Cheap Gluten Free Vegan Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Eating gluten free and vegan doesn’t have to break the bank or leave you feeling uninspired in the kitchen. With a little creativity and smart shopping, you can whip up meals that are both delicious and affordable without compromising on nutrition or taste.

Whether you’re new to this lifestyle or looking for budget-friendly ideas, these cheap gluten free vegan recipes will help you enjoy wholesome meals made from simple, accessible ingredients. From hearty stews to quick snacks, these recipes prove that you don’t need expensive specialty products to eat well on a plant-based, gluten-free diet.

In this post, I’m sharing a variety of tasty recipes that are easy on your wallet and your schedule. You’ll find ideas to keep your meals exciting, satisfying, and nourishing.

Plus, I’ll include some handy tips and variations so you can tweak them to your liking. Ready to get cooking?

Let’s dive into these budget-friendly gluten free vegan dishes that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

These recipes are designed to be affordable, easy to make, and packed with flavor. They rely on pantry staples and fresh produce that won’t cost a fortune, making meal prep stress-free and budget-friendly.

Plus, every dish is 100% gluten free and vegan, so you can enjoy them whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to eat healthier.

Key benefits include:

  • Simple ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store.
  • Quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
  • Nutritious and balanced meals that keep you energized.
  • Flexible recipes that you can customize based on what you have on hand.

These dishes will prove that gluten free vegan cooking can be both exciting and economical.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry brown rice – a budget-friendly gluten free grain
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (no salt added)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or any neutral oil
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
  • 1 avocado, sliced (optional for serving)

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan or pot with lid
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add garlic and carrots: Stir in minced garlic and diced carrots. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until carrots start to soften.
  4. Add bell pepper and spices: Mix in chopped bell pepper, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 more minutes until peppers are slightly softened.
  5. Combine beans and tomatoes: Add the rinsed black beans and canned diced tomatoes (including juice) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly.
  6. Mix rice and bean mixture: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and fold it into the skillet with the bean and vegetable mixture. Stir gently to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Serve: Spoon the hearty rice and beans onto plates, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and top with sliced avocado if desired.

Tips & Variations

Make it your own! Swap out black beans for kidney beans, chickpeas, or lentils depending on what’s on sale or in your pantry.

  • Add greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach at the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
  • Use quinoa instead of rice for a higher protein option.
  • Batch cook and freeze: This recipe freezes well and makes great leftovers for quick lunches or dinners.
  • Try different herbs: Fresh basil or oregano pairs wonderfully too, depending on your flavor preference.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 320 kcal
Protein 10 g
Carbohydrates 55 g
Dietary Fiber 12 g
Fat 6 g
Sodium 250 mg

Serving Suggestions

This gluten free vegan rice and bean dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few easy additions:

  • Serve with a side of steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables for extra variety.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette for a light contrast.
  • Add some gluten free corn tortillas for a fun taco-style meal.
  • Top with salsa, guacamole, or a squeeze of lime for added zest.

More Cheap Gluten Free Vegan Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might love these other budget-friendly, gluten free vegan dishes:

Conclusion

Eating gluten free and vegan on a budget can be both fun and rewarding. These recipes showcase how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create satisfying meals without costing a fortune.

By focusing on staples like beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables, you not only save money but also enjoy a variety of flavors and textures that keep mealtime exciting.

Remember, cooking at home with fresh ingredients allows you to control what goes into your food, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I hope these recipes inspire you to try new combinations and develop your own affordable, gluten free vegan favorites.

For even more creative dishes, be sure to explore other recipes on the site, including budget-friendly appetizers and hearty mains. Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Cheap Gluten Free Vegan Chickpea Stir-Fry

Description: A quick and affordable gluten free vegan stir-fry packed with protein and veggies. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium zucchini, chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp gluten free soy sauce
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot; cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  4. Stir in chickpeas, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 3 minutes.
  5. Add spinach and soy sauce; cook until spinach wilts.
  6. Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro if desired.
  7. Serve warm.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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