Cheap Recipes 5 Ingredients or Less Vegan Meals to Try

Eating vegan on a tight budget doesn’t have to mean bland, repetitive meals. In fact, some of the most comforting and satisfying vegan recipes are also the simplest—and the most affordable.

If you’re looking for cheap recipes 5 ingredients or less vegan, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re a student, a busy parent, or just hoping to simplify your weeknight dinners, these plant-based dishes prove that you don’t need a long ingredient list or a fancy kitchen to eat well.

With just a handful of wholesome staples, you can whip up meals that are nourishing, delicious, and surprisingly quick to prepare. Let’s dive into some of the best easy vegan recipes you can make with five ingredients or fewer!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

There are so many reasons to fall in love with vegan recipes that use five ingredients or less. First and foremost, simplicity is key—less time shopping and prepping means more time enjoying your food and your life.

These recipes are budget-friendly, making them perfect for anyone watching their grocery bills.

They also encourage creativity with pantry staples, reduce food waste, and are easy to scale up for meal prep or guests. Best of all, they’re naturally healthy, focusing on whole foods that nourish the body while being kind to the planet.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, these dishes will become your go-to favorites.

Top 5 Cheap Vegan Recipes with 5 Ingredients or Less

Creamy Avocado Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne, gluten-free if desired)
• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Blender or food processor
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce: In a blender, combine the avocado (pitted and peeled), garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of water if needed for texture.
3. Toss the pasta with the avocado sauce until evenly coated.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with extra black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a handful of cherry tomatoes. If you like spice, a pinch of chili flakes works wonders.

This sauce also makes a great dip for roasted veggies!

“Ripe avocados blend into a luscious, dairy-free cream sauce that’s ready in minutes.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a simple green salad, or serve alongside a side of Harvest Hash for extra veggies. It’s delicious warm or chilled for lunch the next day.

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp vegan mayo
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Bowl
• Fork or potato masher
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Mash the chickpeas in a bowl using a fork until mostly broken down but still chunky.
2. Add vegan mayo, celery, and mustard. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve on whole grain bread, in lettuce wraps, or with crackers.

Tips & Variations

Stir in chopped pickles, red onion, or fresh herbs for extra zing. This filling is also great stuffed into pita bread or scooped onto salads.

“Chickpeas are a protein powerhouse—this salad is endlessly adaptable.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Try this salad in a sandwich with leafy greens, or serve as a dip for raw veggies. For a picnic, pack with some homemade lemon crackers for a light, fresh meal.

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Slice sweet potatoes into wedges.
3. Toss with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
4. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

Tips & Variations

Switch up the spices: try cumin, garlic powder, or cayenne for variety. Serve with your favorite dip, like vegan ranch or tahini sauce.

“Cut sweet potatoes evenly for the best crispy edges!”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These wedges are perfect as a side or snack. Pair with a veggie burger, or as part of a mushroom crumble bowl for a hearty meal.

Easy Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin

Equipment

• Large pot
• Stirring spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Heat a splash of broth in a large pot. Add onion and carrots, sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Add lentils, remaining broth, and cumin.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Add chopped tomatoes or spinach for more veggies. Finish with a squeeze of lemon or a splash of hot sauce for brightness.

“Simmering lentils in broth with aromatic veggies delivers a flavorful soup with minimal effort.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice for extra heartiness. This soup also pairs well with a bright salad or as a starter for a larger meal.

Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Equipment

• Bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Baking dish
• Oven

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mash bananas in a bowl, then stir in peanut butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
3. Add oats and mix until combined.
4. Press mixture into a lined or greased baking dish.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until set. Cool before slicing into bars.

Tips & Variations

Add a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruit for variety. Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

“No added oil or refined sugar—just wholesome, filling ingredients in every bite.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Pack these bars for a grab-and-go breakfast, after-school snack, or a post-workout energy boost. They also make a great dessert with a drizzle of vegan chocolate.

Tips & Variations for All Recipes

• Keep your pantry stocked with affordable staples like beans, oats, and whole grains.
• Swap in seasonal produce for better prices and fresher flavors.
• Double or triple recipes for meal prep—these dishes store well and taste great reheated.
• If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes and Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for delicious plant-based dishes.

“The best vegan meals are simple, affordable, and deeply satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment!”

Nutrition Facts Comparison Table

Conclusion

Delicious vegan food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. These cheap recipes 5 ingredients or less vegan prove that a small handful of simple, wholesome ingredients can deliver big flavor and plenty of nutrition.

Whether you’re making a creamy pasta, hearty soup, or a satisfying snack bar, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, packed lunches, or any time you need a quick, healthy bite.

Remember, the heart of vegan cooking is creativity and flexibility—feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen. If you’re hungry for more ideas, take a peek at our Harvest Hash Recipe or our Lemon Crackers Recipe for even more inspiration.

Happy cooking, and enjoy making plant-based meals that are as easy on your wallet as they are on your schedule!

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