15+ Meatless Recipes to Make Your Meals Deliciously Plant-Based

Many people are looking to eat less meat these days for health and environmental reasons. Exploring meatless recipes can help you discover delicious and satisfying meals that fit your lifestyle.

Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just curious about trying new dishes, there are plenty of tasty options to explore. This article will introduce you to various meatless recipes that are simple to make and full of flavor.

1) Veggie Black Bean Enchiladas

You can make tasty veggie black bean enchiladas in no time. These are healthy and filling, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mash cooked black beans and mix in veggies like bell peppers and onions. Add spices such as cumin and chili powder for flavor.

Next, fill corn tortillas with the bean mixture. Roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Pour a can of enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle cheese on it if you like.

Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, like salsa or guacamole.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans (15 oz)
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup onions, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 can enchilada sauce (10 oz)
• Cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mash black beans in a bowl.
3. Mix in bell peppers, onions, cumin, and chili powder.
4. Fill tortillas with the mixture and roll them up.
5. Place rolled tortillas in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the tortillas.
7. Add cheese on top if desired.
8. Bake for 20 minutes. Serve with toppings.

2) Tofu & Vegetable Curry

Tofu and vegetable curry is a delicious and filling dish. It is packed with flavors and nutrients from fresh vegetables. This meal is perfect for any day of the week.

Start by choosing your favorite vegetables. Options like bell peppers, carrots, and spinach work well. You will need firm tofu, which holds its shape during cooking.

For the sauce, use coconut milk and curry paste. This combination creates a rich and creamy base. Add garlic and ginger for an extra kick of flavor.

Once everything is cooked, serve it over rice or quinoa. It’s a great way to enjoy a meatless meal.

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) firm tofu
• 1 cup (150g) bell peppers
• 1 cup (130g) carrots
• 2 cups (60g) spinach
• 1 can (13.5 oz or 400ml) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• Salt to taste
• Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
3. Add tofu cubes and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in the vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Pour in coconut milk and curry paste; mix well.
6. Simmer for 10 minutes, then season with salt.
7. Serve hot over rice or quinoa. Enjoy!

3) Creamy Broccoli Pasta

Creamy broccoli pasta is a delicious and easy dish you can make for dinner. It combines tender broccoli with a rich, creamy sauce to create a satisfying meal. Perfect for a meatless option, this recipe is sure to please everyone.

Start by cooking your pasta until it is al dente. While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli until it is bright green and tender.

In a separate pot, make a creamy sauce with ingredients like garlic, cheese, and cream. Mix the cooked pasta and broccoli into the sauce, stirring until everything is coated nicely.

Serve hot and enjoy your creamy broccoli pasta!

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta
• 2 cups (150 g) broccoli florets
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender.
3. In a pot, heat the cream and add garlic.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Combine the pasta and broccoli into the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

4) Ricotta Stuffed Pumpkin

Ricotta stuffed pumpkin is a delightful dish that brings comforting flavors to your table. This recipe features pumpkin shells filled with creamy ricotta and a touch of garlic. It’s perfect for fall and can easily impress your guests.

You can use fresh pumpkin or store-bought pumpkin puree for convenience. The filling is often enhanced with spices like nutmeg and cinnamon for a warm flavor. Baking the stuffed pumpkins creates a deliciously melty texture.

Ingredients

• 2 medium pumpkins
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the pumpkins and remove seeds.
3. Mix ricotta, spinach, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Fill each pumpkin with the mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes until tender.

5) Veggie Enchiladas

Veggie enchiladas are a tasty way to enjoy a meatless meal. You can fill them with a variety of vegetables, beans, and cheeses to suit your taste. They are perfect for lunch or dinner.

To make these enchiladas, start with corn tortillas and fill them with a mix of sautéed onions, bell peppers, zucchini, and black beans. Add some salsa and cheese for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Olive oil
• Spices (cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft.
3. Add zucchini, black beans, and spices. Cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Fill each tortilla with the veggie mixture and a bit of cheese.
5. Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour salsa over the top and sprinkle remaining cheese.
7. Bake for 25 minutes. Enjoy your veggie enchiladas!

6) Crustless Quiche

Crustless quiche is a simple and delicious meatless dish. It is packed with veggies and is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. You can easily customize it based on your favorite ingredients.

To make your quiche, you’ll need eggs, milk, and your choice of vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This meal is also gluten-free and low carb, making it a healthy option.

You can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 to 50 minutes. Once it’s golden and cooked through, it’s ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 6 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups chopped vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk together eggs and milk in a bowl.
3. Stir in chopped vegetables and cheese if using.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until set.

7) Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry

Zucchini noodles are a great alternative to traditional pasta. They are light, healthy, and full of flavor. You can easily whip up a delicious stir-fry in no time.

Start by spiralizing two medium zucchinis. Set them aside while you prepare your veggies. Sauté bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of soy sauce and a hint of garlic for extra flavor.

Toss in your zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still firm. Serve hot and enjoy a tasty meal that’s both satisfying and good for you.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 carrot
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Olive oil for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and garlic.
5. Add zucchini noodles. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
6. Serve immediately.

8) Chickpea Salad Sandwich

A Chickpea Salad Sandwich is a tasty and healthy meal. It’s packed with protein and is perfect for lunch. Plus, it’s quick to make.

To start, you will mash chickpeas in a bowl. You can use a fork or a potato masher. After that, mix in mayonnaise, mustard, and diced veggies like celery and onion.

Add some salt and pepper to taste. You can also add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.

Spread the mixture onto your favorite bread. Top it with lettuce or spinach for some crunch.

Enjoy your Chickpea Salad Sandwich!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh herbs (optional)
• Bread of your choice
• Lettuce or spinach

Cooking Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. Mash the chickpeas in a bowl.
3. Mix in mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and onion.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
5. Spread on bread and add lettuce or spinach.
6. Serve and enjoy.

9) Mushroom Stroganoff

Mushroom Stroganoff is a tasty meatless dish that’s rich and creamy. It’s perfect for a hearty meal. You can enjoy it over pasta, rice, or even with bread.

To make this dish, you will need fresh mushrooms, onions, garlic, and sour cream. The combination of flavors creates a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking. This recipe is simple and fun!

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 tsp (5 g) paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta or rice

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until soft.
3. Stir in garlic and mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add vegetable broth and paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Reduce heat. Mix in sour cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve over cooked pasta or rice. Enjoy!

10) Thai Green Curry with Tofu

Thai Green Curry with Tofu is a flavorful dish that is easy to prepare. It combines coconut milk, green curry paste, and fresh veggies. Tofu adds protein and absorbs the rich flavors of the curry.

Start by heating some oil in a pan. Add green curry paste and stir it for a minute. Then, pour in coconut milk and let it simmer.

Once it’s simmering, add your cubed tofu and mixed vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas work great. Cook until the veggies are tender.

Serve this delicious curry with jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400 g) firm tofu
• 1 can (13.5 oz or 400 ml) coconut milk
• 2-3 tablespoons green curry paste
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Cooked jasmine rice

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 180°C).
2. Add green curry paste and stir for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the cubed tofu and mixed vegetables.
5. Cook until the veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve with jasmine rice and garnish with basil, if desired.

11) Avocado Alfredo Pasta

Avocado Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, delicious dish that’s easy to make. It uses ripe avocados to create a rich sauce that tastes great over your favorite pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion.

To make the sauce, blend ripe avocados with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. This gives the sauce a fresh and zesty flavor. Toss it with cooked pasta and some veggies for added texture.

You can use any pasta you like, such as spaghetti or fettuccine. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with healthy fats from the avocado.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces pasta
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. In a blender, combine avocados, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
4. Stir in the avocado sauce until the pasta is well coated.
5. Add any optional veggies and serve warm.

12) Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is a warm and comforting dish. It’s packed with nutrients and is easy to make. You can enjoy it as a meal or a side dish.

To start, rinse your lentils under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris. You can use green or brown lentils for this recipe.

Next, chop some onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables in a pot with olive oil until they soften. Add garlic for extra flavor.

Pour in vegetable broth and add your lentils. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or bay leaves. Let the soup simmer until the lentils are tender.

Once ready, you can blend part of the soup for a creamy texture or enjoy it chunky. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion
• 2 carrots
• 2 celery stalks
• 2 cloves garlic
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Herbs (thyme, bay leaves)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse lentils under cold water.
2. Chop onion, carrots, and celery.
3. Sauté vegetables in olive oil until soft.
4. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and add lentils.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
7. Simmer until lentils are tender.
8. Blend if desired and serve hot.

13) Falafel Wraps

Falafel wraps are a tasty option for a meatless meal. These wraps are filled with crispy falafel, fresh veggies, and delicious sauces. They are easy to make and great for lunch or dinner.

To create your falafel, blend chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Shape the mixture into balls and fry or bake them until golden brown. Choose your favorite wrap, like pita or tortilla, to hold everything together.

Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and any other veggies you enjoy. Drizzle tahini sauce or yogurt on top for extra flavor.

Enjoy your falafel wraps warm or cold!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas (15 oz or 425 g)
• 1 small onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• Fresh parsley
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Salt and pepper
• Oil for frying
• Pita or tortilla wraps
• Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers
• Tahini or yogurt sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. Blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
3. Shape the mixture into balls.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 180°C).
5. Fry falafel until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Prepare your wraps with falafel and veggies.
7. Drizzle with sauce and serve.

14) Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and colorful dish. You can fill them with many ingredients, making them versatile. They are perfect for lunch or dinner.

To make them, you’ll need bell peppers, rice, black beans, corn, and spices. You can also add cheese or other veggies you enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: shredded cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix the rice, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper.
5. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
7. If using cheese, uncover and add cheese. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Vegetable Paella

Vegetable Paella is a colorful and tasty dish. It’s perfect for a filling meal without meat. You can use a mix of fresh vegetables and spices to create great flavors.

Typically, bell peppers, green beans, and peas are common choices. You can add artichokes for extra taste. The rice absorbs all the flavors, making each bite delicious.

To cook, use a large pan for good heat distribution. You can serve it hot, and it’s great for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup peas
• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add bell pepper and green beans; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in rice and smoked paprika.
5. Pour in vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender.
7. Add peas and artichokes; cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.