15+ Simple Vegetarian Recipes for Easy Everyday Cooking

Eating vegetarian doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple vegetarian recipes can help you prepare tasty and healthy meals in no time.

These recipes are perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

With a variety of flavors and ingredients, you’ll find that cooking vegetarian meals can be fun and fulfilling. You’ll discover how quick and easy it can be to whip up satisfying dishes that everyone will enjoy.

1) Vegetarian Pad Thai

Vegetarian Pad Thai is a quick and tasty dish you can make at home. It has the right balance of flavors and textures. You can use rice noodles as the base and add your favorite vegetables.

Adding tofu gives it extra protein and makes it heartier. A simple homemade sauce brings everything together. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.

This dish takes just around 30 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual meal with friends.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 1 cup tofu, cubed
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Chopped peanuts and green onions for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add tofu and cook until golden brown.
4. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, peanut butter, and lime juice.
6. Add cooked noodles and sauce to the skillet; toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with peanuts and green onions.

2) Enchilada Pasta

Enchilada pasta is a delicious and quick vegetarian dish. It combines the creaminess of cheese with the spicy flavors of enchilada sauce. You can make this dish in one pan, saving time on cleanup.

Start with cooked pasta and add your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, corn, and black beans work well. Mix everything with enchilada sauce and cheese for a comforting meal.

This recipe is not just easy; it’s also flexible. You can add spices to taste or use gluten-free pasta if needed. Serve it with fresh herbs for added flavor.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) of short pasta
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup sweet corn
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Taco seasoning to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large pan, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, bell pepper, corn, and tomatoes.
3. Stir in the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning.
4. Sprinkle cheese on top and cook until melted. Enjoy!

3) Black Bean Rice Burgers

Black bean rice burgers are a tasty vegetarian option. They are easy to make and packed with protein. Plus, they can easily be customized with toppings of your choice.

You’ll start with black beans and brown rice, which create a hearty base. These ingredients provide flavor and texture. Feel free to add spices or vegetables you enjoy.

These burgers can be served on buns or in lettuce wraps. Top them with your favorites like avocado, cheese, or salsa. They make a great meal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the black beans.
3. Mix in cooked brown rice, breadcrumbs, cumin, and salt.
4. Form the mixture into patties.
5. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer to the oven and bake for 10 minutes.

4) Mushroom Stroganoff over Quinoa

Mushroom Stroganoff over quinoa is a hearty and flavorful dish. It combines the rich taste of mushrooms with creamy sauce, making a satisfying meal.

Begin by cooking your quinoa according to the package instructions. This typically involves boiling water, adding quinoa, and simmering for about 15 minutes.

While the quinoa cooks, sauté mushrooms in a pan until tender. Add garlic, onions, and your favorite herbs for extra flavor.

Stir in vegetable broth and a bit of plant-based cream to create a smooth sauce.

Serve the mushroom mixture over your fluffy quinoa for a delightful dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup plant-based cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
5. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
6. Pour in vegetable broth and cream. Stir until heated.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve over quinoa.

5) Southern Red Beans and Rice (Meatless)

Southern red beans and rice is a classic dish that can easily be made without meat. This recipe keeps the rich flavors and hearty textures that make this dish so satisfying.

Start by cooking your beans until they’re tender. You’ll want to let them soak overnight for the best results. This helps them cook evenly.

Next, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil. These vegetables add a delicious base flavor. Then, stir in spices like cayenne and thyme for that signature Southern kick.

Combine the cooked beans with rice and vegetable broth. Let everything simmer together to meld the flavors. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and filling.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried red beans
• 1 cup rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Olive oil, for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the red beans overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans, then cook them until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until soft.
5. Add cayenne and thyme; stir to combine.
6. Mix in the cooked beans and vegetable broth.
7. Add rice and bring to a simmer.
8. Cook until the rice is tender and everything is well combined.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

6) Easy Moroccan Stew

This Easy Moroccan Stew is perfect for a cozy meal. It’s packed with veggies and flavors that make every bite enjoyable. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy weeknights.

You will love how the spices like cumin and coriander blend with ingredients like chickpeas and butternut squash. This dish is also vegan and gluten-free. Serve it warm with some bread or couscous for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 butternut squash, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: raisins

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in carrots and butternut squash. Cook for a few minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, spices, and vegetable broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm.

7) Air-Fryer Tofu

Air-fryer tofu is a delicious and easy dish to make. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You can enjoy it as a snack or add it to salads and wraps.

Start with firm tofu and press it to remove excess water. Then, cut it into cubes for even cooking. Toss the tofu with your favorite seasoning or marinade.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

You’ll love how versatile air-fryer tofu can be. Serve it with rice, veggies, or a tasty dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz firm tofu
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional spices or marinades

Cooking Instructions:

1. Press the tofu to remove excess water.
2. Cut tofu into cubes.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place tofu in a single layer in the basket.
6. Cook for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.

8) Bruschetta Summer Pasta Salad

Bruschetta summer pasta salad is a fresh and tasty dish perfect for warm days. You can enjoy it as a light meal or a side dish. It combines juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella.

To make this salad, cook your favorite pasta. Then, mix in diced tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Serve it chilled for the best taste. This salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup mini mozzarella balls
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

2. Drain and let it cool.

3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.

5. Toss gently and serve chilled.

9) Crispy Pea Fritters

Crispy pea fritters are a delicious and easy vegetarian recipe. They are perfect as a snack or a side dish. You will love how simple they are to make.

To get started, gather some frozen peas, flour, eggs, and your favorite spices. You can add garlic powder for extra flavor.

These fritters can be baked or pan-fried until golden brown. Serve them hot for the best taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups frozen peas, defrosted
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Olive oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mash the peas with a fork.

2. Add flour, eggs, salt, and garlic powder. Mix well.

3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 180°C).

4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan, cooking until golden brown.

5. Drain on paper towels before serving.

10) Low-Calorie Chinese Vegetable Soup

Low-calorie Chinese vegetable soup is a quick and healthy option for a meal. It’s filled with colorful vegetables and packed with flavor. You can make it in about 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

This soup usually has ingredients like carrots, bell peppers, and green beans. You can add tofu for extra protein. It’s light but still satisfying, perfect for lunch or dinner.

You can enjoy this soup on its own or with a slice of bread. It’s an easy way to get more veggies in your diet!

Ingredients

• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 cup tofu, cubed
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.

2. Add carrots and cook for 3 minutes.

3. Stir in bell peppers and green beans.

4. Add tofu and soy sauce, then simmer for 5 minutes.

5. Serve hot. Enjoy!

11) Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a tasty vegetarian dish that serves as a great snack. It involves marinating paneer cubes in yogurt and spices. The marinated paneer is then grilled or baked for a smoky flavor.

You can customize your Paneer Tikka by adding vegetables like bell peppers and onions. These add color and extra taste. This dish is perfect for parties or as a delicious appetizer.

For cooking, you can use an oven, grill, or air fryer. The flavors blend well, making it a favorite for many.

Ingredients

• 250 grams paneer (cubed)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 bell pepper (cut into chunks)
• 1 onion (cut into chunks)
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, oil, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.

2. Add paneer, bell pepper, and onion to the marinade. Mix well.

3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

4. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).

5. Skewer the paneer and vegetables.

6. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.

12) Lentil Soup with Whole Grain Pita

Lentil soup is a delicious and filling meal, perfect for any day. It’s packed with protein and fiber. Plus, it’s simple to make.

You will need a mix of vegetables and spices to give it great flavor. Use lentils, onions, garlic, and carrots. Whole grain pita makes a great side to dip into the soup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Whole grain pita bread

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.

2. Add the onion and garlic. Cook until soft.

3. Stir in the carrots and lentils.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.

5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Serve hot with whole grain pita.

13) Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh salad is a fresh and healthy dish that’s easy to make. It’s filled with vibrant flavors and is perfect for a light meal or side.

You will need bulgur, fresh parsley, mint, cucumber, and tomato. Olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic add the perfect touch to enhance the taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup bulgur
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the bulgur in cold water and drain well.

2. In a bowl, mix bulgur with parsley, mint, cucumber, and tomatoes.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.

5. Let it sit for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

14) Chawal and Dal

Chawal and dal is a comforting and simple dish enjoyed by many. It consists of plain rice (chawal) and lentils (dal). This meal is easy to prepare and very satisfying.

You can use different types of lentils for variety. Common choices include toor dal and masoor dal. Both are nutritious and packed with protein.

To make this dish, start by cooking the rice. You can prepare the dal separately by boiling lentils with spices.

Once both are cooked, serve them together on a plate. Add some salt to taste, and enjoy your wholesome meal!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice
• 1 cup lentils (toor dal or masoor dal)
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Optional spices: cumin, turmeric

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the rice and lentils under cold water.

2. Boil 4 cups of water in a pot.

3. Add rice and cook for about 15-20 minutes (75°C-90°C).

4. In another pot, boil lentils with spices for 20-25 minutes until soft.

5. Serve rice topped with dal. Enjoy!

15) Paneer Sabji

Paneer Sabji is a delicious vegetarian dish. It combines soft paneer with a flavorful onion and tomato gravy. This dish is perfect for any meal.

To make Paneer Sabji, start by heating oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Next, mix in diced tomatoes along with spices like cumin and turmeric.

Once the tomatoes soften, add paneer cubes. Stir gently to coat them in the gravy. Let it cook for a few more minutes.

You can serve Paneer Sabji with rice or roti. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup paneer, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
2. Sauté chopped onions until they turn golden brown.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and spices. Cook until the tomatoes become soft.
4. Stir in diced paneer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Serve warm with rice or roti.