Anticancer Vegan Recipes for a Healthier Lifestyle

Updated On: October 4, 2025

Eating for wellness goes far beyond calorie counting—it’s about nourishing your body with ingredients that help you thrive. If you’re seeking flavorful plant-based meals that are as good for your taste buds as they are for your health, anticancer vegan recipes are the perfect place to start.

These dishes harness the power of vibrant vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and herbs—all brimming with compounds known to support cellular health. With research continually highlighting the connection between diet and cancer prevention, there’s never been a better time to make veggies the star of your plate.

In this blog post, I’m sharing a collection of my favorite anticancer vegan recipes. Each one is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals that may help reduce inflammation and bolster your body’s natural defenses.

Whether you’re already vegan or just looking to add more health-promoting meals to your routine, these recipes are proof that eating well can truly be delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Wholesome Ingredients: Every recipe focuses on whole, minimally processed foods that are packed with nutrients and flavor.
  • Easy Preparation: These dishes are straightforward and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
  • Flavorful & Satisfying: You won’t miss the meat or dairy—each recipe is full of bold spices, fresh herbs, and hearty plant-based proteins.
  • Supports Wellness: Featuring cruciferous vegetables, legumes, berries, and spices linked to cancer prevention.
  • Family-Friendly: These meals are loved by kids and adults alike, making it simple to introduce nutritious foods to your household.

Anticancer Vegan Recipes List

Here are three standout anticancer vegan recipes that are delicious, easy to prepare, and brimming with nutrients:


Broccoli & Quinoa Power Bowl with Turmeric Tahini Dressing

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount
Quinoa 1 cup (uncooked)
Broccoli florets 2 cups
Chickpeas (cooked) 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
Red bell pepper 1, diced
Baby spinach 2 cups
Pumpkin seeds 2 tbsp
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Sea salt & black pepper To taste
For the Turmeric Tahini Dressing
Tahini 3 tbsp
Lemon juice 2 tbsp
Maple syrup 1 tbsp
Ground turmeric 1/2 tsp
Water 2-3 tbsp (as needed for thinning)
Garlic powder 1/4 tsp

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Salad serving bowl

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cool water. In a saucepan, combine quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Steam the broccoli: Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 4-5 minutes until just tender and bright green. Alternatively, microwave with a splash of water for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, turmeric, garlic powder, and 2 tbsp water. Add more water if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
  4. Assemble the bowl: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, chickpeas, diced red bell pepper, and baby spinach. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.
  5. Add crunch & flavor: Sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the top for added texture and nutrition.
  6. Dress & serve: Drizzle with turmeric tahini dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

  • Swap the greens: Try kale, arugula, or swiss chard in place of spinach for a different nutrient profile.
  • Boost protein: Add tempeh, roasted tofu, or hemp seeds.
  • Make it ahead: All components can be prepped up to 3 days in advance and assembled when ready to eat.
  • Extra flavor: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint.

“Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are rich in sulforaphane, a compound shown in research to help protect cells from DNA damage.”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 340
Protein 13g
Fiber 9g
Vitamin C 70% DV
Iron 20% DV
Calcium 12% DV

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy as a hearty lunch or dinner bowl.
  • Pair with a side of Half Runner Beans for even more plant protein.
  • Serve chilled for a refreshing summer meal, or warm for cozy comfort.

Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Soup

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount
Red lentils 1 cup (dry)
Sweet potatoes 2 medium, peeled and diced
Carrots 2, diced
Onion 1, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Fresh ginger 1 tbsp, grated
Ground cumin 1 tsp
Ground coriander 1/2 tsp
Ground turmeric 1/2 tsp
Vegetable broth 6 cups
Coconut milk (optional) 1/2 cup
Olive oil 1 tbsp
Salt & pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro For garnish

Equipment

  • Large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and ginger; cook another minute.
  2. Add veggies & spices: Stir in sweet potatoes, carrots, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Toss to coat vegetables evenly in spices.
  3. Simmer: Pour in vegetable broth and add red lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils and sweet potatoes are soft.
  4. Blend (optional): For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree half the soup directly in the pot (or transfer half to a blender, blend, and return).
  5. Finish & serve: Stir in coconut milk if using, and season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

  • Switch up the veggies: Add spinach, kale, or diced tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
  • Add heat: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Batch cook: This soup freezes beautifully—make a double batch and freeze portions for quick, healthy meals.

“Lentils are loaded with fiber and plant-based protein, while sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene—both linked to reduced cancer risk.”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 260
Protein 12g
Fiber 11g
Vitamin A 320% DV
Iron 18% DV
Vitamin C 28% DV

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy with a slice of Green Chile Cheese Bread (vegan version) for a hearty meal.
  • Pair with a crisp green salad and a squeeze of lemon for even more antioxidants.
  • Top with a dollop of vegan yogurt for creaminess and probiotics.

Berry-Chia Antioxidant Parfait

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount
Frozen mixed berries 1 1/2 cups
Chia seeds 3 tbsp
Unsweetened plant milk 1 cup
Maple syrup 1 tbsp
Rolled oats 1/2 cup
Ground flaxseed 1 tbsp
Vanilla extract 1/2 tsp
Fresh mint leaves For garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Parfait glasses or jars
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare chia pudding: In a bowl, whisk together plant milk, chia seeds, ground flaxseed, maple syrup, and vanilla. Let sit for 10 minutes, then whisk again. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) until thickened.
  2. Layer the parfait: In parfait glasses or jars, layer chia pudding, a handful of frozen mixed berries, and a spoonful of rolled oats. Repeat layers as desired.
  3. Finish & serve: Top with fresh mint leaves and an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired. Serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

  • Mix up the berries: Use strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries—each offers unique antioxidants.
  • Make it portable: Assemble parfaits in jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
  • Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds for more texture and healthy fats.

“Berries are among the highest antioxidant foods, and chia seeds provide anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 210
Protein 6g
Fiber 9g
Vitamin C 45% DV
Calcium 20% DV
Omega-3s 1800mg

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a refreshing breakfast, snack, or healthy dessert.
  • Pair with a Green Goodness Juice for an antioxidant-rich start to your day.
  • Top with a sprinkle of cacao nibs for a chocolatey twist.

Tips & Variations for All Recipes

  • Shop seasonal: Use locally grown, organic produce whenever possible for the highest nutrient content.
  • Batch cooking: Many components can be made in advance to save time during the week.
  • Mix and match: Combine elements from different recipes for endless bowl and salad combinations.
  • Flavor boost: Fresh herbs, citrus zest, and a variety of spices pack big flavor without added salt or oil.

Nutrition Facts: Anticancer Vegan Recipes Overview

Recipe Calories Protein Fiber Key Nutrients
Broccoli & Quinoa Bowl 340 13g 9g Vitamin C, Iron, Sulforaphane
Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Soup 260 12g 11g Beta-carotene, Iron, Vitamin A
Berry-Chia Parfait 210 6g 9g Vitamin C, Omega-3s, Antioxidants

Serving Suggestions: Make it a Meal!

  • Start your day with the Berry-Chia Parfait and a glass of Green Goodness Juice.
  • Enjoy the Spiced Lentil & Sweet Potato Soup for a filling lunch, paired with a slice of Green Chile Cheese Bread (vegan version).
  • Make the Broccoli & Quinoa Power Bowl your go-to dinner, and mix up your greens or protein sources for variety.
  • For a sweet treat, check out other vegan dessert options like the Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe.

Conclusion

Eating plant-based doesn’t have to be bland or boring. These anticancer vegan recipes prove that every meal can be a celebration of color, texture, and flavor—while also supporting your body’s natural defenses.

By focusing on a diverse array of vegetables, whole grains, legumes, berries, seeds, and spices, you’re giving your body the best chance to thrive.

Remember, no single food can prevent cancer, but building a lifestyle around these nutrient-dense choices is a delicious step in the right direction. Don’t be afraid to get creative—swap in your favorite veggies, double up on herbs, and experiment with new combinations.

Here’s to your health, happiness, and the vibrant plates ahead!

For more inspiration, don’t miss our Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe or browse the full collection of wholesome vegan recipes on the blog.

đź“– Recipe Card: Broccoli & Turmeric Quinoa Bowl

Description: A nutrient-packed vegan bowl featuring cancer-fighting cruciferous vegetables and turmeric. Quick to prepare, this dish is both flavorful and nourishing.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup chopped kale
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
  2. Steam broccoli florets until bright green and tender, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add garlic and turmeric, sauté for 1 minute.
  5. Add chickpeas, kale, and carrots; cook for 3-4 minutes until kale wilts.
  6. Stir in cooked quinoa, steamed broccoli, black pepper, and salt.
  7. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to combine.
  8. Serve warm in bowls.

Nutrition: Calories: 310 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 46 g

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Marta K

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