeh Tacos – Hello, taco Tuesday! These tempeh tacos are so delicious and easy to make, and they are a great plant based alternative to fish and meat. Perfectly seasoned, they are ready to serve in about 20 minutes. Ideal for your next taco Tuesday!
  • Quinoa Burger – A meatless option that even meat-lovers will crave! It’s loaded with plant-based goodness like quinoa and black beans, and each patty has about 10 grams of protein and only 200 calories.
  • Chickpea Burger – Get ready for one delicious meat-free burger! This tasty vegetarian chickpea burger is filled with Mediterranean flavor, and it is so simple and easy to make.
4 image collage of meat-free burgers and tacos.

Grain and pasta salads

  • Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl – This Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl is loaded with roasted vegetables and full of nutrients, fiber, and protein! Gluten-free and vegan!
  • Quinoa Buddha Bowl – This vegan Quinoa Buddha Bowl is filled with nourishing roasted sweet potatoes, kale, crispy chickpeas, avocado, and a tangy tahini dressing!
  • Mediterranean Hummus Bowl – Easy and quick to make, a Mediterranean hummus bowl is a great healthy, and filling meal. Made with quinoa, fresh vegetables, and homemade hummus.
  • Southwest Quinoa Salad – Made with roasted sweet potatoes, corn, and black beans, this Southwest quinoa salad is vegan and gluten-free, and hearty with 28g of protein per serving!
  • Chickpea Shawarma – Oven-roasted chickpea shawarma is dairy-free and full of plant-based protein. Prepped and roasted in one pan, it’s an easy weeknight dinner!
  • Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad – This avocado pasta salad recipe is fun, healthy, and tasty – the perfect salad to make this summer! Crunchy corn, creamy avocado, and juicy tomatoes – yum!
  • Asian Noodle Salad – This bright and colorful Asian Noodle Salad is a gluten-free vegan meal that’s filled with fresh vegetables and tossed in a spicy creamy nutty dressing.
4 image collage of grain bowls and pasta salads.

frequently asked questions

Can I eat rice and pasta on a plant based diet?

Yes! Whole grain rice or pasta is best, but any will work to include in a plant based diet.

What are the best plant-based foods to eat with dinner?

Legumes, whole grains, and vegetables will cover most areas for dinner. You can include tofu, seeds, nuts, plant based milks, and so much more.

Can you eat cheese as a vegan/plant based eater?

A vegan diet excludes animal products, including dairy. Luckily, there are some vegan cheese options that include typical cheeses like mozzarella, feta, cheddar, and parmesan, which are available as non-dairy products.

Bowl of Vegetable stew with spoon dipped in, garnished with parsley, and another bowl and bread nearby.

Eat healthy plant-based dinner recipes without sacrificing meals that fill you up and satisfy the tastebuds. Try swapping out one dinner a week for vegan prepared meals that hit all the marks, and your family will love them!

full list of recipes

Check out the picture cards for all the recipes listed above. You can click on any of the recipes cards to take you directly to those recipes.

Large serving platter with tofu along with small dipping bowl for spicy mayo with lime wedges nearby and garnished with sliced scallions.
Entree

Air Fryer Tofu

This Air fryer tofu is beyond flavorful, with a quick marinade and super crispy coating. It's easy to make and ready to eat in under 20 minutes!
 
50 minutes
5 from 34 votes
Cauliflower fried rice served in a white bowl and topped with green onions
Side

Cauliflower Fried Rice

This fried cauliflower rice is a great healthy vegetable side dish. Quick to make and loaded with flavor, it's a low carb, gluten-free twist on the classic!
 
25 minutes
5 from 52 votes
Final ratatouille recipe in a bowl with parsley
Main Course

Ratatouille Recipe

This Ratatouille Recipe is vegan, gluten-free & Whole30 compliant. It's a classic end-of-summer French meal made super simply in one pot & loaded w/ veggies
 
30 minutes
5 from 22 votes
Cutting into one of the vegan served over spaghetti
Main Course

Vegan Meatballs

These vegan meatballs are a delicious meat-free alternative to one of your favorite comfort foods. Quick and easy to make and perfect for meal prep and freezer meals.
 
45 minutes
5 from 15 votes
Close up shot of the final red lentil curry recipe plated in white bowls
Entree

Red Lentil Curry

Red lentil curry is an easy and hearty Indian-inspired vegan recipe that's made with lentils, sweet potatoes, aromatic Indian spices & broth!
 
30 minutes
5 from 112 votes
Final shot of the cauliflower curry served with rice on top
Main Course

Cauliflower Curry

This vegan Cauliflower Curry is the ultimate comfort dish bursting with robust Indian spices and sweetened with coconut milk! It’s a healthy easy dinner idea.
 
50 minutes
5 from 681 votes
White baking dish with quinoa stuffed peppers
Main Course

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

These Vegetarian Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are loaded with lots of plant-based protein and gluten-free quinoa and topped with melted cheese- hearty and healthy
 
55 minutes
5 from 570 votes
Small plate of the vegetarian shepards pie after being served
Main Course

Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie is a meatless take on a classic comfort dish. Swap the meat for mushrooms and quinoa & it all gets smothered in a rich gravy sauce
 
1 hour 5 minutes
5 from 428 votes
Pumpkin seed pesto pasta topped with kalamata olives
Main Course

Pumpkin Seed Pesto Pasta

This Pumpkin Seed Pesto is a magical green sauce that's fresh, zesty and flavorful. The best sauce for your pasta, pizza or anything Italian!
 
5 minutes
5 from 31 votes
Creamy roasted red pepper pasta.
Main Course

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta recipe is made with only 6 ingredients. It’s vegan, simple-to-make & customizable with any protein for an easy weeknight meal
 
25 minutes
5 from 757 votes
Final plated dish of the hummus pasta topped with lemon slices, basil and crushed garlic
Entree

Hummus Pasta

This creamy vegan Hummus Pasta is a healthy Mediterranean inspired recipe! It’s all made in one pot and ready in 15 minutes – perfect for a weeknight meal!
 
15 minutes
5 from 504 votes
Final cauliflower alfredo tossed with fettuccine in a large pan
Entree

Cauliflower Alfredo

Cauliflower Alfredo sauce is a creamy vegan, gluten-free, nut-free homemade Alfredo sauce with less fat & less calories as compared with the original recipe
 
18 minutes
5 from 365 votes
Pasta with cherry tomatoes.
Main Course

Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

This Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a quick and easy dish that comes together in 15 minutes. It's an amazing pasta with cherry tomatoes garlic and basil.
 
15 minutes
5 from 611 votes
Fork taking bite of vegan creamy tomato pasta from bowl
Main Course

Creamy Vegan Cashew Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Vegan Tomato Pasta is made with a cashew cream sauce. It's the secret ingredient that adds a creamy texture and lighter color!
 
30 minutes
5 from 166 votes
Lemon pasta.
Main Course, Pastas

Lemon Pasta

Ready to serve in 20 minutes, this fresh and vibrant lemon pasta is simple to make with just a few basic ingredients and a burst of flavor!
 
20 minutes
5 from 2575 votes
Bowl of Vegetable stew with spoon dipped in, garnished with parsley, and another bowl and bread nearby.
Soup

Vegetable Stew

This easy Vegetable Stew is so comforting and hearty perfect for a weeknight dinner. Each bite is chock full of chunky veggies in a robust savory broth.
 
1 hour 20 minutes
5 from 222 votes
Stew with chickpeas, tomatoes, and eggplant in pot garnished with parsley with serving spoon dipped inside pot.
Dinner, Entree, Main Dish

Eggplant Stew

This Middle Eastern Eggplant Stew is a robust dish with chickpeas in a zingy harissa tomato base. It's quick, easy, and ready in just 30 minutes!
 
30 minutes
5 from 35 votes
Dinner, Entree, Main Course, Soup

Sweet Potato Chili

This Sweet Potato Chili is basic in ingredients but sophisticated in flavor – it has a sweet smoky flavor & packed with a healthy dose of protein and fiber!
 
45 minutes
5 from 100 votes
Roasted butternut squash soup.
Soup

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

This roasted butternut squash soup is healthy, vegan, and comforting! The coconut milk adds an additional depth of flavor and creaminess.
 
1 hour 5 minutes
5 from 172 votes
2 bowls of soup with spoon and fresh torn basil.
Soup

Zucchini Orzo Soup

This Orzo soup recipe is full of veggies, including zucchini, carrots, and tomatoes. It's made with all vegetarian ingredients – perfect for meatless Monday!
 
55 minutes
5 from 98 votes
Large bowl of vegetarian chickpea noodle soup on white background
Soup

Chickpea Noodle Soup

This Vegetarian Chickpea Noodle Soup is made with a few items and full of plant-based protein to keep you feeling full for hours – perfect even as a meal!
 
45 minutes
5 from 313 votes
Close up shot of vegetarian tortilla soup with all the toppings
Soup

Vegetarian Tortilla Soup

This Vegetarian Tortilla Soup is just as hearty & flavorful as the chicken version. It’s spicy and full of plant-based protein like quinoa & black beans!
 
1 hour 15 minutes
5 from 43 votes
Two bowls of vegan corn chowder with spoons inside
Soup

Vegan Corn Chowder

Vegan Corn Chowder is an easy soup recipe made with fresh or frozen corn, potatoes and light coconut milk, then blended to create a rich and creamy texture!
 
45 minutes
5 from 19 votes
Plate of three pitas stuffed with roasted cauliflower served with lemon wedges.
Main Course

Vegan Cauliflower Pita Sandwiches

Vegan pita sandwich filled with roasted cauliflower generously seasoned with bright Mediterranean spices, fresh tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tahini!
 
45 minutes
5 from 36 votes
Mujadara topped with crispy onions on a large platter.
Entree

Lebanese Mujadara

Mujadara is a Middle Eastern lentils and rice recipe with crispy caramelized onions. Just 3 ingredients make a easy vegan, protein-rich meal!
 
45 minutes
5 from 1656 votes
West African yabeh recipe
Main Course

Yabeh

This delicious West African yabeh is a cassava and sweet potato spiced stew that's hearty, filling and easy to make. Vegan and gluten-free.
 
45 minutes
5 from 31 votes
Falafel patties with falafel sauce, pita and tomatoes
Entree

Lebanese Crispy Falafel Recipe

This authentic crispy Lebanese falafel recipe is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with chickpeas, herbs, onion & spices – vegan, gluten-free, protein-rich
 
30 minutes
5 from 264 votes
Pot of crushed lentil soup garnished with fresh parsley with lemon wedges nearby.
Soup

Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup

Learn how to make this authentic healthy Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup in 30 minutes! Made with simple pantry ingredients, it's vegan, hearty and so filling!
 
45 minutes
5 from 247 votes
Tofu tacos on a plate topped with coleslaw with limes
Main Course

Tofu Tacos

Treat your family to these delicious vegan tofu tacos. Served with a crunchy cabbage slaw, they are quick and easy to make for a meat-free dinner option!
 
20 minutes
5 from 35 votes
Walnut tacos served on a plate
Main Course

Walnut Tacos

This Vegan Walnut Taco Meat is a great alternative to ground beef. Quick and easy to make, these walnut tacos are a delicious and filling meatless recipe!
 
20 minutes
5 from 9 votes
Tempeh tacos on a white plate topped with avocado and cashew cream
Main Course

Tempeh Tacos

Full of flavor and quick to make, these tempeh tacos are a delicious meat-free alternative. Load them with your favorite toppings for a vegan taco that the whole family will love.
 
20 minutes
5 from 18 votes
One quinoa burger topped with tomatoes and onions with sweet potato fries in background
Main Course

Quinoa Burger

This vegan quinoa burger recipe is easy, healthy and packed with protein. There's no food processor required and it comes together in one bowl
 
20 minutes
5 from 393 votes
Chickpea burger - vegetarian and served with fries
Main Course

Chickpea Burger

This healthy veggie chickpea burger recipe is so simple to make and packed with Mediterranean ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and feta.
 
20 minutes
5 from 499 votes
Roasted vegetable quinoa bowls topped with tahini sauce
Entree

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl

This Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Bowl is loaded with roasted vegetables and full of nutrients, fiber, and protein! Gluten free and vegan!
 
5 from 76 votes
Quinoa buddha bowl made with chickpeas and sweet potatoes and topped with avocado
Entree

Quinoa Buddha Bowl

This vegan Quinoa Buddha Bowl is filled with nourishing roasted sweet potatoes, kale, crispy chickpeas, avocado and a tangy tahini dressing!
 
40 minutes
5 from 194 votes
Close up of large full hummus bowl with cucumbers, tomatoes, quinoa, chickpeas, spinach, onions and feta cheese
Main Course

Mediterranean Hummus Bowl

Easy and quick to make, a Mediterranean hummus bowl is a great healthy and filling meal. Made with quinoa, fresh vegetables and homemade hummus.
 
15 minutes
5 from 576 votes
Southwest quinoa salad in a large bowl
Salad

Southwest Quinoa Salad

Made with roasted sweet potatoes, corn and black beans, this Southwest quinoa salad is vegan and gluten free, and hearty with 28g protein/ser
 
35 minutes
5 from 48 votes
Chickpea Shawarma bowl with veggies, tahini sauce and pickles
Main Course

Oven Roasted Chickpea Shawarma

Oven roasted chickpea shawarma is dairy-free and full of plant-based protein. Prepped and roasted in one pan, it's an easy weeknight dinner!
 
45 minutes
5 from 24 votes
Serving spoon of the avocado pasta salad
Salads

Avocado Pasta Salad

This Avocado Pasta Salad recipe is a healthy summer salad that's perfect for picnics and potlucks. It has a rich creamy avocado sauce with tomatoes and corn
 
23 minutes
5 from 37 votes
Asian Noodle Salad being served
Main Course

Asian Noodle Salad

This bright and colorful Asian Noodle Salad is a gluten-free vegan meal that’s filled with fresh vegetables and tossed in a spicy creamy nutty dressing
 
25 minutes
5 from 173 votes

For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: Easy Pantry Meals, Recipes with Canned Beans, 30 Recipes Made Light with Zucchini, and Non Boring Salad Recipes.

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