Cooking for one doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, nutrition, or creativity. Whether you live alone, want to avoid food waste, or simply enjoy a quiet meal to yourself, single-serving vegan recipes are the perfect solution.
These recipes are designed to be simple, quick, and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish both body and soul. No complicated measuring for a crowd, no leftovers to worry about—just one perfectly portioned meal tailored for your appetite.
In this post, we’ll explore a delightful vegan recipe that serves one, alongside tips and variations to customize it to your liking. You’ll discover the joy of cooking just what you need, with fresh, plant-based ingredients that celebrate vibrant flavors.
Plus, I’ll share some helpful links to other amazing vegan recipes so you can keep your kitchen adventures exciting and varied.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This single-serving vegan recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nourishing, balanced meal without the hassle of cooking for multiple people. It’s:
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy days or when you want a fuss-free dinner.
- Flexible: Easily adaptable to your favorite veggies and seasonings.
- Healthy and satisfying: Loaded with plant-based proteins, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Waste-free: No leftovers means less food waste and fresher meals every time.
- Deliciously comforting: Filled with layers of flavor that make vegan cooking irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (or your preferred grain)
- 1/2 cup chickpeas (canned or cooked)
- 1/2 cup chopped kale (stems removed)
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or cilantro)
Equipment
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for cooking quinoa)
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Serving plate or bowl
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: If not already prepared, cook 1/4 cup dry quinoa according to package instructions. This will yield about 1/2 cup cooked quinoa.
- Prepare the vegetables: While quinoa cooks, wash and chop kale, bell pepper, and mince garlic.
- Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add kale and spices: Toss in the chopped kale, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until kale is wilted but still vibrant.
- Add chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through. Mash a few chickpeas gently with the back of a spoon to add texture.
- Combine quinoa and lemon juice: Remove skillet from heat. Add the cooked quinoa and lemon juice. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Add nutritional yeast and garnish: Sprinkle nutritional yeast over the top if using, and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve warm: Transfer to your favorite bowl or plate and enjoy your wholesome, single-serving vegan meal.
Tips & Variations
“Feel free to swap quinoa with other grains like brown rice or millet. Add your favorite veggies or spices to tailor this recipe to your taste!”
- Protein boost: Add a tablespoon of hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra protein and crunch.
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Switch greens: Use spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens instead of kale. For more ideas, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.
- Make it saucy: Drizzle with a vegan tahini sauce or our creamy Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to add richness.
- Meal prep friendly: Double or triple the recipe to prepare multiple single-serving containers for the week.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Dietary Fiber | 9 g |
Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Sodium | 250 mg |
Vitamin A | 90% DV |
Vitamin C | 75% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant quinoa and chickpea bowl pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or some crusty vegan bread. For a fun twist, serve it stuffed inside a warm pita or rolled in a large leaf of lettuce for a handheld meal.
If you want to explore more vegan bread options, take a look at this Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
For a heartier meal, add a small bowl of roasted vegetables or a cup of vegan soup. You might also enjoy pairing it with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon and herbs.
These combos create a satisfying, well-rounded vegan meal perfect for any time of day.
Conclusion
Cooking for one can be a joyful and fulfilling experience, especially when you have easy, tasty vegan recipes on hand that respect your time and appetite. This single-serving quinoa and chickpea bowl is a shining example of how simple plant-based cooking can be both nutritious and delicious.
It’s flexible, packed with wholesome ingredients, and ready in under 20 minutes—ideal for anyone seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies, spices, and toppings to make this recipe truly your own. And if you’re looking to expand your vegan recipe repertoire, be sure to check out our collection of flavorful dishes like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and the indulgent Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Chickpea Stir-Fry
Description: A quick and flavorful vegan stir-fry packed with protein and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a healthy solo meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1/2 cup broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup sliced bell pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced carrots
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
- Add broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chickpeas, soy sauce, and chili flakes; cook 3 minutes.
- Serve over cooked brown rice and garnish with green onions.
Nutrition: Calories: 380 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 60 g
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