Cheap Vegan Sandwich Recipes for Quick and Tasty Meals

Let’s be honest—sandwiches are the unsung heroes of the kitchen. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they’re also the ultimate blank canvas for almost any cuisine or dietary preference.

If you’re vegan or just looking to eat more plant-based meals, you might think your sandwich options are limited. But with a little creativity, it’s easy to whip up cheap vegan sandwiches that are as delicious as they are satisfying.

Whether you’re a student on a budget, feeding a family, or just want a portable lunch, affordable vegan sandwiches can fit the bill. Today, I’m sharing several of my favorite cheap vegan sandwich recipes—each with simple ingredients, big flavor, and minimal fuss.

You don’t need fancy gadgets or expensive specialty items; just basic pantry staples and some fresh produce. Ready to make your lunch routine more exciting (and wallet-friendly)?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: These recipes use everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Quick & Easy: Most sandwiches come together in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy days or meal prep.
• Customizable: Each sandwich can be adapted based on what’s in your fridge or pantry.
• Healthy & Filling: Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and hearty veggies to keep you full.
• Great for All Ages: Kid-friendly flavors and easy-to-eat handheld meals.
• No Special Equipment: All you need is a knife, cutting board, and maybe a skillet for toasting.

Ingredients

Here’s a basic table of staple ingredients you’ll need for these sandwiches. Most are available at any grocery store and are easy on the wallet!

Each sandwich recipe below will specify exact ingredients and amounts, so feel free to mix and match according to what you have!

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Can opener (for beans)
• Mixing bowl (for spreads or mashes)
• Fork or potato masher (for mashing beans or avocado)
• Toaster or skillet (optional, for toasting bread)
• Measuring spoons (optional)

Instructions

Classic Chickpea “Tuna” Salad Sandwich

1. Drain and rinse 1 can of chickpeas. Place them in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork until mostly broken up but still a bit chunky.
2. Add 2 tablespoons vegan mayo, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 tablespoon chopped pickle or relish, 1/4 cup finely chopped celery, and 1/4 cup finely chopped onion. Mix well.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice if you have it.
4. Spread generously onto whole grain bread. Top with lettuce and tomato slices.
5. Close the sandwich, slice, and serve. Toast the bread beforehand if desired.

Hummus & Veggie Rainbow Sandwich

1. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of hummus onto one side of your favorite bread, ciabatta, or a wrap.
2. Layer with thinly sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, bell pepper strips, and baby spinach.
3. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for flavor.
4. Add a few sunflower seeds for crunch.
5. Top with the second slice of bread or roll up the wrap, slice, and enjoy.

Avocado & Black Bean Smash Sandwich

1. Mash 1 ripe avocado in a bowl. Stir in 1/2 cup drained black beans, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/4 teaspoon cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Toast 2 slices of bread (optional) and spread the avocado bean mixture evenly onto each slice.
3. Top with sliced tomato, red onion, and a handful of arugula or lettuce.
4. Press together, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Spicy Curried Carrot Sandwich

1. Grate 2 medium carrots into a bowl.
2. Add 2 tablespoons vegan mayo, 1 teaspoon curry powder, 1 tablespoon raisins, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Mix well until everything is coated and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Spread onto bread or a wrap. Add a few spinach leaves for extra green.
5. Close the sandwich, slice, and enjoy a sweet-spicy bite!

Sauerkraut & Mustard Power Sandwich

1. Toast 2 slices of hearty rye or whole grain bread.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon vegan butter or olive oil on one slice and 1 tablespoon spicy mustard on the other.
3. Layer with a generous scoop of sauerkraut and add thin slices of tomato and cucumber.
4. Optional: Sprinkle on some nutritional yeast for a cheesy touch.
5. Press together, slice, and enjoy warm or cold.

Tips & Variations

• Mix Up the Bread: Try pitas, wraps, bagels, or baguettes for a new take on any of these fillings.
• Batch Prep: Most of these fillings can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them great for meal prep.
• Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or harissa to your sandwich.
• Leafy Greens: Swap romaine, spinach, arugula, or even shredded cabbage for extra crunch and nutrients.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or large lettuce leaves as wraps.
• “Try swapping out beans for lentils or using leftover roasted veggies for a new twist on your sandwich!”

“Sandwiches are one of the easiest ways to eat more plant-based food without breaking the bank.”

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown for a typical vegan sandwich (e.g., chickpea salad on whole grain bread with veggies):

Actual values will depend on your bread, spreads, and the exact veggies you use. Each sandwich is packed with plant protein, fiber, and healthy fats while being low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Side: Enjoy with a simple side salad, veggie sticks, or baked sweet potato fries.
• Soup & Sandwich: Pair with your favorite vegan soup, such as lentil or tomato basil.
• Add Fruit: Fresh apple slices, grapes, or a citrus fruit make a refreshing accompaniment.
• Make it a Platter: Serve open-faced with extra toppings—olives, sprouts, or roasted veggies.
• Lunchbox Ready: Wrap sandwiches tightly in parchment for an easy, portable meal.

For other creative vegan sides, check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for ideas that pair beautifully with sandwiches!

Conclusion

Eating delicious, satisfying, and cheap vegan sandwiches is not only possible—it’s fun and endlessly customizable! With easy-to-source ingredients and no fancy equipment needed, these recipes empower anyone to pack a nutritious, wallet-friendly lunch or snack at home or on the go.

Next time you’re in a lunchtime rut or looking for a quick dinner, remember that a good vegan sandwich can be as simple or as creative as you want. Feel free to experiment with the basics, add seasonal produce, or try different spreads and condiments.

For more plant-based meal inspiration, don’t miss our Harvest Hash Recipe or try a classic party starter like our Halibut Dip Recipe (easily veganized with plant-based alternatives!).

Have your own favorite vegan sandwich ideas? Share them in the comments below.

Happy sandwich making!

Bonus: List of Cheap Vegan Sandwich Recipes

1. Classic Chickpea “Tuna” Salad Sandwich: Wholesome, creamy, and packed with protein.
2. Hummus & Veggie Rainbow Sandwich: Colorful, crunchy, and loaded with nutrients.
3. Avocado & Black Bean Smash Sandwich: Creamy, zesty, and full of fiber.
4. Spicy Curried Carrot Sandwich: Sweet, spicy, and delightfully different.
5. Sauerkraut & Mustard Power Sandwich: Tangy, hearty, and probiotic-rich.
6. Peanut Butter, Banana & Chia Seed Sandwich: (Bonus!) Sweet, filling, and perfect for breakfast or snack. Just spread peanut butter on bread, top with sliced banana and a sprinkle of chia seeds.

Looking for more vegan comfort food? Don’t miss our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or explore savory mushroom options with Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes!

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