The Top 10 Best Vegetarian Meals You Must Try

Are you curious about vegetarian meals? Have you considered becoming a vegetarian? Want to know some vegetarian dinners you can do at home?

If yes, then read these top ten vegetarian dinner recipes. These dishes are quick and easy to cook and delicious. They might also help lower cholesterol levels.

There are several reasons why vegetarians and vegans eat less meat. Many believe that animals who live in captivity don’t deserve to die for our pleasure. Others observe that raising livestock causes environmental damage. As well, some worry about animal cruelty and want to show their support for animal rights groups.

There are numerous health benefits to switching to a plant-based nutrition plan. Vegetables and fruits provide important vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, protein, zinc and potassium. 

In addition, they contain fibre, antioxidants, phytochemicals, amino acids and other compounds that promote heart health, brain function, energy metabolism, bone growth and immune system regulation.

Top 10 Vegetarian Meals

1. Roasted Cauliflower Tacos with Cream Cheese Sauce 

A creamy sauce makes these roasted florets taste like a classic taco filling. This vegetarian recipe is so simple children can make it. It’s best served warm or at room temperature.

2. Coconut Rice 

This coconut rice tastes great when paired with vegetables. The dish takes just 20 to 30 minutes to prepare.

3. Mac and Cheese 

Prepared from scratch, mac and cheese are one of the most comforting food items. Using an ovenproof skillet, brown the flour on medium heat. Mix in the milk, cream, eggs, cayenne pepper, salt and butter or olive oil until smooth. 

Cook for five minutes over low heat. Stir in the cheese. Cook for another two minutes. Remove from the stovetop. 

Spread the mixture onto a greased baking sheet pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes. Serve hot.

4. Fried Rice With Black Beans and Peppers 

This is a nutritious stir fry meal that is ideal for any occasion. The black beans add extra fibre and nutrients while the peppers give the dish its flavour. The dish is very versatile and can be prepared using whatever ingredients you prefer.

5. Quinoa Pilaf 

Quinoa is a fantastic source of protein and is high in fibre. For this reason, quinoa is often used as a substitute for grains. This pilaf is a healthy side dish that requires only 15 minutes of preparation.

6. Tomato Soup 

This quick tomato soup is perfect for weeknight dinners when you just need something warming and nourishing. When the weather gets cold, nothing feels better than a steaming bowl of tomato soup!

7. Brown Rice Pudding 

Take a step away from boxed mixes and use your own homemade version of brown rice pudding. Made from cooked brown rice and sweetened with honey, this dessert is packed with protein and fibre.

8. Tofu Scramble 

This tofu scramble is hearty enough to serve as brunch. The scrambled tofu pairs perfectly with fresh fruit and granola. To make your scramble even more appealing, try adding mushrooms and red bell peppers.

9. Spicy Sweet Potato Chips With Chili Lime Salt 

The chips are crisp and flavorful. They’re also gluten-free and vegan. For added interest, sprinkle them with freshly chopped basil.

10. Lentil Stew 

If you’ve never tried lentils, you’re missing out on a delicious super easy food. These legumes are filled with both protein and fibre and go well with many types of dishes. Use this stew to get your family to eat more greens.

Vegan Meal Planning Tips

1. Plan ahead. Think about what kind of meals you’d like to enjoy throughout the week. What will work best? 
2. Eat seasonal produce. Choose fruits and veggies based on what they are in season and look their absolute best.
3. Make it fun. Cooking together as a family is such good bonding activity. Throw some music on and invite the whole family around the table to cook and eat.
4. Be creative. Find new ways to eat plant-based foods. There’s nothing wrong with trying out your favourite comfort foods. Just keep them organized if you want them to stay that way.
5. Experiment. Don’t feel limited to traditional dishes. Get out there and create innovative and tasty meals.
6. Stock up. Once you start cooking and eating healthier, consider stocking your pantry and fridge with lots of healthy options. Add dried beans, butternut squash, nuts and seeds to your shopping list so that you always have the right ingredients on hand to make these great vegan meals.
7. Keep it simple. It’s important to remember that meatless meals don’t have to be complicated or fancy. In fact, sometimes less really is more.

How to Prepare Vegan Meals

1. Prepare the night before. Some dishes benefit from being made ahead of time. So, plan your meals on the weekend. 

Then, prepare everything the next day. This will save time on busy weekdays.

2. Start with a base. Base your veggie dishes with vegetables you already have in your house. For example, soups and stews are great bases for beans and grains.
3. Combine flavours

When making casseroles, mix different kinds of flavourings. Lemon juice zest and minced garlic give grilled chicken and vegetable lasagna an extra kick.

4. Put a spin on things. Substitute non-dairy milk for regular milk in baked goods and sauces. Swap ground flaxseed for eggs in pancake batter.
5. Go crazy. Have fun with your food. Create a meal that includes all the colours of the rainbow that you love—whether that means carrots, spinach, blueberries, broccoli, pomegranates, black beans, or whatever else tickles your fancy.

Hope these simple recipes will help you achieve your vegetarian meals successfully!