Welcome to a world of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients with our collection inspired by Better Homes and Gardens’ vegetarian recipes for today. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your week, these recipes offer a perfect blend of nutrition, taste, and ease of preparation.
From hearty mains to fresh, colorful sides, vegetarian cooking can be both satisfying and exciting. Embrace the power of vegetables, grains, and legumes with dishes that your entire family will enjoy.
Let’s explore some of the best vegetarian recipes designed to bring joy to your table while keeping things simple and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vegetarian recipes are crafted to meet the needs of modern home cooks who crave quick, nutritious, and flavorful meals. Using fresh, accessible ingredients, each recipe balances taste and health without compromising on texture or satisfaction.
You’ll be delighted by the variety of dishes—ranging from cozy casseroles to vibrant salads—that prove vegetarian cooking is anything but boring.
Plus, these recipes are perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests, offering versatility that fits any occasion. With a focus on natural flavors and wholesome components, you’ll find yourself reaching for these recipes again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa – a protein-packed grain base
- 2 cups vegetable broth – enhances the flavor of the quinoa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – adds fiber and protein
- 1 red bell pepper, diced – for sweetness and crunch
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) – for a pop of sweetness
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped – adds sharpness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic depth
- 1 tsp ground cumin – warm spice note
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – adds a smoky dimension
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime – brightens up the dish
Equipment
- Medium saucepan – to cook quinoa
- Large skillet – for sautéing vegetables
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping veggies
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
- Mixing spoon – for stirring ingredients
- Serving bowls – to present your creation
Instructions
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh sieve. This removes the natural bitterness.
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- Prepare the vegetables: While quinoa cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic, bell pepper, and corn: Stir in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and corn kernels. Cook for another 5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Spice it up: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
- Combine quinoa and beans: Add the cooked quinoa and rinsed black beans to the skillet. Stir gently to mix all ingredients evenly and heat through, about 3 minutes.
- Finish with lime and cilantro: Remove from heat, squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve warm: Transfer to serving bowls and enjoy your colorful, protein-packed vegetarian meal.
Tips & Variations
To boost the nutrition, add a handful of baby spinach leaves in the last few minutes of cooking—they’ll wilt perfectly into the mix.
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping black beans for chickpeas or kidney beans. For added creaminess, dollop some plain Greek yogurt or a spoonful of guacamole on top before serving.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some freshly chopped jalapeños.
Want a Mediterranean twist? Replace the cumin and smoked paprika with oregano and lemon zest, and toss in some crumbled feta cheese just before serving.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside warm flatbreads or pita.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 48 g |
Dietary Fiber | 10 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Sodium | 250 mg |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines on its own as a fulfilling meal, but you can elevate it with complementary sides. Consider a fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded plate.
For a heartier dinner, serve alongside warm pita bread or a dollop of tzatziki sauce. This quinoa and black bean dish also pairs wonderfully with the tangy Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a fusion twist.
Additional Better Homes and Gardens Vegetarian Recipes for Today
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
A velvety soup perfect for autumn evenings. Roast butternut squash with a hint of sage, then blend with vegetable broth and coconut milk for a luscious, dairy-free treat.
Try pairing it with the delightful Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for dessert to finish your meal on a sweet note.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This vibrant salad combines chickpeas, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and red onion tossed with a lemon-herb dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and ideal for lunch or a side dish.
For a protein boost, add crumbled feta or grilled halloumi cheese. Serve alongside warm pita or the savory Cheese Penny Recipe for a satisfying meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Veggies
Bright bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices, then baked to perfection. This dish is colorful and packed with nutrients.
Top with shredded cheese or a vegan cheese alternative before baking for added richness. Pair with a crisp green salad or try the comforting Chicken Bruschetta Recipe Stove Top Stuffing (vegetarian adaptation recommended) for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Cooking vegetarian meals inspired by Better Homes and Gardens offers a wonderful opportunity to explore fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. These recipes not only nourish your body but also excite the palate with colorful, satisfying dishes.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting friends, these vegetarian options are adaptable, delicious, and easy to prepare.
By embracing plant-based cooking, you’ll discover new favorites and perhaps even inspire others to join you on the path toward healthier, more sustainable eating habits. Don’t forget to check out other recipes on our site to complement your meals, including the indulgent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a sweet finish!
📖 Recipe Card: Better Homes and Gardens Vegetarian Recipes Cooking for Today
Description: A collection of wholesome and easy-to-make vegetarian dishes perfect for any day. These recipes focus on fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa under cold water.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in quinoa, chickpeas, and cumin.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 45 g
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