5 Simple Vegan Dinners for Busy Weeknights

After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. But as a vegan, you still want to enjoy nutritious, delicious meals that align with your lifestyle.

Good news! We’ve got you covered with five simple vegan dinners perfect for those hectic weeknights.

These recipes are designed to be quick, easy, and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting your plant-based journey, these meals will become your go-to options when time is tight but you don’t want to compromise on taste or nutrition.

1. Vegan Protein Smoothie Bowl

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Who says smoothies are just for breakfast? This protein-packed smoothie bowl is the perfect option for those nights when you need something fast and filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop plant-based protein powder
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup (250ml) soy milk (or plant milk of choice)
• 1 handful of spinach

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Pour into a bowl and add your favourite toppings for extra nutrition and crunch.

This simple vegan dinner is not only quick but also incredibly nutritious. The plant-based protein powder provides essential amino acids, while the banana offers natural sweetness and energy-boosting carbohydrates. Spinach adds a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals without affecting the taste.

For added variety, try these toppings:

• Sliced fresh fruit (berries, mango, or kiwi)
• Chopped nuts or seeds
• Granola for extra crunch
• A drizzle of agave nectar or maple syrup for sweetness

This versatile meal can be customised to suit your taste preferences and nutritional needs. It’s a great way to get a balanced meal in just minutes, perfect for those nights when cooking feels like a chore.

2. Avocado Toast

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Avocado toast isn’t just for trendy cafes. This simple vegan dinner is a quick and satisfying option that you can whip up in no time.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of wholemeal bread
• 1 ripe avocado
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced tomato, nutritional yeast, chia seeds, chilli flakes, red onion

To prepare, toast your bread to your desired level of crispiness. While the bread is toasting, mash your avocado in a bowl. Once the toast is ready, spread the mashed avocado generously on each slice. Season with salt and pepper, and add any additional toppings you like.

This meal is not only quick and easy but also packed with nutrients. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fibre, and vitamins and minerals. Wholemeal bread provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

To add a little something extra, try these creative topping ideas:

• Sliced radishes for a peppery crunch
• Sprouts or microgreens for added nutrients
• A drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness
• Roasted chickpeas for extra protein

Avocado toast is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a perfect example of how simple vegan dinners can be delicious and nutritious.

3. Microwave Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl

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This microwave quinoa and black bean bowl is a game-changer for busy vegans. It’s a balanced meal that comes together in minutes, perfect for those nights you’re tempted to order a takeaway.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pre-cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup black beans (canned or pre-cooked)
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1/4 avocado, diced

To prepare, combine the pre-cooked quinoa and black beans in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for about 1-2 minutes until warm. Stir in the salsa and top with diced avocado.

Using pre-cooked quinoa is the secret to making this meal super quick. You can easily prepare a big batch of quinoa at the beginning of the week and store it in the fridge. You’ll always have some ready for quick meals like this one.

You could also buy the microwave pouches with pre-cooked quinoa. Those take just 2 minutes to cook in the microwave!

This bowl is not only fast but also nutritionally balanced. Quinoa provides complete protein and complex carbohydrates. Black beans add extra protein and fibre. The salsa gives a burst of flavour and some extra vegetables, while the avocado provides healthy fats.

To keep this dish exciting in your rotation, try these variations:

• Use different types of beans (pinto, kidney, or white beans)
• Swap the salsa for your favourite vegan sauce
• Add some steamed or roasted vegetables
• Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour

This microwave quinoa and black bean bowl proves that simple vegan dinners can be both convenient and balanced. It’s a perfect example of how you can eat well even on your busiest nights.

4. Cauliflower Chickpea Burgers

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These cauliflower chickpea burger patties are a delicious, protein-packed option for a quick vegan dinner. While they might sound fancy, they’re actually simple to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cauliflower florets, steamed and mashed
• 1 can chickpeas, mashed with their water
• 1/4 cup flour (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

To prepare, mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Form into patties and cook in a non-stick pan for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

These patties are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cauliflower is rich in vitamins and fibre, while chickpeas provide protein and additional fibre. The spices add flavour without extra calories.

You could make these patties in advance and stash them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat them in a pan or the oven when you need a quick meal.

Serving suggestions:

• In a burger bun or pitta, with rocket, red onions, pickles and your favourite sauce
• Over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad
• With roasted vegetables and potatoes or chips
• Wrapped in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb option

These cauliflower chickpea burgers show how creative and satisfying simple vegan dinners can be. Plant-based eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

5. Wrap with Hummus and Veggies

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When it comes to simple vegan dinners, it doesn’t get much easier than this vegan wrap. It’s quick, customisable, and perfect for those nights when you need dinner in a hurry.

Ingredients:

• 1 large tortilla (wholemeal or gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp hummus
• 1 handful of spinach
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots

To assemble, spread the hummus evenly over the tortilla. Layer the spinach and shredded carrots on top. Roll the tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.

This wrap is not only super fast to make but also nutritionally balanced. The hummus provides protein and healthy fats, while the vegetables offer fibre, vitamins, and minerals. The tortilla adds complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

To add variety, try these:

• Use different types of hummus (roasted red pepper, garlic, or beetroot)
• Swap spinach for other leafy greens like kale or rocket
• Add sliced bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch
• Include some sliced avocado for creaminess

This vegan wrap is the perfect versatile meal that you can easily adapt based on what you have in your fridge.

Tips for Success with Quick Vegan Meals

To make these simple vegan dinners even easier, consider these tips:

1. Meal planning is key. Take some time on the weekend to plan your meals for the week. This will help you shop efficiently and avoid the “what’s for dinner?” stress.
2. Prep ingredients in advance. Wash and chop vegetables, cook grains, and prepare sauces at the beginning of the week. This will save you valuable time on busy weeknights.
3. Stock your cupboards wisely. Keep varieties of canned beans, whole grains, and plant-based proteins on hand. These staples can form the base of many quick meals.
4. Invest in time-saving kitchen tools. A good blender, food processor or instant pot can significantly speed up meal preparation.
5. Don’t be afraid of cans and packets. Pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, and frozen fruits can be real time-savers without compromising on nutrition.
6. Make more than you need. Cook extra when you have time, and enjoy the leftovers on busier nights.

These strategies will make it easier to stick to your vegan diet, even on your busiest weeknights.

The Bottom Line

These five simple vegan dinners prove that plant-based eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. From the protein-packed smoothie bowl to the versatile vegan wrap, these meals are designed to fit your busy lifestyle without compromising taste or nutrition.

The key to success with quick vegan meals is preparation and flexibility. Experiment with these recipes, swapping ingredients based on what you have available or what you’re in the mood for.

Incorporating these simple vegan dinners into your meal rotation means you’ll always have a nutritious option ready, even on your busiest nights. Give them a try! Your taste buds, and your schedule, will thank you!