10 Quick & Easy Vegan Recipes: Plant-Based Dinners for Busy Weeknights

In today’s busy world, finding quick, healthy, and satisfying meals can feel like a juggling act. When you’re sticking to a plant-based diet, the challenge might seem even greater, especially on weeknights. But here’s the good news: plant-based meals can be fast, delicious, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Keep reading for some quick, easy vegan recipes.

Beyond the convenience and taste, switching to a plant-based diet can have a significant positive impact on the environment. It’s a choice that you can feel proud of, knowing that each plant-based meal contributes to a healthier planet. Studies have shown that plant-based diets contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced water usage, and decreased deforestation compared to diets heavy in animal products. By incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine, you’re not only prioritizing your health but also playing a part in creating a more sustainable future. Learn more about the environmental benefits of plant-based eating.

As someone who has spent countless weeknights experimenting in the kitchen, I’ve put together a list of 10 of my go-to recipes that are perfect for those hectic evenings. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, these recipes will make dinner stress-free and enjoyable.

10 Quick & Easy Vegan Recipes

1. One-Pot Lentil and Vegetable Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of soup, and this lentil and vegetable version is a weeknight lifesaver. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and tons of flavor. All you need is one pot and about 30 minutes to make this meal happen.

Ingredients: Lentils, carrots, celery, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, and a medley of spices like cumin and smoked paprika.

Recipe & Photo Source: Minimalist Baker’s 1-Pot Lentil Soup

2. Lemon Chickpea Orzo Soup

This dish is my go-to when I’m craving something savory and satisfying but don’t have much time. Inspired by the Greek avgolemono soup, but turned vegan. Chickpeas provide a hearty base, add lemon, orzo dill and fresh baby greens for a delicious and satisfying meal. With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this makes a perfect weeknight meal.

Recipe & Photo Source: Simple Veganista’s Lemon Chickpea Orzo Soup

3. Spaghetti with Garlic and Olive Oil (Aglio e Olio)

This Italian classic is naturally plant-based and requires minimal ingredients. You can elevate it by adding roasted cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Ingredients: Spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, parsley.

Recipe & Photo Source: Gimme Some Oven’s Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Taco nights are a staple in my home, and these sweet potato and black bean tacos are always a hit. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, spiced black beans, and creamy avocado is unbeatable.

Steps:

1. Roast cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, cumin, and chili powder.

2. Sauté black beans with onions, garlic, and a splash of lime juice.

3. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa or vegan sour cream.

Recipe & Photo Source: Cookie and Kate’s Sweet Potato Tacos

5. Rainbow Bowls with Almond Ginger Dressing

This favorite is surprisingly easy to make at home. With plenty of veggies, it’s a flavorful and healthy option. Soak your noodles, chop your ingredients, toss in dressing and dig in! *Tip: Use a food processor to cut your time down even more.

Ingredients: Rice noodles, carrots, bell peppers, purple cabbage, green onions, cherry tomatoes,edamame, greens and a homemade ginger dressing.

Recipe & Photo Source: Love & Lemons’ Rainbow Bowls with Almond Ginger Dressing

6. Creamy Mushroom Smashed Avocado Toast

When I’m really short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver. Avocado pairs perfectly with filling, creamy mushrooms for a quick and nutritious meal in just 25 minutes.

Recipe & Photo Source: Rainbow Plant Life’s Creamy Mushroom Smashed Avocado Toast

7. Vegan Quinoa Fried Rice

Leftover quinoa transforms into a magical dish in this quick and easy recipe. Add your favorite veggies and some protien packed tofu, and you’ve got a complete meal in under 20 minutes. (The star of this dish is really quinoa, but you can easy sub rice or get creative with your veggies depending on what's in your in your pantry.)

Recipe Source: Jessica in the Kitchen’s Vegan Quinoa Fried Rice

8. Spicy Vegan BLT

This Spicy Vegan BLT is a game-changer for quick, satisfying weeknight meals. The smoky tempeh bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes are layered on toasted bread with a spicy vegan mayo to tie it all together. Perfect for a light yet filling dinner.

Steps:

1. Prepare the tempeh bacon by marinating it in a smoky, spicy sauce and pan-frying until crisp.

2. Assemble the sandwich with toasted bread, vegan mayo, tempeh bacon, lettuce, and fresh tomatoes.

3. For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the mayo.

Recipe & Photo Source: Healthy Happy Life’s Spicy Vegan BLT

9. Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta

This inspired pasta dish features a rich and creamy spinach sauce that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something indulgent yet healthy.

Steps:

1. Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil until fragrant.

2. Blend cooked spinach with cashews, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, and seasonings to create a creamy sauce.

3. Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta and top with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Recipe & Photo Source: Ela Vegan’s Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce

10. 8-Minute Pantry Dal

When time is tight, this comforting and nutritious dal comes to the rescue. Made with pantry staples, it’s a wholesome dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready in just minutes.

Steps:

1. Simmer red lentils with coconut milk, water, and spices like turmeric, cumin, and chili powder.

2. Add aromatics like garlic and ginger for depth of flavor.

3. Serve with rice or flatbread for a complete meal.

Recipe Source: Oh She Glows’ 8-Minute Pantry Dal

Make the Switch!

Switching to plant-based eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. With these 10 recipes, you’ll have a variety of tasty and nutritious meals to choose from, no matter how hectic your week gets.

If you’re new to plant-based cooking, start with the recipes that appeal to you most and gradually explore the others. Over time, you’ll build a repertoire of delicious meals that are easy to whip up, even on the busiest nights.

What’s even better is knowing that each plant-based meal you enjoy is a step toward a healthier planet. Feel proud of the positive environmental impact you’re making—every choice matters, and together, we can make a big difference.

What are your favorite quick and easy plant-based recipes? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below!