Cheap Vegan Recipes for Weight Loss That Taste Amazing

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Are you on a journey to embrace a healthier lifestyle without breaking the bank? If so, you’re in the right place!

Eating vegan can be incredibly budget-friendly and a smart choice for weight loss—if you know what to make. The secret is to use wholesome, plant-based staples like beans, grains, and fresh or frozen veggies.

Today, I’m sharing my favorite cheap vegan recipes for weight loss that are both filling and delicious. These recipes are simple, require minimal equipment, and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or simply someone looking to enjoy nutritious meals, these recipes will help you reach your goals. Read on for step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and serving ideas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheap vegan recipes for weight loss are designed to be:

  • Budget-Friendly: Most ingredients cost less than $2 per serving.
  • Quick & Easy: No complicated steps and minimal prep time.
  • Filling & Satisfying: Thanks to fiber-rich beans, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and enjoy throughout the week.
  • Customizable: Each recipe features tips to swap ingredients or add variety.
  • Low in Calories, High in Nutrition: Perfect for supporting weight loss goals.

Plus, you’ll find that a little creativity with spices and affordable pantry staples can make vegan eating vibrant and exciting!

Cheap Vegan Recipes for Weight Loss: 3 Delicious Options

One-Pot Chickpea & Spinach Stew

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Canned chickpeas (rinsed & drained) 1 can (15 oz)
Fresh or frozen spinach 3 cups
Onion, diced 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Crushed tomatoes 1 can (14 oz)
Vegetable broth 2 cups
Olive oil (optional) 1 tbsp
Ground cumin 1 tsp
Smoked paprika 1/2 tsp
Salt & pepper To taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Can opener
  • Measuring spoons & cups

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil (if using) in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  2. Add minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add canned chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a simmer. If using fresh spinach, add it now. If using frozen, wait until the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  5. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Stir in spinach (if using frozen) and cook for another 3-4 minutes until wilted and the stew thickens slightly.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with extra black pepper or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Bulk it up: Add a diced potato or a handful of cooked brown rice for extra substance.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
  • Make it creamy: Stir in 1-2 tbsp of tahini just before serving for a creamy finish.

“This stew is perfect for meal prepping—just double the batch and you’ll have healthy lunches all week!”

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1/3 of recipe) Amount
Calories 210
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 8g
Fat 3g
Sugar 7g

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a slice of homemade wheat bread for extra fiber.
  • Top with fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of freshness.
  • Enjoy over a scoop of cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-calorie meal.

Conclusion

This one-pot chickpea & spinach stew is a true staple for anyone seeking cheap vegan recipes for weight loss. It’s packed with plant-based protein, loaded with fiber, and super versatile.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this stew will keep you satisfied without weighing you down. And with only pantry staples and simple steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep.

Keep reading for two more budget-friendly vegan recipes—each designed to support your healthy lifestyle, save you money, and satisfy your taste buds!


Spicy Lentil & Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Dry brown or green lentils 1 cup
Water 2.5 cups
Frozen mixed vegetables 2 cups
Soy sauce or tamari 2 tbsp
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Ground ginger 1/2 tsp
Sriracha or hot sauce 1 tsp (optional)
Sesame oil (optional) 1 tsp
Green onions, sliced 2

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan (for lentils)
  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Knife & cutting board

Instructions

  1. Cook lentils: Rinse lentils well. Combine with water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Drain excess water.
  2. Heat skillet: In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil (if using) over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ground ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
  3. Add frozen mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until heated through and slightly caramelized.
  4. Add cooked lentils to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce/tamari and Sriracha (if using).
  5. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes until the lentils absorb the sauce and the veggies are coated.
  6. Top with sliced green onions and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

  • Use any veggies: Swap in whatever frozen or fresh vegetables you have on hand—broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach!
  • Make it a bowl: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
  • Boost the protein: Add tofu cubes or edamame for extra protein and texture.

“Frozen veggies are a lifesaver for budget cooking—no chopping, no waste, just pure convenience!”

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1/2 of recipe) Amount
Calories 270
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 13g
Fat 2g
Sugar 5g

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a wedge of lime and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor.
  • Pair with a side of homemade lemon crackers for a crunchy contrast.
  • Enjoy cold as a salad or lunchbox meal—just add a drizzle of extra soy sauce.

Conclusion

This spicy lentil & vegetable stir-fry proves that cheap vegan recipes for weight loss can be both quick and deeply satisfying. Lentils are a powerhouse of plant protein and fiber, keeping you full for hours.

The use of frozen veggies means you can create a colorful, nutritious plate any time of year—no excuses! With options to customize flavors and textures, this recipe will fit easily into your busy week.

If you love easy, healthy recipes like this, you might enjoy my Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food—another crowd-pleaser loaded with veggies!


Simple Black Bean & Sweet Potato Tacos

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Medium sweet potatoes 2
Canned black beans, rinsed & drained 1 can (15 oz)
Corn tortillas 8
Ground cumin 1 tsp
Chili powder 1/2 tsp
Lime 1
Salt & pepper To taste
Shredded lettuce, tomato, or salsa (optional) For topping

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment.
  2. Peel and dice sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Toss with a little salt, pepper, and chili powder. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.
  3. Roast sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized.
  4. In a bowl, mash half of the black beans with a fork. Stir in whole beans, ground cumin, and a squeeze of lime.
  5. Warm corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft.
  6. Assemble tacos: Layer bean mixture and roasted sweet potato cubes onto each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, or salsa as desired.
  7. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges.

Tips & Variations

  • Meal prep: Roast extra sweet potatoes and store in the fridge for wraps or bowls later in the week.
  • Switch it up: Use pinto beans or kidney beans instead of black beans.
  • Add crunch: Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds or crushed tortilla chips before serving.

“Tacos are endlessly flexible—use whatever beans and veggies you have on hand for a new flavor every time!”

Nutrition Facts

Per 2 Tacos Amount
Calories 240
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 46g
Fiber 9g
Fat 2g
Sugar 7g

Serving Suggestions

Conclusion

Eating healthy and losing weight doesn’t have to be expensive or dull. These cheap vegan recipes for weight loss prove that you can enjoy colorful, flavorful meals on a tight budget.

With affordable pantry staples, a little planning, and a dash of creativity, you’ll never be bored at the dinner table. Remember, the key is consistency—keep these recipes on rotation, and you’ll feel energized and satisfied every day.

If you enjoyed these ideas, be sure to check out more plant-forward inspiration on the blog, like this Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe and the hearty Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes. Let us know which recipes you try in the comments below—happy cooking and healthy eating!

📖 Recipe Card: Chickpea & Vegetable Stir-Fry

Description: A quick, budget-friendly vegan stir-fry packed with protein and fiber. Perfect for weight loss and ready in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot; stir-fry for 5 minutes.
  4. Add chickpeas, soy sauce, cumin, black pepper, and water.
  5. Stir well and cook for another 7-8 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  6. Drizzle with lemon juice, toss, and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 210 | Protein: 8g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 33g

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Marta K

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