It can be a challenge to find healthy and delicious recipes that don't rely heavily on vegetables. Whether you're facing a shortage of fresh produce, have dietary restrictions, or simply prefer meals without vegetables, there are still plenty of options to create satisfying and nutritious dishes. This article explores a variety of vegetable-free recipes, offering a range of flavors and cuisines to inspire your cooking.
High-Protein Options
High-Protein Marry Me Chicken
If the way to a person’s heart is really through their stomach, then Delish’s own Marry Me Chicken is a must-cook for pretty much everyone. This one-pan wonder has it all: plenty of luscious creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavor for days. Because this recipe is so good and the sauce is so magical, it’s easy to make protein-boosting adjustments.
Greek Salmon
We love our classic baked salmon recipe, but sometimes we want to jazz things up. To do so, we created a Greek-salad inspired topping of marinated feta, tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, red onion, and dill. Put it all together, and the result is an under-an-hour dinner that’s special-occasion worthy.
Comfort Food Classics
Copycat Starbucks Egg Bites
Giving cold hard cash to Starbucks seems far-fetched in this economy. Even if that cash is in exchange for their fluffy, cheesy, protein-packed egg bites. Luckily, we've figured out a perfect dupe for the iconic breakfast bites that will make you swear you shelled out $5 for a serving.
Cacio E Pepe Egg Noodles
Cacio e pepe is one of our all time FAVORITE pasta dishes. This lightened-up version calls for making your pasta from scratch-the good news is it's SO much easier than it sounds. All you need is a good nonstick pan. It's so simple and yet so fun to make and, of course, absolutely delicious.
Read also: Healthy food access with Highmark Wholecare explained.
Meat-Centric Dishes
Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Thanks to a magical combination of brown sugar, cumin, paprika, and lemon zest, this grilled tenderloin is one of our all-time favorite pork recipes. Round out the meal with some grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to create a dynamite dinner.
Global Flavors
Low-Carb Turkey Gyro Bowls
With tender spiced meat, crunchy fresh veggies, tzatziki, and chewy pita, it's not hard to see why gyros are so globally beloved. Inspired by this popular sandwich, we created this healthy but hearty bowl that's perfect for a light dinner.
Lockdown Series: No Veggies Recipes
With the Coronavirus breakout and the 21-Day lockdown in India, it is like all hell broke loose! Shortage of vegetables makes cooking a nightmare. This 21-Day Lockdown Series focuses on making everyday cooking simpler. Lot of them, including me spend most of the day thinking what can be prepared for breakfast, lunch and dinner with less vegetables. And with the kids also at home, snacks become an important part of the daily meal. So, planning becomes a tough job. Do not worry, as this is a No veggies, 21-Day lockdown Series, where I post recipes for these 21 days with no vegetables. Do not ignore vegetables totally.
Dhaba Style Punjabi Dal Tadka
An authentic dish straight from Punjab, this dhaba style dal tadka is here to blow your mind, heart and not …
Coconut Ladoo
Craving for something sweet? Here is the perfect dish for you! Day-2 of Lockdown series starts with a dessert recipe. …
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Tomato Chaaru
Tomato chaaru - a south Indian specialty loaded with health benefitting properties comes in handy during these times. Yes! It …
Jeera Rice
Jeera rice - a flavorful rice recipe giving a twist to the usual steamed rice is here on day-4 of …
Eggless Chocolate Æbleskivers
Day-5 of the No veggies, 21-Day Lockdown Series begins with a Danish snack recipe- Eggless chocolate Æbleskivers, Æbleskiver meaning ‘apple …
Instant Ragi Dosa
A healthy breakfast recipe is here on day-6 of the No veggies, 21-Day Lockdown Series- Instant ragi dosa! This is …
Amritsari Chole
Amritsari chole is the most popular North Indian curry recipe made with chickpeas and other spices. It is quite different …
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Tiffin Sambar
Tiffin sambar is a very flavorful recipe that can be made with or without vegetables. On day-8 of the No …
Poha Podi Uthappam
An instant but healthy recipe for day-9 of the No Veggies, 21-Day Lockdown Series- Poha podi uthappam! Now, this is …
Papad Ki Sabzi
Papad ki sabzi is a traditional Rajasthani dish with a yogurt based gravy. This sabzi can be made easily with …
Chocolate Mocha Pancakes
Want to overcome the toughest part of the day, the lazy mornings with something easy and yet delicious for breakfast? …
Garlic Idli Sticks
Yes, I meant garlic ‘IDLI’ sticks and not garlic ‘bread’ sticks. So what is this recipe then? It’s moong bean paratha on day-13 of the No Veggies, 21-Day Lockdown …
Punjabi Kadhi Pakora
Punjabi kadhi pakora, a Punjabi delicacy made with sour yogurt, besan and other spices and topped with crispy, fried pakoras …
Crispy Peas Chaat
Got cravings for street style chaat? This crispy peas chaat is the perfect recipe for you to get the street …
Paneer Makhani
Have you ever gone to a restaurant and tried ordering a dish and ended up ordering paneer makhani or paneer …
Instant Onion Rava Dosa
Running out of dosa batter? Here is a very popular south Indian specialty for you on day-17 of the No …
Mint Pesto Sandwich
Want to have something minty and full of flavors? Mint pesto is the right option. With the freshness of mint …
Soya Peas Pulao
Craving for something meaty during this lockdown? Missing all your meat dishes? Well, here is a recipe to satisfy your …
Dal Makhani
Here comes another creamy dish packed with protein on day-20 of the No Veggies, 21-Day Lockdown series.
Vegetarian Options
No-Bun Bruschetta Burgers
Forget all the rumors you've heard about chicken burgers being dry and boring. Thanks to fresh basil, salty Parm, and balsamic vinegar, these have SO. MUCH. FLAVOR.
Other recipes
Keto Beef Stew
Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Spaghetti Squash
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Fried rice is a classic and comforting recipe that everyone loves…except maybe those who are trying to eat less rice. So, we created this spin on the fave that subs cauliflower for rice, while still crushing the flavor game. Whether you’re skipping carbs, trying to eat more vegetables, or are just looking for a lighter side dish so you can eat more orange chicken (relatable!), this cauliflower fried rice is for you.
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken
Grilled Chicken Salad
Sheet-Pan Garlicky Shrimp & Veggies
Grilled Cod With Romesco Sauce
Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
Cheeseburger Cabbage Wraps
Cheesy Garlic Zucchini Steaks
Bunches of zucchini jamming up your crisper drawer? These cheesy garlic zucchini “steaks” are calling your name. Slathered with garlic oil and showered with mozzarella and parmesan, this showstopping vegetarian side might just upstage the actual steaks at the grill-out.
Zucchini Bun Hot Dogs
Creamed Spinach Stuffed Salmon
Mashed Cauliflower
Quick Vegetarian Dinners
Busy weeknights don't have to mean skipping out on a nourishing dinner. These quick vegetarian dinners come together fast-all are ready in about 30 minutes or less. They're made with simple, wholesome ingredients and full of flavor. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to add more easy plant-based meals into your week, you'll find satisfying options here that are both doable and delicious. As a vegetarian dietitian and intuitive eating counselor, I believe dinner should feel nourishing and joyful, not stressful. These plant-forward recipes focus on balance and satisfaction (core pillars of intuitive eating and gentle nutrition). They use everyday ingredients like beans, lentils, tofu, and plenty of seasonal produce. You'll find everything from hearty grain bowls and one-pan meals to filling salads, pasta dishes, and quick soups. These recipes are ideal for busy weeknights when you still want a nourishing, home-cooked meal.
Miso Noodle Soup
Simple and comforting Miso Noodle Soup is a 20-minute lunch or dinner cooked in one pot (so cleanup is really easy, too). Shiitake mushrooms add so much flavor and texture to this vegetarian version of Japanese-inspired miso soup. This balanced rice noodle soup comes together in just 15 minutes and is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.
Mediterranean Lentil Salad
This Mediterranean Lentil Salad is an easy and delicious vegetarian entree or side dish with Greek-inspired flavors. It's made with protein-packed lentils, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, feta cheese, and fresh herbs tossed in lemony oregano dressing. There is so much flavor and texture in this balanced, make-ahead salad recipe.
Easy Edamame Salad
Say hello to your new favorite vegan salad! This Easy Edamame Salad is quick, balanced, and filling. With edamame, quinoa, and peanuts, it's easily a complete meal all on its own.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
Sweet potatoes and black beans are paired with quinoa and tangy avocado dressing for a protein-packed dinner with minimal prep work. Vegetarian burrito bowls are simple and satisfying for a 30-minute weeknight dinner.
Fried Eggplant Sandwich
This fried eggplant sandwich is smoky, crispy, and layered with juicy tomato, fresh greens, and a spicy harissa mayo for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. This veggie hummus sandwich is a simple, plant-based option to add into your weeknight dinner rotation. Warm, roasted sweet potato lends a hearty and comforting feel to this vegetarian recipe.
Avocado Toast with Fried Egg and Chili Crunch
Never underestimate breakfast for dinner. This Avocado Toast with Fried Egg and Chili Crunch is a quick, crave-worthy meal that's ready in minutes. This savory mushroom avocado toast is one of my go-to vegetarian meal ideas when I want something quick, hearty, and flavorful.
Green Pasta
This creamy Green Pasta is a go-to for busy weeknights. It comes together in just 20 minutes and packs in leafy greens and plant protein thanks to a velvety spinach sauce made with silken tofu. Blend the sauce while the pasta cooks, or prep it ahead for an even quicker meal.
5-Ingredient Tahini Pasta
This 5-Ingredient Tahini Pasta is a weeknight dinner hero! Just toss your favorite pasta with vibrant spinach and a simple homemade lemon tahini pasta sauce for a delicious, family-friendly meal in under 30 minutes. A quick, plant-based recipe with simple ingredients and bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Pasta Primavera
Quick and easy Italian-inspired comfort food! A colorful medley of fresh veggies meets a luscious, dairy-free lemon cream sauce in this plant-based Pasta Primavera. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, it's an ideal dish for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Brussels Sprouts Orzo
Hello, Mediterranean-inspired comfort food! Brussels Sprouts Orzo is a quick and easy vegetarian dinner inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Thai Peanut Noodles
One of the speediest vegetarian dinners out there! These Asian-inspired Thai peanut noodles are tossed with greens and protein-rich edamame beans.
White Beans and Greens
White Beans and Greens has to be one of the best 30-minute meals out there. Best part: you only need one pan to make it. Use any type of white bean you have on hand-great northern, cannellini, and navy beans all work well. You'll simmer the beans, kale, tomato paste, broth, and cheese all in one skillet. Then, I like to serve it with toasted bread for dipping.
Quesadilla
Here's one of the best Mexican-inspired vegetarian dinners that's easy to make at home! This quesadilla is stuffed with pinto beans, cheese, and a colorful mix of crunchy vegetables. Serve it with a zesty avocado-lime crema sauce for dipping, and you've got yourself a complete and yummy meal that even meat-eaters will love!
Frittata
Frittatas aren't just for breakfast! This simple, one-skillet vegetarian frittata is made with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and creamy goat cheese. Fluffy eggs, savory vegetables, and tangy cheese come together in just 30 minutes for a hearty and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Vegetarian Menu Ideas
What should I eat for dinner as a vegetarian?
Vegetarian dinners can be as simple as a veggie stir-fry with tofu, a hearty bean chili, or a grain bowl topped with roasted vegetables and a flavorful sauce. The key is combining plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, or edamame with grains and vegetables for a meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying.
What are the most popular vegetarian meals?
Some of the most loved vegetarian meals include pasta dishes like veggie-loaded pesto pasta, lentil or bean-based soups, curries with coconut milk, and roasted vegetable grain bowls. These dishes are popular for good reason. They're comforting, flavorful, and easy to customize.
What is a good vegetarian menu?
A balanced vegetarian menu might include a hearty soup or stew, a fresh salad with beans or grains, and a protein-packed main dish like lentil tacos or baked tofu and veggies. For a weeknight plan, choose recipes that overlap in ingredients to save time and reduce food waste.
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