Cheap Vegan Recipes Pinterest: Easy, Tasty Meals to Try

Updated On: October 7, 2025

If you’re searching for cheap vegan recipes Pinterest ideas, you’re in the right place! Vegan cooking doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

In fact, some of the most delicious and satisfying vegan meals can be made with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Pinterest is brimming with colorful, budget-friendly vegan recipes, but it can be overwhelming to sift through them all.

That’s why I’ve gathered a list of my favorite tried-and-true cheap vegan recipes that are not only easy on your wallet but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re a student, a busy parent, or simply looking to eat more plant-based without breaking the bank, these recipes will inspire you to create wholesome meals without sacrificing taste or your budget.

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these cheap vegan recipes from Pinterest!

  • Affordable Ingredients: Each recipe is designed with budget in mind, using pantry staples and easy-to-find produce.
  • Quick & Simple: Most recipes come together in under 30 minutes and require minimal prep work.
  • Family-Friendly: These dishes are crowd-pleasers, perfect for picky eaters and hearty appetites alike.
  • Customizable: Easily adapt each recipe to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Every meal is loaded with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch at the start of the week and enjoy healthy, ready-to-eat lunches or dinners.

Cheap Vegan Pinterest Recipe Listicle

Below you’ll find a handpicked selection of my favorite cheap vegan recipes from Pinterest. Each one is easy, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Let’s jump in!

One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Stew

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add diced carrots and potatoes, stirring to coat in the oil and aromatics.
  3. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils and vegetables are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.

Tips & Variations

  • Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes for extra nutrients.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
  • Switch up veggies: Try sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell pepper instead of potatoes and carrots.

“Lentils are a budget superstar and packed with plant-based protein. They’re a go-to for anyone looking to eat nourishing meals without spending a fortune.”

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving Amount
Calories 230
Protein 12g
Fiber 10g
Fat 4g
Carbohydrates 38g

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with steamed rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad and crusty bread.
  • Top with chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp vegan mayo or plain hummus
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 slices whole grain bread
  • Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spoon

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, mash chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until chunky but mostly broken down.
  2. Add vegan mayo (or hummus), Dijon, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Spread mixture on bread slices. Add lettuce, tomato, or pickles if desired.
  4. Top with remaining bread slices. Cut in half and serve.

Tips & Variations

  • Swap vegan mayo for mashed avocado for a creamy, healthy twist.
  • Add chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Serve in a wrap or pita for a portable lunch.

“Chickpeas are not only affordable—they’re also incredibly versatile and filling!”

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving Amount
Calories 320
Protein 13g
Fiber 8g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 52g

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of veggie sticks or a handful of chips for a satisfying lunch.
  • Try as an open-faced sandwich for a lighter meal.

Easy Vegan Fried Rice

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cold cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp canola or vegetable oil
  • Optional: 1/2 block firm tofu, cubed

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Instructions

  1. Heat canola oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Add tofu (if using) and cook until lightly golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add frozen vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Push veggies to the side, add sesame oil, then add cold rice. Stir and break up any clumps.
  5. Return tofu to the pan. Pour soy sauce over everything and toss to combine.
  6. Add green onions, stir, and cook for another minute. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

  • Use leftover rice for the best texture—it won’t get mushy.
  • Add a splash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for some heat.
  • Mix in any extra veggies you need to use up—bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach work well.

“Cold rice makes the best fried rice because it fries up beautifully without sticking together.”

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving Amount
Calories 300
Protein 9g
Fiber 4g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 52g

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a side of steamed edamame or a fresh cucumber salad.
  • Top with toasted sesame seeds and extra sliced green onion for crunch and color.

Classic Vegan Chili

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup water or vegetable broth

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Can opener

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
  2. Add bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add both beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and water or vegetable broth.
  5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne.
  • Bulk it up with frozen corn, zucchini, or chopped carrots.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day!

“This chili is perfect for meal prep. Freeze leftovers for a quick meal any day of the week.”

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving Amount
Calories 280
Protein 13g
Fiber 10g
Fat 6g
Carbohydrates 46g

Serving Suggestions

  • Top with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or vegan sour cream.
  • Serve over brown rice or with tortilla chips for crunch.

5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Banana Oat Bars

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork or potato masher
  • Baking dish (8×8 inch recommended)
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Mash bananas in a large bowl. Stir in peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
  3. Add rolled oats and mix until well combined.
  4. Spread mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until set and lightly golden. Cool before slicing into bars.

Tips & Variations

  • Mix in chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips for extra flavor.
  • Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter if preferred.
  • These bars freeze well—make a double batch for easy snacks!

“These bars are perfect for breakfasts on the go or a quick, energy-boosting snack.”

Nutrition Facts

Per Bar (1/8 batch) Amount
Calories 180
Protein 5g
Fiber 3g
Fat 7g
Carbohydrates 24g

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy with morning coffee or tea.
  • Pack in lunchboxes or gym bags for a healthy snack.
  • Drizzle with extra peanut butter for a special treat.

More Vegan Recipe Inspiration

Looking for even more vegan meal ideas? Check out these delicious recipes from our archives:

Conclusion

Eating vegan on a budget is not only possible—it’s a culinary adventure that can introduce you to new flavors, textures, and ingredients. With these cheap vegan recipes Pinterest favorites, you’ll always have a nourishing meal option that’s easy on your wallet and big on taste.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and use what you have; the simplest meals are often the most satisfying. Whether you’re making a hearty lentil stew, a quick chickpea salad sandwich, or wholesome oat bars, you can feel good about fueling your body with affordable, plant-based goodness.

Bookmark this page, share with friends, and come back any time you need inspiration for cheap, easy vegan meals!

Have your own favorite budget vegan recipe? Let us know in the comments or connect with us on social media.

And don’t forget to check out our other recipes, like the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or our sweet and zesty Lemon Straws Recipe for more plant-based inspiration. Happy cooking!

đź“– Recipe Card: One-Pot Vegan Chickpea Curry

Description: A budget-friendly, flavorful vegan curry made in one pot with pantry staples. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, curry powder, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk; mix well.
  5. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
  6. Stir in frozen peas and cook for 2 more minutes.
  7. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Nutrition: Calories: 370 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 16 g | Carbs: 48 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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