Vegan lunches can be both delightful and nourishing, proving that plant-based meals don’t have to be boring or bland. BuzzFeed’s vegan lunch recipes have gained popularity for their creativity, vibrant flavors, and simple preparation methods that fit perfectly into any busy lifestyle.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these recipes offer something for everyone. From hearty grain bowls to fresh wraps and flavorful salads, BuzzFeed’s collection brings together ingredients in fun and unexpected ways that will keep your lunchtime exciting and satisfying.
In this blog post, we’re diving into some of the best BuzzFeed vegan lunch recipes that you can whip up quickly and enjoy all week long. These dishes emphasize fresh vegetables, wholesome grains, and bold spices, ensuring you get both nutrition and taste in every bite.
Plus, you’ll find tips on variations, nutrition facts, and serving suggestions to make your vegan lunch experience truly rewarding.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
BuzzFeed vegan lunch recipes are designed to be accessible and delicious. They incorporate everyday ingredients that are easy to find, making plant-based cooking approachable for everyone.
Whether you want a quick meal for work or a leisurely weekend lunch, these recipes are versatile and can be customized to your preferences.
You’ll appreciate the balance of textures, from crunchy fresh veggies to creamy dressings, and the vibrant colors that make these dishes as visually appealing as they are tasty. Many of these recipes are also packed with protein from sources like beans, tofu, and quinoa, so you won’t miss the meat.
Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, helping you stay fueled and energized throughout your day.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Quinoa: 1 cup, cooked
- Avocado: 1 ripe, sliced
- Spinach: 2 cups fresh
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Red onion: ½ small, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Whole wheat tortillas: 4 (optional, for wraps)
- Hummus: ½ cup (optional)
Equipment
- Medium saucepan for cooking quinoa
- Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Knife and cutting board for chopping veggies
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet (optional, if warming wraps)
- Serving plates or bowls
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
- Prepare the chickpeas: In a bowl, mix drained chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Set aside to marinate for a few minutes.
- Chop the vegetables: Slice avocado, halve cherry tomatoes, thinly slice red onion, and chop cilantro.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, seasoned chickpeas, spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
- Add avocado and dress: Gently fold in avocado slices. Drizzle lemon juice and a little extra olive oil over the top. Toss lightly to combine.
- Optional wraps: Spread hummus on whole wheat tortillas, spoon the quinoa salad mixture onto each, wrap tightly, and serve. You can warm the wraps in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side for a toasty finish.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your fresh BuzzFeed-inspired vegan lunch right away, or pack it for a nutritious meal on the go!
Tips & Variations
For a different flavor profile, try adding roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the salad.
Swap out spinach for kale or arugula for a peppery kick. Add some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch and extra protein.
If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
For a creamy dressing alternative, try mixing tahini with lemon juice and a bit of water until smooth. This adds richness without dairy.
Alternatively, use your favorite store-bought vegan dressing to save time.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Vitamin C | 30% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan lunch pairs beautifully with a light side such as a cucumber salad or some fresh fruit to cleanse the palate. You can also add a small cup of soup like a lectin-free soup for a comforting touch on colder days.
If you’re packing this meal for work or school, keep the avocado separate and add it just before eating to avoid browning. Wraps can be wrapped in parchment paper or stored in airtight containers to keep everything fresh.
BuzzFeed Vegan Lunch Recipes Listicle
Spicy Chickpea and Avocado Wrap
This wrap blends seasoned chickpeas with creamy avocado and crunchy veggies for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for those who like a little heat and fresh flavors combined.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 1 can, rinsed
- Avocado: 1 ripe
- Whole wheat tortillas: 4
- Sriracha sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Shredded lettuce: 1 cup
- Grated carrot: ½ cup
- Lime juice: 1 tablespoon
- Salt & pepper: to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mash the chickpeas slightly with a fork.
- Mix in sriracha, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the chickpea mixture on the tortillas.
- Add slices of avocado, lettuce, and shredded carrot.
- Roll up the tortillas tightly and slice in half.
- Serve immediately or wrap for later.
Quinoa and Roasted Veggie Bowl
A warm, hearty bowl packed with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and a lemon-tahini dressing. This recipe is perfect for meal prep and tastes great served warm or cold.
Ingredients
- Quinoa: 1 cup, cooked
- Sweet potatoes: 2 cups, diced and roasted
- Brussels sprouts: 1 cup, halved and roasted
- Tahini: 3 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic clove: 1, minced
- Water: 2-3 tablespoons (to thin dressing)
- Salt & pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 25 minutes.
- Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa and roasted vegetables.
- Drizzle dressing over the top and toss gently.
- Serve warm or refrigerate for a chilled lunch option.
Fresh Veggie and Hummus Sandwich
A simple, satisfying sandwich filled with creamy hummus and crisp fresh vegetables. Great for lunch on the go or a light afternoon meal.
Ingredients
- Whole grain bread: 2 slices
- Hummus: 3 tablespoons
- Cucumber: ½, sliced
- Tomato: 1 small, sliced
- Spinach leaves: 1 cup
- Red onion: 2-3 thin slices
- Salt & pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Spread hummus evenly over both slices of bread.
- Layer cucumber, tomato, spinach, and red onion on one slice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with the other bread slice and press gently.
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
Conclusion
BuzzFeed vegan lunch recipes showcase just how vibrant and flavorful plant-based meals can be. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these dishes make it easy to enjoy nourishing lunches every day.
Whether you prefer hearty grain bowls, fresh wraps, or crisp sandwiches, there’s a recipe here to suit your mood and schedule.
Experimenting with these recipes can open the door to a more diverse and healthful way of eating, packed with essential nutrients and exciting flavors. If you want to explore more recipes that complement your vegan lunches, check out our Harvest Hash Recipe for a great vegan dinner option or our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for a delicious plant-based twist.
Happy cooking and enjoy every colorful bite of your vegan lunches!
📖 Recipe Card: BuzzFeed Vegan Lunch Bowl
Description: A vibrant and nutritious vegan lunch bowl packed with fresh veggies and protein-rich chickpeas. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that fuels your day.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup chopped kale
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Add chickpeas, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, kale, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add cooked chickpeas to the bowl and toss well.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the mixture and toss again.
- Top with sliced avocado before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 55 g
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