Best Vegan Recipes for Dinner NYTimes Favorites Reviewed

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Exploring vegan dinner recipes that are both satisfying and packed with flavor can sometimes feel like a challenge, but the New York Times has curated some of the very best plant-based options that prove you don’t need meat or dairy to create an unforgettable meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, testing out plant-based eating, or simply looking to add more wholesome dishes to your dinner rotation, these recipes combine fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and clever cooking techniques to delight your palate.

From hearty stews to innovative pastas and colorful bowls, these vegan dinners are designed to be nourishing, easy to prepare, and, most importantly, delicious. Let’s dive into some of the top NYTimes vegan dinner recipes that will impress your family and friends while keeping your kitchen healthy and vibrant.

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

Each recipe from the New York Times vegan collection is thoughtfully crafted to maximize flavor and texture without relying on animal products. You’ll appreciate the balance of nutrition and taste, with ingredients like legumes, grains, fresh vegetables, and herbs coming together in harmonious ways.

These dinners are perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals, offering flexibility to adjust to your preferences and pantry staples. Plus, they emphasize whole foods and minimal processed ingredients, making them not only delicious but also wholesome and satisfying.

These recipes make vegan eating approachable and exciting, encouraging you to explore new flavors and cooking styles while nourishing your body.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas (or 2 cups canned, rinsed and drained)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • 1 cup quinoa or brown rice (optional, for serving)

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander (if using dried chickpeas)
  • Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamier textures)
  • Medium saucepan (for cooking quinoa or rice)

Instructions

  1. If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse before cooking. If using canned, rinse and drain well.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add chopped red bell pepper, carrots, and zucchini, stirring occasionally, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften slightly.
  6. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
  7. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes with their juice, and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
  8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until chickpeas are tender and flavors meld together.
  9. Optional: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the stew, or transfer a portion to a blender and puree before mixing it back in.
  10. Meanwhile, cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions for a wholesome base.
  11. Serve the stew hot over quinoa or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For added depth, try roasting the vegetables before adding them to the stew for a smoky flavor.

Variation: Swap chickpeas with lentils or black beans for a different texture and protein profile.

You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables like kale, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms to keep the dish fresh year-round. To boost richness, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan yogurt right before serving.

Adding crushed red pepper flakes will give it a spicy kick, perfect for those who love heat. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to make it your own with whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 14 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fiber 10 g
Fat 7 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Sodium 320 mg

Serving Suggestions

This hearty vegan stew pairs beautifully with a warm crusty bread or a side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. You can also serve it with a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for an extra boost of nutrients.

For a festive touch or when entertaining, complement the meal with a light dessert, such as the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe, which brings a sweet and creamy balance to the dinner.

Looking for other comforting vegan dishes? The Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe offers a rich umami flavor, while the Collard Green Casserole Recipes bring vibrant greens to your plate in a deliciously baked form.

Conclusion

Embracing vegan dinners from the New York Times collection is a delightful way to explore plant-based cooking without sacrificing taste or satisfaction. These recipes are thoughtfully designed to be accessible for cooks of all levels, emphasizing fresh ingredients, balanced nutrition, and bold flavors.

With simple pantry staples and a few fresh veggies, you can whip up meals that are hearty, healthy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these dishes will help you celebrate the versatility of vegan cuisine while nourishing your body and soul.

Dive into these recipes and discover how exciting and flavorful vegan dinners can truly be!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Dinner from NYTimes

Description: A flavorful and satisfying vegan dinner featuring roasted vegetables and quinoa. Perfect for a healthy and quick meal any night of the week.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
  4. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then cook in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  5. Fluff quinoa with a fork and stir in lemon juice and parsley.
  6. Serve roasted vegetables over quinoa and garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 50 g

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Marta K

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