Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian, trying Meatless Mondays, or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this guide is packed with flavorful, satisfying recipes that everyone will love.
20+ Easy Vegetarian Recipes
1. Roasted Vegetable Sandwich with White
This hearty Roasted Vegetable Sandwich features caramelized seasonal veggies layered on creamy white bean spread for a protein-packed vegetarian lunch. Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roast to perfection while the garlicky bean spread adds richness. Served on crusty ciabatta, it’s satisfying enough for dinner too! Meal prep friendly – roast veggies ahead for quick assembly. Vegan adaptable by omitting cheese.
2. Stir Fried Sweet Thai Chili Cauliflower
Takeout fakeout! This Sweet Thai Chili Cauliflower stir-fry delivers bold flavor in 20 minutes. Crisp-tender cauliflower florets tossed in homemade sweet-spicy sauce with colorful veggies. Vegan and gluten-free, it’s healthier than restaurant versions. Serve over rice for a satisfying meatless meal that even carnivores will love. Pro tip: Add tofu for extra protein!
3. Spinoccoli Pizza
Upgrade pizza night with this green goddess Spinoccoli Pizza! A whole wheat crust topped with garlic ricotta, fresh spinach, broccoli and three cheeses. Packed with hidden veggies but so delicious, kids won’t notice. The secret lemon zest in the ricotta brightens every bite. Ready in 30 minutes – faster than delivery! Vegetarian comfort food at its best.
4. Roasted Vegetable and Mozzarella Quiche
This colorful Vegetable Quiche stars roasted peppers, zucchini, and onions nestled in custardy eggs with melty mozzarella. The flaky whole wheat crust adds wholesome goodness. Perfect for brunch, meal prep, or light dinners. Serves 6 and tastes even better the next day! Customize with seasonal veggies – asparagus in spring, squash in fall
5. Caramelized Onion and Portabella Pasta
This umami-rich vegetarian pasta features silky caramelized onions and meaty portabella mushrooms in a creamy Parmesan sauce – so satisfying, no one will miss the meat! Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an elegant yet easy weeknight dinner. The secret? Cooking mushrooms separately for perfect texture.
6. Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri Sauce
Showstopping vegetarian main! Thick cauliflower steaks get charred perfection on the grill, topped with vibrant homemade chimichurri. This low-carb, gluten-free dish looks impressive but takes just 25 minutes. Perfect for summer BBQs or meatless Mondays – even steak lovers will be convinced! Vegan adaptable by omitting honey.
7. Orzo Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This colorful Mediterranean Orzo Salad packs roasted veggies, feta, and Kalamata olives in a lemony herb dressing. Great for meal prep, potlucks, or light lunches – flavors improve overnight! Vegetarian and easily made vegan (skip the feta). Ready in 35 minutes with minimal hands-on time. Pro tip: Add chickpeas for extra protein!
9. Roasted Red Pepper and Parmesan Tortellini
This vibrant Tortellini Salad combines cheese-filled pasta with roasted red peppers, artichokes, and shaved Parmesan in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy lunches – ready in just 20 minutes! The colorful ingredients make it as beautiful as it is delicious. Vegetarian-friendly and easily customized with your favorite veggies. Pro tip: Add grilled chicken for extra protein!
10. Easy Summer Spaghetti Salad
Cool, refreshing, and packed with flavor – this Summer Spaghetti Salad features al dente pasta tossed with crisp veggies, olives, and feta in a tangy vinaigrette. Ready in 25 minutes and perfect for BBQs, beach days, or meal prep. The make-ahead dressing lets flavors develop beautifully. A crowd-pleasing side that travels well!
14. Lebanese Green Beans in Tomato Sauce
Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors with these tender Syrian Green Beans simmered in garlicky tomato sauce. This vegan, gluten-free dish develops deep umami flavor as it cooks. Perfect over rice or with pita for soaking up the sauce. Meal prep friendly – tastes even better the next day! A healthy, budget-friendly way to enjoy green beans differently
15. Zucchini Tots
These crispy Zucchini Tots are a guilt-free alternative to potato tots! Made with grated zucchini, cheese, and breadcrumbs, they bake up golden and crunchy. Perfect for kids’ lunches, appetizers, or snack time – ready in 30 minutes. Vegetarian and easily made gluten-free with almond flour. Dip in marinara or ranch for extra fun! A clever way to use garden zucchini that even picky eaters love.
16. Green Beans with Onions and Pine Nuts
Elevate simple green beans with this restaurant-worthy side dish! Fresh beans pair with caramelized onions and toasted pine nuts for elegant flavor and crunch. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s perfect for holiday dinners or special occasions. The brown butter drizzle (optional) adds luxurious richness. Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian – easily made vegan by omitting butter. Pro tip: Toast pine nuts in advance for quick assembly!
17. Roasted Tomato Caprese Pasta
This summer-perfect Roasted Tomato Caprese Pasta bursts with juicy roasted cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil in every bite! The warm tomatoes melt into a light sauce that coats every noodle beautifully. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a vegetarian weeknight wonder that tastes like vacation in Italy. No heavy cream needed – the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes creates incredible flavor. Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
18. Shaved Asparagus Grilled Pizza
Grilling season just got fancier with this Shaved Asparagus Pizza! Featuring paper-thin asparagus ribbons, three cheeses, and lemon zest on a homemade grilled crust. The smoky char from the grill pairs perfectly with the fresh, bright flavors. Ready in 40 minutes (including dough time) – a showstopping vegetarian main for outdoor entertaining. Pro tip: Use a mandoline for perfect asparagus shavings!
20. Veggie burger
The ultimate homemade Veggie Burgers that actually hold together and taste amazing! Packed with black beans, mushrooms, and walnuts for a meaty texture, these plant-based patties are grillable and freezer-friendly. The secret umami boost comes from tamari and smoked paprika. Vegan, gluten-free, and packed with 15g protein per burger. Make a batch for easy weeknight dinners or summer BBQs – they’ll convert even the biggest meat lovers!
21. Bean and Cheese Burritos
These easy Bean and Cheese Burritos are weeknight lifesavers! Packed with seasoned refried beans, melty cheese, and zesty green chiles, they’re ready in 20 minutes and perfect for freezer meals. The secret ingredient (hint: it’s in the beans!) adds incredible depth of flavor. Vegetarian and easily made vegan with dairy-free cheese. Serve with fresh salsa and guac for the ultimate quick dinner. Make a double batch for grab-and-go lunches all week
22. Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Egg Rolls
Pizza night reinvented with these crispy Air Fryer Pizza Egg Rolls! Stuffed with pepperoni, mozzarella, and marinara, they’re ready in 15 minutes – no deep-frying needed. The golden, crunchy shells make them irresistible appetizers or fun dinners. Kids love helping assemble these pizza-roll hybrids! Vegetarian adaptable with veggie pepperoni. Serve with extra marinara for dipping – perfect for game day or movie nights!
23. Lightened Up Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
This creamy Tomato Basil Soup gets its velvety texture from blended veggies – no heavy cream needed! Packed with roasted tomatoes, carrots, and garlic, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian (vegan adaptable with coconut milk). Ready in 35 minutes and freezer-friendly for easy meals. Pair with grilled cheese for classic comfort or enjoy alone as a light lunch. The secret splash of balsamic adds incredible depth.
24. Cheesy Vegetarian Pie
This ultimate Cheesy Vegetarian Pie is packed with hidden veggies in a golden, flaky crust! Broccoli, carrots, and leeks mingle with three types of cheese for maximum comfort. Kid-approved and perfect for hiding extra vegetables. The make-ahead crust saves time – assemble in the morning, bake at dinner! Serves 6 and tastes even better the next day. Serve with green salad for a complete meal.
25. Epic Vegetarian Tacos
These restaurant-worthy Vegetarian Tacos feature crispy roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and zesty lime crema in warm corn tortillas. The chipotle-spiced seasoning creates incredible depth of flavor. Naturally gluten-free and vegan adaptable (skip the crema). Ready in 40 minutes – perfect for Taco Tuesday or casual entertaining. Top with avocado, pickled onions, and cilantro for fresh contrast. Meal prep the components for easy weekday dinners!