50 Plant Based Dinner Recipes

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Meatless Monday is a thing at my house, and whenever I’m looking for a plant-based dinner, this is the list I turn to. These 50 plant-based dinner recipes are easy to make, and full of protein—so you’re not left wondering, but will this actually fill me up?

Tips for Cooking Plant Based Dinner Recipes

1. Avoid processed ingredients. I try to avoid overly processed ingredients since many plant-based and meat-free options can be packed with salt and additives. Instead, I look for whole plant foods that are as close to their natural form as possible. And don’t worry – sticking to less processed ingredients will still let you satisfy all your cravings!
2. Go green and leafy! I love adding leafy greens to my meals! Kale, collards, Swiss chard – you name it! They’re so versatile and bring great texture and earthy flavor to any dish. You can grill, steam, braise, or stir-fry them to keep their nutrients and flavor.
3. Makeover a family favorite. I love a good challenge, especially when it comes to giving family favorites a plant-based twist! Swapping meat for beans or lentils in chili, using chickpeas in a hearty stew, or loading up a tried-and-tested recipe with lots of veggies.
4. Stock up on starches. I always make sure to have lots of different starches on hand – they’re the secret to making plant-based meals hearty and satisfying, after all! Whole grains like quinoa or bulgur, legumes like cooked beans and chickpeas, and starchy vegetables like potatoes and squash provide lasting energy and help to bulk up any meal.
5. Get creative with spices. Spices are my secret to making plant based meal ideas come alive. My favorites are Cajun seasoning, taco seasoning for Mexican-inspired dishes, and a dash of 7-spice or ranch seasoning to mix things up. A good spice blend can turn any dish into something super flavorful, so I always have a few favorites on hand!

How to Include Plant-Based Dinner Recipes in Your Meal Plan

• Go meatless on Mondays. Choose one day a week to try vegan meals, especially if you’re not fully plant-based and just testing the water. 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. Gather vegan recipes that catch your interest and set aside a day to prep everything when you’re feeling motivated. This will give you a head start and make dinners come together much quicker throughout the week.
• Make a hearty salad. Start with a bed of romaine lettuce or mixed greens, then add grains, veggies, and a zesty vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless for building a plant-based dinner around a salad! Try something festive, like a hummus bowl with Mediterranean flavors like Kalamata olives, red onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes.
• Plan for versatile ingredients. Batch cook grains, beans, and roasted vegetables and plan to include these staples in multiple meals throughout the week. And have fun mixing and matching for variety!

50 Plant-Based Dinner Recipes

Eating more healthy plant based meals doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. From veggie-loaded dinners and vegan prepared meals with grains and pastas, these recipes are packed with flavor and zero animal products. Whether you’re looking for vegetable based dinners or meatless soups, these plant based dinner ideas prove that vegan eating can be both easy and tasty!

Healthy Plant Based Meals

These plant based meal ideas made the cut because they’ve got that extra touch – simple and nourishing yet so good!

Vegetable Based Dinners

Plant Based Soups & Stews

There’s nothing like a bowl of soup to warm you up. I love how comforting and hearty they are, packed with veggies, beans, and tons of flavor! Perfect for meal prepping or a cozy night in, these plant based dinner ideas are always a hit in my kitchen!

Plant Based Meal Ideas with Grains

Vegan prepared meals with hearty grains are my go-to when I want something filling and nourishing. Quinoa, bulgur, rice, or other grains – they are so versatile and pair perfectly with veggies and beans, or a simple dressing.

Plant Based Dinner Ideas with Pasta

I love healthy plant based meals with pasta because they’re the ultimate comfort food – hearty, satisfying, and totally meatless! Whether I’m craving a creamy sauce (dairy-free, of course!) or a fresh veggie-loaded dish, pasta always hits the spot without any meat.

Plant Based Tacos & Sandwiches

I’m all about plant based dinner ideas that work in every way. These tacos and sandwiches are just that. They are quick, flavorful, and perfect for on the go meals or a sit down weeknight dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: Easy Pantry Meals, Recipes with Canned Beans, Recipes that Use Vegetable Broth, and Non Boring Salad Recipes.

If you found this recipe roundup for Plant Based Dinner Recipes helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipes! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots, share it on Instagram so we can repost on Stories!