Vegan Recipes: A Rainbow of Plant-Based Choices

Eating a vegan diet can be incredibly rewarding. Not only is it beneficial for your health, but it also helps to protect the environment and animal welfare. But sometimes it can be difficult to find delicious, plant-based recipes that are just as satisfying as their non-vegan counterparts. That's why we've put together this colorful collection of vegan recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From hearty main dishes to decadent desserts, these vegan recipes are sure to add a rainbow of flavors to your everyday meals.

Main Dishes

When it comes to vegan main dishes, the possibilities are virtually endless. From savory veggie burgers to creamy pastas, these vegan recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of eaters.

Veggie Burgers

Veggie burgers are a vegan staple, and these tasty patties are sure to become a favorite in your household. Start by sautéing a combination of diced onion and bell pepper in a large skillet. Once the vegetables are tender, add a can of black beans, a cup of cooked quinoa, and a teaspoon of garlic powder. Use a potato masher to mash the mixture until it's slightly chunky. Form the mixture into four patties and cook them in a lightly greased skillet over medium-high heat for about five minutes per side, or until they're golden brown. Serve the burgers on whole-wheat buns with all the fixings.

Pasta Primavera

This creamy vegan pasta primavera is the perfect comfort food for a chilly night. Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and adding one pound of your favorite pasta. While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add a cup of diced onion and cook until the onion is softened. Then, add one pound of your favorite vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and zucchini) and cook until the vegetables are tender. Once the vegetables are cooked, add two cloves of minced garlic and a cup of vegan cream cheese. Simmer the mixture until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. When the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the skillet. Stir to combine and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the pasta primavera with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese on top.

Snacks and Sides

Vegan snacks and sides are a great way to add a little extra nutrition to your meals. From crunchy roasted chickpeas to flavorful quinoa salads, these vegan recipes will keep you satisfied between meals.

Roasted Chickpeas

These crunchy roasted chickpeas are a great way to get your daily dose of protein. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drain and rinse one can of chickpeas and spread them onto the baking sheet. Drizzle the chickpeas with one tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a teaspoon of your favorite seasoning (such as garlic powder, chili powder, or curry powder). Bake for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Once the chickpeas are golden brown and crunchy, remove them from the oven and let them cool before serving.

Quinoa Salad

This flavorful quinoa salad is sure to become a staple in your home. Start by cooking one cup of quinoa according to the package instructions. Once the quinoa is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and add a cup of diced tomatoes, a cup of diced cucumber, a half cup of diced red onion, and a half cup of crumbled feta cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together two tablespoons of olive oil, two tablespoons of lemon juice, one tablespoon of minced garlic, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and one teaspoon of sea salt. Pour the dressing over the quinoa and vegetables and toss to combine. Serve the salad at room temperature or chilled.

Desserts

Vegan desserts are just as delicious as their non-vegan counterparts. From fruity cobblers to creamy puddings, these vegan recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.