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When I need a fast vegetarian dinner that I know will hit, these are the recipes I come back to again and again. They’re the kind of 30-minute vegetarian dinners that feel satisfying and flavorful without requiring a long ingredient list or a ton of time in the kitchen.
Every recipe in this list comes together in about 30 minutes and works well for real-life weeknights – whether that means minimal prep, quick stovetop cooking, or flexible ingredients you probably already have on hand. If you’re short on time but still want a dinner that feels like a proper meal, start here.
Timing will vary depending on prep and familiarity, but all of these are designed to work for real-life weeknights.
Crispy pan-seared tofu tossed in a bold, spicy-sweet gochujang sauce that comes together in minutes. This Gochujang Tofu is an easy vegetarian dinner is perfect served over rice or noodles, with optional edamame for extra protein if you want to bulk it up.
We're taking our butter beans up a notch with this High-Protein Marry Me Butter Beans recipe! It's creamy and delicious and packed with SO MUCH protein- you're going to love it!
Gigi Hadid’s Spicy Vodka Pasta is tender pasta in a rich and creamy tomato sauce with garlic, diced shallot, tomato paste and red pepper flakes. This recipe is so simple and delicious that it has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I’m craving pasta! It’s super easy to make and can be on the dinner table in less than 30 minutes!
Creamy peanut tofu noodles tossed with crispy air fryer tofu and veggies. This easy peanut noodle recipe is packed with flavor, ready fast, and perfect for weeknights!
Vegan Pad Thai has bold, wonderful flavors, and it tastes like a dish you’d find at a Thai restaurant, but made and enjoyed in the comfort of your home. A perfectly filling and satisfying meal, you’re sure to love!
These Crispy Black Bean Tacos are cheesy and so delicious plus they come together with just 15 minutes of active work! The whole family will love these and they're easily customizable.
If you’ve never tried shredding tofu then you are IN FOR A TREAT! These Shredded Tofu Tacos are completely VEGAN, packed with flavor and your new favorite meat substitute for tacos!
Chili Crunch Tofu Bowls are flavorful and filling with the perfect amount of spicy kick. Each bite is packed with incredible texture—from crispy tofu and crunchy fresh cucumbers to creamy avocado and hearty grains. Just what you need to shake up your weekly menu!
Brita is the author of Food with Feeling which is a vegetarian based food blog. She creates easy and delicious recipes that encourage people to try more meat-free recipes!