If you’ve been searching for vibrant, nourishing, and truly delicious vegan dishes, Colleen Goudreau vegan recipes are a treasure trove you don’t want to miss. Colleen Goudreau is a celebrated author and advocate, known for her inventive, flavor-packed plant-based creations that both seasoned vegans and curious omnivores adore.
Her recipes aren’t just about avoiding animal products—they’re about celebrating the abundance, color, and texture of plant-based ingredients. From hearty mains to crowd-pleasing appetizers and desserts, Colleen’s approach makes vegan cooking accessible and satisfying for everyone at your table.
In this post, I’m sharing a handpicked selection of Colleen Goudreau’s most beloved vegan recipes, including detailed instructions, tips, and serving suggestions. Whether you’re new to veganism or looking to spice up your weekly menu, you’ll discover meals that nourish, comfort, and impress.
Let’s dive into the world of Colleen Goudreau vegan recipes and bring more joy to your plant-based kitchen!
Why You’ll Love These Recipes
- Approachable Ingredients: Colleen’s recipes use everyday pantry items, making vegan cooking less intimidating and more fun.
- Balanced Flavors: Each dish is thoughtfully seasoned and layered, ensuring every bite is satisfying and bold.
- Nutrient-Rich: Expect meals packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals for sustained energy and wellness.
- Family-Friendly: From comforting pastas to savory soups, these recipes please kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Many recipes offer easy swaps for allergies or preferences, so you can make each dish your own.
“Vegan cooking is not about deprivation; it’s about abundance and making compassionate choices delicious.” — Colleen Goudreau
Colleen Goudreau Vegan Recipes: Top 3 Must-Try Dishes
Creamy Lemon Chickpea Pasta
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli) | 12 oz |
| Chickpeas, cooked (or canned, drained and rinsed) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Lemon, zested and juiced | 1 large |
| Unsweetened plant-based milk | 1 cup |
| Nutritional yeast | 3 tbsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) | 2 tbsp |
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester or grater
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring often to avoid burning.
- Add the chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting them heat through and pick up the flavor of the garlic.
- Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the plant-based milk, lemon juice, zest, and nutritional yeast. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, and let cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the greens: Toss in the fresh spinach, stirring until wilted (about 2 minutes). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat all the noodles in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra lemon zest if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
- Veggie Add-ins: Try adding steamed broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red pepper for extra color and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Stir in some diced smoked tofu or tempeh for a heartier meal.
For a zestier kick, add a pinch of homemade vegan chili powder to the sauce!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Vitamin C | 45% DV |
| Iron | 18% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside crusty whole grain bread for a heartier meal.
- Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or extra nutritional yeast for crunch and flavor.
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brown or green lentils, rinsed | 1 cup |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium |
| Celery stalks, diced | 2 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 1 (14 oz) can |
| Vegetable broth | 4 cups |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Thyme (dried or fresh) | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Chopped kale or spinach | 2 cups |
| Lemon juice (for finishing) | 1 tbsp |
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until softened.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic, thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lentils and tomatoes: Pour in the lentils and canned tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Add greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach, and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Finish and serve: Remove bay leaf, adjust salt and pepper, and stir in lemon juice. Serve hot!
Tips & Variations
- Root Vegetables: Swap in sweet potatoes or parsnips for the carrots for a seasonal twist.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary or parsley can be stirred in at the end for extra aroma.
- Bulk Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for busy weeknights.
“Soups and stews are perfect for batch cooking. They taste even better the next day!”
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/6 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fiber | 9g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 70% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Ladle over brown rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- Serve with a slice of soft gluten-free vegan bread for dipping.
- Top with chopped fresh herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil.
Decadent Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1/4 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Shaved vegan chocolate or berries (for topping, optional)
Equipment
- Food processor or blender
- Rubber spatula
- Serving bowls or glasses
Instructions
- Blend the mousse: Add avocados, cocoa powder, maple syrup, plant milk, vanilla, and salt to a food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust: Taste and add extra sweetener or cocoa powder to taste. Blend again.
- Chill: Spoon the mousse into serving bowls. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set and chill.
- Serve: Top with shaved chocolate or fresh berries just before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Make it lighter: For a fluffier mousse, fold in some whipped coconut cream after blending.
- Flavor boost: Add a sprinkle of espresso powder or orange zest for sophistication.
- Nut allergy? Use oat or rice milk for a nut-free treat.
For another delightful vegan dessert, try this Almond Pudding Recipe!
Nutrition Facts
For another delightful vegan dessert, try this Almond Pudding Recipe!
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Fat | 13g (healthy fats) |
| Sugar | 11g |
| Potassium | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in elegant glasses with a sprig of mint.
- Top with fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries for color and tang.
- Pair with banana pancakes for a brunch dessert.
Tips & Variations for Colleen Goudreau Vegan Recipes
- Batch Cooking: Many of Colleen’s recipes freeze beautifully—double the batch and save for later.
- Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to experiment with spice blends or herbs. Try adding a homemade chili powder or fresh basil to suit your palate.
- Meal Prep: Chop veggies or cook grains ahead of time to assemble meals quickly during busy weeknights.
- Seasonal Produce: Use what’s in season for the freshest and most flavorful results.
Nutrition Facts
Colleen Goudreau’s vegan recipes are designed to be balanced and nourishing. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect from her meals:
| Recipe Type | Calories | Protein | Fiber | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pasta Dishes | 300-400 | 12-16g | 7-10g | 6-10g |
| Soups & Stews | 150-250 | 8-12g | 5-9g | 1-4g |
| Desserts | 180-250 | 2-4g | 3-7g | 8-14g |
Each recipe is loaded with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and plenty of micronutrients. These meals fuel your body and satisfy your taste buds!
Serving Suggestions
- For a complete meal, pair a main dish with a refreshing salad, such as those from Best Vegan Salad Bowl Recipes.
- Enjoy stews and soups with a slice of homemade bread or a scoop of brown rice for extra heartiness.
- End your meal with a decadent yet healthy dessert, like the chocolate avocado mousse or a slice from this 9 Inch Vegan Oil Free Pie Recipe.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted seeds, nuts, or nutritional yeast to almost any dish for extra crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Colleen Goudreau vegan recipes truly showcase the beauty and versatility of plant-based cooking. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate flavor, texture, and nutrition—proving that vegan meals can be just as satisfying and crowd-pleasing as their traditional counterparts.
Whether you’re making a creamy chickpea pasta, a hearty lentil stew, or a decadent chocolate mousse, you’ll find yourself returning to these recipes again and again.
For more inspiration, don’t miss our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and discover the world of Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals to further expand your plant-based repertoire.
Happy cooking—and may every meal bring you joy, compassion, and delicious abundance!
📖 Recipe Card: Colleen Goudreau's Vegan Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Description: A hearty, protein-packed vegan sandwich filling made with chickpeas, celery, and flavorful seasonings. Perfect for a quick lunch or picnic meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices whole grain bread
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
- Sliced tomato, for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mash chickpeas with a fork until chunky.
- Stir in vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add celery, red onion, and parsley; mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Place lettuce and tomato on bread slices.
- Spoon chickpea mixture onto bread and assemble sandwiches.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 12g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 48g
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