best vegan vegeterian dinner recipe Best Vegan Vegetarian Dinner Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Best Vegan Vegetarian Dinner Recipe

Looking for a delicious, wholesome, and satisfying vegan dinner that will impress even non-vegans at your table? You’ve come to the right place!

This recipe is a fantastic blend of fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and bold spices, offering a nutrient-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, vegetarian, or simply want to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation.

With vibrant colors and textures, this dinner recipe combines the creaminess of coconut milk, the earthiness of chickpeas, and the fragrant spices of cumin and turmeric to create a comforting yet exciting meal.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, reheating beautifully without losing any of its charm. Ready to dive in?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan vegetarian dinner is a perfect harmony of taste, nutrition, and convenience. It’s:

  • Rich in protein and fiber, thanks to chickpeas and quinoa.
  • Flavorful and aromatic with a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric that warm your senses.
  • Easy to prepare with simple steps and minimal cleanup.
  • Customizable to suit your taste and pantry availability.
  • Great for leftovers — flavors deepen over time, making it a perfect meal prep choice.
  • Completely plant-based and gluten-free, ideal for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Plus, it’s a wonderful way to explore vegan cooking without sacrificing comfort or flavor. If you love dishes like our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe, you’ll appreciate how this meal balances wholesome nutrition with indulgent taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (for rinsing chickpeas and quinoa)

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: While quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Cook the vegetables: Add diced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  5. Add chickpeas and coconut milk: Stir in the chickpeas and pour in the coconut milk. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 7–8 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Incorporate spinach and quinoa: Stir in the chopped spinach and cooked quinoa. Cook until spinach wilts and everything is heated through, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Finish with lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the lemon juice over the dish. Stir well to brighten the flavors.
  8. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your vibrant, hearty vegan dinner!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra protein boost, add some toasted pumpkin seeds or hemp hearts just before serving.”

If you want to switch things up, try these ideas:

  • Swap quinoa for brown rice or couscous if preferred.
  • Add diced sweet potatoes at step 4 for a sweeter, comforting twist.
  • Use kale instead of spinach for a more robust green.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes with the other spices.
  • Try topping with avocado slices or a drizzle of tahini for creaminess.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 380 kcal
Protein 14 g
Carbohydrates 50 g
Dietary Fiber 9 g
Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 8 g
Sodium 290 mg
Vitamin A 50% DV
Vitamin C 45% DV
Iron 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This vegan dinner pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread. For a more filling meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup such as our delightful Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe (veganized with plant-based cream alternatives).

If you have a sweet tooth after your savory meal, try finishing with a refreshing dessert like the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe — it’s a perfect complement to the spices in this dish.

Conclusion

This best vegan vegetarian dinner recipe proves that plant-based meals can be both nutritious and utterly delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

The combination of quinoa, chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables delivers a balanced meal that satisfies your hunger and nourishes your body.

Whether you’re a vegan veteran or just exploring meatless options, this recipe is adaptable to your preferences and guaranteed to please your palate. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.

For more plant-based inspiration, check out our other recipes linked above and enjoy the journey toward delicious, healthy eating!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Vegetarian Dinner Recipe

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan stir-fry packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich tofu. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner.

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

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 14 oz firm tofu, drained and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup snap peas
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice

Instructions

  1. Press tofu to remove excess water and cube it.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  3. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
  6. Mix soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
  7. Pour sauce over vegetables and tofu; toss to coat and cook for 2 more minutes.
  8. Serve hot over cooked brown rice.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 20 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Marta K

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