Eating a plant-based diet has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. A vegetarian diet can be healthy, sustainable, and delicious. With the right ingredients and a little bit of creativity, vegetarian meals can be just as satisfying as meat-based dishes. In this article, we’ll share 10 easy and delicious vegetarian recipes for weeknight dinners.
1. Chickpea Curry
Chickpea curry is a flavorful and filling vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and garlic in oil until softened. Add in canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as cumin, turmeric, and curry powder. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the flavors have melded together. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
2. Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious option that can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. In a large pot, sauté diced onion, carrot, and celery in oil until softened. Add in dried lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Simmer for 1-2 hours until the lentils are tender. Serve with crusty bread.
3. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, are a healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini noodles in oil until softened. Toss with homemade or store-bought pesto and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious and easy vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. Remove the stems from portobello mushrooms and brush with oil. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F. In a large bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Quinoa and Black Bean Burrito Bowl
Burrito bowls are a healthy and customizable vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and set aside. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and garlic in oil until softened. Add in canned black beans, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Serve over the cooked quinoa and top with avocado, salsa, and sour cream.
6. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos
Tacos are a versatile and easy vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. Dice sweet potatoes and sauté in oil until softened. Add in canned black beans, diced onion, and a blend of spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Serve in warmed tortillas and top with shredded cheese, salsa, and cilantro.
7. Creamy Tomato and Mushroom Pasta
Creamy tomato and mushroom pasta is a comfort food classic that can be made vegetarian. Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside. In a large skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until softened. Add in canned diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Serve over the cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto
Risotto is a comforting and creamy vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. In a large pot, sauté diced onion in butter until softened. Add in diced butternut squash and arborio rice. Slowly pour in vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and the mixture is creamy. Stir in chopped fresh sage and grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Sheet Pan Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a healthy and easy vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. Toss diced vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potato, and Brussels sprouts with oil and a blend of spices such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Roast on a baking sheet at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender and browned.
10. Greek Chickpea Salad
Greek chickpea salad is a fresh and flavorful vegetarian option that can be made in under 30 minutes. In a large bowl, mix together canned chickpeas, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss with a homemade or store-bought Greek dressing and serve.
In conclusion, vegetarian meals can be healthy, sustainable, and delicious. These 10 easy and delicious vegetarian recipes for weeknight dinners are perfect for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet
Sources:
1. “Chickpea Curry” by Minimalist Baker (source)
2. “Lentil Soup” by Cookie and Kate (source)
3. “Zucchini Noodles with Pesto” by Gimme Some Oven (source)
4. “Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms” by Skinnytaste (source)
5. “Quinoa and Black Bean Burrito Bowl” by Damn Delicious (source)
6. “Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos” by Love and Lemons (source)
7. “Creamy Tomato and Mushroom Pasta” by Delish Knowledge (source)
8. “Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto” by Food Network (source)
9. “Sheet Pan Roasted Vegetables” by Eating Bird Food (source)
10. “Greek Chickpea Salad” by The Kitchn (source)
