BonAppetit Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Exploring vegan recipes from Bon Appétit offers a wonderful gateway into the vibrant world of plant-based cooking. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more wholesome, cruelty-free meals to your repertoire, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

With innovative ingredient combinations and beautifully crafted dishes, Bon Appétit’s vegan recipes bring color, texture, and deep flavor to every plate. From hearty mains to decadent desserts, these recipes prove that vegan food is anything but boring.

Join me as we dive into some of the best vegan dishes inspired by Bon Appétit, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bon Appétit’s vegan recipes are beloved for their bold flavors and clever use of ingredients that mimic the richness and satisfaction of traditional dishes. Each recipe is designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring you don’t need to hunt for obscure ingredients to create a gourmet meal.

These recipes emphasize fresh, seasonal produce and pantry staples, making them perfect for anyone looking to cook more sustainably and healthfully.

Moreover, they highlight the versatility of vegan cooking—showcasing everything from creamy sauces without dairy to plant-based proteins that deliver both texture and nutrition. Whether you’re aiming to reduce your environmental footprint or simply explore new culinary horizons, you’ll find these recipes both inspiring and practical.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (for draining chickpeas)
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamy texture)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chickpeas: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Place them in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrot, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften.
  3. Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in the smoked paprika and ground cumin, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
  4. Simmer the stew: Add the cooked chickpeas to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and liquid to reduce slightly.
  5. Optional blending: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend about half of the stew directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half to a blender, puree, and return it to the pot. Stir well.
  6. Finish and serve: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Soaking chickpeas overnight not only reduces cooking time but also improves digestibility. For a quicker option, use canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained.

Variation: Swap chickpeas for lentils or black beans for a different flavor profile. Add chopped kale or spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra greens.

Pro Tip: Serve with a dollop of cashew cream or your favorite vegan yogurt to add richness and balance the smoky spices.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 280
Protein 12g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 10g
Sodium 350mg

Serving Suggestions

This hearty vegan stew pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful broth. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or quinoa.

Add a fresh side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the smoky, savory flavors.

For a more indulgent meal, try topping with sliced avocado or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch. Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegan recipes such as the Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or the vibrant Collard Green Casserole Recipes to keep your menu exciting!

Conclusion

Bon Appétit’s vegan recipes embody the essence of creative plant-based cooking: flavorful, approachable, and nourishing. This chickpea stew is just one example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a satisfying dish that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike.

With straightforward steps and adaptable elements, this recipe encourages you to cook with confidence and enjoy the abundance of plant-based foods.

Whether you’re looking to reduce meat consumption or simply expand your culinary horizons, these recipes provide a delicious path forward. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to make each dish your own.

For more vegan inspiration, check out the Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes for creative plant-based alternatives that will impress everyone at your table.

📖 Recipe Card: Bonappetit Vegan Buddha Bowl

Description: A colorful and nutritious vegan Buddha bowl packed with fresh veggies, grains, and a tangy tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; roast for 20-25 minutes.
  3. Rinse quinoa and cook with water according to package instructions.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and water to make dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and spinach.
  6. Drizzle dressing over the bowl and top with sliced avocado before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 14 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 52 g

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Marta K

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