5 Ingredient Vegan Recipes UK for Easy Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 4, 2025

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding quick, nutritious, and delicious meal options can be a challenge—especially when following a vegan lifestyle. That’s why 5 ingredient vegan recipes have become a game-changer in kitchens across the UK.

They promise simplicity without compromising on flavour, making them perfect for busy weeknights, beginner cooks, or anyone craving wholesome food made from minimal, accessible ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these recipes offer a delightful variety of tastes and textures that won’t overwhelm your pantry or your schedule.

In this post, we’ll explore a selection of easy-to-make vegan recipes that require just five ingredients each. From comforting curries to vibrant salads and hearty mains, these dishes showcase how minimalism in cooking can still lead to maximum satisfaction.

Plus, they’re tailored to fit the UK pantry staples, making shopping and preparation a breeze. Let’s dive in and discover how simplicity can truly be the spice of life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These 5 ingredient vegan recipes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy fast, fuss-free meals without sacrificing taste or nutrition. They:

  • Use common, affordable ingredients found easily in UK supermarkets.
  • Are quick to prepare, ideal for busy lifestyles or last-minute dinners.
  • Focus on whole foods and plant-based nutrition for health benefits.
  • Require minimal cooking skills, making them accessible for beginners.
  • Offer flexibility to customize with your favourite herbs, spices, or extras.

Ingredients

Below are the staple ingredients used across the recipes featured in this post. Each recipe will highlight the specific quantities needed.

  • Chickpeas (canned or cooked) – a protein-packed base
  • Sweet potatoes – natural sweetness and fibre
  • Spinach or other leafy greens – for vibrant colour and nutrients
  • Coconut milk – creamy texture and rich flavour
  • Tomato passata – for depth and acidity
  • Garlic – aromatic base for flavour
  • Olive oil – healthy fat for cooking
  • Rice or quinoa – simple grain accompaniment
  • Salt and pepper – essential seasoning

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or deep frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife and chopping board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Colander or sieve (for rinsing chickpeas or grains)
  • Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

Recipe 1: Creamy Chickpea & Spinach Curry

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  2. Add 400g canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) and 200ml coconut milk to the pan. Stir to combine.
  3. Pour in 200ml tomato passata, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
  4. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in 100g fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Serve hot with cooked rice or quinoa.

Recipe 2: Roasted Sweet Potato & Chickpea Salad

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Peel and cube 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 400g).
  2. Toss sweet potatoes and 400g drained chickpeas in 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender.
  4. Transfer to a bowl, add 100g fresh spinach or rocket, and toss lightly.
  5. Drizzle with a squeeze of lemon juice or your favourite vinaigrette before serving.

Recipe 3: Sweet Potato & Coconut Soup

  1. Peel and chop 2 medium sweet potatoes into chunks.
  2. In a large pot, combine sweet potatoes, 400ml coconut milk, and 500ml vegetable stock. Bring to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until sweet potatoes are soft.
  4. Blend soup until smooth with a hand blender or in batches in a blender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then serve garnished with fresh herbs or a swirl of coconut milk.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t hesitate to swap or add herbs like coriander, parsley, or basil for extra freshness.”

  • Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available; just thaw and drain before adding.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or curry powder to elevate the curry’s flavour profile.
  • For extra protein, include cooked lentils or tofu cubes in any of these dishes.
  • Replace rice with couscous or barley for texture variation.
  • Use sweet potato leaves or kale for a slightly different green option.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 10 g
Fat 14 g (mostly from coconut milk and olive oil)
Carbohydrates 38 g (including complex carbs from sweet potato)
Dietary Fiber 8 g
Sugar 7 g (natural sugars from vegetables)
Iron 3 mg (good source)

Serving Suggestions

These recipes pair wonderfully with simple sides or additions to make your meal even more satisfying:

  • Warm wholegrain naan or crusty bread for dipping
  • A fresh cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil
  • Pickled red onions or chutney to add tang and contrast
  • A dollop of vegan yoghurt or cashew cream for creaminess
  • For a heartier meal, consider serving with pan-fried tofu or tempeh

If you’re looking for more vegan inspiration, check out these other delicious recipes like Blackberry Juicing Recipes, Bobo’S Lemon Poppyseed Oat Bar Recipe, and Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes for vibrant, flavour-packed dishes.

Conclusion

Embracing 5 ingredient vegan recipes is a fantastic way to simplify your cooking routine while enjoying healthy, delicious meals. These recipes highlight that vegan food can be both easy and exciting, using minimal ingredients that are widely available in the UK.

From creamy curries to comforting soups and fresh salads, each dish is designed to deliver maximum flavour with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes help you create satisfying plant-based meals that everyone will love.

So next time you’re short on time or ingredients, remember that a tasty vegan meal is just five ingredients away!

📖 Recipe Card: 5 Ingredient Vegan Chickpea Curry

Description: A quick and flavorful vegan chickpea curry using just five ingredients. Perfect for a healthy and comforting meal in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (400g each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 400ml coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp curry powder

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
  3. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add chickpeas and coconut milk, stir well.
  5. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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