• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Vegan

You Don’t Have to Be Vegan to Love These 30 Recipes

Published: Aug 8, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

You don't have to be vegan to love these recipes, especially when they come together easily and still hit the mark. These are the kinds of meals that just make sense when you want something a little lighter or you're cooking for a group with different diets. Whether you're trying to eat more plants or just looking for something quick that happens to skip the meat and dairy, these recipes hold their own. They’re great go-tos no matter what your usual routine looks like.

Vegan Turkey Roast in a glass baking dish on a countertop, garnished with herbs.
Vegan Turkey Roast. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Aloo Gobi Masala

An overhead image of aloo gobi in a white plate.
Aloo Gobi Masala (Indian Potato and Cauliflower). Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Aloo gobi takes just 15 minutes of prep and cooks in one pan for a bold, comforting dish. It’s the kind of recipe anyone can enjoy, no matter how they usually eat.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

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 cabbage soup is simple, nourishing, and great for make-ahead meals. It's easy to see why even non-vegans would want this in their dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Easy One Pot Cabbage Soup

Vegan Ham

Overhead photo of vegan ham with pineapple slices placed on a white serving dish. 
Vegan Ham . Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan ham brings the texture and depth of the original with none of the meat. It’s a solid pick for anyone craving something classic and familiar.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ham

Vegan Turkey Roast

Vegan Turkey Roast in a glass baking dish on a countertop, garnished with herbs.
Vegan Turkey Roast. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Made with chickpeas and seitan, this roast is quick to prep and easy on the budget. Even meat-eaters will want a slice when it's on the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Turkey Roast

Spaghetti Squash Soup

Close up of spaghetti squash soup in a white bowl.
Spaghetti Squash Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash soup is creamy without dairy and comes together in under 45 minutes. It's the kind of light but cozy dish anyone can get behind.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Soup

Pinto Bean Soup

An overhead image of pinto bean soup in a green bowl with a spoon on the side.
Pinto Bean Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pinto bean soup is hearty, fast, and full of flavor. A smart choice when you want something that just works, plant-based or not.
Get the Recipe: Pinto Bean Soup

Easy Cabbage Curry

An overhead image of cooked cabbage curry.
Easy Cabbage Curry. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

This cabbage curry cooks in 25 minutes and fills you up with very little effort. Even if you’re not vegan, it’s hard to argue with meals this easy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cabbage Curry

Jamaican Rasta Pasta

A bowl of vegan rasta pasta.
Vegan Rasta Pasta. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Rasta pasta is creamy, gently spiced, and done in about half an hour. It’s the kind of comfort food anyone would look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Vegan Shepherd's Pie

Close up view of vegan shepherd's pie in a white baking dish.
Vegan Shepherd's Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lentils, mushrooms, and creamy mashed potatoes come together in this vegan shepherd’s pie. It’s so classic and hearty, nobody’s missing anything.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Shepherd's Pie

Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

An overhead image of gochujang tofu rice bowl with chopsticks on the side.
Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Gochujang tofu is crisp, saucy, and packed with bold flavor. This one earns a spot on the table whether you eat meat or not.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Spicy Gochujang Tofu

Lemon Greek Potatoes

Close-up image of lemon greek potatoes in a dish.
Lemon Greek Potatoes. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Lemon Greek potatoes roast with garlic and herbs until crispy and tender. They bring big flavor to any plate, no matter your diet.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Greek Potatoes

Vegan Drumsticks

An image of vegan drumsticks on a plate garnished with fresh green herbs and a lemon wedge.
Vegan Drumsticks. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These vegan drumsticks are crispy on the outside, tender inside, and easy to make. A fun meal that works for anyone who likes comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Drumsticks

Chana Masala

Top view image of chana masala served in a white bowl.
Chana Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chana masala is a one-pot dish that’s ready in 30 minutes with pantry staples. It's a go-to whether or not you're trying to eat plant-based.
Get the Recipe: Chana Masala

Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

A close-up of a plate featuring misir wot.
Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ethiopian lentil stew uses warm spices and cooks in just 45 minutes. This is a cozy option that works for just about anyone.
Get the Recipe: Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

An overhead image of mulligatawny soup being scooped out in a large pot.
Authentic Mulligatawny Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mulligatawny soup has coconut milk, lentils, and vegetables for a rich, complete meal. It’s great for busy weeks when you want something solid.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Mulligatawny Soup

Chickpea Tuna Salad

An image of chickpea tuna salad in a bowl.
Chickpea Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chickpea tuna salad takes 10 minutes and works great in sandwiches or wraps. It fits into any routine, even if you're not fully plant-based.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Tuna Salad

Instant Pot Tomato Soup

Close up of Instant Pot Tomato soup in a white bowl, with grilled cheese next to it.
Instant Pot Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Instant Pot tomato soup is ready in 30 minutes using fresh or canned tomatoes. It’s simple, fast, and easy to pair with anything.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tomato Soup

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 brings bold spices and hearty texture to collard greens. It’s a strong side dish, no matter what else is on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Gomen Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Greens)

Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

An overhead image of the vegan efo niro in a pot.
Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Efo riro swaps mushrooms for meat without losing any flavor. It’s bold, satisfying, and hard to pass up.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

Vegan Fajitas

A vegan fajita on a plate.
Vegan Fajitas. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Quick fajitas made with mushrooms, onions, and peppers make a reliable wrap. It’s easy, fast, and full of flavor for anyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Fajitas

Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari

An overhead view of kitchari in a pot above a wooden board.
Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kitchari is a one-pot porridge made with rice, lentils, and spices. It’s the kind of meal that hits the spot for anyone needing something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari

Vegan Bolognese

An image of bolognese in a bowl with basil on top.
Vegan Bolognese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan bolognese uses lentils and mushrooms to make a rich, familiar sauce. A great pick when you want pasta night to feel like home.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Bolognese

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy vodka pasta skips the cream but keeps the richness. Whether it's a weeknight or something special, this one holds up.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew)

An overview image of a bowl of rice with shiro wat - Ethiopian chickpea stew on top.
Shiro Wat. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

This chickpea stew brings big spices and filling comfort in just 45 minutes. You won’t miss anything with a dish this complete.
Get the Recipe: Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew)

Kik Alicha

An image of kik alicha in a bowl with a spoon on the side.
Kik Alicha. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kik Alicha is an Ethiopian split pea stew with a thick, hearty texture. A great way to make dinner easy and still keep it bold.
Get the Recipe: Kik Alicha

Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Top view of Thai curried butternut squash soup.
Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Thai butternut squash soup combines roasted squash and coconut milk for a creamy base. It’s a solid pick for cooler nights that need something grounding.
Get the Recipe: Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Vegetable Korma

An overhead image of vegetable korma in a bowl, garnished with cilantro and with a spoon on the side.
Vegetable Korma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegetable korma cooks up with coconut, garlic, and ginger for a rich, comforting meal. Even meat-lovers will want a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Korma

Spicy Pumpkin Soup

An overhead image of spicy pumpkin soup served in a bowl.
Spicy Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted pumpkin soup uses a sheet pan and blender for quick cleanup. It’s proof that easy meals can still be full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Pumpkin Soup

Ethiopian Cabbage

An image of an Ethiopian cabbage.
Ethiopian Cabbage. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

Ethiopian cabbage stew comes together in 30 minutes with basic pantry staples. It’s a simple and filling dish that works for all kinds of eaters.
Get the Recipe: Ethiopian Cabbage

Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

An overview of a bowl of vegan white bean chili.
Vegan White Bean Chili. Photo Credit: Urban Farmie

White bean chili takes 30 minutes and is packed with plant-based protein. This one’s a no-brainer for anyone who wants something hearty without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy, Creamy White Bean Chili

More Vegan

  • An overhead image of mushroom wellington in a serving plate.
    29 vegan comfort foods that proves meat isn’t the main event
  • An image of Ribollita Italian Bean Soup.
    Meatless Doesn’t Mean Light! These 21 Meals Bring the Heft
  • A close up view of three stuffed acorn squash placed in a serving plate.
    These 30 Plant-Based Meals Somehow Hit Harder This Week
  • Overhead photo of vegan ham with pineapple slices placed on a white serving dish.
    These 21 Plant-Based Mains Will Win Over Meat Eaters

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

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.

More about me →

Popular

  • Stir-fried beef yaki udon noodles in a wooden bowl with chopsticks.
    20 weeknight recipes that taste like a saturday splurge
  • A close up image of chili garlic silken tofu.
    22 recipes busy households are relying on right now
  • An overhead image of spicy soba noodles in a bowl.
    15 dinners that look impressive—no special skills required
  • An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
    The “what’s for dinner” fix: 19 ideas you’ll actually use

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC