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Home » Vegetarian

These 30 Plant-Heavy Recipes Are the Whole Reason for the Season

Published: Jul 4, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Plant-heavy recipes are the kind of thing that make you want to stop what you're doing and head straight to the kitchen. They’re fresh, packed with flavor, and honestly just great to eat—whether you’re all-in on veggies or just want something that tastes like you actually care about what’s on your plate. These are the kinds of meals that hit the mark every time and make the most of what the season’s got going on.

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Black Bean Quinoa Burger

An image of black bean quinoa burger on a cutting board with the top bun on the side.
Black Bean Quinoa Burger. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These black bean quinoa burgers are rich in fiber and plant-based protein, making them an easy vegetarian option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. They're also quick to customize with toppings and sauces.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Quinoa Burger

Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

An overhead view of the Tuscan bean soup placed on a serving dish with a spoon on the side.
Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Tuscan-style bean soup comes together in half an hour and makes for a hearty, cost-effective dinner. A practical vegetarian recipe to keep on hand for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Cannellini Bean Soup

Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

Close up of beet salad on a white platter with two forks on the right side.
Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, crisp arugula, crunchy pistachios, and juicy grapefruit slices come together with a citrus vinaigrette. This is a refreshing option for vegetarians, especially during warm-weather meals.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

Green Beans and Potatoes

An image of green beans in a serving bowl with a spoon resting on it.
Green Beans and Potatoes. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Green beans and potatoes are seasoned and cooked for 25 minutes in this easy side dish. A practical vegetarian option when you need something simple and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Green Beans and Potatoes

Slow Cooker Cabbage

An image of slow cooker cabbage on a plate.
Slow Cooker Cabbage. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This slow cooker cabbage recipe uses garlic and seasonings to create a soft, savory dish with minimal prep. A dependable vegetarian side for everyday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cabbage

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

An image of split pea soup divided into two bowls.
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Slow-cooked split pea soup packed with vegetables and herbs makes for a convenient and comforting vegetarian option. Easy to prepare ahead for no-stress meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This three-ingredient broccoli cheese casserole is ready in half an hour and easy to throw together. A reliable vegetarian option for days when time is short.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Baked Cauliflower with Cheese

An overhead image of baked cauliflower with cheese with a serving missing at the bottom.
Baked Cauliflower with Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked cauliflower cheese has a crispy top and creamy Mornay sauce, cooked until bubbly and golden. A solid vegetarian alternative to traditional baked pasta dishes.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cauliflower with Cheese

Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Top view of roasted cauliflower soup.
Roasted Cauliflower Soup. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

This roasted cauliflower soup is infused with garlic, thyme, and cumin, making it a go-to comfort meal. A versatile vegetarian option that works year-round.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

An overhead image of vegan white bean chili with toppings.
Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This white bean chili is made from pantry staples and ready in 30 minutes. It's a simple, filling choice for vegetarians seeking a nourishing meal without much prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

An image of a white plate with a serving of cheesy green bean casserole with a fork on the side, and the casserole behind it.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This green bean casserole has a cheesy finish and crisp topping, baked to golden perfection in 30 minutes. A familiar vegetarian side that's quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

Tofu Lettuce Wraps

An overview of five tofu lettuce wraps on a white plate.
Tofu Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These tofu lettuce wraps come together quickly and are loaded with vegetables and plant protein. A light vegetarian meal that’s easy to make during busy lunch hours.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Lettuce Wraps

Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

A bowl of vegan efo riro.
Vegan Efo Riro. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

This Nigerian spinach stew swaps meat for mushrooms, maintaining bold flavor and richness. A plant-based option that brings variety and depth to vegetarian meals.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

A close up image of slow cooker vegetarian chili in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegetarian chili comes together in the slow cooker with bold spices and hearty ingredients. A reliable plant-based option for busy nights or batch cooking.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Roasted Cabbage Steaks

An image of roasted cabbage steaks on a serving plate.
Roasted Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted cabbage steaks take 35 minutes and come out crisp around the edges with a tender center. A dependable vegetarian side dish made with minimal ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cabbage Steaks

Easy Cabbage Curry

An overhead image of cooked cabbage curry in a round plate.
Easy Cabbage Curry. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This cabbage curry comes together in just 25 minutes and uses basic spices and vegetables. A practical vegetarian dinner that doesn’t require much cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cabbage Curry

Easy Mushroom Wellington

An overhead image of mushroom wellington in a serving plate.
Easy Mushroom Wellington. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

With seasoned mushrooms and herbs wrapped in flaky pastry, this mushroom Wellington is a flavorful vegetarian take on a classic dish. A solid main course for special occasions or holidays.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Wellington

Spinach Avocado Salad

An overhead image of spinach avocado salad in a wooden bowl with lemon in the background.
Spinach Avocado Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spinach, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and radishes come together with cotija cheese and a bright lemon vinaigrette. A fresh vegetarian salad for summer meals or outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Avocado Salad

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

An overhead image of slow cooker green bean casserole on a plate.
Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This slow cooker green bean casserole is creamy and easy to assemble, with just 10 minutes of prep time. A dependable vegetarian side dish during the holidays or large gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Mushroom Masala

An image of cooked mushroom masala in a skillet.
Mushroom Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This mushroom masala features tender mushrooms simmered in a tomato-coconut sauce and comes together in just 30 minutes. It's a quick and hearty vegetarian dish great for pairing with rice or naan.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Masala

Colcannon

An overhead image of a large pot filled with colcannon.
Colcannon. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Colcannon blends creamy mashed potatoes with sautéed cabbage and green onions. A simple vegetarian side that works well alongside mains or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Colcannon

Creamed Spinach

An overhead image of creamy spinach in a pot.
Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This version of creamed spinach takes inspiration from Spinach Maria and features three cheeses with a bit of heat. A quick 30-minute side that brings character to a vegetarian table.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Potato Leek Gratin

An overhead image of servings of potato leek gratin on two plates.
Potato Leek Gratin. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This potato and leek gratin has layers of tender vegetables in a creamy sauce and bakes until golden. A rich vegetarian main or side that doesn’t require much hands-on time.
Get the Recipe: Potato Leek Gratin

Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

An overhead view of gomen wat in a white bowl.
Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gomen Wat is a traditional Ethiopian collard greens dish made with bold spices. It's a simple, flavorful vegetarian side that adds variety to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

Ethiopian Cabbage

A close up image of cooked Ethiopian cabbage in a skillet pan with a wooden serving spoon mixing the dish.
Ethiopian Cabbage. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Atakilt Wat is a fragrant Ethiopian stew made with cabbage and pantry vegetables, ready in 30 minutes. A flavorful vegetarian option for anyone seeking something hearty and easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Ethiopian Cabbage

Aloo Gobi Masala

An overhead image of aloo gobi in a white plate.
Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Aloo gobi is a one-pan Indian recipe made with roasted cauliflower and potatoes. This vegetarian dish uses common ingredients and comes together with little active time.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Overhead view of green beans placed on a paper towel on a platter.
Din Tai Fung Green Beans. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Inspired by the popular dish at Din Tai Fung, these garlic green beans are made with just four ingredients. A simple and reliable choice for vegetarians looking for bold flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Kale Salad With Cranberries

A horizontal image of kale salad with cranberries.
Kale Salad With Cranberries. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

With dried cranberries, lemon, and crunchy nuts, this kale salad takes just 5 minutes to make. A quick vegetarian side that pairs well with a range of meals.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad With Cranberries

Garlic Kale Salad with Lemon

An overhead image of two bowls of lemon garlic kale salad.
Garlic Kale Salad with Lemon. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This garlic kale salad includes pecorino, toasted pepitas, and a smooth dressing made from garlic confit. A flavorful vegetarian side that comes together without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Kale Salad with Lemon

Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

An overhead image of two cabbage soups in a white serving bowl.
Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan cabbage soup is cooked in one pot and can be made in large batches. A good choice for vegetarians looking for something comforting and efficient.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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