With plant-based diets becoming more popular, it’s no surprise that many families are switching to eating more plant-based meals. Not only is this diet beneficial for your health, but it also positively impacts the environment. However, not everyone is familiar with creating plant-based meals that everyone in the family will love. In this article, expert Vikki Gerrard La Crosse, WI, shares ten easy and delicious plant-based meal ideas recommended for the whole family.
1. Chickpea Curry
This is a classic plant-based dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavor, this hearty meal will surely please even the pickiest of eaters. It’s easy to make and can be served over rice or with naan bread. Simply sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in oil before adding curry powder, canned tomatoes, and chickpeas. Then let it simmer until it thickens and you have a flavorful and hearty meal on the table.
2. Sweet Potato And Black Bean Tacos
These tacos are not only delicious but also provide a healthy and satisfying plant-based meal for the family. To make these tacos, start by roasting sweet potatoes in the oven until they are soft and tender. Mash them up and add black beans, cumin, and chili powder to create a flavorful filling. Layer the mixture onto taco shells and top with juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and zesty onions. These tacos are a great option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets without sacrificing taste and satisfaction.
3. Quinoa Salad
This salad is a perfect lunch option rich in protein and flavor. Cook quinoa according to the package instructions and add chopped vegetables such as red bell pepper, cucumber, and tomatoes. Drizzle with a simple dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.
4. Lentil Soup
Soup is always a great option for a healthy and easy meal. Lentil soup is one of the most flavorful plant-based soups loaded with nutrients. Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a staple in any plant-based diet. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add lentils, canned tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot and let it simmer until the lentils are tender.
5. Vegan Mac And Cheese
Vegan mac and cheese is a fantastic plant-based meal that can bring the family together at mealtime. This recipe can be the perfect starting point if you’re trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. It’s easy to make and requires some ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Start by boiling elbow noodles until tender. Drain and then add the noodles back into the pot. Add vegan butter, nutritional yeast, and plant milk to the pot and stir until the sauce thickens. It’s a meal that satisfies both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
6. Chickpea Salad
This salad is a perfect side dish or light meal. Start by draining and rinsing canned chickpeas and combine them with chopped vegetables such as cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Add a simple dressing made of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper.
7. Veggie Burger
Veggie burgers are perfect for those who want to eat less meat or seek alternative protein sources. You can make your veggie burgers with cauliflower, zucchini, and carrots. Add some breadcrumbs, flax eggs, and seasonings, and you’ll have a satisfying burger.
8. Tofu Stir Fry
This is a classic plant-based recipe that is always a crowd-pleaser. Tofu stir fry is a flavorful and satisfying plant-based meal that will surely please everyone at the dinner table. The dish starts with marinated tofu, sautéed with veggies like peppers, onions, and mushrooms in a wok. The soy sauce and sesame oil used to marinate the tofu add depth of flavor to the dish, while the brown rice provides a wholesome and filling base. Whether you’re a strict vegetarian or simply looking for more meatless options, this tofu stir fry is a great choice for a tasty and healthy family meal.
9. Lentil Bolognese
This dish is a perfect substitute for meat-based spaghetti sauce. Cook lentils according to the package instructions and combine them with canned tomatoes and herbs such as oregano and basil. Serve over spaghetti with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese.
10. Cauliflower Fried Rice
This dish is a healthy twist on classic fried rice. Start by pulsing cauliflower in a food processor until it’s finely chopped. Sauté the cauliflower with onions, garlic, and ginger before adding peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs (or tofu for vegans). Season with soy sauce, and you’ll have delicious plant-based fried rice.
Final Thoughts
Eating plant-based meals doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. With these ten easy and delicious plant-based meal ideas recommended by Vikki Gerrard La Crosse, you can create meals that everyone in the family will love. These meals are rich in nutrients, easy to prepare, and budget-friendly, which makes them perfect for busy families looking for convenient meal options. Try these recipes, and you’ll never return to eating meat again every night of the week!