Springtime is a season of renewal, color, and vibrant flavors. With gardens and markets overflowing with fresh produce, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate the bounty of nature with nourishing, plant-based meals.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about eating more vegetables, spring vegan recipes offer light, satisfying dishes that reflect the essence of the season. From crisp asparagus and tender peas to juicy radishes and fragrant herbs, spring’s ingredients inspire creativity in the kitchen.
Today, I’m sharing an exclusive recipe for a Spring Vegan Veggie Bowl—a versatile, nutrient-packed meal that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious. This recipe is easy to customize and filled with vibrant vegetables, creamy lemon-tahini dressing, and hearty quinoa, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
If you love discovering new ways to enjoy seasonal produce, keep reading for all the details on ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making the most of your spring harvest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Seasonal Freshness: This recipe features the best of spring produce—think tender asparagus, sweet peas, and peppery radishes—for maximum flavor and nutrition.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches.
- Meal Prep Friendly: All the components can be made ahead and assembled just before eating.
- Customizable: Swap out veggies based on what you find at the market, or add your favorite legumes or grains.
- Gluten-Free and Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten- and nut-free, making it great for a crowd with different dietary needs.
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to quinoa and chickpeas, this bowl is filling and will keep you satisfied for hours.
“Spring is the time of plans and projects.” – Leo Tolstoy
Let this recipe be your project for welcoming the season with wholesome, plant-based goodness!
Ingredients
Below is a table summarizing the core ingredients for the Spring Vegan Veggie Bowl. Feel free to swap similar veggies as you like!
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Quinoa | 1 cup (dry) | Rinsed |
Water or Vegetable Broth | 2 cups | For cooking quinoa |
Chickpeas | 1 can (15 oz) or 1.5 cups cooked | Drained and rinsed |
Asparagus | 1 bunch (about 1 lb) | Trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces |
Sugar Snap Peas or Green Peas | 1 cup | Fresh or frozen |
Radishes | 5-6 medium | Thinly sliced |
Carrot | 1 large | Peeled, julienned or shredded |
Baby Spinach | 2 cups | Or mixed greens |
Fresh Herbs | 1/4 cup | Chopped (parsley, dill, or mint) |
Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For roasting and sautéing |
Salt & Pepper | To taste | |
Lemon Juice | 2 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
Tahini | 2 tbsp | |
Maple Syrup | 1 tsp | Optional, for dressing |
Garlic | 1 clove | Minced |
For a printable list:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 1 cup sugar snap peas or green peas
- 5-6 radishes, sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned or shredded
- 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or mint)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 tsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Equipment
- Medium saucepan (for cooking quinoa)
- Baking sheet (for roasting asparagus and chickpeas)
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for making dressing)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Colander (for rinsing grains and beans)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowls
Instructions
-
Cook the Quinoa:
- Rinse 1 cup quinoa thoroughly under cold water.
- Combine quinoa and 2 cups water or broth in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
-
Roast Asparagus and Chickpeas:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread asparagus pieces and drained chickpeas on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Roast for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway, until asparagus is tender and chickpeas are lightly crisped.
-
Prepare the Spring Veggies:
- While roasting, thinly slice radishes and julienne or shred carrot.
- If using snap peas, trim the ends and cut in half. If using frozen peas, thaw and drain.
- Roughly chop fresh herbs.
-
Sauté the Peas (Optional):
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add snap peas or green peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bright green and just tender.
-
Make the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp tahini, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp maple syrup (if using), minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and 2-3 tbsp water (to thin as needed).
- Taste and adjust seasoning or add more lemon if desired.
-
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide baby spinach or mixed greens between two large serving bowls.
- Top with a scoop of quinoa and arrange roasted asparagus, chickpeas, radishes, carrots, and peas on top.
- Drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately, or keep components separate for easy meal prep throughout the week.
Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or za’atar to your roasted chickpeas!
Tips & Variations
- Switch Up the Grains: Try brown rice, farro, or millet for a different texture.
- Change the Protein: Swap chickpeas for white beans, lentils, or marinated tofu.
- Dress It Up: For a creamy twist, whisk in vegan yogurt instead of water to the dressing.
- Add More Veggies: Try shaved fennel, blanched broccolini, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce, chili flakes, or sliced jalapeños to the dressing or bowl.
- Meal Prep: Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 4 days; assemble just before eating.
- Pack for Lunch: This bowl travels well—just keep the dressing on the side until ready to eat.
“Don’t have asparagus? No worries! Use green beans, broccoli, or any tender spring vegetable.”
Looking for more creative vegan meals? Check out our Vegan Pearl Couscous Recipe for a Quick Healthy Meal and explore vibrant flavors from around the world with Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor.
For a hearty, hands-off meal, try this Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 bowl) |
---|---|
Calories | 420 |
Protein | 16g |
Carbohydrates | 68g |
Fiber | 13g |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 1.5g |
Sugars | 8g |
Sodium | 450mg (varies with broth/seasonings) |
Vitamin A | 110% DV |
Vitamin C | 65% DV |
Iron | 25% DV |
Calcium | 12% DV |
Note: Nutrition is estimated and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Warm or Cold: This bowl is delicious both fresh and warm or chilled straight from the fridge.
- Pair with Vegan Bread: Enjoy with a slice of homemade bread—try our Vegan Bread Maker Recipe for Soft and Delicious Loaves.
- Add a Sweet Finish: For dessert, whip up a quick Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or some fresh fruit.
- Make It a Picnic: Pack the bowls and head outdoors for a spring picnic—the bright, crisp veggies make it perfect for al fresco dining.
- Top with Seeds: Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
- Entertain Easily: Lay out all the components buffet-style and let everyone build their own bowl.
Entertaining Tip: Double the recipe and serve on a large platter for a stunning centerpiece at your next brunch or garden party.
Conclusion
As spring breathes new life into our gardens and kitchens, there’s no better time to explore the fresh, vibrant world of vegan cooking. This Spring Vegan Veggie Bowl captures the very essence of the season, combining crisp vegetables, protein-rich grains, and a tangy, creamy dressing for a meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re enjoying it for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or prepping ahead for busy days, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your seasonal repertoire.
Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable—swap in your favorite spring produce, experiment with dressings, or mix up the grains and proteins. With each bowl, you celebrate the colors and flavors of spring, all while fueling your body with wholesome, plant-based nutrition.
Happy cooking, and may your spring be filled with delicious discoveries!
📖 Recipe Card: Spring Vegan Asparagus & Pea Risotto
Description: A creamy, comforting risotto bursting with fresh spring asparagus and sweet green peas. Perfect for a light yet satisfying vegan meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and Arborio rice, cook for 2 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of warm broth and stir until absorbed.
- Continue adding broth 1 cup at a time, stirring, until rice is creamy and tender.
- Add asparagus and peas with the last cup of broth, cook until tender.
- Stir in nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 60 g
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