best supermarket for veg mumsnetmumsnet food recipes Best Supermarket for Veg Mumsnet: Top Food Recipes Guide

Updated On: September 30, 2025

Are you a busy parent looking for the best supermarket for vegetarian mums and top-rated, family-friendly vegetarian recipes? Whether you’re cooking for a vegetarian family, dabbling in more plant-based meals, or just searching for nourishing options your kids will actually eat, you’re in the right place.

Supermarkets across the UK now stock a fantastic range of veggie ingredients, and with a little know-how, you can whip up meals that are healthy, satisfying, and budget-friendly. Drawing inspiration from the passionate communities on Mumsnet, this post will guide you to the best supermarkets for vegetarian choices and share some of the most loved, easy veggie recipes.

No matter your cooking experience or family preferences, you’ll find fresh ideas, practical tips, and delicious veggie meals that everyone (even the fussiest eaters) will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about a single dish—it’s about empowering you to shop smarter and cook easier as a vegetarian or veggie-friendly family. Here’s why you’ll love what follows:

  • Simple, nutritious ingredients—all readily available at UK supermarkets.
  • Kid-approved recipes that are perfect for family mealtimes.
  • Budget-friendly—eat well without overspending.
  • Customisable—swap in your favourite veggies or pantry staples.
  • Tips from real parents and cooks on Mumsnet and beyond.

“The best vegetarian meals start with a smart shop—let’s make your next supermarket trip work harder for you!”

Ingredients

Below is a sample ingredient list for one of the most popular family-friendly vegetarian recipes: Vegetable Loaded One-Pot Pasta. These ingredients are easily found in most UK supermarkets that mumsnetters recommend, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, and Aldi.

Ingredient Amount
Penne or fusilli pasta (wholewheat or regular) 350g
Olive oil 2 tbsp
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic cloves, minced 3
Carrot, peeled and diced 2 medium
Red pepper, diced 1 large
Courgette (zucchini), diced 1 medium
Frozen peas 100g
Chopped tomatoes (tinned) 400g
Vegetable stock 500ml
Dried mixed herbs 1 tsp
Salt & pepper To taste
Grated cheddar or vegan cheese (optional) 50g

Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or use up what’s in your fridge!

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or deep skillet
  • Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
  • Chopping board
  • Measuring jug for stock
  • Wooden spoon for stirring
  • Colander (if draining pasta separately)
  • Serving bowls

Instructions

  1. Prep your vegetables: Dice the onion, garlic, carrot, red pepper, and courgette. Measure out the peas and open your tin of chopped tomatoes.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the carrots, red pepper, and courgette. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly, until starting to soften.
  5. Add the pasta, chopped tomatoes, vegetable stock, and dried herbs. Stir well to combine.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is nearly cooked and the vegetables are tender.
  7. Add the frozen peas and cook for a further 2-3 minutes.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using cheese, stir it in now for extra creaminess.
  9. Serve hot, topped with a little extra cheese if you like. Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread.

For an extra protein boost, stir in a can of drained chickpeas or butter beans in Step 7.

Tips & Variations

  • Try wholewheat pasta for extra fibre.
  • Swap in seasonal veggies like spinach, sweetcorn, or mushrooms.
  • Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • Add a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a little kick.
  • For fussy eaters, blend the sauce before adding the pasta for a smooth texture.
  • Batch cook and freeze portions for easy weeknight meals.
  • This method works for gluten-free pasta as well; just adjust the cooking time.

“Batch cooking is a lifesaver for busy parents—double the recipe and freeze half for a stress-free dinner next week.”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 350
Protein 12g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fibre 8g
Sugar 9g
Sodium 500mg

Values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread or garlic ciabatta for a hearty meal.
  • Add a simple green salad tossed with lemon juice and olive oil.
  • Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of flavour and colour.
  • Pack leftovers in lunchboxes—this pasta tastes great cold or reheated.
  • Pair with a cup of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup for a balanced dinner.

Conclusion

When it comes to feeding your family well, the best supermarket for vegetarian mums is one that offers variety, freshness, and affordability. Tesco and Sainsbury’s often top the list for their extensive veggie ranges, but don’t overlook Aldi’s budget-friendly basics or Waitrose’s gourmet plant-based lines.

With a smart shopping list and easy recipes like the one-pot veggie pasta above, you can make mealtimes both nutritious and stress-free.

Keep experimenting and don’t be afraid to try new ingredients or global flavours. Want more ideas?

Explore our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker for time-saving family meals, or treat yourself with a Vegetarian Date Cake for dessert. With every shop and every meal, you’re inspiring your family to love vegetables—and that’s something worth celebrating!

📖 Recipe Card: Supermarket Veggie Pasta Bake

Description: A family-friendly, veggie-packed pasta bake inspired by top Mumsnet recommendations. Easy to make with supermarket ingredients and perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 300g penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red pepper, chopped
  • 200g courgette, chopped
  • 400g tinned chopped tomatoes
  • 100g baby spinach
  • 100g grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp dried mixed herbs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
  2. Cook pasta according to packet instructions; drain.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add pepper and courgette, cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in tinned tomatoes, mixed herbs, salt, and pepper; simmer 5 minutes.
  6. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  7. Combine sauce with pasta, transfer to a baking dish.
  8. Top with grated cheese.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 17g | Fat: 13g | Carbs: 60g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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