Cutting out meat, dairy, eggs and all other animal products sounds daunting, but talk to any committed vegan and you’ll hear how totally doable it really is. But talk is one thing, and taste is another. So whip up a few of these vegan dinner ideas and you’ll see how delicious a plant-based lifestyle can be.
15 Vegan Dinner Ideas Even Carnivores Will Love
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Published Feb 12, 2020
Chloe Flavor
1. Vegan Butternut Mac And ‘cheese’ With Smoky Shiitake ‘bacon’
Created by chef Chloe Coscarelli, this pasta recipe gets its creaminess from cashews and butternut squash, plus a savory crunch from homemade mushroom bacon.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
2. Vegan Slow-cooker Detox Coconut Soup
If you’re eating vegan to feel healthier, this soup will do the trick. It’s packed with flavor, so you won’t notice anything missing (like meat). And because you can make it in a slow cooker, it’s so easy to prepare.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
3. Vegan Spaghetti Squash With Mushroom Marinara Sauce
Craving meat? This low-carb recipe will do the trick. The mushrooms give the sauce a smoky umami flavor.
Nisha Vora
4. Creamy Vegan Lentil And Roasted Vegetable Bake
Drooling? We understand. This comforting casserole is fantastic for a potluck or a cozy group dinner at home...or you could just keep it for yourself and eat the leftovers all week long.
Simon Smith: Vegan 101
5. Vegan Kentucky Fried Chick’n
This vegan recipe is a project, but it’s a worthwhile endeavor. Cauliflower or seitan star as the not-chicken, but it’s really about the crispy, crunchy coating here.
Photo: Nico Schinco/Styling: Aran Goyoaga
6. Radicchio, Lentil And Apple Salad With Vegan Cashew Dressing
Crunchy, creamy and actually good for you: This hearty salad is a delicious entrée or side for lunch or dinner.
Vegan In The House
7. Vegan Lentil-mushroom Burgers
Veggie burgers are a Meatless Monday go-to, and these homemade patties are high in fiber and protein. And don’t worry, nutritional yeast and balsamic vinegar ensure plenty of flavor.
Simon Smith/Vegan 100
8. Vegan Sriracha ‘meatballs’ With Noodles And Grilled Vegetables
It’s hard not to literally shriek about how much we Love. This. Recipe. Firm tofu swaps in for meat, and plenty of healthy accoutrements make this a well-balanced bowl you’ll want to whip up again and again.
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
9. Vegetarian Sushi Cups
These adorable little guys prove that seafood isn’t necessarily the best part of any sushi dinner. (Hint: It’s the rice.)
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
10. Pasta Alla Norma
Sautéed eggplant lends this dish its smoky flavor and meaty texture. (Just leave off the grated cheese or buy a vegan substitute to ensure this dinner is 100 percent vegan.)
Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell
11. Jackfruit Tacos With Grilled Pineapple
Don’t let the word fruit fool you. Jackfruit actually tastes savory and has a texture similar to pulled pork.
i am a food blog
12. Really Easy Healthy Orange Cauliflower
This orange cauliflower is sweet, somehow still kind of healthy (hey, at least you’re getting vitamin C) and totally vegan.
Damn Delicious
13. Sweet Potato And Lentil Chili
This chili is packed with hearty beans and veggies, so you definitely won’t be missing the ground meat. Top it with vegan sour cream and you’re good to go.
Pinch of Yum
14. Vegan Mega-burritos
Cauliflower-walnut taco “meat,” vegan queso, sweet potatoes and plenty of guac create an excellent oversized burrito.
Pinch of Yum
15. Coconut Curry Ramen
Those tiny little fried tofu nuggets on top are irresistible. Hello, new favorite dinner.