Cheap Yummy Vegan Recipes for Easy and Delicious Meals

Eating vegan doesn’t have to break the bank or leave you hungry! Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based eater or just curious about incorporating more vegan meals into your diet, finding affordable and delicious recipes can sometimes feel challenging.

Luckily, with a bit of creativity and a pantry full of versatile ingredients, you can whip up flavorful vegan dishes that are kind to your wallet and your taste buds.

In this post, we’ll explore some cheap, yummy vegan recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing friends without spending a fortune. From hearty stews to fresh salads and satisfying mains, these recipes offer both nutrition and taste without complicated ingredients or long cooking times.

Ready to dive into easy, affordable vegan cooking? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

These vegan recipes are designed to be budget-friendly without compromising on flavor or nutrition. By focusing on staple ingredients like beans, rice, seasonal vegetables, and affordable spices, you’ll create meals that are both filling and exciting.

Each recipe is:

• Easy to prepare, with straightforward steps ideal for any skill level
• Nutritious, packed with plant-based proteins, fiber, and essential vitamins
• Versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand
• Delicious, bursting with flavor through clever seasoning and cooking techniques

Plus, these dishes store well, making them perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry lentils (or canned for convenience)
• 2 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan or pot
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (if using canned beans/lentils for rinsing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the lentils: Rinse 1 cup of dry lentils under cold water. In a saucepan, add lentils and cover with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add spices and veggies: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon cumin powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic. Add 2 cups of mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine lentils and tomatoes: Add the cooked lentils and 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
5. Warm the rice: If not already cooked, prepare 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. You can also use leftover rice for convenience. Once warm, fluff with a fork.
6. Assemble and serve: Spoon the lentil and vegetable mixture over the rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra zing.

Tips & Variations

“Using canned lentils or beans can save you time without sacrificing nutrition or taste.”

• Swap lentils for black beans or chickpeas if you prefer different textures or flavors.
• Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper if you like your food spicy.
• Use frozen mixed vegetables to save money and reduce food waste.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a couple of tablespoons of coconut milk toward the end of cooking.
• Try serving in a wrap or stuffed into a pita pocket for a portable meal option.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed greens like kale or spinach. You can also serve it alongside some warm flatbread or pita for scooping.

For added texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds such as pumpkin seeds or walnuts on top. A dollop of your favorite vegan yogurt or a drizzle of tahini sauce can elevate the flavors further.

Looking for more creative vegan ideas? Check out these fantastic recipes:

• Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe – a flavorful vegetable side dish
• Pecan Crackers Recipe – perfect for snacking or pairing with dips
• Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe – add a tangy kick to your meals

Cheap Yummy Vegan Recipes Listicle

Easy Lentil and Rice Bowl

The recipe above is a perfect example of a hearty, nutritious, and affordable meal. Lentils provide plant-based protein while rice offers satisfying carbs, making this bowl both filling and wallet-friendly.

Chickpea Curry

• Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, 1 can coconut milk, 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 can diced tomatoes, 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen), salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Sauté onion and garlic, add curry powder, chickpeas, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Simmer 15 minutes, add spinach last 5 minutes. Serve with rice.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Veggies

• Ingredients: Spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, red chili flakes, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Cook spaghetti. Meanwhile, sauté garlic and chili flakes in olive oil. Add veggies and cook until tender. Toss spaghetti with the mixture and serve.

Black Bean Tacos

• Ingredients: 1 can black beans, taco seasoning, corn tortillas, lettuce, tomato, avocado, lime, salsa.
• Instructions: Heat black beans with seasoning. Fill warmed tortillas with beans and toppings. Serve with lime wedges.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

• Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes (cubed), 1 can black beans, 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 1 can diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Sauté onion and garlic, add spices, sweet potatoes, beans, and tomatoes. Simmer until sweet potatoes are tender.

These recipes are all great starting points for anyone looking to eat delicious vegan meals without spending a fortune. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have available!

Conclusion

Eating vegan on a budget is entirely achievable with a little planning and the right recipes. By focusing on affordable staples like lentils, beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables, you can create satisfying and flavorful meals that nourish your body and your wallet.

These cheap yummy vegan recipes prove that you don’t need expensive ingredients or complicated techniques to enjoy plant-based eating. Remember, cooking at home is not only economical but also a fun way to explore new flavors and textures.

For more inspiration, don’t forget to visit other delicious recipe ideas like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Pecan Crackers Recipe, and Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe.

Happy cooking and enjoy your vegan journey!

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