Weeknight dinners can feel like a race against time. You might find yourself scrambling to put together a meal that’s quick, tasty, and healthy. That’s why I created this post—to help you tackle the “what’s for dinner” dilemma with ease. I know how busy life can get, especially for families juggling work, school, and everything in between. You want meals that are satisfying and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.
If you’re looking for veggie recipes for dinner that fit into your hectic schedule, you’re in the right place. This collection of 12 easy vegetarian meals is designed for those of you who want to simplify your cooking while still enjoying delicious food. Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or a novice, these quick dinner ideas will make your nights easier and more enjoyable.
In this post, you’ll discover a range of healthy veggie dishes that are not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. From a vibrant one-pan veggie stir-fry to satisfying spicy chickpea tacos, these meals are perfect for busy families looking for plant-based options. I’ve included tips for weeknight cooking that will help you whip up these dishes in no time. By the end of this post, you’ll have a variety of plant-based recipes at your fingertips, ready to make your dinner plans a breeze.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into these delightful and nourishing meals that will turn your weeknight dinners into something special. Let’s get cooking!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 simple veggie dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
– Each recipe is designed to be quick and easy, taking 30 minutes or less to prepare.
– Enjoy a mix of flavors, from spicy chickpea tacos to creamy mushroom pasta.
– Get practical tips on meal prep to streamline your cooking process.
– Ensure your family eats healthy and delicious meals without the fuss.
1. One-Pan Veggie Stir-Fry
Need dinner fast? A one-pan veggie stir-fry is your simple solution.
Colorful vegetables sizzle in a hot skillet, then a bright soy-ginger glaze ties it together.
You get flavor, nutrition, and easy cleanup in one go.
Ingredients:
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup snap peas
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and ginger, sauté 1 minute.
Toss in broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry 5-7 minutes until tender.
Add soy sauce, stir well, and cook for another 2 minutes.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen veggies? Absolutely, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
One-Pan Veggie Stir-Fry
Editor’s Choice
All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Non Stick Fry Pan Set 2 Piece, 8, 10 Inch, In…
Amazon$69.99
CAROTE Non Stick Frying Pan Skillet, Nonstick Granite Fry Pan with Glass…
Amazon$22.99
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 12 Inch Large Deep Frying…
Amazon$39.99
T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set 2 Piece, 10, 12 Inch, …
Amazon$62.99
T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set 3 Piece: 8, 10.25, & 1…
Amazon$84.992. Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Crave comfort in a hurry? This creamy mushroom pasta fits the mood.
8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
Add mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Pour in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Toss the pasta in the sauce and serve immediately, garnished with parsley.
FAQs:
Can I make this vegan? Use cashew cream instead of dairy.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Editor’s Choice
All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Non Stick Fry Pan Set 2 Piece, 8, 10 Inch, In…
Amazon$69.99
CAROTE Non Stick Frying Pan Skillet, Nonstick Granite Fry Pan with Glass…
Amazon$22.99
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 12 Inch Large Deep Frying…
Amazon$39.99
Made In Cookware – ProCoat 12″ Non Stick Frying Pan (Graphite) – 5 Ply S…
Amazon$159.00
T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Nonstick Fry Pan Set 3 Piece: 8, 10.25, & 1…
Amazon$84.993. Spicy Chickpea Tacos
Want quick meals with big flavor? These spicy chickpea tacos fit the bill.
Chickpeas soak in warm spices, then you top with avocado, salsa, and lime.
You can let everyone build their own for a fun dinner.
Ingredients:
2 cans chickpeas, drained
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Corn tortillas
Toppings: avocado, salsa, lime wedges
Instructions:
In a pan, heat chickpeas with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
Warm tortillas in another skillet.
Assemble tacos with spiced chickpeas and favorite toppings.
FAQs:
Are these tacos gluten-free? Yes, just use corn tortillas.
Spicy Chickpea Tacos
Editor’s Choice
BUSH’S BEST 15.5 oz Canned Rustic Tuscany Chickpeas, Source of Plant Bas…
Amazon$22.21
Eden Organic Garbanzo Beans, Chickpeas, 15 oz Can (12-Pack Case), No Sal…
Amazon$41.95
BUSH’S BEST Organic Garbanzo Beans Canned Beans, Organic Chick Peas, USD…
Amazon$27.80
S&W Low Sodium Canned Garbanzos, Chickpeas, Plant Protein and Fiber, Glu…
Amazon$39.32
El Milagro Corn Tortillas (24 Packs) Tortillas de Maiz Chicago
Amazon$32.994. Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
Quinoa bowls are handy for weeknights.
Roasted vegetables and a tahini lemon drizzle lift the dish.
This bowl is easy to customize and kid-friendly.
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa
2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 20 minutes.
Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
In a small bowl, whisk tahini and lemon juice.
Assemble bowls by layering quinoa, roasted veggies, and drizzle with tahini dressing.
FAQs:
Can I make this ahead? Yes, store dressing separately until serving.
Even on busy weeknights, veggie recipes for dinner can be a win. A simple quinoa bowl with roasted vegetables and a lemon-tahini drizzle is kid-friendly and easy to customize.
Vegetable Quinoa Bowl
Editor’s Choice
Greenfit Royal Organic Tri Color Quinoa | Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Vegan, a…
Amazon$45.99
BetterBody Foods Organic Quinoa, Vegan, Gluten Free, Low Glycemic Rice R…
Amazon$20.19
Healthworks Superfoods Organic Quinoa White Whole Grain Raw – 80 Oz / 5 …
Amazon$29.99
Har Bracha Tahini Paste (17.6 oz). 100% Natural, Vegan Friendly & Kosher…
Amazon$31.75
Kevala Organic Tahini – 3.5 lb – Sesame Seeds Tahini – Organic Tahini Pa…
Amazon$24.485. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, this cauliflower rice stir-fry will be a game-changer.
With crispy cauliflower rice topped with a medley of colorful veggies like peas and carrots, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
You can customize it with your choice of sauces or proteins, making it a versatile dish for busy nights.
Ingredients:
1 head cauliflower, riced
1 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
2 eggs (optional)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
Heat sesame oil in a skillet and add cauliflower rice. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes.
Toss in mixed veggies and soy sauce and cook until veggies are tender.
If using eggs, scramble them into the mixture just before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice? Yes, just adjust the cooking time.
Weeknights just got easier with cauliflower rice—low-carb, kid-friendly, and ready in minutes. Mix in colorful veggies and a quick sauce, and you’ve got a satisfying veggie recipes for dinner. Prep ahead to keep dinners simple.
Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
Editor’s Choice
Mantova Organic Cauliflower Rice, 8.5 oz. (Pack of 6), Product of Italy,…
Amazon$24.99
Kitchen & Love Organic Riced Cauliflower 8 oz (6 Pack) | Low Carb, Low C…
Amazon$27.69
Mantova Organic Cauliflower Rice, 8.5 oz (Pack of 6) – Healthy, Gluten-F…
Amazon$27.40
Fullgreen Riced Cauliflower with Carrots and Peas, non-gmo, no preservat…
Amazon$30.51
Fullgreen Riced Cauliflower With Carrots & Peas, No Preservatives, 6.7 O…
Amazon$35.266. Black Bean and Corn Salad
Brighten dinner with a crisp black bean and corn salad.
Lime and cilantro wake up flavors; eat solo or with grilled veggies for a light, filling meal.
Great for meal prep and easy to customize.
Ingredients:
1 can black beans, rinsed
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, bell pepper, and cilantro.
Drizzle lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper.
Toss well and serve immediately or chill for flavors to meld.
FAQs:
How long does it keep? It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
Editor’s Choice
Cuisinart Pulp Control Citrus Juicer, Orange Juicer Squeezer and Lemon S…
Amazon$39.95
Vinci Hands Free Electric Citrus Juicer, 1-Button Juicer Machine, Orange…
Amazon$119.99
BLACK+DECKER 32oz Electric Citrus Juicer, CJ625, Pressure Activated, Adj…
Amazon$28.99
Zulay Electric Citrus Juicer – Makes Fresh Orange, Lemon, Grapefruit, Li…
Amazon$56.99
Brigii Lemon Squeezer Juicer for Lime and Lemon, Heavy-Duty 304 Stainles…
Amazon$23.997. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
These spinach and feta stuffed peppers are not just tasty, they’re a feast for the eyes.
The combination of creamy feta and fresh spinach makes a delicious filling for sweet bell peppers.
Bake them until tender, and you’ve got a stunning dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
4 bell peppers (any color)
2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup cooked rice or quinoa
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds.
In a bowl, mix spinach, feta, rice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the mixture into the peppers and place them in a baking dish.
Bake for 30 minutes until tender.
FAQs:
Can I make these ahead? Yes, prepare the filling in advance and stuff before baking.
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Editor’s Choice
DOWAN Casserole Dish, 9×13 Ceramic Baking Dish, Large Lasagna Pan Deep f…
Amazon$26.99
MALACASA 4.4 QT Baking Dish, 9×13 Large Casserole Dish for Oven, Ceramic…
Amazon$25.99
LIFVER Casserole Dish for Oven, 9×13 Ceramic Baking Dish, 115oz Large La…
Amazon$24.29
DOWAN 9×13-inch Baking Dish, Deep Casserole Dishes for Oven, Lasagna Pan…
Amazon$36.99
DOWAN 9×13 Deep Lasagna Baking Dish, Ceramic Casserole Dish for Oven, 4 …
Amazon$35.998. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
No pasta? No problem with zucchini noodles and pesto.
Spiralized zucchini stays light, while basil pesto brings rich flavor.
Top with cherry tomatoes and pine nuts for texture.
Ingredients:
4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
1 cup basil pesto
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup pine nuts
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Sauté zucchini noodles in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
Remove from heat and toss with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts.
Season with salt and serve immediately.
FAQs:
Can I meal prep this? Zucchini noodles are best served fresh, but you can prep the pesto ahead.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Editor’s Choice
Brieftons 5-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer…
Amazon$30.99
KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachment, KSM1APC Fruit and Vegetable Spiralizer
Amazon$76.49
Brieftons 10-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Duty Spiral …
Amazon$37.99
Brieftons 7-Blade Vegetable Spiralizer: Strongest-Heaviest Spiral Slicer…
Amazon$33.99
Imported Italian Fresh Basil Pesto Sauce – Extra Creamy – Extra Virgin O…
Amazon$23.479. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Warm up with a hearty one-pot chili.
Sweet potatoes, black beans, and spices mingle for depth.
Make a big pot for leftovers and quick weeknights.
Ingredients:
2 sweet potatoes, diced
2 cans black beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add sweet potatoes, black beans, tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 30 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
Serve with avocado or cilantro on top!
FAQs:
Can I freeze this chili? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months!
Fun fact: gluten-free crockpot dinner recipes can cut prep time by 30%—perfect for chilly nights. This Sweet Potato and Black Bean Stew proves that hearty, cozy meals can be healthy and budget-friendly.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Editor’s Choice
Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice, Steamer, Sauté, …
Amazon$69.99
Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sau…
Amazon$59.99
Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Rice Maker, Ste…
Amazon$129.99
Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, …
Amazon$89.99
Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Stea…
Amazon$110.4910. Greek Salad with Chickpeas
Fresh and vibrant, this Greek salad with chickpeas is a classic that never disappoints.
Crunchy cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta shine, boosted by chickpeas for heft.
A squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil pull it together beautifully.
Ingredients:
1 can chickpeas, rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
2 tomatoes, diced
1/2 red onion, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olives
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, feta, and olives.
Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the salad.
Toss well and serve immediately.
FAQs:
Can I prep this in advance? Best served fresh, but it can be prepped a few hours before serving.
Greek Salad with Chickpeas
Editor’s Choice
Eden Organic Garbanzo Beans, Chickpeas, 15 oz Can (12-Pack Case), No Sal…
Amazon$41.95
BUSH’S BEST Organic Garbanzo Beans Canned Beans, Organic Chick Peas, USD…
Amazon$27.80
Food to Live Organic Canned Chickpeas, 14 oz (Pack of 12) – Unsalted Non…
Amazon$32.66
Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Polyphenol Rich from M…
Amazon$27.42
Atlas 750 mL Organic Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Glass Bottle, …
Amazon$22.9411. Ratatouille
Savor summer with a classic ratatouille.
Zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes mingle in a gentle simmer.
Serve with crusty bread for soaking up juices and bright flavors.
Ingredients:
1 zucchini, sliced
1 eggplant, diced
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add all vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen vegetables? Fresh is best, but you can use frozen in a pinch.
Ratatouille
Editor’s Choice
Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder – Pr…
Amazon$34.90
Utopia Kitchen Cast Iron Skillets 12 Inch, Chef’s Pan, Pre-Seasoned Fryi…
Amazon$24.99
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 12 Inch Large Deep Frying…
Amazon$39.99
Lodge 12 Inch Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Dual Assist Handles – Use…
Amazon$27.11
Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle…
Amazon$29.9012. Vegetable Samosas
These vegetable samosas are a fun finger food for any night.
Crispy shells hold spiced potatoes and peas inside.
Bake for a lighter option than frying and serve with mint yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
1 cup peas
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon garam masala
Water as needed
Oil for frying or brushing
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix flour and water to make a dough; let it rest.
In another bowl, combine mashed potatoes, peas, cumin, and garam masala.
Roll out dough, fill with potato mixture, and shape into samosas.
Fry or bake until golden brown.
FAQs:
Can I freeze samosas? Yes, freeze before frying or baking.
Vegetable Samosas
Editor’s Choice
Commercial Samosa Maker,Automatic Dumpling Machine,Spring Roll Maker Mac…
Amazon$1,890.00
Automatic Commercial Dumpling Machine,Samosa Maker,Empanadas Making Mach…
Amazon$1,890.00
Commercial Dumpling Machine,Samosa Empanada Maker Press -Standard comes …
Amazon$480.00
2 Pack 8 Inch Tortilla Sealer, Tacos Crimper, Quesadillas Maker, Empanad…
Amazon$20.99
2-in-1 Dumpling Maker, Momo Maker, Gujiya Maker Machine, Momo Maker Mach…
Amazon$25.90Conclusion
Creating simple yet delicious veggie dinners doesn’t have to be a challenge!
With these 12 recipes, you can enjoy the benefits of plant-based meals that are quick to prepare and perfect for the whole family. From vibrant stir-fries to comforting bowls, there’s something for everyone. Embrace the joy of cooking with these easy vegetarian meals that will bring everyone to the table.
Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some quick and easy veggie recipes for dinner that my family will love?
If you’re looking for quick and easy veggie recipes for dinner, you can’t go wrong with stir-fries, veggie tacos, or pasta primavera! These dishes are not only simple to prepare but also allow you to incorporate a variety of seasonal veggies. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and spices to find what your family enjoys the most!
How can I make healthy veggie dishes that are still satisfying?
To create healthy veggie dishes that are truly satisfying, focus on including a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Ingredients like beans, nuts, and whole grains can add substance to your meals. Pairing veggies with a delicious sauce or seasoning can elevate your dishes and make them more appealing for everyone at the table.
What are some tips for efficient weeknight cooking with plant-based recipes?
When it comes to weeknight cooking with plant-based recipes, preparation is key! Consider meal prepping on weekends or using ingredients that cook quickly, like quinoa and leafy greens. Also, keep your pantry stocked with versatile staples like canned beans and frozen veggies, so you can whip up a nutritious meal in no time!
Are there easy vegetarian meals that kids will actually eat?
Absolutely! There are plenty of easy vegetarian meals that kids will enjoy. Think about fun shapes, colors, and interactive meals like veggie wraps or homemade pizza where they can add their favorite toppings. Incorporating familiar flavors, such as spaghetti with marinara sauce and hidden veggies, can also make it a hit with younger eaters!
How do I choose the best veggies for quick dinner ideas?
When selecting veggies for quick dinner ideas, opt for those that are in season for the best flavor and freshness. Look for versatile options like bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, which can be easily stir-fried, roasted, or added to soups. Pre-chopped or frozen vegetables can also save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing nutrition!
Related Topics
veggie recipes
easy vegetarian meals
quick dinner ideas
healthy veggie dishes
plant-based dinners
weeknight meals
family-friendly recipes
30-minute meals
simple cooking
meatless options
busy weeknights
vegetarian cooking tips
