Embracing vibrant greens and the natural goodness of vegetables, vegan cooking offers endless opportunities to create delicious and nutritious meals. Among the myriad of plant-based options, dishes featuring broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower stand out for their rich flavors, textures, and health benefits.
These vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them perfect staples for a wholesome vegan diet.
Today, we dive into a collection of mouthwatering vegan recipes that celebrate broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a nourishing meal prep idea, these recipes combine simplicity and taste effortlessly.
Plus, they provide a fantastic way to enjoy your greens in new and exciting ways. Ready to explore some vibrant, nutrient-rich meals?
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower vegan recipes are crafted to please both your palate and your body. They are:
- Nutritious: Loaded with fiber, vitamins A, C, K, and folate, these vegetables offer a powerhouse of nutrients essential for energy and wellbeing.
- Versatile: From creamy soups to hearty stir-fries and vibrant salads, these recipes suit a variety of tastes and occasions.
- Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques make these dishes perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Family-Friendly: These meals will satisfy even picky eaters, making it easier to introduce more veggies into your household.
- Budget-Conscious: Using readily available and affordable vegetables keeps your grocery bill in check without compromising flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for creamy soup)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Serving bowls or plates
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Rinse broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach under cold water. Chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets and roughly chop the spinach. Dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the spices: Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, letting them toast gently for 30 seconds to enhance their flavor.
- Cook broccoli and cauliflower: Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir well to coat them with the spices and onions. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Incorporate the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. It will wilt quickly. Stir continuously until the spinach is fully incorporated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add coconut milk and season: Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to create a creamy texture. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and nutritional yeast if using. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Finish with lemon juice and garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
- Optional creamy soup variation: For a comforting soup, transfer the cooked vegetable mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender in the saucepan. Blend until smooth and creamy. Reheat gently before serving.
Tips & Variations
Always taste your dish before serving and adjust seasoning accordingly. A little lemon juice can brighten flavors, while nutritional yeast adds depth for a cheesy note.
Tips:
- Use frozen broccoli and cauliflower if fresh is unavailable; just adjust cooking time slightly.
- For extra protein, toss in cooked chickpeas or your favorite beans.
- If you like more spice, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Swap coconut milk for almond or oat milk for a lighter version, though creaminess might reduce slightly.
Variations:
- Broccoli Spinach Cauliflower Stir-Fry: Skip the coconut milk and stir-fry the vegetables with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Roasted Vegetable Bowl: Roast broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil and spices, then toss with fresh spinach and a tahini dressing.
- Cauliflower Spinach Vegan Curry: Add curry powder, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk for a rich, spiced curry version.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 14 g |
Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Vitamin A | 35% DV |
Vitamin C | 120% DV |
Calcium | 12% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower vegan dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over steaming quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal.
It also complements crusty whole-grain bread or vegan flatbreads perfectly.
For a lighter option, try it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted sweet potatoes. If you’re looking for inspiration to expand your vegan cuisine, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the satisfying Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.
Broccoli Spinach Cauliflower Vegan Recipes: A Trio of Flavorful Ideas
Creamy Broccoli, Spinach, and Cauliflower Soup
This luscious soup blends steamed broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach with creamy coconut milk and warming spices. It’s perfect for cozy evenings and packed with nutrients to boost your immune system.
Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup canned coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add broccoli, cauliflower, and turmeric; stir for 2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth, simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Add spinach and coconut milk, cook for another 2 minutes.
- Blend until smooth and season with salt and pepper.
Roasted Broccoli, Cauliflower & Spinach Salad with Tahini Dressing
A delightful warm salad that combines the smoky flavor of roasted broccoli and cauliflower with fresh spinach, topped with a creamy tahini dressing. It’s a great meal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon warm water
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast vegetables for 20-25 minutes until golden and tender.
- Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, warm water, maple syrup, and garlic until smooth.
- Toss roasted veggies with fresh spinach and drizzle with tahini dressing.
Stir-Fried Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Spinach with Garlic and Ginger
This quick stir-fry is a perfect weeknight dinner packed with fresh veggies and fragrant aromatics. Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
For more spice and flavor ideas, try the Cajun Ranch Wing Sauce Recipe to add a bold twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add spinach and soy sauce; cook 2 minutes until spinach wilts.
- Drizzle sesame oil, toss gently, and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Conclusion
Incorporating broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower into your vegan meals is a delicious way to nourish your body with essential nutrients while enjoying a variety of flavors and textures. From creamy soups to vibrant salads and quick stir-fries, these vegetables adapt beautifully to many cooking styles and cuisines.
These recipes are not only simple and wholesome but also flexible enough to customize with your favorite spices and add-ins. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these dishes will keep your meals exciting and healthful.
Don’t forget to explore more vegan delights like the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or the refreshing Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for inspiration beyond the greens. Happy cooking and enjoy every vibrant bite!
📖 Recipe Card: Broccoli Spinach Cauliflower Stir-Fry
Description: A quick and healthy vegan stir-fry featuring broccoli, spinach, and cauliflower. Packed with nutrients and perfect for a light meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add broccoli and cauliflower florets, cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in water, cover, and steam for 3 minutes.
- Add spinach, soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- Cook for another 2 minutes until spinach wilts.
- Stir well and remove from heat.
- Serve warm as a side or main dish.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 12 g
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