10 Best Dinner for a Vegan

10 Best Dinner for a Vegan

Vegans avoid all animal products, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy. They also avoid products that contain animal-derived ingredients, such as gelatin, casein, and whey.

Here are 10 of the best vegan dinners:

 

1. 1.  Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cold winter night. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and iron.

To make lentil soup, simply combine lentils, broth, vegetables, and spices in a pot and simmer until the lentils are tender. You can also add tofu, tempeh, or other vegan protein sources to the soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• Optional: coconut milk for added creaminess

Process:

• Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Drain and set aside.
• In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
• Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Stir in the ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, and ground coriander. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the spices become aromatic.

 

2. 2. Tofu Scramble

Tofu scramble is a quick and easy vegan breakfast that is perfect for busy mornings. It is also a good source of protein and fiber.

To make a tofu scramble, simply crumble tofu into a skillet and cook with vegetables and spices until heated through. You can also add vegan cheese to the scramble for a richer flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and drained
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: spinach or kale, chopped
• Optional: vegan cheese, grated

Instructions:

• Press the tofu to remove excess water. You can use a tofu press or wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet) on top for about 20-30 minutes. Once pressed, crumble the tofu into small, bite-sized pieces with your hands.
• In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the diced bell pepper and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp, about 4-5 minutes. If you’re using spinach or kale, add it now and cook until wilted.

 

3. 3. Vegan Pasta

Vegan pasta is a versatile and delicious meal that can be made with a variety of different ingredients. You can use any type of pasta that you like and any type of vegan sauce.

To make vegan pasta, simply cook the pasta according to the package directions. Then, heat up your favorite vegan sauce and toss it with the pasta. You can also add vegetables, protein sources, and vegan cheese to your pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta
• 1 jar vegan tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Add the vegan tomato sauce to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
8. Toss the pasta and sauce together to coat.
9. Sprinkle the parsley over the pasta and serve.

 

4. 4. Vegan Tacos

Vegan tacos are a fun and flavorful meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. They are also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan tacos, simply fill your favorite taco shells with vegan taco meat, vegetables, and vegan toppings. You can also serve the tacos with vegan salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.

Ingredients:

• 1 package vegan taco meat
• 1 package corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup chopped lettuce
• 1/2 cup chopped tomato
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup guacamole
• Sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the vegan taco meat according to package directions.
2. Warm the tortillas according to package directions.
3. To assemble the tacos, place a tortilla on a plate and top with vegan taco meat, lettuce, tomato, onion, cilantro, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream (if using).
4. Fold the tortilla in half and serve.

 

5. 5. Vegan Burgers

Vegan burgers are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a summer barbecue. They are also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan burgers, simply combine vegan burger patties with your favorite toppings and condiments. You can also serve the burgers on buns with vegan cheese and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked black beans
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a food processor, combine the black beans, brown rice, onion, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into four patties.
4. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are heated through and cooked through.
6. Serve the patties on buns with your favorite toppings, such as ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, and onion.

 

6. 6. Vegan Pizza

Vegan pizza is a classic comfort food that is perfect for a movie night or a party. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan pizza, simply spread vegan pizza sauce over a pizza crust and top it with your favorite vegan toppings. You can also add vegan cheese to the pizza for a richer flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza crust (pre-made or homemade)
• 1 jar vegan tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded vegan mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped vegetables (such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, etc.)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Spread the vegan tomato sauce over the pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle the vegan mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
4. Top with your favorite vegetables.
5. Sprinkle the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over the pizza.
6. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

 

7. 7. Vegan Chili

Vegan chili is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan chili, simply combine beans, vegetables, and spices in a pot and simmer until the vegetables are tender. You can also add tofu, tempeh, or other vegan protein sources to the chili.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, and vegetable broth to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chili has thickened.
6. Stir in the cilantro and serve.

 

8. 8. Vegan Pad Thai

Vegan pad Thai is a quick and easy noodle dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan pad Thai, simply stir-fry rice noodles with vegetables, tofu, and vegan pad Thai sauce. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of peanuts to your pad Thai dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound rice noodles
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup chopped tofu
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice noodles according to package directions.
2. While the noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the jalapeño pepper (if using) and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Add the tamarind paste, soy sauce, water, maple syrup, lime juice, ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Add the tofu and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
8. Drain the noodles and add them to the skillet.
9. Toss to combine and cook until heated through, about 1 minute.
10. Remove from the heat and stir in the bean sprouts, cilantro, and peanuts.
11. Serve immediately.

 

9. 9. Vegan Curry

Vegan curry is a flavorful and exotic dish that is perfect for a special occasion. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan curry, simply simmer vegetables and tofu in a curry sauce. You can also add coconut milk to the curry for a richer flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes more.
4. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Add the coconut milk, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and cilantro to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the curry has thickened.
7. Serve over rice or quinoa.

 

10. 10. Vegan Stir-Fry

Vegan stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight. It is also a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

To make vegan stir-fry, simply stir-fry vegetables and tofu with your favorite stir-fry sauce. You can also add rice or noodles to your stir-fry dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes more.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, and black pepper.
5. Add the sauce to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Stir in the cilantro and serve immediately.

 

Conclusion:

These ten vegan dinner ideas showcase the incredible variety and creativity that a plant-based diet can offer. From comforting curries to refreshing Buddha bowls and savory burgers, there’s a vegan dinner option to suit every craving and occasion.

Also Read: Quick Vegan Recipes