When it comes to cooking, sometimes we get stuck in a rut and need some inspiration to spice up our meals. That’s where these 18 flavorful jazzy vegetarian recipes come in! From tacos to curries, pasta dishes to burgers, this collection has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these vibrant meals are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling full and satisfied. And the best part? They’re all meat-free, making them perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.
In this article, we’ll be diving into some of our favorite recipes that showcase the amazing flavors and textures that plant-based cuisine has to offer. From classic comfort foods to international twists and global inspirations, these dishes are sure to add some excitement to your meal routine. So without further ado, let’s get cooking!
Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes with the bold heat of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, these tacos are sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened.
3. Stir in black beans and cooked sweet potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with the sweet potato and black bean mixture, topped with your favorite fixings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the richness of roasted eggplant with the nutty taste of chickpeas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss eggplant cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in chickpeas and roasted eggplant. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Peppers with Avocado Cream
This vibrant recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of bell peppers, topped with a creamy avocado sauce. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your favorite protein.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Meanwhile, mash avocados in a bowl and stir in lime juice and cumin.
7. Serve stuffed bell peppers with avocado cream on top.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Zesty Lemon Garlic Pasta with Spinach and Artichokes
This vibrant and flavorful pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of artichokes and spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), artichoke hearts, and spinach to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until spinach has wilted.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Tofu Banh Mi with Pickled Vegetables
Elevate your sandwich game with this crispy tofu banh mi, paired with a tangy and crunchy pickled vegetable slaw. This Vietnamese-inspired recipe combines the best of both worlds – crispy and chewy.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 baguette, cut in half lengthwise
– Pickled Vegetable Slaw (recipe below)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Pickled Vegetable Slaw:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch and soy sauce.
3. Toss tofu cubes in the mixture until coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tofu for 5-7 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway.
5. Assemble banh mi by spreading pickled slaw on the baguette, followed by crispy tofu and garnishing with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
This hearty soup combines the comfort of lentils with the exotic flavors of Morocco, finished with a rich and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add water and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or parsley.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Jackfruit Sliders with Mango Slaw
This Caribbean-inspired recipe combines the flavors of jerk seasoning and mango slaw to create a unique and delicious twist on traditional sliders. Perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer, these jackfruit sliders are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Mango Slaw (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together jackfruit, jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and breadcrumbs.
3. Add water and mix until well combined.
4. Shape mixture into small patties.
5. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
6. Serve on hamburger buns with Mango Slaw.
Mango Slaw:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Mediterranean Stuffed Zucchini with Feta and Herbs
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired stuffed zucchini recipe, packed with tangy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini shell with the feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four zucchinis.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad with Crispy Tofu
This refreshing salad combines the creamy flavors of Thai peanut sauce with crunchy noodles and crispy tofu, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions, set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and 2 tbsp water. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, crispy tofu, and peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle with cilantro, salt, and pepper to taste. If desired, top with crushed peanuts.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Portobello Mushroom Burgers with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this savory and smoky portobello mushroom patty, topped with a spicy chipotle mayo. A perfect combination for those looking to add some excitement to their meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp paper towel and brush both sides with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Grill mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, mix chipotle pepper and mayonnaise in a bowl.
6. Assemble burgers by placing grilled mushrooms on hamburger buns, topping with chipotle mayo, lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Cauliflower Wings with Ranch Dip
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this addictive recipe that transforms cauliflower into crispy, flavorful “wings”! This sweet and spicy treat is perfect for a quick appetizer or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the cauliflower florets in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
4. Dip the floured cauliflower in Frank’s RedHot sauce, then roll in honey to coat.
5. Fry the cauliflower “wings” in hot oil for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Flatbread
Elevate your flatbread game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, creamy goat cheese, and crispy crust. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out the flatbread and top with the caramelized onions, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Harissa-Roasted Carrots with Tahini Drizzle
Roasting carrots brings out their natural sweetness, while the harissa adds a depth of warm, spicy flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup harissa
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
3. Spread carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, mix tahini, lemon juice, and garlic (if using) in a small bowl.
6. Drizzle tahini mixture over roasted carrots and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Mushroom Sandwiches with Coleslaw
BBQ Pulled Mushroom Sandwiches with Coleslaw Recipe
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these mouthwatering BBQ Pulled Mushroom Sandwiches topped with a refreshing Coleslaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mushrooms (button or cremini), stems removed and caps sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz coleslaw mix
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in BBQ sauce and stir to coat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Spoon mushroom mixture onto the buns.
7. Top with coleslaw mix and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Coconut Curry with Chickpeas and Kale
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the earthiness of kale and the nutty taste of chickpeas. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and flavorful twist on classic stuffed shells! This recipe combines the richness of pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese to create a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, pesto, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheesy mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Salad with Lime Crema
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful addition to your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn kernels for about 5 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled corn, red bell pepper, onion, garlic, Cotija cheese, and cilantro.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss gently.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the richness of balsamic glaze and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with the balsamic glaze and sprinkle with pecan halves.
7. Garnish with minced garlic, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to jazz up your vegetarian meals with these 18 flavorful recipes! From tacos and curries to pasta dishes and burgers, this collection offers a diverse range of international-inspired flavors. Try Spicy Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos, Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Curry, or Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Peppers with Avocado Cream. Or, go bold with Crispy Tofu Banh Mi with Pickled Vegetables or Jerk-Spiced Jackfruit Sliders with Mango Slaw. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, creamy, or tangy, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings and add some excitement to your meal routine!
