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Search Results for: fresh veg

Fresh from the Vegan Kitchen

vegan food
  • vegan almond flour pancakes
    Vegan Gluten-Free Pancakes (made with almond flour!)
  • homemade tomato relish in a jar
    Fresh Tomato Relish
  • vegan pizza dough
    Basic Vegan Pizza Dough
  • vegan peppers and sausage
    Italian-Style Vegan Sausage and Peppers
  • butternut squash and pasta casserole
    Roasted Butternut Squash and Pasta Casserole
  • baked onions
    Glazed Baked Onions
  • vegan pumpkin chocolate chip muffins
    Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
  • vegan pumpkin recipes
    Tasty Vegan Pumpkin Recipes

See all vegan recipes →

Explore Vegan Recipes

  • Vegan Main Dishes
  • Vegan Appetizers
  • Vegan Side Dishes
  • Vegan Desserts
  • Vegan Breakfast Recipes
  • Vegan Pasta and Noodles
  • Vegan Soups, Stews, and Chilis
  • Vegan Drinks
  • Raw Vegan Cooking
  • Kid Friendly Vegan Recipes

See all vegan recipes →

nicole malik from vegkithen.com

About Veg Kitchen

Hi! I'm Nicole - the creator behind Veg Kitchen. I've been cooking vegetarian and vegan recipes for over 25 years, and recently published the popular cookbook, Weeknight One Pot Vegan Cooking!

Learn more about me →

Vegan Eggplant Pizza with Fresh Tomatoes and Olives

August 30, 2019 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 2 Comments

Eggplant, fresh tomato, and olive pizza

Make a simple vegan eggplant pizza recipe special by adding fresh tomatoes and olives to the top. It's a perfect pizza to make on cool summer evenings, though you can enjoy it year round as long as you can find decent tomatoes. Use tomatoes that are ripe yet firm, and dense and fleshy rather than seedy. Roma (plum) tomatoes are ideal for this.

Make It a Meal

This pizza goes down easy, so double the recipe to serve a hungry crowd; this recipe makes 6 slices, serving 2 to 3. Serve with a big colorful salad containing chickpeas for a simple and tasty meal.  [Read more...]

Vegan Fresh Tomato and Tortellini or Ravioli Soup

August 28, 2017 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 2 Comments

Fresh tomato soup with tortellini or ravioli

This hearty vegan fresh tomato soup with tortellini or ravioli is filling far served with a fresh corn on the side. It's a wonderful choice for late summer that are starting to get cool, and is a good way to use up tomatoes that are a bit past the season's peak. Look for vegan tortellini or ravioli in the freezer section of your natural foods store. Serve with fresh corn on the side. Photos by Hannah Kaminsky. [Read more...]

Fresh Mango and Blueberry Popsicles (Vegan!)

July 24, 2013 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

Mango and blueberry ice pops

3 ingredients. Big fruit flavor. These mango and blueberry ice pops are summer on a stick.

Mango and blueberry ice pops

These Mango and Blueberry Ice Pops are:

  • Naturally sweetened with ripe fruit and optional agave or maple syrup.
  • Vegan, gluten-free, and free of artificial additives.
  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • A fun and healthy treat for kids and adults alike.
  • Perfect for using up surplus summer fruits!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Mango: Choose very ripe mangoes for the best flavor. One large or two medium should suffice. This recipe also works well with nectarines- four to five medium fruits are ideal. Peel, pit, and dice the fruit before blending.

Mango Nectar: Adds a smooth, sweet base to the puree. If unavailable, substitute with orange juice or another fruit nectar of your choice.

Blueberries: Fresh blueberries provide a juicy burst in every bite. Frozen blueberries can be used if thawed and drained beforehand.

Agave Nectar or Maple Syrup: Optional, depending on the sweetness of your fruit. Add to taste after blending.

Helpful Tips

Blending: Blend the diced fruit with mango nectar until completely smooth. Taste the puree and add the sweetener at that point, if needed.

Incorporating the Blueberries: After blending, stir in the whole blueberries gently to maintain their shape and provide texture. If you're too rough, you will smush the berries!

Freezing: Pour the mixture into ice pop molds, leaving a small gap at the top for expansion. Insert sticks and freeze for at least 5 hours, preferably overnight.

Unmolding: To release the pops, run a bit of warm water over the outside of the molds for a few seconds. This will help them release more easily. (These were made with this set of popsicle molds!)

Variations

  • Mixed Berries: Replace blueberries with a mix of raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different berry profile.
  • Herbal Infusion: Add a few mint or basil leaves to the fruit puree for an herbal twist.
  • Creamy Texture: Blend in a small amount of coconut milk or yogurt for a creamier consistency.
  • Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest into the puree for added brightness.

More Frozen Vegan Treats

If you love these vegan popsicles, be sure to check out these other treats:

  • Blackberry Watermelon Popsicles
  • Vegan Fudgesicles
  • Apple Kiwi Pops
  • Strawberry Mango Vegan Popsicles

Recipe

Mango and blueberry ice pops

Mango Blueberry Popsicles

No ratings yet
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Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
Freeze: 8 hours hours
Total Time: 8 hours hours 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 6
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Equipment

  • popsicles molds

Ingredients

  • 1 large mangoes ripe, pitted, peeled and diced,
  • ¾ cup mango nectar
  • 1 cup blueberries fresh
  • 2 tablespoons agave nectar or to taste, optional, can also use maple syrup

Instructions

  • Combine the fruit and mango nectar in a blender. Blend until perfectly smooth.
  • Add the blueberries to the container of the blender and stir in. Taste to see if you need a bit more sweetening.
  • Pour into ice pop molds and freeze for at least 5 hours or overnight.

Notes

The number of popsicles made will depend on the size of your molds and how high you fill them. I made 6 popsicles. 
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Gluten-Free Pancakes (made with almond flour!)

March 5, 2026 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 3 Comments

vegan almond flour pancakes

These almond flour pancakes are light, fluffy, and naturally vegan and gluten-free, with a deliciously nutty flavor. An easy vegan breakfast that's perfect with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite pancake toppings.

my fork digging into a atack of vegan gluten-free almond flour pancakes

If you're looking for pancakes that feel a little wholesome but still taste like a treat, these almond flour pancakes deliver in the best way. They're fluffy, lightly nutty, and naturally gluten-free, with a soft texture that's perfect for soaking up maple syrup.

I'll admit, I was skeptical the first time I made pancakes with almond flour. I've had my share of dense, crumbly "healthy" pancakes that were more disappointing than satisfying. But these? Total game changer.

These pancakes cook up tender with slightly crisp edges, and the flavor pairs beautifully with classic pancake toppings like berries, yogurt, or a generous drizzle of maple syrup.

This Almond Flour Pancake Recipe Is…

  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Freezer-friendly
  • Light, fluffy, and tender
  • Simple to make with a few ingredients
  • Perfect for weekend brunch

Drizzle on some syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or add on some fresh berries. No matter how you serve up these homemade vegan pancakes, they are a hit. 

And while you're here, don't forget to grab a copy of my free vegan cheat sheet. It's packed with all my favorite substitutions to vegan-ize any recipe!

collage showing the vegan gluten-free pancakes being made and served

Helpful Tips

Use medium heat: The pancakes can brown very quickly, so cooking them over medium heat helps them cook evenly without scorching the outside.

Let the batter rest: Giving the batter a few minutes to sit before starting to scoop your pancakes helps it thicken slightly.

Grab a pancake flipper! Basically a really large spatula. For just a few bucks, I have found this to be a handy tool to keep in my kitchen.

me flipping the almond flour pancake in a pan

Fun Variations

  • Berry pancakes: Fold some blueberries or chopped strawberries into the batter.
  • Banana almond pancakes: Mash a ripe banana into the batter for natural sweetness and extra moisture.
  • Chocolate chip pancakes: Add a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips for a breakfast that feels like dessert.
  • Cinnamon Spice pancakes: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy flavor.
  • Almond pancakes: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract, to go all-in on the almond flavor.
vegan almond flour pancakes on a plate with syrup and blueberries

Serving Ideas

These almond flour pancakes are delicious straight off the skillet, but the toppings are where the fun really begins.

  • Classic maple syrup and vegan butter for a simple, traditional pancake stack.
  • Fresh berries and coconut yogurt for a bright, brunch-worthy plate.
  • Nut butter drizzle like almond or peanut butter for extra richness. My personal favorite is this homemade vegan nutella!
  • Sliced bananas and chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
  • A dusting of powdered sugar when you want them to feel a little extra special.
pouring syrup over vegan almond flour pancakes, which are topped with blueberries

Recipe FAQs

What does flaxseed do in vegan pancakes? 

The ground flaxseed is used to create what we call "flax eggs". Adding water to the flaxseed creates a egg-like liquid that makes a great egg replacement in a traditional pancake recipe. (For more easy vegan substitutions, grab my free vegan cheat sheet!)

How do I store leftover pancakes? 

If you do not eat all the pancakes, go ahead and refrigerate them. They will last 2-3 days in the fridge. You can eat these refrigerated pancakes cold or warm them up in the microwave or toaster oven.

Pro Tip: If you choose to reheat using the microwave, place a small cup of water in the microwave along with the pancakes. This will help keep the pancakes moist!

Can you freeze almond flour pancakes? 

Go right ahead and freeze any vegan pancakes you don't want to eat right away. Just lay out the pancakes in a single layer and flash freeze them. Once the pancakes are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Then freeze the for up to 3 months. 

More Vegan Breakfast Recipes

If you love a big breakfast spread, be sure to check out my new Vegan Brunch Book. It's loaded with all my favorite brunch-worthy vegan recipes!

And for more creative vegan breakfast ideas, check out these recipes:

  • Vegan Blueberry Pancakes
  • 35+ Healthy Vegan Breakfast Recipes
  • 20 Savory Vegan Breakfast Ideas

Recipe

vegan almond flour pancakes

Vegan Almond Flour Pancakes

4.64 from 11 votes
These almond flour pancakes are light, fluffy, and naturally vegan and gluten-free, with a deliciously nutty flavor. An easy vegan breakfast that's perfect with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite pancake toppings.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 pancakes
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup almond flour
  • ½ cup gluten-free baking flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 banana mashed, overripe is best
  • ½ cup almond milk add additional up to ¾ cup, as needed
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
  • 3 tablespoon warm water
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
  • fruit and maple syrup optional toppings
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the ground flaxseed and warm water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken before proceeding. This is your "flax egg".
  • In a medium bowl mix vanilla extract, almond milk, and the "flax egg". Stir well to combine.
    vegan almond flour pancakes
  • Add mashed banana and stir again until the batter is smooth.
    vegan almond flour pancakes
  • Add both almond and gluten-free flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until combined. Batter should be thicker now.
    vegan almond flour pancakes
  • Heat a thin layer of oil in a nonstick skillet. Then pour in 2 tablespoon of the batter for each pancake. Cook on low heat about 2-3 minutes for each side.
    vegan almond flour pancakes
  • Serve immediately. Garnish with maple syrup, fruits, or nuts.
    vegan almond flour pancakes

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 168kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 196mgPotassium: 82mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 13IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 116mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Fresh Tomato Relish

March 5, 2026 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

homemade tomato relish in a jar

Fresh, juicy tomatoes tossed with oregano, thyme, and a simple dressing create a bright, herby salad that's bursting with flavor. It's quick, refreshing, and the perfect way to showcase ripe summer tomatoes.

homemade tomato relish in a jar and bruschetta

If you love simple recipes that let fresh ingredients shine, this tomato relish salad is about to become a favorite. Juicy tomatoes are tossed with fragrant oregano and thyme, creating a bright, herb-packed dish that tastes like summer in every bite. It's light, refreshing, and perfect alongside grilled dishes or served with crusty bread.

I'm a huge believer that the best recipes are often the simplest ones. When tomatoes are ripe and full of flavor, they really don't need much help. A handful of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and a little seasoning can transform them into something that feels both effortless and special.

It's the kind of dish I like to make when tomatoes are overflowing at the farmer's market or when I want a quick vegan appetizer or light lunch that doesn't require turning on the stove. Just chop, toss, and enjoy.

homemade tomato relish beings erved atop bread as brushetta

Helpful Tips & Variations

  • Use ripe tomatoes: The better the tomatoes, the better the salad.
  • Let it rest briefly: Allowing the salad to sit for 10 minutes helps the flavors meld.
  • Taste and adjust: Tomatoes vary in sweetness, so adjust salt and acidity as needed.
  • Add texture: A sprinkle of toasted seeds or nuts can add a nice crunch.
  • Add cucumber: For extra freshness and crunch. English cucumbers work best because of the lack of seeds!
  • Make it Mediterranean: Toss in olives or capers for a briny twist.

Serving Ideas

This tomato relish salad is incredibly versatile and can brighten up all kinds of meals. I love serving it slightly chilled or at room temperature so the tomatoes stay juicy and the herbs really shine.

  • Alongside grilled dishes: It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, tofu, or as a topping for plant-based burgers or sandwiches.
  • Spoon over toast: Pile it onto crusty toasted bread for a quick bruschetta-style snack. Add some vegan cream cheese for a delicious combo.
  • Top grain bowls: Add it to quinoa, rice, or farro bowls for a fresh, herby boost.
  • Serve with pasta: Toss a spoonful over warm pasta or noodles for a light, summery finish.
  • As a dip with chips: Serve it up with some crunchy tortilla chips, and scoop it up like salsa!

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this simple tomato relish, be sure to check out these other tasty ideas or browse the rest of our vegan salad recipes:

  • Fresh Corn and Tomatillo Salsa
  • Easy Corn and Tomato Salad
  • Vegan Chickpea Salad
  • Simple Corn Relish Salad

Recipe

homemade tomato relish in a jar

Tomato Relish with Fresh Oregano and Thyme

5 from 1 vote
Fresh, juicy tomatoes tossed with oregano, thyme, and a simple dressing create a bright, herby salad that's bursting with flavor. It's quick, refreshing, and the perfect way to showcase ripe summer tomatoes.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ripe tomatoes use a variety of red, yellow, and heirloom; mix in some cherry or grape tomatoes if you'd like
  • ¼ cup minced red onion
  • 3 tablespoons fresh oregano chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves French or Lemon
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice adjust to taste
  • salt and pepper to taste
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Cut the tomatoes into dice no larger than ½ inch - even smaller if they're firm, and you have the patience.
  • Combine the tomatoes in a serving bowl with the remaining ingredients and let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 59kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 2gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 9mgPotassium: 406mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1334IUVitamin C: 23mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Italian-Style Vegan Sausage and Peppers

February 25, 2026 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 6 Comments

vegan peppers and sausage

Savory vegan sausage, sweet bell peppers, and tender onions simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce - this Italian classic goes plant-based without losing an ounce of flavor. It's hearty, colorful, and perfect spooned over pasta, grains, or tucked into a crusty roll.

vegan italian sausage and peppers in a white dish

This recipe updates the Italian classic, sausage and peppers, with vegan sausage. What I love most about this recipe is that it delivers big, familiar flavor with very little fuss. It's rustic in the best way. Nothing complicated. Just solid ingredients, cooked well, and layered together until everything tastes like it belongs in the same bowl.

And it's flexible. Serve it over pasta. Serve it with your favorite grains (I like farro!) Spoon it onto creamy polenta. Stuff it into a hoagie roll. Or honestly? Eat it straight from the skillet. I won't judge.

These Italian Vegan Sausage and Peppers are…

  • Hearty and satisfying without being heavy
  • Weeknight-friendly, ready in about 30 minutes
  • Naturally dairy-free and plant-based
  • Easy to customize depending on what peppers or sausage you have
  • Perfect for meal prep, since the flavors deepen as it sits

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Vegan Italian Sausage - Choose your favorite plant-based Italian-style links. Slice them into coins or half-moons so they brown nicely. Browning is key here - it builds flavor before the sauce even begins.

Substitution tip: If you can't find Italian-style sausage, use plain vegan sausage and boost the seasoning with extra oregano, fennel seed, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Bell Peppers - A mix of red, yellow, and green adds sweetness and color. If you can find Italian frying peppers, even better - but standard bell peppers work beautifully.

Onion and Garlic - These are the aromatic backbone of the dish. Let the onions soften and lightly caramelize before adding garlic!

Crushed or Puréed Tomatoes - This creates the base for the sauce. If you prefer a chunkier texture, use crushed tomatoes. For a smoother finish, go with purée.

Dried Italian Herbs - Oregano is essential. Basil and thyme add balance. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives subtle heat.

Optional White Wine - A splash deglazes the pan and adds brightness. If you skip it, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can add a similar lift.

Italian-style vegan sausage and peppers

Helpful Tips

  • Brown the vegan sausage well. Don't rush this step. A little caramelization goes a long way in boosting flavor.
  • Slice peppers evenly. Uniform strips cook at the same rate and give the dish that classic look.
  • Simmer gently. Once the tomatoes go in, let everything bubble softly so the flavors meld without over-reducing.
  • Taste before serving. A pinch of salt or splash of acidity at the end can make all the difference.

Storing & Freezing

One of the best things about this dish? It might taste even better the next day!

Refrigerator:
Let the vegan sausage and peppers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making leftovers ideal for quick lunches or easy dinners.

Reheating:
Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. If the sauce has thickened in the fridge, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Freezing:
This recipe freezes beautifully. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best texture, freeze it without pasta or polenta - just the sausage and pepper mixture.

To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm on the stovetop until hot throughout. If reheating straight from frozen, use a covered skillet over low heat and stir occasionally as it thaws and warms.

Variations

  • Make It Spicy: Use hot Italian-style vegan sausage or increase the red pepper flakes.
  • Add Greens: Stir in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Turn It Into a Sandwich: Pile the mixture into toasted rolls and top with vegan mozzarella for a classic sausage-and-peppers vibe.
  • Bulk It Up: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami and texture.

Recipe

vegan peppers and sausage

Italian Style Vegan Sausage & Peppers

5 from 1 vote
Hearty Italian-style vegan sausage and peppers simmered in a rich tomato sauce with sweet bell peppers and onions. An easy, flavorful plant-based dinner perfect for pasta, polenta, or sandwiches.
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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes minutes
Servings: 2 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 12 oz Vegan Italian-style Sausage cut into ½-inch slices, see notes
  • 1 yellow onion peeled, quartered and thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic peeled and minced
  • 4 bell peppers seeded and cut into strips
  • ¼ cup dry white wine such as Chardonnay, optional
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh oregano to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil or fresh basil to taste
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • red pepper flakes to taste
  • salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For Serving

  • cooked pasta, grains, or polenta optional for serving
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat just enough of the oil to lightly coat the bottom of a large skillet, reserving the rest. Add the sausage and cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until all sides are golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • Heat the remaining oil in the same pan. Add the onion and sauté over medium-low heat until translucent. Add the garlic and peppers and sauté until all are soft and golden.
  • Stir in the optional wine, pureed tomatoes, and seasonings. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook over low heat for 10 minutes.
  • Stir the reserved vegan sausage into the mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Serve at once, spooning some of the sausage and peppers mixture over individual servings of pasta, grains, or polenta, or on its own if you prefer.

Notes

You can use any brand of vegan sausage you prefer here. I have made this recipe with Field Roast, Tofurkey, and Beyond sausages. All work well. 
I served this vegan sausage over top of cooked farro. You may also choose to serve it over rice, pasta, or polenta. 

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 672kcalCarbohydrates: 76gProtein: 37gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 1507mgPotassium: 2379mgFiber: 23gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 8364IUVitamin C: 354mgCalcium: 438mgIron: 12mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

September 23, 2025 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

vegan pumpkin mac and cheese

This Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is creamy, delicious, and super simple to throw together. It's the ultimate Fall comfort food!

fork biting into a plate of vegan pumpkin mac and cheese

This vegan mac and cheese is loaded with creamy, cheesy, pumpkin flavor. It's an epic adult version of your favorite childhood meal!

This has quickly become one of my all time favorite vegan comfort foods and a family favorite for the fall and winter seasons.

This pumpkin mac and cheese pasta is:

  • vegan 
  • dairy-free
  • made with real pumpkin puree 
  • gluten-free (if you use gluten-free pasta) 
  • a delicious lunch or dinner the whole family can enjoy 
  • made with simple ingredients 
  • creamy and cheesy

If you're a fan of this, be sure to check out my traditional vegan mac and cheese recipe and all my favorite vegan pasta dishes too!

how to make vegan pumpkin mac and cheese collage

Helpful Tips

Blend Until Silky Smooth: Don't rush the blending step - give it a full minute or two so the sauce turns out creamy and lump-free. No one wants grainy mac & cheese (vegan or not).

Cook Pasta Just to Al Dente: Slightly undercook your pasta since it'll soften a bit more once you mix it with the warm vegan cheese sauce. Mushy mac is a tragedy we can all avoid.

Salt Matters: Taste the sauce before mixing it into the pasta and adjust the salt. Pumpkin can be a little sweet, so don't be shy about seasoning it properly.

Add Pasta Water If Needed: If your sauce feels too thick once mixed with the pasta, a splash or two of reserved pasta water to loosen things up without diluting the flavor.

pot of vegan pumpkin mac and cheese

Easy Variations

Add Some Green: Toss in a handful of baby spinach, kale, or even frozen peas at the end for a little color and extra nutrition. Your body will thank you.

Smoky Vibes: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist. It turns the cozy factor up to 11.

Get Cheesy (Again): Want it extra cheesy? Mix in a little vegan cream cheese, a scoop of nutritional yeast, or your favorite melty dairy-free cheese.

Roasted Veg Boost: Roasted cauliflower, broccoli, or butternut squash make great mix-in. And they're a great way to sneak in some veggies for the family.

Crunchy Toppings: Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes. Yum!

Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne, a few dashes of hot sauce, or some red pepper flakes = yes, yes, and yes.

Pumpkin Swap: No pumpkin? No problem. Use canned butternut squash, sweet potato puree, or even carrot purée if you're feeling really wild.

Protein Power: Stir in some sautéed tempeh, lentils, or chickpeas to bulk things up and keep you fueled up longer.

close up forkful of vegan pumpkin mac and cheese

FAQs

Can I leave out the nutritional yeast in the recipe? 

The nutritional yeast (I use this brand) gives a pleasant nutty flavor and texture that resembles traditional parmesan cheese. When paired up with the creamy cashews it really helps give that cheesy consistency we all love! So personally, I wouldn't leave it out.

Is there an alternative to soaking the cashews overnight? 

If you forget to soak your cashews or don't have the time, here's a trick. Boil water in a large pot. Then remove it from the heat and allow the cashews to sit in the hot water for 30-60 minutes. This will be enough to still give that ultra-creamy texture you want!

Can I make butternut squash mac and cheese instead?

Yes, totally! This recipe will work exactly the same with pureed butternut squash in place of the pureed pumpkin. Or try out this Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Totally. You can make the sauce a day or two in advance and just cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to eat. It makes weeknights feel way less chaotic.

How do I store leftovers?

Pop any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. This dish thickens a lot as it sits. When reheating leftovers, stir in a little non-dairy milk or water to revive that creamy texture.

Can I freeze it?

I wouldn't. Pasta tends to get weird and mushy after freezing, and the creamy texture of the sauce doesn't always bounce back. If you must freeze it, freeze just the sauce and make fresh pasta when you're ready to eat.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Chickpea pasta, rice pasta, quinoa spirals - whatever works for you. Just adjust the cook time accordingly.

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan pumpkin mac and cheese, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:

  • Creamy Vegan Pasta & Butternut Squash Casserole
  • Vegan Butternut Squash Pie
  • Vegan Pumpkin Pie

Recipe

vegan pumpkin mac and cheese

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

5 from 3 votes
This Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is creamy, delicious, and super simple to throw together. It's the ultimate Fall comfort food!
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Equipment

  • Blender or food processor

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup raw cashews soaked in cool water overnight or for 1 hour in boiling water
  • ¼ cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
  • black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 10 ounces rigatoni pasta medium-sized macaroni shells, or pasta of your choice
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and salt generously. Cook the pasta according to the box directions until al dente and drain in a colander.
    vegan pumpkin mac and cheese
  • In a high-powered blender, add the pumpkin, the soaked and drained cashews, nutritional yeast, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, nutmeg, salt, black pepper to taste, lemon juice, and coconut milk. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Taste for seasonings and adjust accordingly, adding more salt as needed.
    vegan pumpkin mac and cheese
  • Return the cooked and drained pasta back to the saucepan and add the cheese sauce.
    vegan pumpkin mac and cheese
  • Heat over medium heat until the sauce is well combined with the pasta and warmed through. Season the mac and cheese to taste.
    vegan pumpkin mac and cheese

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 521kcalCarbohydrates: 72gProtein: 16gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 907mgPotassium: 717mgFiber: 7gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 19189IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 6mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Fudgesicles

January 6, 2025 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan fudgesicles

When it comes to frozen treats, few things beat a classic fudgesicle. These Vegan Fudgesicles are rich, creamy, and loaded with chocolate flavor-everything you love about the original, but completely vegan.

dairy-free fudgesicles

These fudgesicles aren't just good - they're ridiculously good. With simple ingredients like coconut milk, cocoa powder, and dark chocolate, they're easy to make and even easier to enjoy. 

Whether you're a chocolate fanatic or just looking for a refreshing treat, these fudgesicles deliver in every way. 

vegan fudgesicles

What Makes These Fudgesicles Special

Ultra-Creamy Texture: Thanks to full-fat coconut milk and a touch of cornstarch, these fudgesicles are smooth and luscious.

Deep Chocolate Flavor: Both cocoa powder and melted dark chocolate create an intense, rich chocolate taste.

Vegan and Allergy-Friendly: These are dairy-free, gluten-free, and soy-free, making them a great option for everyone.

Customizable: Add coffee liqueur for a boozy version or tweak the sweetness to suit your taste.

Perfect for Summer: These popsicles are an easy, no-bake treat that's perfect for warm weather.

dairy-free fudgesicles

Helpful Tips

Popsicle Molds: I have used every type of popsicle mold imaginable, and I am convinced that these cheap molds are all you need. 

Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For the creamiest fudgesicles, stick with full-fat coconut milk. Lower-fat options or other non-dairy milks will result in a more icy texture.

Don't Skip the Cornstarch: A small amount of cornstarch ensures the mixture stays smooth and doesn't separate during freezing. Arrowroot powder works as a great alternative.

Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: Coffee, vanilla, and a pinch of salt are added to deepen the chocolate taste. You won't taste the coffee - it simply makes the chocolate shine.

Strain the Mixture: For the smoothest popsicles, strain the liquid before pouring it into molds to remove any lumps or bits of chocolate.

Freeze Completely: Let the fudgesicles freeze for at least 6 hours (or overnight) to ensure they're firm enough to enjoy.

dairy-free fudgesicles

Storing & Serving

Once frozen, these fudgesicles can be stored in their molds or individually wrapped in plastic for up to one month, in the freezer. To easily remove them from the molds, run the bottoms under warm water for a few seconds. 

Serve them as-is, or dress them up with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts!

dairy-free fudgesicles

Variations to Try

Boozy Fudgesicles: Replace the coffee with coffee liqueur for a grown-up twist. 

Add Some Crunch: Stir in chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or even chocolate chips before pouring the mixture into molds.

Extra Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter treats, increase the brown sugar slightly.

Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty flavor.

Espresso Kick: Use espresso instead of brewed coffee for an even richer flavor.

vegan fudgesicles

More Vegan Treats

If you love these vegan fudgesicles, be sure to check out these other plant based recipes: 

  • Vegan Cookies & Cream Popsicles
  • Vegan Strawberry Mango Popsicles
  • 8 Incredible Vegan Frozen Treats
  • 25+ Best Vegan Recipes for Summer

Recipe

vegan fudgesicles

Vegan Fudgesicles

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These Vegan Fudgesicles are rich, creamy, and loaded with chocolate flavor-they're ridiculously good, and completely vegan!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours hours
Total Time: 6 hours hours 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 10 popsicles
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Ingredients

  • 3 cups coconut milk full fat variety
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • Salt just a pinch
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ cup strong brewed coffee or substitute additional coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 4 oz dark chocolate chopped
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare the base: In a saucepan, heat the coconut milk and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is just below a simmer. Avoid letting it boil.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Make the cocoa mixture: In a small bowl or spouted measuring cup, mix together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Stir until evenly combined.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Combine with coffee: Slowly stir in the coffee* to form a smooth paste.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Gradually whisk this paste into the warm coconut milk mixture until fully blended. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle warmth.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Melt the chocolate: Add the finely chopped chocolate and vanilla extract to the saucepan. Whisk until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Continue stirring constantly as it cooks, allowing it to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Fill the molds: Pour the mixture into popsicle molds. For an ultra-smooth result, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve before filling.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Add the sticks: If your molds have a lid, secure it before inserting the popsicle sticks, leaving about 1 inch of the stick exposed. If there's no lid, cover the molds tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep the sticks in place.
    vegan fudgesicles
  • Freeze: Place the molds in the freezer and let them set for at least 6 hours, or until fully frozen.
  • Serve: Carefully remove the fudgesicles from the molds. If using a metal or plastic mold, it can help to dip the tips in hot water for 10 seconds and then remove.
    dairy-free fudgesicles
  • Store: Keep the popsicles frozen in plastic bags or tightly wrapped in plastic for up to 1 month.

Notes

*If using coffee liqueur (see extra notes), reserve 4 tbsp/60ml of coconut milk to create the paste and add the coffee liqueur just before molding.
Recipe Notes:
  • Taste/Texture: These fudgesicles are intensely chocolatey with both cocoa powder and melted dark chocolate and you can't tell they are vegan. They are perfect for a cool dessert or snack with limited sugar but a big punch of flavour. The addition of vanilla and coffee help balance out the coconut milk for a treat that is smooth and creamy but not tropical. You can even add coffee liqueur for a slightly boozy version.
  • Coffee: Coffee is a flavor enhancer for chocolate, creating a richness to it to balance out the flavor of coconut milk. This is also why vanilla and salt are added - they will help boost the chocolate flavor rather than detract from it. For a slightly boozy popsicle, add coffee liqueur in place of the coffee after the mixture has been removed from the heat.
  • Full fat coconut milk: For the creamiest fudgesicles, use full fat coconut milk because it will help prevent forming ice crystals in the mixture. Low-fat coconut milk or other non-dairy milks will create icier popsicles.
  • Cornstarch: Using a small amount of cornstarch helps suspend the fat evenly throughout the mixture so that the popsicle doesn't separate during freezing. For a corn free version, use arrowroot powder.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 234kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 3gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 0.3mgSodium: 13mgPotassium: 275mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 28mgIron: 4mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Sloppy Joes - with Pinto Beans and Quinoa!

January 3, 2025 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 9 Comments

vegan sloppy joes

These Vegan Sloppy Joes bring big flavor to everyone's favorite messy sandwich. Packed with quinoa, pinto beans, and loads of flavor. Yum!

vegan sloppy joes
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Let's be real: sometimes you just want a messy, saucy sandwich that you can barely fit in your mouth. Enter these Vegan Sloppy Joes, a plant-based spin on the nostalgic classic we all grew up loving.

Packed with hearty quinoa, creamy pinto beans, and a tangy tomato-based sauce, they're every bit as satisfying as the original-just without the meat.

Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Grab some napkins; it's about to get deliciously sloppy.

Why You'll Love These Vegan Sloppy Joes

  • Protein-Rich: Quinoa and pinto beans provide a substantial protein boost, keeping you full and energized.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Versatile: Serve on whole-grain rolls, in lettuce wraps, or over a bed of greens for a gluten-free option.
  • Make-Ahead: The flavors deepen over time, so it's great for meal prep and leftovers.

Get the Plant Power Cookbook!

This recipe is a sneak preview from the excellent cookbook: Plant Power: Transform Your Kitchen, Plate, and Life with More Than 150 Fresh and Flavorful Vegan Recipes by Nava Atlas.

I originally published this article years ago when the cookbook was first released, but I recently gave it a refresh because this recipe is simply too good to miss. I highly recommend giving it a try-and consider adding the cookbook to your vegan cookbook collection!

The recipe has been shared here with permission from the cookbook publisher, HarperOne. Photos were taken by Hannah Kaminsky.

vegan sloppy joes

Helpful Tips & Substitutions

Rinse the Quinoa: To remove its natural bitterness, always rinse quinoa under cold water before cooking.

Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the rolls adds a pleasant crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy from the filling.

Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and add hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.

Substitute the Pinto Beans: I like pinto beans, but black beans or kidney beans can be used as alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Style: Spoon the mixture onto toasted whole-grain buns and serve with a side of vegan coleslaw or pickles.

Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the sloppy joe mixture in large lettuce leaves.

Over Grains: Serve atop brown rice or quinoa for a hearty, bun-free meal.

With Sweet Potatoes: Pair with baked sweet potatoes for a balanced and nutritious dinner.

More Vegan Recipes

If you love these Vegan Sloppy Joes, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:

  • Copycat Vegan Big Mac Sauce
  • Vegan Grilled Cheese Five Ways
  • 25+ Vegan Tailgate Recipes

Recipe

vegan sloppy joes

Vegan Sloppy Joes

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These Vegan Sloppy Joes are made with protein-packed quinoa, creamy pinto beans, and a tangy, sweet tomato sauce
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 sandwiches
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Ingredients

  • ½ cup uncooked quinoa rinsed in a fine sieve
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • ½ medium green bell pepper finely diced
  • 15 oz canned pinto beans (or 1 ½ cups cooked), drained, rinsed, and coarsely mashed
  • 15 oz canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium tomato finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce to tamari, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon agave nectar or maple syrup to taste, or substitute maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoon chili powder add more for extra spice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 6 whole grain rolls or use English muffins or mini-pitas
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Combine the quinoa with 1 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a slow boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, heat the oil, broth, or water in a medium skillet. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Add the bell pepper and sauté until both are golden.
  • Add the remaining ingredients except the bread of choice, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook over medium-low heat, loosely covered, for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let the skillet stand off the heat for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle further and for the quinoa to absorb the tomato flavors.
  • Evenly spoon the filling over the bottoms of whole-grain rolls, cover with the tops, or serve open-faced.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 170kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 7gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 707mgPotassium: 602mgFiber: 6gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 743IUVitamin C: 19mgCalcium: 63mgIron: 3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Fresh Tomato Corn Gazpacho

January 3, 2025 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

tomato corn gazpacho

This Vegan Tomato Corn Gazpacho is like summer in a bowl. A vibrant, chilled soup that combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the tanginess of ripe tomatoes. It's a refreshing dish, perfect for hot days!

tomato corn gazpacho
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When the sun is blazing and turning on the stove feels like a chore, this Tomato Corn Gazpacho comes to the rescue. It's a no-cook, flavor-packed soup that brings together two of summer's superstars: juicy tomatoes and sweet corn.

The addition of fresh herbs and a hint of spice elevates this dish, making it a standout at any gathering or a simple weeknight meal.

This Tomato Corn Gazpacho Is...

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, plus chilling time.
  • No-Cook: Perfect for keeping the kitchen cool during hot days.
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free!
  • Flavorful: A delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors deepen as it chills, making it ideal for meal prep.

Helpful Tips for the Best Gazpacho

Use Peak-Season Produce: The quality of the tomatoes and corn directly impacts the flavor. Opt for the freshest available.

Use Fresh Corn: The fresh corn give the soup a natural sweetness and crunch. If fresh corn isn't available, you can use frozen corn that has been thawed. But the texture may not be as pleasing.

Chill Thoroughly: Allowing the gazpacho to chill for at least an hour enhances the flavors and provides a refreshing experience.

Variations to Try

Add a Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of vegan yogurt or cashew cream for a richer texture.

Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast.

Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique flavor profile.

Crunchy Toppings: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for added texture.

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan gazpacho, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:

  • Vegan Tomato Soup
  • Watermelon and Peach Gazpacho
  • 25+ Vegan Recipes for Summer

Recipe

Fresh tomato and corn soup1

Vegan Tomato Corn Gazpacho

5 from 1 vote
This chilled vegan gazpacho is packed with fresh summer flavors!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour hour
Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes
Servings: 6
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Ingredients

  • 4 cups ripe tomatoes diced, heirloom variety preferred
  • 2 ears fresh corn kernels removed (or 1½ cups thawed frozen corn)
  • 4 scallions thinly sliced
  • 3 ½ cups tomato juice adjust for desired thickness
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped, or basil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped, optional
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • yellow cherry tomatoes halved (for garnish, optional)
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare the Base: In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, corn kernels, scallions, and fresh herbs.
  • Add Tomato Juice: Stir in the tomato juice, starting with 3 cups, and adjust to reach your preferred soup consistency.
  • Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
  • Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve: Ladle the chilled soup into bowls. Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes or additional fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 46kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 2gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.05gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 22mgPotassium: 598mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1767IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 34mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup

January 3, 2025 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

vegan cream of asparagus soup

This Vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup is the ultimate ode to spring's most vibrant vegetable. Silky, flavorful, and deceptively simple, it's a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for a light lunch, an elegant dinner starter, or even a make-ahead meal for busy weekdays.

vegan cream of asparagus soup
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Let's face it: asparagus doesn't always get the attention it deserves. It's the veggie equivalent of the shy kid at the back of the class-quietly amazing, but often overlooked. This soup changes the game. By pairing tender asparagus with the creamy goodness of nondairy milk and the savory depth of fresh herbs, you get a dish that feels indulgent but is secretly packed with nutrients.

Oh, and did I mention the little garnish of asparagus tips and fresh dill? Fancy enough to impress your dinner guests, easy enough to whip up on a Tuesday. That's what I call winning.

This Vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup Is...

  • Elegant yet easy: A restaurant-worthy dish you can make in your own kitchen.
  • Plant-based perfection: Creamy without the cream, and totally dairy-free.
  • Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a chilled summer soup.
  • Meal prep-friendly: Flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even better.
  • Nutrient-rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the star ingredients.
vegan cream of asparagus soup

Helpful Tips & Substitutions

Trim asparagus properly: Snapping off the woody ends ensures a tender and smooth soup.

Cook just until tender: Overcooking asparagus can dull its bright flavor. Keep an eye on your pot!

Nondairy milk: This adds creaminess without overpowering the asparagus flavor. Almond, oat, or cashew milk are excellent choices. You could also use coconut milk for a bit of a twist.

vegan cream of asparagus soup

Variations to Try

Chilled Asparagus Soup: Let the soup cool completely, then chill in the fridge for a refreshing summer option.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a swirl of chili oil for heat lovers.

Lemon-Tarragon Twist: Replace dill with fresh tarragon and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy upgrade.

Crunchy Garnish: Top with toasted almonds or croutons for added texture.

Protein Boost: Stir in silken tofu or white beans for a heartier version.

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this Vegan Cream of Asparagus soup, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas:

  • Old Fashioned Vegan Stew
  • Vegan Minestrone Soup
  • Vegan Cream of Cauliflower Soup
  • Vegan Cream of Broccoli Soup

Recipe

vegan cream of asparagus soup

Vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup

No ratings yet
This vegan cream of asparagus soup is bright, creamy, and packed with fresh flavors.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
Servings: 6
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Equipment

  • immersion blender or traditional blender

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds asparagus
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 large potato finely diced
  • 32 ounces vegetable broth
  • ¼ cup fresh dill chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch nutmeg
  • ¾ cup nondairy milk plain, unsweetened
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Prep the Asparagus: Trim 1 inch off the tough bottoms of the asparagus stalks and discard. Peel any tough skin, then cut the stalks into 1-inch pieces. Set aside the tips for garnish.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until golden and fragrant.
  • Simmer the Soup: Add the asparagus pieces, diced potato, vegetable broth, dill, basil, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the asparagus and potatoes are tender.
  • Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer the solids to a blender in batches, puree until smooth, and return to the pot.
  • Adjust Consistency: Stir in ½ to 1 cup of nondairy milk until the soup reaches your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Prepare the Garnish: Steam the reserved asparagus tips until tender-crisp.
  • Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with steamed asparagus tips, and garnish with fresh dill. Enjoy hot, or let it cool for a chilled variation!
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Greek Pasta Salad

December 23, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 2 Comments

vegan greek pasta salad

Looking for a simple dish that's light, refreshing, and packed with flavor? This Vegan Greek Pasta Salad ticks all the boxes. Loaded with crisp veggies, tangy olives, and an herby homemade dressing, it's the perfect go-to recipe for potlucks, meal prep, or quick lunches. 

vegan greek pasta salad

Bonus? It's super easy to make and totally customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste or what you have in your fridge.

The lemony dressing is zippy and bright, the olives and vegan feta (if you're using it) bring the perfect amount of saltiness, and the fresh veggies add crunch and color. Toss all that with tender pasta, and you've got yourself a dish that's satisfying without being heavy.

It's perfect for warm weather gatherings, but honestly, I'd eat this year-round. Plus, it gets better as it sits, which means leftovers are absolutely something to look forward to.

vegan greek pasta salad

This Vegan Greek Pasta Salad Is:

  • Light and refreshing: Thanks to the lemony vinaigrette and fresh veggies.
  • Perfect for sharing: Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or weeknight dinners.
  • Easy to make ahead: The flavors deepen over time, so it's meal-prep friendly.
  • Customizable: Mix in extra veggies, switch up the pasta, or skip the vegan feta-it's all good.
vegan greek pasta salad

Substitutions

Make it gluten free. Just use your favorite gluten free pasta brand - the rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten free. 

Kalamata Olives are essential for that briny flavor. But if olives aren't your thing, try substituting capers.

Vegan Feta: Totally optional, but if you can find it, it's worth it for that tangy creaminess. Or make your own vegan feta with tofu!

Red Wine Vinegar: Brings the perfect amount of tang to the dressing. Apple cider vinegar can pinch-hit if needed.

vegan pasta salad recipe

Helpful Tips

Let it sit before serving: If you have time, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully.

Customize the dressing: Taste and adjust-need more tang? Add a splash of vinegar or lemon. Want it a little sweeter? A tiny drizzle of maple syrup does the trick.

Keep it fresh: If making ahead, reserve some dressing and add it just before serving to keep everything tasting fresh.

vegan pasta salad recipe

Variations to Try

Add protein: Toss in some chickpeas or roasted tofu for a heartier salad.

Go extra green: Add spinach, arugula, or kale for more veggies.

Make it spicy: Throw in a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Change the pasta: Try orzo or bowtie pasta for a fun twist.

Herb swap: Basil or dill can replace or complement the oregano and parsley.

vegan pasta salad recipe

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan pasta salad, be sure to check out these other vegan ideas: 

  • Vegan Souvlaki Tofu Skewers 
  • Best Vegan Pasta Salads
  • Vegan Vodka Pasta

Recipe

vegan greek pasta salad

Vegan Greek Pasta Salad

5 from 2 votes
This Vegan Greek Pasta Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It's the perfect go-to recipe for potlucks, meal prep, or quick lunches.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

Dressing:

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 lemon juiced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh oregano
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta salad:

  • 16 oz dry pasta rotini or penne
  • 4-5 mini cucumbers sliced
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes halved
  • 1 bell pepper seeded and diced
  • 1 cup vegan feta optional
  • 1 cup kalamata olives pitted
  • ½ small red onion sliced
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Dressing:

  • In a small jar with a lid, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, parsley and salt and pepper.
    vegan greek pasta salad
  • Close the lid and shake until homogenous. Set aside until needed.
    vegan greek pasta salad

Salad:

  • To a large bowl, add the pasta, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, bell pepper, vegan feta, kalamata olives, and red onion.
    vegan greek pasta salad
  • Toss all the ingredients together. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again
    vegan greek pasta salad

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 381kcalCarbohydrates: 53gProtein: 14gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 449mgPotassium: 553mgFiber: 5gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 1189IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 66mgIron: 2mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Pasta

December 20, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

Who doesn't love a big, cozy bowl of pasta? This Vegan Creamy Mushroom Pasta is here to prove that comfort food can be delicious, satisfying, and totally plant-based. 

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

With tender mushrooms, a luscious creamy sauce, and a hint of thyme, this dish feels totally indulgent. Best of all? It's ridiculously easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need something quick but a little bit fancy.

What I love most about this vegan pasta recipe is how it turns simple ingredients into something magical. Mushrooms bring a hearty, almost meaty vibe, while the creamy coconut milk and vegetable broth make the sauce so velvety you'd swear there's heavy cream involved. Spoiler: there's not. And that little splash of white wine? Chef's kiss. 

This pasta has quickly become one of my go-to meals because it's versatile, comforting, and the leftovers (if there are any) are just as good the next day. Let's get cooking!

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

Why You'll Love It

This vegan creamy mushroom pasta is: 

  • Quick and easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, start to finish.
  • Plant-based comfort food: Creamy, rich, and satisfying without any dairy.
  • Packed with flavor: Garlic, thyme, white wine, and soy sauce come together for a sauce that's anything but boring.
  • Perfect for any pasta lover: Rotini, penne, or any pasta you have on hand works beautifully.
  • Leftover-friendly: The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.
vegan creamy mushroom pasta

Helpful Tips

Don't rush the mushrooms

Let them cook until they release their juices and the liquid evaporates. This step builds incredible flavor.

Deglaze like a pro

When you add the white wine, scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan - they're pure flavor.

No lumps, no problem

Add the broth slowly while stirring continuously to avoid clumps in your sauce.

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

FAQs and Substitutions

What mushrooms should you use? 

I used baby bella mushrooms. These are hearty and flavorful, but white button mushrooms or even shiitakes work well, too.

What can I substitute for coconut milk? 

If coconut milk isn't your thing, try cashew cream or oat milk instead.

Do I have to use vegan butter? 

I think it adds flavor and richness to the sauce. I particularly like the Earth's Best Buttery Sticks for this. But olive oil can also work in a pinch.

What wine should I use? 

Any neutral or buttery white wine will work just fine. I like to use Chardonnay, but Pinot Grigio would also be a good choice. If you prefer to leave the wine out, just substitute a bit of vegetable broth. 

Can I make this gluten-free? 

You can make this pasta gluten free by using a gluten-free pasta brand, and substituting tamari for the soy sauce.

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

Variations to Try

Add greens

Toss in some fresh spinach or kale at the end for extra color and nutrients.

Switch up the protein

Add crispy tofu, chickpeas, or vegan sausage for a heartier meal.

Make it spicy

Amp up the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Extra herbs

Basil, parsley, or even rosemary can change up the flavor profile.

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this creamy mushroom pasta, be sure to check out these other tasty ideas: 

  • Vegan Vodka Pasta
  • Best Vegan Pasta Salads for Summer
  • Vegan Spinach Mushroom Lasagna

Recipe

vegan creamy mushroom pasta

Vegan Creamy Mushroom Pasta

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This Vegan Creamy Mushroom Pasta feels totally indulgent-with tender mushrooms, a creamy sauce, and a hint of thyme. Plus, it's so easy to whip up!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 servings
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Ingredients

  • 1 lb pasta such as rotini or penne
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 16 oz. baby bella mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tablespoons white wine such as Chardonnay
  • 3 tablespoons vegan butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup vegetable broth homemade or store bought
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme plus more to garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and begins to soften, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add the mushrooms and cook until their juices have been released and then evaporated from the pot, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
    vegan creamy mushroom pasta
  • Add the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow liquid to reduce by half. Melt the butter into the pan with the veggies, then sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir.
    vegan creamy mushroom pasta
  • Slowly add the vegetable broth, stirring well to avoid any lumps. Add the coconut cream, soy sauce, and thyme, stir, and bring to a simmer.
    vegan creamy mushroom pasta
  • Cook until thickened into a creamy sauce consistency.
    vegan creamy mushroom pasta
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
    vegan creamy mushroom pasta
  • Serve immediately with fresh thyme sprinkled on top.
    vegan creamy mushroom pasta

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 487kcalCarbohydrates: 67gProtein: 14gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.03gSodium: 554mgPotassium: 651mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 408IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 48mgIron: 3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Pot Pie Casserole

September 5, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

holiday main dish vegan pot ie

Is there anything better than a homemade pot pie? A vegan one, of course! There's something about that flaky crust, savory filling, and rich aroma that makes everything feel right in the world. 

holiday main dish

If you thought pot pie couldn't get any better, let me introduce you to this Vegan Pot Pie Casserole - a plant-based version of the classic dish that's every bit as satisfying, hearty, and delicious. It's perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prepping, or just indulging in a comforting, home-cooked meal. It's also one of my family's favorite holiday main dishes!

Plus, this comfort food is entirely plant-based, making it a feel-good dish in more ways than one. Whether you're a committed vegan or just looking to try something new, this pot pie will have you digging in for seconds.

holiday main dish

This Vegan Pot Pie Is...

  • Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with vegetables and potatoes, it's a meal that fills you up and leaves you feeling content.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pot pie comes together without a fuss.
  • Flaky and Golden: Thanks to the combination of vegan butter and shortening, the crust is perfectly flaky and delicious.
  • Versatile: You can add or swap out veggies based on what you have or prefer.
  • Perfect for Leftovers: This pie tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
vegan pot pie ingredients

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Flour: All-purpose flour is used for both the crust and thickening the filling. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Vegan Butter and Vegetable Shortening: These ingredients are the secret to a flaky, tender crust. Even though vegan butter and shortening are made with largely the same ingredients, the butter has more moisture, making them a bit different to work with. I'm a big fan of the Earth's Balance Buttery Sticks for a vegan butter. If you don't have shortening, you can use all vegan butter, but the combination of both gives the best texture. 

Ice Water: Helps bring the dough together without making it too sticky. Make sure it's really cold to keep the fat from melting before the crust bakes.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and flavor to the veggie filling. You can substitute shallots for a slightly sweeter taste.

Frozen Mixed Veggies: A convenient and colorful mix of peas, carrots, green beans, and corn. The downside of frozen veggies tends to the texture, but it works just fine in a gravy-esque filling like this one. Feel free to use fresh veggies if you prefer or add your own favorites like mushrooms or zucchini.

Potato: Adds heartiness and texture to the filling. A medium white or Yukon gold potato works especially well, but you can use sweet potatoes for a bit of a spin on the traditional recipe.

Vegetable Broth: The base of the sauce, giving it a rich and savory flavor. Use a low-sodium broth to control the salt level, or make your own broth for even more flavor.

Dried Thyme: A classic herb for pot pies, adding a warm, earthy note. You can also use fresh thyme or experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage.

Vegan "Chicken": I don't used processed ingredients like this too often, and it is totally optional. But in this case, some vegan "chicken" adds a great texture and makes the pot pie even more filling. You can find options in most grocery stores these days, or substitute with chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.

adding the vegan chicken

Helpful Tips for Making Vegan Pot Pie Casserole

Keep the Dough Cold: Cold ingredients are key to a flaky crust. If your kitchen is very warm, chill the flour and the mixing bowl in the fridge before you start cooking.

Don't Overwork the Dough: Mix just until the dough comes together to keep it tender. Overmixing can make it tough and chewy.

Season to Taste (and taste often!): Don't be afraid to taste the filling before it goes into the pie. Adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking. 

Cover the Edges: If you notice the edges of the crust browning too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.

Let It Rest: Allow the pie to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.

golden crust after baking in the oven

Storing & Freezing

Store leftover pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to two months. I recommend slicing into portions and freezing in individual containers for easy reheating. To reheat, simply defrost, transfer to an oven safe dish, and warm in the oven.

Transferring the hot filling to the pie crust

Variations

Mushroom Pot Pie

Add a mix of your favorite mushrooms to the filling for a rich, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Sliced portobellos work well, or shiitakes for a fun twist.

Southwestern Pot Pie

Spice things up by adding a can of green chilies, a teaspoon of cumin, and a handful of chopped cilantro. Top with sliced avocado before serving.

Root Vegetable Pot Pie

Swap out the frozen veggies for a mix of roasted root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, and sweet potatoes for a wintery twist.

Herbed Crust

Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary right into the crust dough for an extra layer of flavor.

Make Mini Pot Pies

Instead of one large pot pie, try making several personal sized ones instead. Just divide the filling amongst four mini pie dishes (like these), and top each with its own crust. Bake time will be less, more like 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your baking dishes.

holiday main dish vegan pot pie

More Tasty Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan pot pie, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas: 

  • Creative Vegetarian Pot Pie Recipes
  • Vegan Shepherd's Pie
  • Old Fashioned Vegan Stew

Recipe

holiday main dish vegan pot ie

Vegan Pot Pie Casserole

5 from 1 vote
This Vegan Pot Pie Casserole is a plant-based version of the classic dish that's every bit as satisfying, hearty, and delicious. A feel-good family favorite main dish!
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Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour hour
Total Time: 1 hour hour 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

For the crust:

  • 1 ½ cups all purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup vegan butter
  • ¼ cup vegetable shortening
  • ¼ cup ice water

For the filling:

  • 3 tablespoons vegan butter
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
  • 3 cups frozen mixed veggies
  • 1 cup chopped potato about one medium potato
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 2 cups chopped vegan "chicken" optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Instructions:

For the crust:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening and butter until only pea sized lumps remain.
    flour and salt. shortening and butter
  • Stir in the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together.divide the dough evenly into two small discs.
    mixing the dough for vegan pot pie
  • Roll half the dough out into a 12" circle and place into the bottom and up the sides of a deep dish pie plate. Place the pie plate in the fridge
    dough for vegan pot pie casserole
  • Roll the second dough disc into a 10" circle and place in the fridge to chill while you make the filling.

For the filling:

  • Preheat the oven to 400F.
  • In a large pot over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion turns translucent.
    melting the vegan butter
  • Sprinkle the flour overtop and stir, then cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Add the frozen veggies, chopped potato, salt and thyme and mix to a simmer. Allow to cook, stirring frequently, about 10 minutes, or until the potato is starting to feel tender.
    mixed vegetables in vegan pot pie
  • Stir in the vegan chicken.
    adding the vegan chicken
  • Transfer the hot filling to the pie crust.
    Transferring the hot filling to the pie crust
  • Then add the top crust and cut away the excess.
    adding the top crust
  • Crimp the edges.
    Crimping the edges
  • Slice venting holes in the top crust.
    Slicing venting holes in the top crust
  • Then bake in the oven for 60 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden (if the edges of the crust gets too brown cover with foil for the last 20 minutes of baking)
    holiday main dish
  • Allow to cool for 20 minutes before slicing.
    holiday main dish vegan pot pie

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 508kcalCarbohydrates: 46gProtein: 13gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 1492mgPotassium: 370mgFiber: 7gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 4096IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 56mgIron: 4mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Chocolate Orange Cake

April 29, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan desserts chocolate

This vegan chocolate orange cake is packed with zesty flavor. A moist fudgy chocolate orange cake is layered with homemade chocolate orange frosting. Yum!

vegan desserts chocolate

I've always had a weakness for chocolate cake, and this vegan chocolate orange cake might just be my new favorite. The base is a moist, fudgy chocolate cake infused with fresh orange zest, then layered with a lusciously creamy chocolate orange frosting. 

It's a perfect blend of citrusy brightness and indulgent chocolate, making it perfect for a Spring dessert! But I know I'll be serving it up year round.

vegan desserts chocolate

This Vegan Orange Chocolate Cake is...

  • Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the combination of almond milk, vegetable oil, and orange juice!
  • Richly Flavored: The intense cocoa flavor paired with the vibrant zest of fresh oranges is irresistible. 
  • Beautiful!: The glossy chocolate frosting and optional orange slice garnish make this cake as pretty as it is delicious.
vegan desserts chocolate

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Almond Milk & Vinegar

This duo creates a vegan "buttermilk" that keeps the cake nice and moist. Soy or oat milk could work equally well as an alternative for the almond milk.

Cocoa Powder & Instant Coffee

These two ingredients give the cake that deep chocolate flavor. No coffee? No problem - you can skip it, and the cake will still be divine.

Orange Juice & Zest

These are crucial for that bright citrus note. In a pinch, lemon zest can also pair nicely with chocolate.

vegan desserts chocolate

Helpful Tips

Zest Right

Use only the orange part of the peel for zest to avoid bitterness from the white pith.

Don't Overmix

Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.

Cool Completely

Allow the cake layers to cool to room temperature before frosting to prevent the icing from melting. Trust me on this one.

Storing Leftover Cake

 Store the cake in a covered container in the fridge for 3-5 days. You can also freeze the cake for 2-3 months. I recommend freezing in slices so you can thaw only the amount you want to eat!

vegan desserts chocolate

Variations to Try

Add Crunch

Fold some chopped almonds or hazelnuts into the batter for a delightful crunchy texture.

Spice It Up

A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom in the frosting can add a nice spice note.

Layer with Fruity Flavor

Between the layers, add a thin spread of orange marmalade for an extra burst of citrus.

vegan desserts chocolate

More Vegan Desserts

If you love this Vegan Chocolate Orange Cake, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes: 

  • Boozy Chocolate Bread Pudding
  • Vegan Red Velvet Cake
  • Vegan Hummingbird Cake
  • Best Vegan Chocolate Desserts

Recipe

vegan desserts chocolate

Vegan Chocolate Orange Cake

5 from 3 votes
This vegan chocolate orange cake is packed with zesty flavor. A moist fudgy chocolate orange cake is layered with homemade chocolate orange frosting. Yum!
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Prep Time: 25 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 1 ½ cups plain almond milk
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 2 ¾ cups all purpose flour
  • 1 ¼ cups sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ⅔ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

For the frosting:

  • 1 cup vegan butter
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons almond milk as needed
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

For the cake:

  • Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease and flour two 9" baking pans and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, combine the almond milk and vinegar. Set aside until slightly curdled.
  • In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, instant coffee, baking soda, baking powder and salt; set aside.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the curdled almond milk, oil, orange juice and orange zest until well combined.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Mix until just combined.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared dishes and smooth the top.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Bake in the preheated ovens for 16-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Allow to cool for 10 minutes before inverting and cooling completely on a wire rack.

For the frosting:

  • In a large bowl, beat the vegan butter with the orange zest until smooth.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Add half the powdered sugar and the cocoa powder and mix, then add remaining powdered sugar and mix until no streaks of sugar remain.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Add the vanilla and the almond milk as needed and mix until the desired consistency is reached.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Spread the frosting evenly over the first layer
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Then add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
    vegan desserts chocolate
  • Garnish with orange slices if desired.
    vegan desserts chocolate

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 737kcalCarbohydrates: 137gProtein: 9gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 590mgPotassium: 398mgFiber: 8gSugar: 92gVitamin A: 1114IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 126mgIron: 5mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

30-Minute Aloo Gobi (Vegan)

January 26, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 5 Comments

Quick aloo gobi

This Aloo Gobi tastes just as delicious as the restaurant version - and you won't believe how easy it is to make this popular Indian potato and cauliflower curry at home! 

Quick aloo gobi

I've always been a big fan of Indian food, but my interest certainly increased when I married into my husband's Indian family. I really enjoy experimenting with all of the rich flavors of this vegan-friendly cuisine. 

And while I will never claim to be an expert on Indian cooking - I think I've come up with some real keepers. 😉 This Aloo Gobi is one of my faves for its simplicity. It's relatively quick, only takes 30 minutes to throw together, and my whole family loves it. 

This aloo gobi is: 

  • Indian comfort food.
  • Slightly spicy and packed with flavor.
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • 100% vegan!

What is Aloo Gobi? 

Aloo Gobi is a classic Indian curry consisting of "aloo" - meaning potato in Hindi - and "gobi" - meaning cauliflower. It's a no-frills kind of meal that's a staple in North India, especially in Punjab. The dish is pretty much what you'd get if potatoes and cauliflower had a party and invited some spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander to jazz things up.

Quick aloo gobi

Key Ingredients & Substitutions:

Potatoes

I use plain old Russet potatoes most often, but waxy potatoes like Yujon Gold also work really well. 

Cauliflower

You'll use a medium size head of cauliflower in this recipe, which you will cut into florets. But you can also use the pre-cut florets for convenience. 

Tomatoes

I prefer to use fresh tomatoes in aloo gobi, but you can also used canned diced tomatoes. The fire roasted varieties give a great flavor!  

Quick aloo gobi

Helpful Tips:

Even Cooking. Cut your potatoes and cauliflower into uniform pieces to ensure they cook at the same pace.

Adjust the Spice Level. You can add more or less chili powder to this recipe, to suit your own spice preference. Or for another spicy option, add some slivered red chili peppers to the masala. 

Serving Suggestions. Serve the Aloo Gobi with warm vegan naan bread, fluffy basmati rice, or even couscous or quinoa for a twist. It also pairs well with a dollop of vegan raita or a drizzle of lemon juice for an extra zing. For an even heartier meal, serve it as a side along with this vegan chana masala.

Storing Leftovers. You can serve any leftover aloo gobi in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 4-5 days. You can also freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.

Quick aloo gobi

Variations

Add Some Protein

Chickpeas or tofu can bulk this aloo gobi up, for an even heartier meal.

Make it Creamier

A dollop of coconut milk added in the last few minutes of cooking can be a nice addition for a creamier finish.

Herb it Up!

Apart from cilantro, try fresh mint or dill for a different herby note.

For a Smoky Flavor

Roast the cauliflower in the oven until slightly charred before adding it to the dish.

Sweet Potato Aloo Gobi

Replace the white potatoes with sweet potatoes for a totally new dish with a sweeter flavor.

Roasted Aloo Gobi

As an alternative, you can prepare the masala on the stovetop and then add it to oven roasted potatoes and cauliflower!

More Vegan Ideas

If you love this Aloo Gobi, be sure to check out these other delicious vegan recipes: 

  •  Easy Vegan Dal Tadka
  • Vegan Bhindi Masala
  • Easy Vegan Masala Lentils

Recipe

Quick aloo gobi

30-Minute Aloo Gobi (Vegan)

5 from 2 votes
This Aloo Gobi is Indian comfort food - and you won't believe how easy it is to make this popular Indian potato and cauliflower curry at home!
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 large potatoes aloo, such as Russet, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 medium cauliflower gobi, cut into small florets
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1- inch piece of ginger grated
  • 1 large tomato diced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder adjust to taste
  • Salt to taste
  • ½ cup water
  • Fresh cilantro leaves chopped for garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prep the Vegetables: Prepare the potatoes and cauliflower as described. Set aside.
  • Sauté Cumin Seeds: In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
  • Cook Onions, Garlic, and Ginger: Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it starts to turn golden. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add Tomatoes and Spices: Mix in the diced tomatoes, turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate from the spices.
  • Cook the Potatoes and Cauliflower: Add the potato chunks and cauliflower florets to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spice mixture.
  • Add Water and Simmer: Pour in the water, and mix everything well. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and cauliflower are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
  • Garnish and Serve: Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Notes

This Aloo Gobi is best served with flatbreads like roti or naan, or with a side of basmati rice for a simple, satisfying vegan meal. Enjoy your cooking!

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 146kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 6gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 60mgPotassium: 1046mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 346IUVitamin C: 97mgCalcium: 72mgIron: 3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

15-Minute Vegetable Curry (with frozen veggies!)

January 26, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

easy vegetable curry

Whoever said that a hearty, flavorsome curry needs hours of simmering and a pantry full of exotic spices clearly hasn't tried my Quick & Easy Vegetable Curry!

easy vegetable curry

This curry is the dish you turn to on those frantic weeknights when the fridge is half-empty, the family is hungry, and time is of the essence. Ready in just 15 minutes, thanks to the help of some frozen veggies, it's like a little weeknight magic trick. Now you see an empty kitchen, now you don't!

This Quick & Easy Vegetable Curry is...

  • Unbelievably Fast. Ready, set, curry in just 15 minutes!
  • Surprisingly Simple. Using ingredients you likely have on hand already.
  • Comfort Food. Each spoonful is like a warm, spice-infused embrace.
  • Versatile:. Have some extra veggies or tofu? Toss them in! This recipe is easy to customize.
easy vegetable curry

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Frozen Vegetables

I love the classic mix of carrots, peas, corn, and green beans. But literally any frozen veggie blend will do. So pick your own favorite mix of veggies! Of course, you can also make the curry with fresh veggies, but then it will take longer than the promised 15 minutes. 

Curry Powder

This is the most important of the spices in this recipe, so I recommend choosing a high quality curry powder for the best flavor. 

Coconut Milk

This brings creaminess and lots of flavor. But if you need a substitute, heavy cream is your best bet.

Vegetable Broth

Note that vegetable broth brands can vary pretty wildly in terms of saltiness. So be sure to taste your curry at the end, and adjust the salt accordingly. You may find that no extra salt is needed at all, or you may want to add quite a bit!

easy vegetable curry

Helpful Tips & Variations

Don't be shy with the curry powder. If your curry powder is on the mild side, don't be shy to add a bit more than called for. You measure that stuff with your heart.

Add more spice. If this recipe isn't spicy enough for your heat-loving taste buds, try adding a dash of chili powder or some slivered red chili peppers.

Make it sweeter. For a sweeter curry, try adding a dash of maple syrup or agave syrup.

Protein Power-Up. Toss in some pan-fried tofu or tempeh for an extra protein punch.

Add Fresh Greens. Add some baby spinach or shredded kale for extra nutrients. And it looks gorgeous too!

easy vegetable curry

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this curry hot with a side of fluffy basmati rice. Or try serving over quinoa or couscous for a tasty twist. You can also use cauliflower rice for a lower carb option. It's also delicious with fresh flatbreads like roti or vegan naan bread.

I like to garnish my curry with some chopped fresh cilantro and some lime wedges - a classic combo. But this would also be great topped with chopped peanuts or cashews, slice red onions, or lemons instead of limes.

Store this vegetable curry in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, in an airtight container. To serve again, simply reheat over medium heat on the stovetop. In my opinion, curry does not freeze well.

More Tasty Vegan Ideas

If you love this quick and easy vegetable curry, be sure to check out these other delicious vegan recipes: 

  • Easy Vegan Dal Tadka
  • Vegan Bhindi Masala
  • 30-Minute Vegan Chana Masala

Recipe

easy vegetable curry

15-Minute Vegetable Curry (with frozen veggies!)

5 from 1 vote
This easy Vegetable Curry is hearty, flavorsome and ready in just 15 minutes! The perfect dish for those frantic weeknights when time is of the essence.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 small red onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1- inch piece of ginger grated
  • 1½ tablespoons curry powder adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 can 14 oz coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 3 cups mixed frozen vegetables such as carrots, peas, corn, and green beans
  • 1 can 15 oz chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté 1 small chopped red onion for about 3 minutes until soft. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1-inch grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  • Stir in 1½ tablespoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and ½ teaspoon of turmeric. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors.
  • Pour in a 14-ounce can of coconut milk and 1 cup of vegetable broth, mixing well.
  • Add 3 cups of mixed frozen vegetables and a 15-ounce can of drained and rinsed chickpeas. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  • Let the curry cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. This curry goes well with rice or flatbread.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 178kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 5gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 303mgPotassium: 393mgFiber: 7gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 7086IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 59mgIron: 2mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

30-Minute Madras Lentils (Vegan)

January 26, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

easy madras lentils

This quick and easy version of Indian Madras Lentils is ideal for a fast and flavorful weeknight meal. Serve it with a side of basmati rice or warm flatbread for a healthy and hearty vegan dinner. Enjoy!

easy madras lentils

As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, there's nothing quite like a bowl of warm, spiced lentils to wrap up your day. Enter these vegan Madras Lentils: a dish that's as comforting as it is quick. It's a modern twist on a classic Indian dish - that you can make with easy ingredients and no special equipment.

So, next time you're in need of a quick culinary escape, let these Madras Lentils transport you to the bustling streets of Chennai, where flavors are always rich and life is full of zest.

What are Madras Lentils? 

Despite the fact that you can find the term "Madras Lentils" on both Indian menus and store bought offerings, it's not truly an authentic Indian dish. It's more of a Western creation. 😉 

The name 'Madras' comes from the former title of the city now known as Chennai. The dish referred to as 'Madras lentils' is a westernized version of several classic Indian lentil dishes, inspired by the flavors and cuisine of Madras.

Madras lentils draw inspiration from dishes like 'Dal Makhani' or 'Maa ki Dal' which are made with whole black lentils and kidney beans, slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic spices and often finished with butter and cream for richness. The 'Madras' version keeps the essential elements of this comfort food intact - lentils, beans and spices - while omitting the dairy. Perfect for a vegan diet! 

While 'Madras lentils' may not be all that authentic - it sure is popular. And it's also one of the simplest Indian recipes that you can make at home in your own kitchen! 

easy madras lentils

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Who says comfort food can't be nutritious and delicious? These Madras lentils are:

  • Healthy & Wholesome. Packed with plenty of plant based protein and fiber, this is a hearty dish that satisfies without weighing you down.
  • Quick enough for a Weeknight Dinner. This simplified version of the original dish can be made without a pressure cooker and cooks in under 30 minutes thanks to the use of canned lentils and beans.
  • An easy one pot vegan meal! Less fuss and less mess. 
easy madras lentils

Ingredients & Substitutions

Canned Black Lentils & Kidney Beans

These pantry staples are the stars of the dish! The traditional version of Madras Lentils uses dried beans and lentils that need to be soaked and simmered for a long time. Using the canned versions delivers great results in way less time!

Classic Indian Spices

Cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and coriander all play their part in creating the quintessential Indian flavor profile we all love.

Tomato Options

No crushed tomatoes? No problem. Feel free to use fresh diced tomatoes or even tomato puree in a pinch.

Spice Swap

If garam masala isn't on hand, try a blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg to mimic its warm, sweet notes.

Oil Alternatives

While olive oil is a great choice, coconut oil can add a subtle sweetness and vegan butter will give a richer flavor.

easy madras lentils

Helpful Tips

Rinse the Lentils and Beans. Canned legumes can be very high in sodium. Use a strainer to give both the beans and lentils a good rinse under cold water to remove all that extra salt before cooking.

Cook it Low and Slow. Even though this is a quick recipe, giving the dish some time to simmer at the end will deepen the flavors. So don't get impatient!

Serving Suggestions. Pair these Madras Lentils with fluffy basmati rice, a warm piece of vegan naan bread, or even serve atop a baked potato for a fun twist!

Get Garnishes! Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the dish. You may also want to serve your madras lentils with a handful of chopped onions, slivered chili peppers, or a dollop of vegan raita.

Storing Leftovers. Store leftover Madras Lentils in a covered container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. To serve the lentils again, allow them to defrost (if frozen) and warm on the stovetop over medium heat.

easy madras lentils

Variations

Add more plant based protein. Amp up the protein by adding cubes of firm tofu or tempeh to the curry! 

Add more veggies. Feel free to add more fresh veggies to the dish as well. Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or kale are all great additions. 

More Vegan Indian Recipes

If you love these Madras Lentils, be sure to check out these other tasty vegan ideas: 

  • Simple Masala Lentils
  • Easy Red Lentil Dal
  • Sweet Potato Dal

Recipe

easy madras lentils

30-Minute Madras Lentils (Vegan)

5 from 2 votes
Serve this easy Madras Lentils with a side of basmati rice or warm flatbread for a healthy and hearty vegan dinner. Enjoy!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 -6 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 cans 15 ounces each black lentils, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 ounces red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or any vegan cooking oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1- inch piece ginger minced
  • 1 green chili slit (optional, adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 can 14 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • Salt to taste
  • 1-2 cups vegetable broth or water for desired consistency
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter or additional olive oil for a buttery flavor
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Prepare the Canned Lentils and Beans: Since the canned lentils and beans are pre-cooked, simply rinse them to remove any excess sodium and set aside.
  • Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and wait until they start to crackle. Then, add the onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté until the onions are soft and golden.
  • Add the Spices: Stir in the turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and ground coriander. Cook the spices for about a minute until they are fragrant.
  • Cook the Tomato Base: Add the crushed tomatoes and salt to the pot. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
  • Combine with Lentils and Beans: Add the rinsed lentils and kidney beans to the pot. Mix well with the tomato and spice mixture.
  • Adjust Consistency: Pour in the vegetable broth or water to reach the consistency you like for your dal.
  • Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors together.
  • Finish with Vegan Butter: Stir in the vegan butter or extra olive oil right before you're ready to serve.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a touch of color and freshness.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 126kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 303mgPotassium: 86mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 207IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 21mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Easy Vegan Dal Tadka

January 24, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 2 Comments

dal recipe indian

Turn up the flavor with this vegan-friendly Dal Tadka! It's packed with flavorful spices, hearty lentils, and it couldn't be easier to make. This is Indian comfort food at its best.

dal recipe indian

What is Dal Tadka? 

Dal Tadka, pronounced [dahl tad-ka], is a classic Indian comfort food dish. The name itself describes the dish very accurately. 'Dal' is the Hindi word for lentils, which are a staple ingredient in South Asian cooking. 'Tadka' means tempering - a cooking technique where spices are roasted in hot oil or ghee, releasing their essential oils and enhancing their flavor. 

The lentils are typically cooked until tender and then mixed with a base of onions, tomatoes, and ginger, along with turmeric and salt. The Tadka, prepared separately, can include a range of spices like cumin, mustard seeds, garlic, and chili, depending on regional and personal preferences. The sizzling Tadka is then drizzled over the creamy dal, creating a dish that's comforting, nutritious, and packed with flavor. 

Variations of the classic Dal Tadka can be found across the different regions of India, each with their own local touch!

dal recipe indian

Why You'll Love this Recipe

This recipe is my spin on the traditional dal tadka - simplified so it can easily be made by a home cook with easy-to-find ingredients and no special equipment. This dal tadka is: 

  • Just as creamy and delicious as your favorite restaurant style Dal Tadka! 
  • Doesn't require a pressure cooker - or any other special equipment.
  • Easy enough to make for a weeknight meal.
  • 100% Vegan and Vegetarian friendly!
dal recipe indian

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Lentils. 

I used yellow lentils (toor dal) for this recipe, but it works well with many types of lentils. Other good choices are moong dal (split yellow moong lentils), masoor dal (red lentils), chana dal (split chickpeas), and urad dal (split black gram). Some folk even use a mix of two or three different types of lentils.

Oil or Ghee? 

I simply used olive oil for my tadka, because it's the simplest vegan substitution for the traditional ghee used in this dish. But there are several brands that make a vegan ghee, so feel free to give that a try if you prefer. This one from Livlo is the brand I see recommended most often!

The spices! 

This recipe uses a variety of traditional Indian spices, but the key here is a high quality garam masala. It's worth splurging on a high quality garam masala, like this one, for the best flavor.

dal recipe indian

Helpful Tips & Variations

Soak the lentils. If possible, rinse and soak your dry lentils for 30 minutes before cooking. It helps to  reduce cook time and enhance texture.

Make it creamier. Lightly mashing some of the lentils after cooking helps achieve a rich, velvety consistency. For even more creaminess, you can use an immersion or regular blender to puree a portion of the cooked dal. I do not recommend pureeing all of it - the texture will be too mushy.

Serving suggestions: Serve dal tadka over steamed basmati rice or Indian flatbread like naan or roti for a complete vegan meal. You may also wish to serve with a dollop of vegan raita (yogurt sauce). 

Storing leftovers. Store leftover dal tadka in a covered container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze for up to two months. To serve again, let it defrost (if frozen) and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.

dal recipe indian

Variations

Add more spice. This recipe is just mildly spicy to start with. For more heat, add additional chili powder or add a minced red chili pepper to the tadka mixture. 

Add more plant based protein. Stir in diced firm tofu or tempeh cubes for extra protein.

With simple ingredients and flavors, this vegan dal tadka recipe is sure to become a new weeknight staple. Enjoy!

dal recipe indian

More Vegan Indian Recipes

If you love this Vegan Dal Tadka, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes: 

  • 40+ Asian Inspired Vegan Recipes
  • Easy Masala Lentils
  • Tofu Aloo Gobi

Recipe

dal recipe indian

Easy Vegan Dal Tadka

5 from 2 votes
This vegan-friendly Dal Tadka is packed with flavorful spices, hearty lentils, and it couldn't be easier to make. This is Indian comfort food at its best.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

For the Dal:

  • 1 cup yellow lentils toor dal, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
  • 3 cups water for cooking
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 medium tomatoes finely chopped
  • 1- inch piece of ginger grated

For the Tadka (Tempering):

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 cloves of garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • ¼ teaspoon red chili powder or to taste
  • Juice of ½ a lemon
  • Fresh cilantro chopped for garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Cook the Lentils:

  • In a large pot, combine the soaked and drained yellow lentils, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are soft and fully cooked.
    dal recipe indian

Mash the Dal:

  • Once the lentils are cooked, use a back of a spoon or a potato masher to mash them slightly for a creamier texture. If the mixture is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
    dal recipe indian

Prepare the Tadka:

  • In a separate small pan, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, until it turns golden.
    dal recipe indian
  • Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds, and let them pop.
    dal recipe indian
  • Add the garam masala, ground coriander, and red chili powder. Stir to coat the onions with spices. Then add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
    dal recipe indian
  • Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes. If the mixture begins to feel too dry, add a bit of additional oil.
    dal recipe indian

Combine Dal and Tadka:

  • Combine the tadka and the cooked lentils.
    dal recipe indian
  • Stir well. Add the fresh lemon juice now for a bit of tang.
    dal recipe indian

Garnish and Serve:

  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with steamed rice or your favorite Indian bread like naan or roti.
    dal recipe indian

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 267kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 14gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 601mgPotassium: 694mgFiber: 16gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 575IUVitamin C: 13mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 5mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

30-Minute Vegan Chana Masala

January 23, 2024 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 4 Comments

vegan chana masala

This one-pot vegan chana masala is packed with delicious Indian flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal! 

vegan chana masala

It's been a minute since I've added a new curry recipe to the blog, so I wanted to share this quick and easy Chana Masala recipe with you today. This curry is absolutely packed with flavor, and yet it's simple enough to make on a busy weeknight. What's not to love? 

What is Chana Masala? 

Chana Masala, also known colloquially as "Chole" in many parts of India, is a popular dish that originates from the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the northern regions.

The name itself is quite descriptive of its ingredients and preparation: "Chana" refers to chickpeas, and "Masala" refers to a particular mixture of spices. This dish reflects the rich culinary heritage of India, where legumes like chickpeas have been a staple for centuries and are celebrated for their versatility and nutritional value.

Chana Masala is traditionally made with chickpeas that are simmered in a spicy, tangy tomato-based sauce infused with an array of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. 

The dish has become a beloved part of vegetarian cuisine worldwide. Each region in India has its own version of Chana Masala, with variations in spice blends and cooking techniques, reflecting the diversity of Indian cuisine.

vegan chana masala

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Vegan Chana Masala is a dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious! Packed with protein-rich chickpeas and a symphony of spices, it's a vegan dish that will delight even the most picky palates. It's:

  • Hearty and Satisfying: The chickpeas provide a wonderful, filling base that's both comforting, satisfying, and loaded with healthy protein.
  • Flavor-Packed: A blend of traditional Indian spices ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
  • Easy to Make: My simplified version of traditional chana masala uses easy to find ingredients and straightforward steps for an easy recipe that can be ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chickpeas

These are obviously the star of the show here. I like to use canned chickpeas for convenience, but you can also prepare dried chickpeas for use in this recipe if you prefer. You would need about two cups of cooked chickpeas. Note that chickpeas are also commonly called garbanzo beans! 

Garam Masala

I use a handful of common Indian spices in this recipe,  but the most important one is the garam masala, which gives the dish it's classic flavor. I recommend using a high quality garam masala powder for the best results! (I like this one.) 

Tomatoes

I use fresh tomatoes in my chana masala, and I do think it gives the best flavor and texture. But you can substitute a 15 oz can of chopped or crushed tomatoes if you prefer. 

vegan chana masala

Tips and Tricks

Spice Level

The recipe is mildly spicy as it's written (at least from my perspective!). You can add more  chili powder or an additional green chili pepper to amp up the heat. Or cut out both for a milder dish. 

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Vegan Chana Masala with fluffy basmati rice, warm vegan naan, or even over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option. It's versatile and pairs well with various sides.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chana masala in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. To serve again, defrost (if frozen) and reheat over medium heat on the stovetop.

vegan chana masala

Variations and Substitutions

Make a Creamier Version: Add a splash of coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.

Tangy Twist: An additional squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds a fresh zing.

Garnish Galore: Top your chana masala with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a dollop of vegan raita for added flavor and texture.

More Vegan Indian Recipes

If you love this Vegan Chana Masala, be sure to check out these other Indian inspired vegan recipes: 

  • Easy Lentil Curry
  • Quick Vegetable Curry
  • Okra Masala

Recipe

vegan chana masala

30-Minute Vegan Chana Masala

5 from 2 votes
This one-pot vegan chana masala is packed with delicious Indian flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 15 oz canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch piece of ginger minced
  • 1 large tomato finely chopped
  • 1 green chili finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder adjust to taste
  • juice of half a lemon
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil such as coconut or vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro optional, for garnishing
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Sauté Spices: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  • Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for another minute.
  • Tomato and Spices: Add the chopped tomatoes, green chili, and tomato paste. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil starts to separate. Then add the ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and lemon juice. Stir well.
  • Chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan. Mix well to ensure the chickpeas are coated with the spice mixture.
  • Simmer: Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes. The gravy should thicken, and the flavors will meld together.
  • Season and Garnish: Adjust salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
  • Serve: Serve hot with rice, naan, or your favorite Indian bread.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 196kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 7gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.03gSodium: 640mgPotassium: 390mgFiber: 7gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 63mgIron: 2mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Lemon Ginger Scones

November 17, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan scones

Add a tangy twist to tea time with these simple Lemon & Ginger Scones. Bursting with flavor from ginger, lemon zest, and vanilla - and they're 100% vegan too!

vegan scones

When my husband and I were still dating we spent a weekend and the cutest little bed and breakfast in wine country. And while they served up many delicious morsels at breakfast, the one thing that I couldn't get off my mind was the ginger scones!

So I thought I would do my best to finally re-create them here - but as a totally vegan recipe this time.

These Vegan Lemon & Ginger Scones are incredibly easy to whip up. With one bowl and just a few simple steps, you'll have a batch of warm scones ready to enjoy in no time. 

These vegan scones are: 

  • A delicious breakfast or brunch time treat!
  • Kid-friendly.
  • Ready in just 30 minutes.
  • 100% plant based
vegan scones

Useful Tips

Zesting the lemon

Grate the lemon zest with a microplane for a finer consistency and to ensure the lemon's natural oils are released into the dough.

Use cold butter

Make sure you use cold vegan butter or coconut oil for maximum flakiness in the scones.

Use any plant based milk

Any non-dairy milk that you prefer will work fine in this recipe. Try almond, soy, oat, or even coconut milk. 

Serving the scones! 

These scones are perfect all on their own. But for a more indulgent treat, serve them up with a dollop of vegan butter, some raspberry jam, or a drizzle of vegan apple honey. Add some fresh fruit and a cup of lemon ginger tea for a full breakfast!

Make it gluten-free

This recipe is easy to make gluten free by substituting a gluten free baking flour.

Storing leftover scones

The scones will stay fresh for 3-5 days in a covered container in the refrigerator. I recommend warming them in the oven or toaster oven before serving again. You can also freeze the scones for 2-3 months.

vegan scones

Variations

Extra ginger! For extra ginger-y scones, sprinkle some crystalized ginger on top before baking.

Add mix-ins. Try folding some chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts into the batter for a nutty crunch. Or add dried cranberries or blueberries for a pop of sweetness.

Make a glaze. Try finishing off the scones with a drizzle of lemon glaze. Mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until you get the desired consistency, then drizzle over the warm scones.

Orange Ginger Scones: Replace the lemon juice and lemon zest with orange juice and orange zest for an equally zesty and flavorful scone with a slightly different flavor.

Chocolate Ginger Scones: Mix ¼ cup of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for an indulgent chocolate-ginger scone.

Chocolate Chip Scones: Add some vegan dark chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet and indulgent treat.

vegan scones

More Vegan Treats

If you love these Vegan Lemon Ginger Scones, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes: 

  • Best Vegan Scone Recipes
  • Vegan Peanut Butter & Jam Scones
  • No Bake Vegan Lemon Bars

Recipe

vegan scones

Vegan Lemon Ginger Scones

5 from 2 votes
These simple Lemon & Ginger Scones are bursting with flavor from ginger, lemon zest, and vanilla - and they're 100% vegan too!
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10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if preferred
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar ensure it's vegan
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup crystalized ginger chopped finely
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup cold vegan butter or coconut oil
  • ¾ cup plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
  • Cut the cold vegan butter or solidified coconut oil into small pieces and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the plant-based milk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and chopped crystallized ginger. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times to bring it together. Flatten the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick and cut into 8 wedges.
  • Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown.
  • Remove the scones from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack.
  • Serve the scones warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 248kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 427mgPotassium: 41mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 540IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 121mgIron: 2mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Pumpkin Waffles

November 9, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

healthy vegan waffles

These simple Vegan Pumpkin Waffles are packed with delicious pumpkin flavor and made with healthy plant-based ingredients. Serve them up with your favorite toppings for a delicious breakfast treat!

healthy vegan waffles

Mmmm.. pumpkin spice season! I know, I know. You either love it or hate it. And personally... I love it. (As evidenced by all of these vegan-friendly pumpkin recipes!)

I've been meaning to try out my new waffle maker, and figured this would be the perfect opportunity. These pumpkin waffles are perfectly crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside, and loaded with classic Fall flavors. What's not to love? 

Let's get cooking!

healthy vegan waffles

Helpful Tips & Substitutions 

You can substitute coconut oil with melted vegan butter if you prefer. I like Earth's Balance Buttery Spread.

Try adding a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for an extra dose of protein.

For sweeter waffles, add a tablespoon of organic brown sugar or coconut sugar to the batter.

To keep the cooked waffles warm while you cook the rest of the batter, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in an oven set to low heat (around 200 degrees).

If you have any leftover pumpkin puree after making this recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it to make pancakes or muffins.

healthy vegan waffles

Topping Ideas

Get creative with a variety of sweet and savory waffle toppings. Here are some fun ideas:

  • Fresh fruit, such as berries or apple slices.
  • Agave Syrup
  • Maple Syrup
  • Chopped Nuts
  • Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
  • Vegan Whipped Cream
  • Homemade Vegan Nutella
  • Shredded Coconut
healthy vegan waffles

Recipe Variations

Coconut Waffles - Replace the oat milk with coconut milk and add ¼ cup of shredded coconut to the batter.

Chocolate Pumpkin Waffles - Add 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter.

Cinnamon Sugar Waffles - Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter and sprinkle each waffle with a bit of organic pure cane sugar before you flip it in the waffle iron.

Apple Filled Waffles - Core and dice 1 apple and fold it into the batter before adding to the waffle iron.

Sweet Potato Waffles - Replace the pumpkin with mashed sweet potatoes. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter.

healthy vegan waffles

More Vegan Breakfast Ideas

If you love these vegan pumpkin waffles, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes: 

  • Vegan Pumpkin Donuts
  • Vegan Banana Oat Pancakes
  • 35+ Healthy Vegan Breakfast Recipes

Recipe

healthy vegan waffles

Vegan Pumpkin Waffles

5 from 1 vote
These simple Vegan Pumpkin Waffles are packed with delicious pumpkin flavor and made with plant-based ingredients. A delicious and healthy breakfast treat!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes minutes
Total Time: 9 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups oat milk
  • 15 oz pumpkin puree 1 can
  • ¼ cup coconut oil
  • ¼ cup organic pure cane sugar
  • 2 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a medium size bowl add the pumpkin puree, oat milk, coconut oil and sugar. Whisk until well combined.
    healthy vegan waffles
  • Then add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon to the same bowl and whisk until well combined and smooth.
    healthy vegan waffles
  • Heat your waffle iron to medium high heat and spray with non-stick spray.
  • Add about ⅓ cup batter to the iron. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes.
  • Repeat until batter is done.
  • Serve with your favorite toppings.
    healthy vegan waffles
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 519kcalCarbohydrates: 87gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 558mgPotassium: 355mgFiber: 6gSugar: 26gVitamin A: 16792IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 331mgIron: 6mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Chickpea Patties

October 17, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

chickpea patties

Step aside burgers, there's a new patty in town! These Vegan Chickpea Patties are a nutritional powerhouse that's loaded with hearty flavors. Perfect for a barbecue or just a simple vegan friendly weeknight meal. 

chickpea patties

Chickpeas are one of my all time favorite plant based ingredients. They're nutritional powerhouses, filled with protein and fiber. They're hearty, delicious, and pairing them with an array of seasonings can transform these simple legumes into something exotically delicious. I'm guilty of tossing them into all kinds of recipes from heavy winter stews to light chickpea salads.

chickpea patties

These chickpea patties marry convenience with fantastic taste. They're quick to make in just a half hour, which means they're easy enough for a weeknight dinner. But they're also perfect for grilling at those fall tailgate parties and summer cookouts.

Besides serving them as veggie burgers, you can use these patties as an addition to fresh salads or as companions to your favorite dipping sauce. Yum!

These vegan chickpea patties are: 

  • Perfect for grilling! 
  • A simple 100% vegan meal idea.
  • Totally delicious.
  • Easy to make in under 30 minutes.
chickpea patties

Helpful Tips

Chill the patties

Don't skip on chilling the patties before cooking - you can even chill them for a bit longer than noted. A well-chilled patty holds its shape much better while cooking.

Bake the chickpea patties

You don't have to stick to pan-frying your patties - baking in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes also works just fine. Just remember to flip them halfway through.

Grill the chickpea patties

Cook the chickpea patties on the grill over medium heat for 4-6 minutes on each side.

chickpea patties

Frying oil

I fried my patties in a bit of olive oil, because it's most convenient for me. But coconut oil or canola oil are also good alternatives. 

Make ahead

You can make this chickpea patties in advance if you wish. Just prepare the patties and then store them in the fridge, in a covered container. They will keep for 2-3 days in the fridge, before being cooked.

Storing Leftovers 

You can save leftover chickpea patties in a covered container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a hot pan or in the oven to get a crispy finish.

chickpea patties

Variations

Mediterranean Chickpea Patties

First up, if you have a thing for Mediterranean foods, add in some cumin, coriander, and lemon zest. 

Asian Chickpea Patties

 For an Asian twist, toss in some sesame seeds, a little soy sauce, and a hint of ginger.

Add Spice! 

Mix in some chili flakes or use spicy smoked paprika instead of the regular one to give your patties a kick of heat. 

Italian Chickpea Patties

If you fancy an Italian touch, a bit of dried basil and oregano, or even a few minced sun-dried tomatoes, will give your patties a rich, savory flavor.

Make it gluten-free

 Replace the panko with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. 

chickpea patties

More Tasty Vegan Ideas

If you love these vegan chickpea patties, be sure to check out these other tasty recipes: 

  • Chipotle Black Bean Burgers
  • 30+ Vegan Grilling Recipes
  • 15 Amazing Vegan Burger Recipes

Recipe

chickpea patties

Vegan Chickpea Patties

5 from 2 votes
These Vegan Chickpea Patties are a nutritional powerhouse that's loaded with hearty flavors. Perfect for a barbecue or just a simple vegan friendly weeknight meal.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 10 patties
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Ingredients

  • 15 oz canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons water + 1 tablespoon flax meal whisked together for a "flax egg"
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil for frying
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, use a fork to mash chickpeas until they are all smashed. Alternatively you can use a food processor to pulse them a few times until they are chopped but not pasty.
    chickpea patties
  • Add the panko, flax egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, smoke paprika, and black pepper and stir until evenly combined.
  • Form into nugget sized patties and place on a lined baking sheet. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
    chickpea patties
  • Heat a skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to the pan so that it is completely coated, then add the patties in batches to the pan and cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
    chickpea patties
  • Place on a paper towel to absorb extra oil.
    chickpea patties
  • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
    chickpea patties

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 81kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 4gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 269mgPotassium: 113mgFiber: 3gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 31IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Zucchini Lasagna

June 13, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan lasagna recipe

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy vegan dinner idea? Look no further than this vegan zucchini lasagna. It's light, healthy, and bursting with flavor from fresh veggies, tangy marinara, and creamy vegan ricotta. Yum!

vegan lasagna recipe

As an Italian, I've eaten more than my share of lasagna in my life. In fact, traditional lasagna is my son's all time favorite food and the dish we make for most holidays in our home. It's comfort food at its finest! 

But it's also a heavy dish. And on these hot summer days, I need something a bit lighter. So I came up with this veggie-centric vegan friendly version of my fave pasta dish! 

vegan lasagna recipe

This Vegan Zucchini Lasagna is: 

  • Light & healthy! 
  • Family friendly - even the kids will eat this. 
  • Ready in under an hour.
  • Vegan.
  • Vegetarian.
  • Dairy-free.
  • Gluten-free.
  • a delicious plant-based meal!

With its fresh vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and hearty vegan cheese, this zucchini lasagna is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it's the perfect way to sneak more veggies into your meal. Enjoy!

And don't forget to check out my other vegan pasta recipes for more delicious vegan dinner ideas.

vegan lasagna recipe

Ingredients & Supplies You'll Need

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious zucchini lasagna:

  • Zucchini - the star ingredient!
  • Firm Tofu - to make a vegan ricotta cheese substitute.
  • Nutritional yeast - to add that cheesy flavor.
  • Italian Seasoning
  • Salt
  • Lemon Juice
  • Olive oil
  • Onion
  • Bell pepper
  • Garlic
  • Mushrooms
  • Baby Spinach - Or you can use kale if you prefer.
  • Tomato Sauce
  • Fresh Basil - Optional, but recommended!

In addition to these ingredients, you will need a 9"x 13" baking dish and either a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer for slicing the zucchini. 

vegan lasagna recipe

How to Make Zucchini Lasagna

The first step is to slice your zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips. Lay them out on a paper towel and sprinkle them all over with salt. Allow them to sit for at least 15 minutes to draw out all of the excess moisture - this will keep your lasagna from becoming a soggy mess!

Next, you'll prepare a vegan tofu "ricotta" by blending the tofu, nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, salt, and lemon juice in a food processor until smooth.

vegan lasagna recipe

In a large skillet, sauté the bell peppers and onions until they are translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are browned and the excess liquid has evaporated. Finally, add the spinach and allow it to wilt.

vegan lasagna recipe

Now, it's time to assemble your lasagna. Add a layer of tomato sauce to the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish, then a layer of zucchini slices. Follow that with another layer of sauce, followed by half of the cooked vegetables and half of the vegan ricotta. Then, add another layer of zucchini noodles, sauce, remaining vegetables, and remaining vegan ricotta. Finally, top with a final layer of zucchini slices and remaining sauce.

vegan lasagna recipe

Cover the baking dish and bake in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes or until it is bubbly. Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and add fresh minced basil. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before serving.

(As always, see the recipe card below for more detailed instructions, measurements, and step-by-step images.)

vegan lasagna recipe

Helpful Tips & Tricks

Here are some helpful tips and tricks for making a delicious vegan lasagna!

Slicing the Zucchini Strips

Use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer to create very thin, uniform slices of zucchini. This will ensure that your lasagna layers cook evenly and don't become mushy. You are unlikely to get thin enough slices by simply using a kitchen knife.

Remove the Moisture from the Zucchini 

After slicing your zucchini, lay the pieces out on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. This will help draw out excess moisture, making for a firmer lasagna. Don't skip this step or you will get soggy lasagna!

Storing the Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.

vegan lasagna recipe

Variations & Substitutions

Homemade Marinara Sauce 

I used a simple plain tomato sauce for this recipe, to let the veggies shine. You can use any tomato or pasta sauce of your choice, or try your hand at making homemade tomato sauce. 

Vegan Ricotta

This recipe uses a simple homemade tofu ricotta. For an alternative, this cashew ricotta is also a great choice. If you're short on time, consider using store bought vegan ricotta. There are many delicious options available at most grocery stores. I'm a fan of the Kite Hill brand.

Add Vegan Mozzarella

I wanted to limit the processed ingredients in this healthy lasagna recipe, but you could also add some dairy free mozzarella shreds to the top if you're craving more cheesiness.

Spice it Up

For more flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or oregano to your marinara sauce. Or for a little spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes. Yum!

Add Some Protein

If you want a protein boost, add in some meatless soy crumbles or crumble up some Beyond Sausages - they are perfect for this! You could also add lentils, chickpeas, or beans for a fun variation.

Roasted Vegetables

Consider using roasted vegetables such as eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add different textures and flavors to the dish.

vegan lasagna recipe

Fun Fact: Where did Lasagna Originate? 

The origins of lasagna are a highly debated topic. While most people assume the dish came from Italy, this popular recipe has made quite the journey around the world!

Some believe it began with laganon, a Greek word describing flat sheets of pasta that were cut into strips. Still others suggest that lasagna first appeared as far back as the 14th century in England and Italy, where cookbooks detailed various recipes for layers of cheese and pasta baked together. It wasn't until the 16th century when tomato-based versions of the dish were recorded that it bore closer resemblance to today's version. 

But wherever it came from and whoever created it - our taste buds thank you!

vegan lasagna recipe

More Tasty Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan zucchini lasagna, be sure to check out these other delicious plant based ideas: 

  • Vegan Zucchini Noodles with Vegan Bolognese Sauce
  • Vegan Vodka Pasta
  • 15+ Comforting Vegan Casserole Ideas

Recipe

vegan lasagna recipe

Vegan Zucchini Lasagna

4.67 from 3 votes
This vegan zucchini lasagna is light, healthy, and bursting with flavor from fresh veggies, tangy marinara, and creamy vegan ricotta. Yum!
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes
Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 servings
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Ingredients

  • 4 large zucchini
  • 14 oz. firm tofu
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 2 teaspoons italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lb mushrooms quartered
  • 4 cups baby spinach
  • 3-4 cups tomato sauce
  • Minced fresh basil optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F
  • Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, lay out on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt, allow to sit at least 15 minutes to draw some moisture out
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Meanwhile prepare the tofu ricotta. Combine the tofu, nutritional yeast, italian seasoning, salt and lemon juice in a food processor
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Blend until smooth and set aside
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the oil followed by the onion and peppers and saute for 5-6 minutes, or until the onion is translucent
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Add the garlic and stir, then add the mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are browned and the excess liquid has evaporated
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Add the spinach and allow to wilt
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Add a layer of sauce to the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish, then a layer of zucchini, followed by sauce, then half the vegetables, then half the vegan ricotta
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Repeat with another layer of zucchini, followed by sauce, then half the vegetables, then half the vegan ricotta
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Keep repeating with a layer of zucchini, sauce, remaining vegetables and remaining vegan ricotta
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Then fininsh with a final layer of zucchini and remaining sauce on top
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Cover and bake in the oven for 45 minutes, or until bubbly
    vegan lasagna recipe
  • Add the fresh minced basil and allow to sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving
    vegan lasagna recipe

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 14gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 1003mgPotassium: 1190mgFiber: 7gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 3300IUVitamin C: 66mgCalcium: 162mgIron: 4mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Apple Honey

April 26, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

vegan honey recipe

Get ready to experience the magic of vegan apple honey! It's a vegan friendly alternative to traditional honey that's simple, delicious, and easy to make with just a few ingredients. 

vegan honey made from apples in a jar

As a vegan, it can be a challenge to find substitutes for some of our favorite non-vegan ingredients. And for me, one of those ingredients is honey. So I tried my hand at making my own vegan honey - and I have to say that it is pretty fantastic! 

This apple honey is an easy alternative to traditional honey. This vegan version is not only cruelty-free, but it's also super delicious.

How to Make Vegan Apple Honey

First things first, let's talk about the ingredients. You'll need apple juice, sugar, one chamomile tea bag, and lemon juice. That's it! It's a simple recipe. But the end result is a thick, syrupy concoction that tastes just like honey (or at least close enough for me). 

ingredients for the vegan apple honey

To make the vegan apple honey, you simply toss all four ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 40 minutes.

You can remove the tea bag after the first ten minutes. You'll want to stir frequently to make sure everything is well combined and doesn't scald on the bottom.

cooking the vegan honey in a saucepan

The longer you let it simmer, the thicker it will become. Just be sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn't burn.

And that's it! You now have your very own vegan apple honey. It's perfect for drizzling over vegan pancakes or adding to your morning oatmeal or granola. It's also great for baking or as a sweetener in your tea or coffee.

apple honey being served in a jar

Tips & Variations

Add more flavor. For a little extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the mixture before simmering.

Make it sweeter. If the vegan honey isn't sweet enough for you, you can add a bit more sugar to the mixture. 

vegan honey being dripped with a honey stirrer

Storing the apple honey: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a month. I have heard of people storing it as long as 6 months, but I have not tested it for that long because we always finish it up! 

I hope you enjoy making and using this vegan apple honey as much as I do. It's a great alternative to traditional honey and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy cooking!

apple honey with a wooden stick

More Tasty Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan apple honey, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas: 

  • Vegan Baking Substitutions Guide
  • Homemade Vegan Nutella
  • Easy Vegan Cheese Sauce
  • Vegan Cream Cheese

Recipe

vegan honey recipe

Vegan Apple Honey

4.84 from 6 votes
This recipe for vegan apple honey is so simple, delicious, and easy to make with just a few ingredients. It's a perfect alternative to traditional honey!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes minutes
Servings: 16 tablespoons
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Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh apple juice unsweetened
  • ¾ cup sugar organic
  • 1 chamomile tea bag
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
    vegan honey recipe
  • Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and allow to cook for 10 minutes.
    vegan honey recipe
  • Then remove the tea bag and continue simmering an additional 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
    vegan honey recipe
  • Allow to cool completely before serving.
    vegan honey recipe

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 0.03gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.01gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.002gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 32mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 0.3IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 3mgIron: 0.04mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Chipotle Black Bean Burgers (Vegan)

March 29, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan burger

Spice up your veggie burger game with these Chipotle Black Bean Burgers! Packed with protein from black beans, bursting with chipotle flavor, and just the right amount of spice.

vegan burger
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These totally delicious chipotle black bean burgers will have you saying adios to your regular old veggie burger recipes. They're loaded with Mexican inspired flavor and ready to eat in just 30 minutes.

These Chipotle Black Bean Burgers Are..

  • Vegan 
  • Vegetarian 
  • Gluten Free 
  • Freezer-friendly 
  • Packed with chipotle flavor!
  • Great for an easy weeknight dinner.
  • Kid friendly!

Toss your black bean burgers on a toasted bun and add on your favorite vegan mayo, vegan cheese, and veggies. Then enjoy for a lunch or dinner. These vegetable burgers are made with the perfect spices so they are anything but bland. 

How to Make Black Bean Burgers 

vegan black bean chipotle burgers being made

Full steps are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post. This is a quick walk through on how easy it is to make these burgers. 

  1. Preheat the oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
  2. Sauté the vegetables until softened.
  3. Mash up the beans in a bowl. Then add the veggies and spices.
  4. Form into four burger patties. 
  5. Bake and serve hot.

Scroll down for detailed instructions and the printable recipe card.

What You'll Need

chipotle black bean burger on a bun being served

Baking Sheet

You'll need a baking sheet for these oven baked veggie burgers. I like to line mine with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to create a nonstick surface, and make clean up really easy too.

Potato Masher 

A potato masher is by far the easiest way to mash up your black beans. I get the best texture with one of these wire mashers, but you can also use the back of a fork if you don't have a potato masher.

Tips for Perfect Black Bean Burgers

vegan chipotle black bean burger being served on a bun

Make Even Sized Burgers 

Make sure you evenly divide the mixture and create similar sized burgers. Otherwise, you can find that some of your burgers can become dry and overcooked, while others might be underdone.

Variations to this Vegan Burger Recipe 

vegan black bean burger with a bite taken out of it

Roast the Vegetables 

I sauteed the veggies for these chipotle black bean burgers, which makes the recipe really quick and easy. But you could also opt to roast them for a deeper, smokier flavor.

Mix up the Seasonings 

So I went with a Chipotle flavor for these vegan burgers, but feel free to play around with spices. This is a wonderful base for a vegan burger patty, that you can customize to your own preferences.

Swap the Veggies

Want to use up some of that leftover produce in your fridge? Feel free to change up the veggies used in this recipe! Zucchini or peppers would make a great addition. 

Black Bean Vegan Burger FAQs

vegan burger being served on a white plate with fresh salad

What is a chipotle black bean burger?

A chipotle black bean burger is a veggie burger typically made primarily with black beans, vegetables, and seasoned with chipotle peppers and Mexican-inspired seasonings. It's a popular meatless alternative to beef burgers that will offer a good source of protein and flavor. Serve on a bun or in a lettuce wrap!

How long will black bean burgers last in the fridge?

Black bean burgers can last for 3-4 days in the fridge if stored properly. Place in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you don't plan to eat the burgers right away, you can freeze them to extend the shelf life. 

How do you freeze black bean burgers?

Wrap each black bean burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the burgers nice and fresh. Place the wrapped black bean burgers in a resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out any excess air and seal the bag tightly. Then place the freezer bag in the freezer and freeze the black bean burgers for up to 3 months.

How do you reheat black bean burgers from frozen? 

To thaw the black bean burgers, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat the black bean burgers in the oven, on a grill, in the microwave, or in a skillet.

More Tasty Vegan Ideas

If you love these chipotle black bean burgers, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas:

  • 6 Ways to Use Veggie Burgers - other than on a bun!
  • Vegan Beet and Brown Rice Burgers
  • The Internet's Best Veggie Burgers!

Recipe

vegan burger

Chipotle Black bean Burgers

5 from 2 votes
Spice up your veggie burger game with these Chipotle Black Bean Burgers! Packed with protein from black beans, bursting with chipotle flavor, and just the right amount of spice.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Equipment

  • Potato masher optional
  • Baking tray
  • parchment paper

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 1 carrot finely diced
  • 1 stalk celery minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 19 oz black beans canned, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle pepper in adobo minced
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For serving (optional)

  • vegan mayonnaise
  • burger buns
  • lettuce
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 F, line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside
  • Mix together the flax seed and 3 tablespoon water in a small bowl. Set aside. (This is your "flax egg".)
  • In a larger pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil, then add the onion, carrot, celery and garlic.
    vegan burger
  • Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened.
    vegan burger
  • Mash the black beans in a large bowl
    vegan burger
  • Then mix in the cooked veggies along with panko, flax egg, chipotles, chili powder and paprika.
    vegan burger
  • Mix until fully combined.
    vegan burger
  • Form into four large patties and place onto prepared baking sheet.
    vegan burger
  • Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
    vegan burger
  • Serve warm on buns with vegan mayo, lettuce, and any other toppings desired
    vegan burger

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 286kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 13gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 678mgPotassium: 645mgFiber: 15gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2953IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 113mgIron: 4mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Fudgy Avocado Brownies (Vegan!)

March 3, 2023 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 2 Comments

avocado brownies

These fudgy avocado brownies are loaded with rich and creamy chocolate flavor. Easy to make in 30 minutes - and 100% vegan too!

avocado brownies stacked on parchment paper
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If you're on the hunt for a healthy, vegan friendly brownie recipe - look no further than these avocado brownies.

These Fudgy Avocado Brownies are...

  • Vegan.
  • Dairy-Free.
  • Made with Simple Ingredients. 
  • Ready in 30 minutes.
  • Kid Friendly!
  • Freezer Friendly too.

For more healthy options, check out my raw vegan brownies or whip up these sweet potato brownies or vegan brownie bites!

How to Make 

avocado brownies being prepared

Full directions for these avocado brownies are in the printable recipe card below. This is a quick walk through of the key steps!

  1. Prepare a 9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, and preheat your oven to 350 F. 
  2. Mash the avocado and measure out ¾ cup. 
  3. Combine the mashed avocado, sugar, flour, cocoa powder, almond milk, peanut butter, baking powder, and salt in a food processor. Process the mixture until it becomes smooth. 
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and sprinkle chocolate chips on top if desired. 
  5. Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs attached. 
  6. Allow the brownies to cool for approximately 30 minutes before slicing and serving. 

Scroll down for the full instructions in the printable recipe card!

Tools You'll Need

avocado brownies in a baking pan

Baking dish

Use a nonstick 8"x8" or 9"x9" baking pan for these brownies. Lining the baking pan with parchment paper will also help to ensure your brownies don't get stuck!

Blender or Food Processor 

I recommend using a food processor or high speed blender for mixing this brownie batter, rather than a traditional mixer. It is needed to get the right consistency of the brownie batter!

Helpful Tips For Avocado Brownies 

avocado brownies being served on a white plate

Choose ripe avocados.

Make sure your avocados are very ripe, soft and easy to mash. This will ensure that the texture of your brownies is smooth and creamy.

Allow the brownies to cool before slicing.

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will allow them to set and make for cleaner cuts.

Quality Cocoa Powder 

Make sure to use a high quality cocoa powder for that rich and delicious chocolate flavor. Brownies are one of those recipes where the quality of ingredients really show. I'm a big fan of this Ghirardelli cocoa powder!

Variations 

stack of vegan avocado brownies

Add Sea Salt 

Consider sprinkling some sea salt on top of the brownies for a savory finish! The salt will enhance the flavor of the rich chocolate.

Add Nuts 

Want to add some crunch to your avocado brownies? Consider adding in some chopped walnuts or pecans. I would recommend ¼ cup to ⅓ cup of nuts. 

Serve with Fruit or Ice Cream

Serve your brownies up with some fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, and a big scoop of dairy free ice cream!

FAQs

avocado brownies being sliced

What is the difference between fudgy and chewy brownies?

Fudgy brownies are rich and dense with a moist, almost gooey texture. They have a high fat-to-flour ratio, which gives them their signature fudgy texture.

Chewy brownies, on the other hand, have a more cake-like texture with a slightly springy and chewy crumb. They have a lower fat-to-flour ratio and rely more on eggs and sugar to give them their structure. 

How do you store avocado brownies?

Store the brownies at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. 

How do you freeze vegan brownies? 

If you want to store your brownies for longer, you can freeze them for 2-3 months. To freeze avocado brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container. When you're ready to eat them, thaw the brownies at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

More Vegan Desserts

If you love these fudgy avocado brownies, be sure to check out these other delicious vegan treats:

  • Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
  • Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Vegan Chocolate Shake

Recipe

avocado brownies

Fudgy Avocado Brownies (Vegan!)

5 from 5 votes
These fudgy avocado brownies are loaded with rich and creamy chocolate flavor. Easy to make in 30 minutes - and 100% vegan too!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 9 servings
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Equipment

  • 8" x 8" Baking Pan
  • parchment paper

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup mashed avocado about one large avocado
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup almond milk
  • ¼ cup peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup vegan chocolate chips
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F, line a 9" baking pan with parchment and set aside
  • Mash the avocado and measure out ¾ cup
    avocado brownies
  • Add the avocado, sugar, flour, cocoa powder, almond milk, peanut butter, baking powder and salt to a food processor and process until smooth
    avocado brownies
  • Mix in the chocolate chips.
    avocado brownies
  • Mix until well combined.
    avocado brownies
  • Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, sprinkle chocolate chips on top if desired
    avocado brownies
  • Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a couple crumbs
    avocado brownies
  • Allow to cool 30 minutes before slicing and serving
    avocado brownies

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 262kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 227mgPotassium: 189mgFiber: 4gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 18IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 69mgIron: 2mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

November 13, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

vegan jalapeno poppers

These easy vegan jalapeno poppers are the ultimate party appetizer. Packed with a cheesy dairy-free filling and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs.

close up of vegan jalapeno poppers
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We are currently right in the thick of the holiday season. And that means I've been hosting and attending lots of parties. Yay for being able to socialize again!

But that also means I've found myself in need of some easy vegan appetizers that I can throw together quickly and that please a crowd of both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Enter these tasty (and super easy) vegan jalapeno poppers! They're made with just a handful of ingredients in under 30 minutes. What's not to love?

And if you need a few more appetizers for your party, serve them up alongside these vegan mozzarella sticks and this vegan charcuterie board. Now that's a party spread!

The Ingredients

While I typically cook with as many fresh ingredients as possible, these vegan jalapeno poppers use a few handy store bought vegan items to make them as quick and easy as possible! Here's what you'll need.

ingredients for vegan jalapeno poppers
  • Jalapenos!
  • Vegan Cheddar Cheese. I'm a fan of the ones from Daiya or Follow Your Heart for this recipe, because they melt well.
  • Vegan Cream Cheese. The one from Miyokos is my fave! Or you can make your own homemade vegan cream cheese.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs. Like this.
  • Garlic Powder, Oregano, and Salt.
  • Vegan Butter. I use Earth Balance.

See the recipe card below for detailed measurements and instructions.

How to Make Vegan Jalapeno Poppers - Step by Step

These tasty little morsels are so delicious and so pretty - no one will know you made them in under 30 minutes!

mixing the filling for the vegan jalapeno poppers

Mix up the creamy filling - made with shredded vegan cheddar cheese, vegan cream cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and panko breadcrumbs. Yum!

arranging the cored and seeded jalapeno peppers on t a baking sheet

Slice the jalapeno peppers in half, and carefully remove the seeds. Be careful when touching the peppers - they are spicy!

stuffing the vegan jalapeno peppers

Fill each jalapeno pepper with the creamy filling. Then top with additional vegan cheese and breadcrumbs.

the vegan jalapeno peppers after baking

Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, and enjoy!

And there you have it - totally delicious vegan jalapeno poppers. Ready to go in under 30 minutes!

plate of vegan jalapeno poppers

Pro Tip!

I keep a pack of these disposable kitchen gloves in my pantry for tasks like de-seeding jalapeno peppers. They are very spicy! If the oils get on your hands, and you then touch your face, it burns like crazy.

Variations

Make buffalo jalapeno poppers. Simply add a couple tablespoons of your favorite buffalo sauce to the vegan cream cheese mixture for a completely new flavor!

Mix up the cheese. Instead of a vegan cheddar cheese, try this recipe with other varieties. It also works well with Monterey Jack style or mozzarella style vegan cheese shreds.

Add some vegan bacon. Try crumbling in some vegan bacon or plant-based sausage. I like the Morningstar Farms bacon and the Beyond Sausages!

Make homemade vegan cream cheese. I used a store bought vegan cream cheese for convenience, but you can also make your own!

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover jalapeno poppers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, in an airtight container. I don't recommend freezing this recipe.

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. This will help get the topping crispy again.

vegan jalapeno poppers being served on a black plate

More Vegan Recipes

If you love these vegan jalapeno poppers, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes that are perfect for entertaining:

  • 25+ Vegan Tailgate Recipes
  • Best Vegan Dips
  • Vegan Buffalo Cauliflower

Recipe

vegan jalapeno poppers

Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

5 from 4 votes
These easy vegan jalapeno poppers are the ultimate party appetizer. Packed with a cheesy dairy-free filling and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 24 poppers
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Equipment

  • baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 12 jalapenos halved and deseeded
  • 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese shredded , divided
  • 8 oz vegan cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter melted
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 F, wear gloves and slice peppers lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, place cut side up onto a parchment lined baking sheet and set aside
  • In a small bowl, mix together ¾ cup of the shredded cheese, softened cream cheese, ½ cup panko, garlic powder, oregano, salt until evenly combined
  • Divide the mixture evenly among the peppers, packing it down into each pepper
  • In a small bowl, mix remaining shredded cheese, panko, and melted butter, then divide evenly on top of the peppers
  • Bake the peppers 20 minutes, or until the peppers are softened, the filling is bubbly and the topping is crisped

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 56kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gTrans Fat: 0.003gSodium: 149mgPotassium: 23mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 98IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 14mgIron: 0.3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Vodka Pasta

November 13, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 4 Comments

vegan vodka pasta

This vegan vodka pasta is my all time favorite pasta dish. Perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a savory and creamy vegan vodka sauce. Yum!

vegan vodka pasta being served from the pan
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Growing up in an Italian family meant eating my fair share of pasta dishes. Ok, probably way more than my share. And I've traditional vodka pasta was always one of my favorites.

So I finally spent the time to figure out how to vegan-ize this traditional Italian recipe. And here it is - vegan vodka pasta!

The vegan vodka sauce is super rich and creamy thanks to some key ingredients like coconut milk and nutritional yeast. And I have to say - this is one darn good vegan pasta dish.

And while you're here, don't forget to grab a copy of my free vegan cheat sheet. It's packed with all my favorite substitutions to vegan-ize any recipe!

The Ingredients

The vegan vodka pasta is easy to make with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Then just toss with your favorite pasta and mangia!

ingredients for vegan vodka pasta
  • Pasta of your choice. I used rigatoni!
  • Vodka. Obviously!
  • Red onion.
  • Garlic.
  • Crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Tomato paste.
  • Coconut milk. You want the canned variety - like this.
  • Nutritional yeast.
  • Fresh parsley. Optional, for a garnish.
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper.

See the recipe card below for detailed measurements and instructions.

How to Make Vegan Vodka Sauce - Step by Step

While this vegan vodka pasta tastes like it took all day to make, it's actually easy to throw together in about 20 minutes. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal!

cooking the tomato paste, onions, and herbs for the vodka sauce

On the stovetop, sauté the onion, garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste.

adding coconut milk and nutritional yeast to the vegan vodka sauce

Add the vodka! Then stir in the coconut milk and nutritional yeast.

mixing the vegan vodka sauce until creamy

Stir until the vodka sauce is nice and creamy, and bring to a simmer.

tossing the vegan vodka sauce with rigatoni pasta

Toss the vegan vodka sauce with your favorite pasta and enjoy!

And there you have it! A deliciously simple vegan vodka pasta that's ready in under 30 minutes. What's not to love?

vegan vodka pasta in a pan

Hint: While you can use any pasta of your choice, penne or rigatoni pasta is the most traditional choice. And it works well because the vodka sauce clings to all those little ridges!

Variations

Make it without vodka. You can omit the vodka from your vodka sauce, and you'll still end up with a delicious spicy, garlicky tomato sauce.

Make it gluten free. This vegan vodka pasta is gluten free when made with a gluten free pasta, like this chickpea pasta.

Add veggies. While a traditional vodka pasta doesn't contain any extras, you can make this dish a bit heartier by adding sauteed veggies like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. You could even add chickpeas for a protein boost!

vegan vodka pasta being served on a plate

Storing Vodka Pasta

Store any leftover vodka pasta in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, in an airtight container. You can also freeze the vodka sauce for 2-3 months.

If freezing, freeze the sauce on its own in an airtight container. Then defrost, warm on the stovetop, and toss with cooked pasta.

What vodka should I use?

Any unflavored vodka will work just fine. It does not need to be fancy or expensive. But as with wine, I don't recommend cooking with anything you wouldn't be willing to drink!

plate of vegan vodka pasta

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan vodka pasta, be sure to check out these other tasty recipes:

  • Vegan Cheese Sauce
  • Vegan Bolognese Sauce
  • Best Vegan Pasta Salads

Recipe

vegan vodka pasta

Vegan Vodka Pasta

4.99 from 87 votes
This vegan vodka pasta is my all time favorite pasta dish. Perfectly cooked rigatoni tossed in a savory and creamy vegan vodka sauce. Yum!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

  • 1 lb pasta I used rigatoni
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ red onion small, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 6 oz tomato paste canned
  • ¼ cup vodka
  • 14.5 oz coconut milk canned
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • Fresh chopped parsley optional, or garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the rigatoni and cook until al dente; drain but reserve ½ cup of the cooking water for use in the sauce
  • While the pasta cooks, get started on the sauce by using a large skillet or pot over medium heat, then adding olive oil, red onion, garlic, salt, and peppers and cooking, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to soften
  • Add the tomato paste and cook an additional 2-3 minutes
  • Pour in the vodka and allow the alcohol to evaporate, about 4-5 minutes
  • Stir in the coconut milk and nutritional yeast, and bring to a light simmer, then slowly add the pasta water until desired consistency has been reached
  • Serve the sauce over the noodles and garnish with fresh parsley if desired

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 386kcalCarbohydrates: 49gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 325mgPotassium: 491mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 343IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 33mgIron: 3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Banana Cake

October 27, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

homemade banana cake

This vegan banana cake is a layered homemade banana cake that is then topped with a vegan cream cheese. If you have some overripe bananas on your hand this is a must make cake. 

homemade banana cake

I used chopped pecans and walnuts so you have tons of flavor bursting from this vegan cake recipe. Also, make sure to check out these other banana recipes, or dig in to this banana pudding. Or start your morning with these banana oat pancakes. 

This Vegan Banana Cake Is...

  • Vegan Dessert 
  • Dairy Free 
  • Layered Cake 
  • Overripe Banana Recipe 

How to Make Vegan Banana Cake 

homemade banana cake

Full steps and measurements on how to make vegan banana cake are in the printable recipe card. This is a quick walk through. 

  1. Preheat and prep your cake pans. 
  2. Next add your dry ingredients in a medium sized bowl. 
  3. Then in another bowl add your wet ingredients and mix until fully incorporated. 
  4. Then slowly add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. 
  5. Pour the batter into the pans and bake as directed. 
  6. Prep your cream cheese frosting an once the cake is done, frost and stack your cakes. 

Tips For Making Vegan Banana Cake 

homemade banana cake

Ripe Bananas 

It is important to use ripe bananas for this cake. You want brown speckled bananas for this. If they are not ripe you can place the banana in the peel at 225 degrees for 15 minutes or so. You want the peel to turn black. Once it does, remove and allow the bananas to cool. Then mix in the batter as normal. It will give you a ripe banana flavor. 

Room Temperature Vegan Cream Cheese 

Make sure that your vegan cream cheese is softened an room temperature. That way you can get that ultra creamy texture from the frosting. 

Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer 

I love using a mixer for making the cake batter and the frosting. I find especially when making frosting it helps to give you that ultra creamy texture. 

Vegan Banana Cake Variations 

homemade banana cake

Nuts 

Leave out the nuts if you don't want to have a crunch in your cake or the frosting. 

Coconut Flakes 

Stir in ⅓ cup of coconut flakes in the frosting to add a nice twist of coconut flavor to the cake. 

Raisins 

Grab either some regular or golden raisins an add ¼ cup into the cake recipe. It will add a bit more sweetness to the cake. 

Frosting 

Skip the cream cheese vegan frosting if you don't want it. Spread on any of your favorite vegan frostings you would like. From peanut butter to vanilla and all things in between. 

Vegan Banana Cake FAQs

homemade banana cake

Does this cake need to be refrigerated? 

Yes, you will want to refrigerate the cake. You will find since the vegan cream cheese frosting needs refrigerated then don't leave the cake out for longer than two hours. 

Can you freeze this banana cake? 

Yes you can freeze this cake. Just place in a freezer friendly container. Then freeze for 3-4 months. Then thaw in the fridge or on the counter for an hour. 

Recipe

homemade banana cake

Vegan Banana Cake

4.67 from 3 votes
This vegan banana cake is loaded with flavor from fresh bananas, cinnamon, and vanilla - all topped off with a homemade vegan cream cheese frosting. Yum!
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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

For the cake:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ⅓ cup oil
  • 1 ½ cups mashed banana
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

For the frosting:

  • 8 oz vegan cream cheese
  • 5-6 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350 F, grease or line two 6" cake pans and set aside
  • Make the cake by mixing together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt and set aside
    homemade banana cake
  • In a medium bowl, combine the oil, sugar, mashed bananas, and vanilla
    homemade banana cake
  • Mix together until smooth.
    homemade banana cake
  • Pour the flour mixture into the banana mixture and stir until just combined
    homemade banana cake
  • Fold in the walnuts
    homemade banana cake
  • Combine until well mixed.
    homemade banana cake
  • Pour batter into prepared baking pans, and
    homemade banana cake
  • Bake in preheated oven 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into center comes out clean
    homemade banana cake
  • Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by creaming the vegan cream cheese with half the frosting on high until smooth
    homemade banana cake
  • Add the remaining powdered sugar a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition, mix in vanilla extract
    homemade banana cake
  • Allow cake to cool completely before frosting between the layers and topping with additional walnuts
    homemade banana cake

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 826kcalCarbohydrates: 139gProtein: 7gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.04gSodium: 379mgPotassium: 262mgFiber: 6gSugar: 105gVitamin A: 37IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 74mgIron: 2mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Pina Colada

August 2, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

creamy pineapple and coconut drink

Vegan Pina Colada takes literally minutes to whip up. This creamy pineapple and coconut drink is ready to be sipped on in no time. This tropical paradise cocktail is made with rum and is vegan, gluten free, and dairy free. 

creamy pineapple and coconut drink

Try out this pina colada green smoothie for a breakfast idea for those busy mornings. Another pina colada recipe are these pina colada squares, a sliceable dessert the whole crew will enjoy. 

This Vegan Pina Colada Recipe Is...

  • Vegan
  • Gluten Free
  • Dairy Free
  • 5 Minute Drink 
  • Alcoholic 
  • Can Be Made As Mocktail 

How to Make A Pina Colada

tropical paradise cocktail

Full steps on how to make a pina colada are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post. This is a quick walk through on how it is made. 

  1. Add all the ingredients into the blender. 
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy. 
  3. Pour into a glass and serve over ice. 

Helpful Tips For Making Pina Colada 

creamy pineapple and coconut drink

High Speed Blender 

Make sure that you are using a high speed blender. This is going to ensure the mixture really blends well together. Plus the higher speed will break down the frozen pineapple chunks in the recipe. 

Frozen Pineapple 

Make sure your pineapple is frozen, or it will alter the texture of your cocktail. Just place pineapple on a lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Do a single row of pineapple to ensure it evenly freezes. Or buy pre-frozen pineapple to cut a corner of prep. 

Variations to Pina Colada Recipe 

Rum 

I used a dark rum for this recipe. But you are welcome to swap it out with a lighter rum if you want. Or even try out vodka for another twist. 

Coconut Shavings 

Consider adding on some coconut shavings to the top of your drink to showcase the coconut in the drink. You could even blend some coconut up with the pineapple mixture. It will be a bit chewy when you sip. 

Coconut Ice Cream 

If you want to give this a sweeter flavor, swap the coconut cream with coconut ice cream that is dairy free. This is going to enhance the flavors even more and it offers a creamier texture. 

creamy pineapple and coconut drink

Pina Colada FAQs

Are pina coladas healthy? 

You will find that depending on the ingredients used it depends. Some recipes will use a lot of pineapple, coconut cream, and such, which does add in sugar, calories, etc. So use your judgement on brands of each item you need. 

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

I find it is best to serve this up right before you are going to enjoy it. That way it doesn't melt and break down too much and dilute the flavor of the drink. 

Does this recipe double well? 

Go right ahead and make as many of these cocktails as you want. Just make as much that fits in your blender. If you want more then just batch mix up the pina colada mixture then pour in glasses and serve. 

What can I use instead of a simple syrup? 

If you would like you can swap the simple syrup out with a maple syrup. You use the simple syrup to help sweeten up the drink. So just reach for a maple syrup to swap in, if you prefer. The sweeten to your preference. 

How to adjust the thickness of the cocktail? 

Add more liquid to thin up the pina colada. Or to thicken it toss in extra frozen pineapple. Then mix and adjust the ingredients as needed. 

Recipe

creamy pineapple and coconut drink

Vegan Pina Colada

5 from 2 votes
This Vegan Pina Colada is the perfect summer cocktail. Packed with flavor from tangy pineapple and creamy coconut - and ready in just 5 minutes!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup dark rum
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1 ½ cups coconut cream canned
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • ⅓ cup simple syrup
  • 3 cups frozen pineapple chunks
  • 2 ½ cups ice
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a high speed blender.
    tropical paradise cocktail
  • Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you have trouble getting it to blend, add a bit more liquid to the mix.
    tropical paradise cocktail
  • Taste and adjust as desired. If it's not sweet enough for your liking, add additional simple syrup.
  • Serve over ice.
    creamy pineapple and coconut drink

Notes

  • You can use coconut flavored rum or light rum in place of the dark rum if you prefer. The dark rum gives a richer flavor.
  • If you prefer, you can substitute agave syrup or maple syrup in place of the simple syrup.
  • You may use coconut milk instead of coconut cream, but will find it has a thinner consistency.
  • Try garnishing your vegan pina colada with fresh coconut shavings, pineapple slices, or lime wedges.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 653kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 4gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 28gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 31mgPotassium: 626mgFiber: 4gSugar: 52gVitamin A: 99IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 56mgIron: 4mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Sweet Potato Lentil Soup (Vegan & Vegetarian)

June 20, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 3 Comments

vegan lentil soup

This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup is loaded with healthy flavor from hearty sweet potatoes, protein-packed lentils, and fresh tomatoes. Plus it's vegetarian, vegan, and ready in under an hour!

vegan lentil soup

This vegan soup is one you can make and use to meal prep for lunches and dinners. Learn how easy it is to make this sweet potato soup. 

Another delicious soup is this sweet potato chili, it is loaded with flavor. You might also want to try out my vegan stew. For a tasty side to pair with your soup try my quinoa bread rolls. 

This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup Recipe Is...

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian 
  • Dairy Free 
  • Nutrient Rich 
  • Meal Prep Friendly Recipe 

How to Make Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup 

vegan lentil soup

Full directions for this vegan lentil soup are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post. This is a quick walk through. 

  1. Start by heating oil in a pot on the stove. Add in the carrots and saute till they are softened. 
  2. Then add in the onion and garlic cooking until the onions are transluscent. 
  3. Next add in the tomatoes and bay leaves and cook for a few minutes. 
  4. Add in remaining ingredients, and bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce and simmer for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender. 
  5. Serve and enjoy. 

Helpful Tips for Sweet Potato Lentil Soup 

vegan lentil soup

Heavy Duty Pot

I recommend using a heavy duty pot like a Dutch oven as it will create an even heating on the soup. If you use a lighter pot you will find that hot spots can be created and the overall doneness of the soup can vary. 

Cutting Up Vegetables 

Aim to cut up your vegetables into bite-size pieces. It is also important to cut your vegetables into evenly cut pieces. That way all the potatoes and carrots are cooked evenly. 

Variations To Sweet Potato Lentil Soup 

vegan lentil soup

Add More Spices and Herbs 

As you can see I used just a handful of spices and herbs for this recipe. Feel free to adjust the spices to fit your flavor preference if you would like. This would also be delicious with some garam masala or curry powder, or some chili powder for extra spice.

Mix up the Vegetables 

You are welcome to use any vegetables of your choosing to flavor your soup. You could peel and dice up a Russet or Yukon Gold potato. Or add in some corn or other vegetables to add more flavor. Use whatever is in season!

Try Kale 

Instead of using spinach you could swap with kale. I prefer the flavor of spinach, but kale is a wonderful substitute and also super nutritious.

Sweet Potato Lentil Soup FAQs

vegan lentil soup

How to make the soup creamier? 

You can take out some of the soup and blend it up to puree it. This will then be poured back into the pot and stir to thicken. Or you can add in some coconut milk to add a creamy texture to the soup if you want. 

How to store the sweet potato lentil soup? 

This soup can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. This soup is wonderful for meal prepping for lunches or dinners. 

Best way to warm up lentil and sweet potato soup? 

You can warm it up in the microwave or even on the stovetop in a pan. Just heat on low heat and stir often or it will burn. 

More Tasty Recipes

If you love this Lentil Sweet Potato Soup, be sure to check out these other delicious recipes:

  • Old Fashioned Vegan Stew
  • Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole
  • Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

Recipe

vegan lentil soup

Sweet Potato Lentil Soup (Vegan & Vegetarian)

4.67 from 12 votes
This Sweet Potato Lentil Soup is loaded with healthy flavor from hearty sweet potatoes, protein-packed lentils, and fresh tomatoes. Plus it's vegetarian, vegan, and ready in under an hour!
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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour hour
Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup dry lentils rinsed and drained
  • 1 yellow onion peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 sweet potato large, peeled and chopped into small cubes
  • 2 carrots peeled and sliced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 2 to matoes chopped
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the sliced carrots. Sauté until slightly golden and softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Add the onion and garlic and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. Until onion begins to soften and turn translucent.
    vegan lentil soup
  • Add the chopped tomatoes and bay leaves. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
    vegan lentil soup
  • Add the sweet potato, fresh spinach leaves, lentils, smoked paprika, dried oregano, fresh parsley and vegetable broth.
    vegan lentil soup
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
    vegan lentil soup

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 342kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 2059mgPotassium: 1020mgFiber: 19gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 15552IUVitamin C: 24mgCalcium: 94mgIron: 5mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Raw Vegan Strawberry Jam

May 31, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

raw strawberry jam

Have you tried raw vegan strawberry jam before? Just 3 ingredients is all it takes to make this thick, delicious, nutrient rich strawberry jam. Vegan friendly and perfect for spreading on toast, waffles, pancakes, crepes, and more. 

raw strawberry jam

If you are a lover of strawberries, you have to give this a try. Also, check out my 12 chia seed pudding recipes to whip up as well. Or learn how to make cherry pomegranate refrigerator jam. It is so tasty as well. 

Chia seeds seemed to be the perfect addition to this jam to transform the texture and of course give you extra nutrients and leave you feeling full and satisfied. I also have some delicious vegan strawberry recipes you guys might be interested in. 

This Raw Vegan Strawberry Jam Recipe Is...

  • Made with 3 Ingredients 
  • Easy to Make 
  • Perfect for Using Ripe Strawberries 
  • Spreads Well On Bread and other items 
  • Vegan 
  • Vegetarian 
  • Naturally Gluten Free 
  • Dairy Free 

How to Make Vegan Strawberry Jam 

raw strawberry jam

Full steps for this vegan raw strawberry jam are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post. This is a quick walk through on how it is made. 

  1. Start by adding water and chia seeds into a bowl. Stir and let sit for 1 hour. 
  2. Once the chia seeds are a thick paste, you will add the fresh strawberries, and sweetener to a blender. 
  3. Blend until it is pureed. 

Tips for Making Raw Vegan Strawberry Jam 

raw strawberry jam

Blender or Food Processor 

You will want to add all your ingredients into a food processor or high speed blender. Then turn on and let it puree the mixture. 

Scrape Down The Sides 

When blending make sure to take a spatula and scrape down the sides and lift any stuck on bits in the bottom of your blender. Sometimes you will find the berries splatter to the walls and don't puree fully. 

Variations to Raw Vegan Strawberry Jam 

raw strawberry jam

Fruit 

So this is made with strawberries, but you could easily swap it out for any fresh berries you would like. Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, or any other fruit of choice. 

Sweetener 

So I used a liquid sweetener but this is of course optional. If you don't want to sweeten the jam you do not have too. Or you could use a maple syrup if you prefer. 

Strawberry Jam FAQs

raw strawberry jam

How to know my chia seeds are ready to be pureed? 

You want your chia seeds to become a thick paste in the cup. As the chia seeds soak in the water they will expand. And in around an hour or a bit longer you will find they have swelled nicely and create a thick paste. 

How to store this fresh jam? 

You will want to put the vegan jam in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Since there are no preservatives, it will spoil faster than a bottle of jam from the store. 

Can you freeze the strawberry jam? 

To be honest I have never frozen chia seeds in a jam. So I can't say for sure if the texture will be different once it thaws from being frozen. I would think the texture could alter a bit. So if you do try let me know in the comments. 

Recipe

raw strawberry jam

Raw Vegan Strawberry Jam

5 from 3 votes
This raw vegan strawberry jam is quick, easy, and made with just three simple ingredients. It's the perfect topping for pancakes, toast, or muffins!
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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes
Soaking Time: 1 hour hour
Servings: 8 servings (each about ¼ cup)
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Ingredients

  • ½ cup water
  • 2 tablespoon chía seeds
  • 2 cups strawberries fresh, green tops removed
  • 1 tablespoon of liquid sweetener such as stevia, optional
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Mix the wáter and chia seeds together in a small bowl or jar.
  • Let the chia seed mixture rest for at least an hour, until it becomes a a thick paste.
  • Combine the chía seed paste, the fresh strawberries and the sweetener (optional) in a blender
    raw strawberry jam
  • Puree until smooth.
    raw strawberry jam

Notes

  • This vegan strawberry jam is a great topping for pancakes, waffles, or crepes.
  • It's even great layered with dairy-free yogurt as a parfait!
  • Keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • You can substitute other berries or fruits for the strawberries to make a variety of jam flavors.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 26kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 2mgPotassium: 67mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 21mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

May 26, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan coleslaw no mayo

This easy vegan coleslaw is the ultimate side dish to serve up. Loaded with crisp cabbage, red bell pepper, carrots, and paired with a homemade coleslaw dressing. Top with crunchy slivered almonds and green onions. 

vegan coleslaw no mayo

Whether you are needing a potluck side dish or weeknight side, this vegan coleslaw recipe is a must make. It is nutrient rich and loaded with flavor. Tangy, crunchy, and slightly sweet. A vegan side dish that won't disappoint. 

An easy Asian coleslaw recipe that is going to win you over with one bite. Also check out my other slaw recipes. If you like sweet slaws this apple raisin slaw is popular as well. 

This Vegan Coleslaw Recipe Is...

  • Made without mayo 
  • Vegan 
  • Vegetarian 
  • Naturally Gluten Free 
  • Crunchy 
  • Homemade Coleslaw Dressing 

How to Make Vegan Coleslaw 

vegan coleslaw no mayo

Full steps on how to make this vegan coleslaw is featured in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post. This is a quick walk through on how it is made. 

  1. Grab a mixing bowl and add your coleslaw, red bell pepper and carrots. Then you you will toss to mix the ingredients together. 
  2. Next you will grab a small bowl and add all the ingredients in the dressing, and whisk well. Once it is creamy and no clumps it is mixed enough. 
  3. Pour the dressing on top of the cabbage mixture and toss to coat all the ingredients. 
  4. If you want top with slivered almonds and green onions right before serving. 

Helpful Tips For Vegan Coleslaw Recipe 

vegan coleslaw no mayo

Chop Vegetables Small 

You will want to chop your vegetables into bite size pieces. If the pieces are too large it will make it harder to eat the salad. If you find your coleslaw mix is in too big of pieces you can chop it down as well. 

Marinate Slaw 

If you want you can marinate the coleslaw for 2-3 hours before you serve it. This will help enhance all the flavors and help break down the coleslaw a bit. You can eat it without chilling first, but it will add more flavor. 

Whisk 

I do recommend using a whisk for mixing up the dressing. I find it helps to remove any clumps that are in the dressing, and really incorporates all the seasonings and oils. 

Variations to Vegan Coleslaw 

vegan coleslaw no mayo

Vinegar 

If you don't have a rice vinegar you can use a white wine vinegar. It will alter the flavor a bit but it won't be that noticeable. 

Soy Sauce 

If you are worried about the sodium, you can use a low sodium sauce. Simply use the same amount the 1 tablespoons. 

Cranberries or Raisins 

If you do want to add sweetness to the coleslaw, just add in ¼ cup of raisins or dried cranberries for the salad. 

Vegan Coleslaw FAQs

vegan coleslaw no mayo

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix? 

Grab a green cabbage and thinly slice it up and use instead of a bag of coleslaw mix. Depending on the size of the cabbage you might use some or all of the cabbage. 

How long will this coleslaw last? 

You can store this coleslaw in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You will find with each day the vegetables will soften up a bit. I do recommend eating it within the first 2 days of it being made. 

Can you freeze coleslaw? 

Unfortunately you can't freeze the coleslaw. The vegetables would become very mushy once it is thawed from being frozen. So I recommend only making what you plan to eat. 

Recipe

vegan coleslaw no mayo

Easy Vegan Coleslaw

5 from 2 votes
This tasty vegan coleslaw is loaded with fresh veggies, easy to make in just a few minutes, and tossed with a delicious sweet and savory dressing. Perfect for summer!
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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 servings
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Ingredients

  • 1 bag coleslaw mix shredded
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 cup carrots shredded

For dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
  • 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon ginger peeled and minced or use ginger paste
  • 1 clove garlic peeled and minced

For topping:

  • ¼ cup slivered almonds
  • 1 pc green onion thinly sliced
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix, red bell pepper, and carrots.
    vegan coleslaw no mayo
  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, and garlic.
    vegan coleslaw no mayo
  • Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss until the veggies are well coated.
    vegan coleslaw no mayo
  • If desired, top the coleslaw with slivered almonds and green onions before serving.
    vegan coleslaw no mayo

Notes

  • If you prefer your vegan coleslaw more chilled, you can refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 94kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 148mgPotassium: 213mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 3195IUVitamin C: 41mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

25+ Best Vegan Recipes For Summer

May 12, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

best vegan recipes

We've rounded up our best vegan recipes for summer! From smoothies and muffins for breakfast, refreshing sweet treats like Vegan Strawberry Mango Popsicles and Vegan Banana Pudding to delightful sushi sandwiches and easy one-skillet recipes for meatless lunch or dinners, they're all easy to make and enjoy all through the warm season.

best vegan recipes

25+ Best Vegan Recipes For Summer

Breakfast

Strawberry-Vanilla Maca Smoothie

Our strawberry-vanilla maca smoothie is the perfect start to your day! Thanks to the maca powder and delightful fresh fruit, it's packed with incredible health benefits. This smoothie has a soft, creamy, strawberry-vanilla flavor, and it takes only five minutes to make! Our strawberry-vanilla maca smoothie is a filling, nutritious breakfast idea that has a delicious taste.

Vegan Blueberry Pancakes

Vegan blueberry pancakes make the perfect addition to your Saturday brunch. We bet it will be your new favorite pancake recipe, actually! These pancakes are made with simple ingredients and have a satisfying, fluffy texture. They're incredibly fragrant and are a one-bowl recipe. Easy preparation, simple clean-up, and tasty pancakes! These vegan blueberry pancakes are going to be the most requested breakfast.

Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Muffins are perfect for any time, so we put these lemon blueberry muffins with our breakfast, but we certainly encourage enjoying them at any time of the day. They have a soft, subtle lemon flavor with a perfect muffin texture.

Salads

Best Vegan Potato Salad

Our vegan potato salad recipe is the best. It makes the ideal summer side dish and delivers a satisfying flavor. It is made with flavor-packed fresh herbs and an abundance of vegetables. Vegan potato salad has a great texture and an earthy flavor to it. It is a great salad for all your summer bbqs' and potlucks.

Massaged Kale Salad with Orange-Miso Dressing

Massaged kale salad with orange-miso dressing is a comforting, cozy, and satisfying dish. It is gluten and oil-free and prepared with an abundance of rich, healthy greens. This kale salad is hearty and will keep you full for a long time. It also looks quite pretty on a plate.

Main Dishes

Marinated Mushrooms With Wild Rice

Marinated mushrooms with wild rice makes a great option for a meatless dinner. It is easy to make and ready to enjoy in less than an hour. Marinated mushrooms with wild rice also looks great on a dish. It’s a wonderful meal to serve for guests as well.

Vegan Sushi Sandwich

Our vegan sushi sandwich takes some effort, we admit, but it's also absolutely DELISH to the max! It's a delightful sandwich for all sushi-lovers and makes a great lunch or dinner.

Vegan White Beans and Kale Skillet

Vegan white beans and kale skillet is packed with nutrition. It is a hearty meal with white beans, kale, sweet onions, and a handful of other delicious ingredients. This skillet recipe is Italian-inspired and guaranteed to give great taste! Not only is vegan white beans and kale skillet super delicious, but its' also easy to toss together. It's a great hearty dinner for a busy work week.

Vegan Zucchini Noodles with Vegan Bolognese

Vegan zucchini noodles with vegan bolognese is a healthy and well-balanced vegan meal. It is entirely plant-based and low-carb but massively tasty. This vegan noodle dish recipe even has all the secrets you need to make the best-tasting zucchini noodles right at home.

Zucchini Fritters

These little fritters are a great meal, apple, or snack. Even your kids will love them! Our zucchini fritter recipe is healthy and has the best texture. They're perfectly crispy on the outside, and you're greeted with soft deliciousness on the inside. These zucchini fritters are low calories and taste great paired with creamy cashew cream cheese. You can't go wrong with fritters, and these zucchini-based ones are the best.

Ginger Grilled Tofu

Ginger-grilled tofu is a great recipe. It has a satisfying flavor and can be served alongside nearly anything. Try steamed or grilled veggies, your favorite garden salad, or some rice. Ginger-grilled tofu is a versatile dish that compliments any side dish.

Portobello Mushroom Steak

This vegan steak is easy to whip up and tastes fantastic. In addition to this, it is a very versatile meat replacement. You can easily serve this vegan steak to guests at a summer bbq or a potluck. It looks beautiful and can be paired with your favorite steak side.

Portobello Mushroom Wraps with Creamy Coleslaw

Perfect for a hearty lunch or refreshing dinner, these portobello mushroom wraps are the perfect balance of creamy and tangy. They're easy to make, low in calories, and healthy. These mushroom wraps are sure to be a hit.

Snacks/Extras

Vegan Strawberry Mango Popsicles

If you're looking for a refreshing sweet treat, you found it with our vegan strawberry-mango popsicles. They are a 3-ingredient, cool treat that is entirely vegan. In addition, these popsicles are made with real, healthy ingredients.

Vegan Strawberry Nice Cream

Our vegan strawberry ice cream is a guilt-free treat. There isn't any added sugar to this frosty delight, and it's made with fresh fruit. It's sweet, chilly, and delicious.

No-bake Vegan Strawberry Shortcakes

This vegan summer dessert is a delicious no-bake treat. It's easy to make and looks beautiful. It's a great dessert for all occasions and is packed with tons of fresh strawberries. This vegan dessert is simple, sweet, and satisfying.

Strawberry-Watermelon Slush (with ACV option)

There isn’t anything better on a hot summer day than fresh watermelon slush! It’s so tasty and quenches your thirst immediately. Well, this watermelon slush adds in fresh strawberries to take the flavor to another level. It is sweet and delicious.

Rustic Vegan Strawberry Tart

This plant-based strawberry tart is going to be a hit this summer! It's bursting with fresh flavor from the strawberries and has a perfect pie crust texture. This strawberry tart is delicious, but it's also ready to eat in under an hour. It's fast, simple, and guaranteed goodness every time.

Easy Skillet Blueberry Crumble

Our easy skillet blueberry crumble comes together with just a few ingredients. It looks beautiful in a dish, and it tastes even better. This recipe is simple and perfect for a beginner baker but delivers a professional baker's taste.

Blueberry Cheesecake (Vegan and Raw)

This vegan blueberry cheesecake is rich and decadent. It's entirely vegan but has the texture of a traditional cheesecake, thanks to the rich nutty ingredients. Our blueberry cheesecake is easy to make and makes a delightful dessert for summer picnics and barbecues.

Fresh Mango or Nectarine and Blueberry Ice Pops

These ice pops are sure to be a hit at your next event. They're refreshing, chilly, and healthy, all on a popsicle stick. In addition, they're made with fresh fruit, giving these ice pops a sweet, fresh flavor. These ice pops are delicious!

Cookies and Cream Vegan Popsicles

These dairy-free popsicles require only five ingredients. They're simple to make and taste fantastic. Vegan cookies and cream popsicles are the ultimate sweet treat but are entirely vegan and can easily be gluten-free if needed too.

Vegan Banana Pudding

This rich, creamy, decadent vegan summer dessert will be a hit. It's easy to make and entirely vegan. It's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

No-Bake Vegan Lemon Bars

These no-bake vegan lemon bars are a summery treat. They're perfect for all occasions and are easy to make. These lemon bars are a simple, vegan no-bake dessert that everyone will be asking for the recipe for!

Late Summer Fruit Salad with Agave-Mint Dressing

This vegan summer dessert is bursting with sweet, juicy fresh fruit. It’s the perfect side to any summer BBQ and has a satisfying mint dressing. Our late summer fruit salad will be a winner at your summer gatherings.

5-Minute Vegan Peanut Butter Dip

April 26, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan peanut butter dip

This quick and easy vegan peanut butter dip is perfect for dipping fresh apples, veggies, or spreading on toast or crackers. And it's ready in just 5 minutes!

vegan peanut butter dip
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I whipped this up one afternoon as a quick snack one afternoon when I was craving something a bit sweet. And it's turned out to be one of my new favorite vegan snack!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Dip

I served this vegan peanut butter dip in so many ways, but my favorites are:

  • As a dipping sauce for fresh apple slices.
  • As a topping for celery sticks.
  • Spread on a slice of whole wheat toast for breakfast.

This could even make a great lunch served on a slice of toast alongside a delicious and healthy green smoothie.

Variations

Any nut butter can replace the peanut butter in this dip - try cashew butter or almond butter for a creamy alternative.

This dip does not need to be measured exactly, just throw the ingredients in your blender and blend away. If you need a bit more nondairy milk to get it to blend, add some. If you need more maple syrup or another date to sweeten it, add it. Experiment! It really is hard to mess up this mixture of ingredients. They just go together and come out great.

This is also a great way to incorporate flax seed into your diet. Flax is high in Omega-3 essential fatty acids which are good fats shown to have heart healthy effects. Flax is also high in fiber. In order to absorb these nutrients, the seed must be broken apart in a blender or grinder.

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan peanut butter dip, be sure to check out our other vegan snack ideas or these reader favorites:

  • Vegan Peanut Butter Cups
  • Easy Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
  • 25 Best Vegan Dip Recipes

Recipe

vegan peanut butter dip

Easy Vegan Peanut Butter Dip

4.80 from 5 votes
This quick and easy peanut butter dip is perfect for dipping fresh apples, veggies, or spreading on toast or crackers.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Cook Time: 5 minutes minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 ¼ cup servings
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Equipment

  • Blender or food processor

Ingredients

  • ½ cup peanut butter
  • ¼ cup almond milk or other nondairy milk
  • ¼ cup maple syrup or 2-3 Medjool dates
  • ½ banana
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
  • apple slices, fresh veggies, or toast for serving
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth.
  • Add more nondairy milk if needed and scrape down sides.
  • Serve with apple slices or on toast.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 181kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 107mgPotassium: 196mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 6IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Images via Canva Pro.

Vegan Blueberry Pancakes

April 5, 2022 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan blueberry pancakes

Pancakes are a staple in my house, especially when I'm planning our Saturday brunch! Pancakes are so satisfying and have a cozy, nostalgic feel to them. Our Vegan Blueberry Pancakes will be your new go-to. They're made with flour, vanilla almond milk, applesauce, and a few other pantry-staple ingredients. They smell great and have that perfect fluffy pancake texture we all know and love.

stack of vegan blueberry pancakes with a slice cut out and fork and syrup on white plate
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One of the best parts about making pancakes is knowing that they'll always be tasty-and our recipe for vegan pancakes isn't any different. This recipe has been taste-tasted by even the pickiest of eaters and still checks out as being absolutely DELISH!

Our blueberry pancakes follow a simple recipe. They're a perfect meal to get your littles involved in making. They'll have a blast measuring and mixing, and before you know it, the pancakes will be ready to enjoy!

This Vegan Blueberry Pancakes recipe is...

  • Easy to make
  • A one-bowl recipe
  • Great for making with your littles
  • Perfect for Saturday brunch
  • Loaded with nutrient-packed blueberries
  • Fluffy and scrumptious

How to Make Vegan Blueberry Pancakes

how to make vegan blueberry pancakes collage
  1. Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a large bowl.
  3. Add wet ingredients and stir until combined.
  4. Fold in blueberries until evenly distributed.
  5. Cook the pancakes until they're golden brown on both sides.
  6. Serve warm topped with fresh blueberries and maple syrup.

Full directions for how to make Vegan Blueberry Pancakes are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Tips & Tricks for Vegan Blueberry Pancakes

stack of vegan blueberry pancakes on white plate on top of wooden cutting board on marble countertop

Large Bowl

This is a simple one-bowl recipe which means all of the ingredients get mixed together in one large mixing bowl. Make sure to choose a large enough bowl that will give you enough room to mix everything. Choosing a large enough bowl will decrease any spillage.We love this stainless steel mixing bowl set.

Whisking Benefits

You've probably seen the word "whisk" countless times in recipes, but do you know why? Whisking accomplishes two things at once: it mixes the ingredients and incorporates air. The shape of the whisk allows the wires to grab all of the batter around the bowl, mix, and bring in air. Because of this, whisking usually results in a fluffy result-in this case, extra fluffy pancakes!

If you don't own a whisk already, here are a few to consider:

  • 3-Pack Stainless Steel Whisk
  • 11-Inch Whisk

Baking Powder

Baking powder is an important ingredient in our pancakes, and it's crucial that your baking powder is fresh and active. Usually, baking powder has a shelf life of anywhere from 6-12 months.

To test if your baking powder is active, simply drop half a teaspoon into boiling water. The water should bubble up quickly. If it doesn't, then the baking powder isn't active, and you'll need to replace it in order to make a recipe successfully.

Brunch Deliciousness

If you're anything like my family and me, then you LOVE brunch! Our blueberry pancakes are a perfect addition to any brunch plan. Here are a few other brunch-y ideas to try:

  • Wheat Bran Muffins
  • Southwestern Tofu Scramble
  • Vegan French Toast
  • Vegan Vanilla Fruit Cup Soup

Variations to Vegan Blueberry Pancakes

Pancake Toppings

I topped our pancakes with fresh blueberries and a drizzle of maple syrup. A few other pancake topping ideas include jam, lemon and sugar, and vegan bacon and maple syrup.

Vegan Blueberry Pancakes FAQs

close up stack of vegan blueberry pancakes topped with blueberries and syrup on white plate on wooden board

Why don't my pancakes have the right texture?

The texture of pancakes depends a lot on the quality of the ingredients used and the process of combining them. To have the best tasting pancakes, use fresh ingredients. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter; simply whisk until combined.

How do you know when to flip the pancakes?

The common mistake when making pancakes is trying to flip them too early. Many people flip their pancakes right after the batter bubbles; however, you should wait until the batter bubbles pop and don't bubble anymore. This indicates that the underside is cooked (because the hole is not filling up with more batter to bubble again), and it's ready to flip.

Recipe

vegan blueberry pancakes

Vegan Blueberry Pancakes

4.67 from 3 votes
Pancakes are a staple in my house, especially when I'm planning our Saturday brunch! Our Vegan Blueberry Pancakes will be your new go-to.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 8 pancakes
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup flour
  • 2 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup vanilla almond milk
  • ⅓ cup applesauce
  • 2 tablespoon oil
  • ½ cup blueberries
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
    vegan blueberry pancakes
  • Add the almond milk, applesauce, and oil, and stir until combined
    vegan blueberry pancakes
  • Mix well-some lumps are okay.
    vegan blueberry pancakes
  • Fold in the blueberries until evenly distributed.
    vegan blueberry pancakes
  • Cook the pancakes in the preheated pan, using a ¼ cup measuring cup to scoop the batter.
    vegan blueberry pancakes
  • Flip once after 3-4 minutes, then cook an additional 3-4 minutes or until both sides are lightly golden brown.
    vegan blueberry pancakes
  • Serve pancakes warm with additional blueberries and some maple syrup.
    vegan blueberry pancakes

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 112kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 32mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 81mgIron: 1mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew

December 11, 2021 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 17 Comments

vegan irish stew

This Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew is thick, hearty, and comforting. It's loaded with tons of veggies and smothered in a thick, creamy, savory broth. This vegan stew is great for dinner and tastes delicious reheated the next day too. 

bowl of old-fashioned vegan stew
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This vegan stew is loaded with carrots, celery, potatoes, mushrooms, peas, and more. This has quickly become one of my all time favorite vegan stews. Give it a try and let me know how you enjoy it!

This Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew recipe is...

  • An old-fashioned classic stew 
  • Loaded with nutrient-rich veggies 
  • Thickened with a roux base 
  • Made with flavorful fresh herbs
  • Great for meal prepping

How to Make Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew 

how to make old-fashioned vegan stew collage
  1. Add oil to a pot. Cook onion and garlic on medium heat until translucent. 
  2. Add potatoes, carrots, peas, and mushrooms, and cook. 
  3. Add herbs, broth, tomatoes, soy sauce, and vinegar. Stir and bring to boil. 
  4. Make cornstarch slurry and stir in to thicken soup. 
  5. Turn down heat, cover, and let simmer. 

Full directions for how to make Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Tips & Tricks for Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew 

close up spoonful of old-fashioned vegan stew

Cutting the Vegetables 

Make sure that when you are chopping the vegetables for this stew, you cut everything into true bite-size pieces. You don't want super large chunks of vegetables, as they will be hard to eat. 

Sauté the Garlic & Onions 

When you sauté the onion and garlic, it helps to really enhance the deep flavor of this vegan stew. The sautéed vegetables will give your stew a rich and hearty flavor. If you don't sauté the onions and garlic, as some people do to save time, you will find that they have a sharper flavor. 

Use a Heavy Duty Pot 

Using a Dutch oven or other heavy duty pot is great as it will provide an even cooking surface for the stew. Cast iron is a good choice as well. If your pot isn't sturdy, it can create hot spots and your veggies will vary in doneness. 

Variations to Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew 

ingredients in pot for old-fashioned vegan stew

Add Rice or Quinoa 

Barley, rice, and quinoa are all great additions to this veggie-packed stew. Adding any of these grains will make your stew a lot heartier. I would recommend tossing some in if you feel you want a bit more depth. 

Mix in Pasta 

You can also add some vegan-friendly pasta to your stew. Just add it in at the end of the cooking time. Adding pasta will add more carbs to your soup but also allow the stew to stretch a bit more and feed a larger crowd.

Different Vegetables

You can mix in other varieties of veggies to your stew, as well. I used what I had on hand, but you can swap out different vegetables depending on what you have in your fridge and what's in season. For example, you could toss in some squash, zucchini or cauliflower! 

Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew FAQs

white bowl of old-fashioned vegan stew sitting in front of a gray cooking pot

How do you know when the stew is done? 

You will know your stew is done when the potatoes are fork tender. When the potatoes are done, you can take your stew off the heat. However, I like to cook mine a bit longer as it helps blend the flavors even more. 

Why add in the cornstarch slurry? 

Cornstarch and water combined - referred to as a slurry - is a thickening agent used for thickening soups, stews, and more. I find that a cornstarch slurry is great for thickening dishes without altering the flavor of the recipes you are cooking. 

How do you store leftovers? 

Store your leftover stew in the fridge for 3-5 days. When you want some, you can simply warm it up in the microwave or over low heat on the stove. Just make sure to stir your stew periodically as it reheats- it will burn if left to simmer too long. 

More Tasty Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan stew, be sure to check out these other delicious ideas:

  • Vegan Sweet Potato Lentil Soup
  • Vegan Comfort Food Casseroles
  • Vegan Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

And while you're here, don't forget to grab a copy of my free vegan cheat sheet. It's packed with all my favorite substitutions to vegan-ize any recipe!

Recipe

vegan irish stew

Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew

4.87 from 61 votes
This Old-Fashioned Vegan Stew is thick, hearty, and comforting. It's loaded with tons of veggies and smothered in a thick, creamy broth base.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes
Total Time: 1 hour hour
Servings: 4 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion minced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 large carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 2 cups baby potatoes halved
  • 1 cup white mushrooms sliced & quartered
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 19 oz diced tomatoes canned with garlic
  • 3 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • small bunch fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoon water
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil, then add onion and garlic; sauté 3-4 minutes or until onion is translucent.
    vegan beef stew
  • Add the carrots, celery, baby potatoes, mushrooms, and peas into the pot.
    vegan beef stew
  • Cook for 2-3 minutes.
    vegan irish stew
  • Add the Italian seasoning, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, and thyme. Stir and bring to a boil.
    vegan irish stew
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to form a slurry mix. Add to the stew and stir.
    vegan irish stew
  • Turn heat down, cover pot, and simmer for 45 minutes or until veggies are tender.
    vegan irish stew
  • Serve.
    vegan irish stew

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 244kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 8gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 1282mgPotassium: 974mgFiber: 7gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 8362IUVitamin C: 48mgCalcium: 99mgIron: 3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Banana Pudding

September 17, 2021 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

vegan banana pudding

With just a few simple ingredients you can serve up this creamy and delicious Vegan Banana Pudding! Full of sweet banana flavor, this pudding is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Add a dollop of creamy vegan whipped cream and dig in!

two bowls of vegan banana pudding with banana slices on top
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Craving a little something sweet? Whip up this simple vegan banana pudding in just 15 minutes, then pop it in the fridge to chill. This easy dessert is one of our family favorites!

This Vegan Banana Pudding recipe is...

  • Vegan 
  • Vegetarian 
  • Dairy-free 
  • Gluten-free 
  • Made with real bananas 
  • Homemade

And while you're here, don't forget to grab a copy of my free vegan cheat sheet. It's packed with all my favorite substitutions to vegan-ize any recipe!

How to Make Vegan Banana Pudding 

collage showing how to make vegan banana pudding
  1. In a bowl, mash bananas. Then add them to a saucepan on the stove. 
  2. Add coconut cream, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and turmeric. 
  3. Mix well and heat over medium low until boiling. Stir often. 
  4. Transfer mixture to heat-proof container, and chill in fridge at least 4 hours.
  5. Once the banana pudding is set, top with bananas and serve. 

Detailed directions and measurements for this Vegan Banana Pudding are in the printable recipe card below. 

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Vegan Banana Pudding! 

vegan banana pudding cooking on the stove

Use Very Ripe Bananas 

Make sure to use very ripe bananas for this recipe. In fact, it's best if they are a bit overripe. Then you'll want to mash them up with a fork, working out any large lumps so your pudding has a nice creamy texture.

Stir Frequently 

You have to stir the pudding a lot while it is on the stove. If you don't keep stirring, the pudding may burn on the bottom of the pot and ruin your dessert.

Use a Food Processor 

If you want a very creamy pudding with no banana chunks at all, you can use a food processor to pulse the banana mixture. The consistency will also be a bit thinner if you use this method.

Banana Pudding Variations

ingredients for vegan banana pudding in a pot on the stove

Alternative Sweeteners

I used maple syrup for this recipe. But if you want, you can swap the syrup with an artificial sweetener, like Stevia, to cut out some of the sugar content. 

You can also substitute the maple syrup with agave syrup or honey (a non-vegan option) if you prefer.

Add a Dash of Turmeric 

The turmeric is completely optional, but it will add a nice vibrant yellow color to your banana pudding.

Make a Parfait 

You can use this Vegan Banana Pudding to make some tasty vegan parfaits. Use graham crackers or granola for the first layer of your parfait. Then add a layer of pudding and a layer of vegan whipped cream! This makes a delicious vegan breakfast or dessert.

Add Toppings

Serve the banana pudding cold and top with your favorite garnishes. Vegan whipped cream, cherries, or fresh sliced bananas are all great choices.

FAQs

bowl of vegan banana pudding with spoon

Is coconut cream the same thing as coconut milk? 

Coconut cream and coconut milk are not the same, so make sure you buy canned coconut cream. Coconut cream is ultra thick and gives the banana pudding that rich flavor and creamy texture. 

What does the cornstarch do in this recipe? 

The cornstarch in this recipe helps to thicken the pudding while it cooks on the stove. Without cornstarch, your pudding would take a lot longer to reach the desired consistency, if it ever did at all.

How can I make this pudding less sweet? 

If you want to tone down the sweetness of this pudding, simply use less maple syrup. If you prefer less sweet, start with ¼ cup and add more from there.

How should I store banana pudding? 

Banana pudding needs to be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

More Vegan Recipes

If you love this vegan banana pudding, be sure to check out these other delicious vegan desserts:

  • Vegan Chia Seed Pudding Recipes
  • Vegan Chocolate Bread Pudding
  • Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding
  • Vegan Oat Flour Banana Bread

Recipe

vegan banana pudding

Vegan Banana Pudding

4.50 from 4 votes
With just a few simple ingredients you can serve up this creamy and delicious Vegan Banana Pudding. This dessert is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
Chill time: 4 hours hours
Total Time: 4 hours hours 15 minutes minutes
Servings: 2 servings
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Ingredients

  • 2 bananas very ripe, medium
  • 1 ½ cups coconut cream
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • pinch turmeric optional for color
  • sliced bananas optional for garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mash the bananas.
    vegan banana pudding
  • Add the mashed bananas, coconut cream, maple syrup, cornstarch, vanilla, salt, and turmeric (if using) to a medium saucepan.
    vegan banana pudding
  • Heat ingredients on medium low until just beginning to boil, stirring frequently.
    vegan banana pudding
  • Transfer pudding to a heat-proof container and place in refrigerator until chilled and thickened, at least 4 hours.
    vegan banana pudding
  • Serve pudding with sliced bananas if desired.
    vegan banana pudding

Notes

  • If you want your pudding to be less sweet, only use half of the maple syrup in the recipe.
  • To make the pudding extra thick, double the amount of cornstarch.
  • Mashing the bananas with a fork won't get them perfectly smooth, so the pudding will have some minor lumps. For a completely smooth pudding, use a food processor to mash your bananas.
  • This recipe calls for coconut cream-not coconut milk. They are not the same thing!

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 937kcalCarbohydrates: 97gProtein: 8gFat: 63gSaturated Fat: 55gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 307mgPotassium: 1192mgFiber: 7gSugar: 63gVitamin A: 76IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 114mgIron: 5mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

Vegan Mango Ice Cream

August 27, 2021 by Nicole @ VegKitchen 1 Comment

vegan mango ice cream

You only need 3 ingredients to make this creamy and delicious real-fruit Vegan Mango Ice Cream! This vegan ice cream is made using coconut milk and organic sugar. A delicious dessert, this mango ice cream is perfect to whip up and enjoy after a long day. 

bowl of vegan mango ice cream with puree on top

If you are a fan of mangos, consider making yourself a batch of this simple mango dessert. This dessert has such a creamy texture that it literally melts away in your mouth! You can have this ice cream whipped up and in the freezer in 30 minutes, no ice cream churner required.

Top off your fresh mango ice cream with some homemade magic shell or serve it alongside some tasty Vegan Vanilla Cake. If you want to get really creative, you can use it to make some homemade ice cream sandwiches!

How to Make Vegan Mango Ice Cream

how to make vegan mango ice cream collage
  1. Start by adding your mangos to the food processor. Mix until smooth. 
  2. Add mango and sugar to a pot on the stove and simmer. 
  3. Once a thick jam-like texture, place mixture back into the food processor and blend with coconut milk. 
  4. Pour mixture into freezer-friendly container, and freeze until hardened. 
  5. Scoop and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks for Vegan Mango Ice Cream 

food processor full of mango chunks for vegan mango ice cream

Food Processor 

I recommend using a food processor to make this ice cream. You can also try using a high powered blender, but it has to be good quality. I prefer using a food processor because it mixes your ingredients to create that ultra creamy ice cream texture!

Stir Frequently 

When you are cooking, make sure to stir the mango mixture frequently. Because this mixture has a lot of sugar, it will burn if you let it sit without stirring. 

Freezer Container 

You can buy special containers for no-churn ice cream. Or you can just use a regular loaf pan! Just cover the pan with two layers of aluminum foil to keep it from getting freezer burned. 

Variations to Vegan Mango Ice Cream

loaf pan full of vegan mango ice cream

Mix-Ins

Consider mixing in some unsweetened coconut flakes, chopped nuts, or even mini pieces of white chocolate! Just add the mix-ins to your ice cream right before you pour the mixture into your freezer container.

Replace Sugar 

If you don't want to use organic sugar, you can use agave or maple syrup instead. Either option will still sweeten the ice cream without using classic sugar. No matter what kind of sweetener you use, you will still cook your ice cream the same. 

Fresh vs Frozen

You can use fresh or frozen mango for this recipe. You can choose which kind of mango you want to use-this ice cream recipe will work either way!

Other Fruit 

Try mixing in some raspberries, strawberries, or other fruit for added flavor. I love a good mango kiwi ice cream!

Vegan Mango Ice Cream FAQs

vegan mango ice cream in a loaf pan with scoops rolled out on top

How long does it take for this ice cream to freeze? 

You ice cream will take around 4-6 hours to completely freeze. Or, if you can, just make it the night before you want to eat it! Your ice cream will have a softer texture when you pour it into the pan, but it will firm up in the freezer.

Why is my ice cream hard to scoop? 

No-churn ice cream can be harder to scoop than regular ice cream. When you want to eat some no-churn, let it sit on the counter for 5-10 minutes first. This will soften the ice cream enough to make scooping easier.

Alternatively, you can soak your ice cream scoop in really hot water. Then let the excess water drip off and scoop your ice cream! 

How long can I store this vegan ice cream? 

You can store your ice cream in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. This ice cream is best eaten sooner than later, as ice crystals can begin to form and alter the flavor. You need to keep your ice cream in a really airtight container to prevent too many ice crystals.

Recipe

vegan mango ice cream

Vegan Mango Ice Cream

5 from 6 votes
You only need 3 ingredients to make this creamy and delicious real-fruit Vegan Mango Ice Cream. It's the perfect summer treat!
Print Pin Save Saved!
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes
Freezing Time: 4 hours hours
Total Time: 4 hours hours 30 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 serving cups
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Ingredients

  • 2 cups mango cubed, fresh or frozen
  • ¼ cup organic sugar optional
  • 2 cups coconut milk full fat
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Place cubed mangos in a food processor.
    vegan mango ice cream
  • Process the mangos until smooth
    vegan mango ice cream
  • Mix the mango puree and sugar in a small saucepan and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until thickened into a jam-like consistency. Stir frequently.
    vegan mango ice cream
  • Pour the mango mixture back into the food processor (or blender). Add the coconut milk and process until smooth.
    vegan mango ice cream
  • Transfer ice cream mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover.
    vegan mango ice cream
  • Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
    vegan mango ice cream

Notes

  • Simmer the mango puree on a low heat to avoid burning.
  • Allow the finished ice cream to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before trying to scoop. This will help soften the ice cream slightly.
  • You can replace the sugar in this recipe with a bit of maple syrup or agave if you prefer.
  • You can use fresh or frozen mango chunks.

Nutrition (Estimate per Serving)

Calories: 214kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 2gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 10mgPotassium: 258mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 595IUVitamin C: 21mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg
Vegan-ize any recipe!Grab our free vegan cheat sheet, packed with my favorite easy substitutions to make any recipe vegan.

35 Vegan Cookie Recipes

August 7, 2021 by Nicole @ VegKitchen Leave a Comment

vegan cookie recipes
35 vegan cookie recipes

It's cookie time! It's no secret that I have a big sweet tooth, and nothing quite hits the spot like a fresh baked cookie.

So I've gathered up all of my most popular vegan cookie recipes right here. From chocolatey crinkle cookies, to fluffy pumpkin cookies, to healthyish granola cookies - there's a vegan cookie here for everyone!

35 Vegan Cookie Recipes

Here are all my favorite vegan cookie recipes - straight from a vegan food blogger and cookbook author!

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are both soft and chewy. Dusted with powdered sugar, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, bake, and eat! These small cookies pack a punch with their smooth, sweet chocolate and gluten-free deliciousness!

Vegan and Gluten-Free Almond Thumbprint Cookies

These Vegan and Gluten-Free Almond Thumbprint Cookies are both delicious and gorgeous! They are sprinkled with confectioners sugar and massively delicious in every bite. Baked for only 15 minutes, these cookies are quick to put together and probably won't stay uneaten very long!

Chocolate Nut Cookies

This recipe makes four dozen little Chocolate Nut Cookies, so it’s perfect for large families, classrooms, and BBQs! These cookies are super easy to put together. For extra deliciousness, top them with powdered sugar! Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and walnuts with this simple recipe.

Chewy Chocolate Strawberry Cookies

This Chewy Chocolate Strawberry Cookies recipe uses dried strawberries, an ingredient found in many health food or bulk stores. You can easily substitute coconut oil or vegan butter for the dairy butter in this recipe to veganize these delicious cookies. There really is no better dessert combo than chocolate and strawberries!

Vegan No-Bake Chocolate Cookies

Vegan No-Bake Chocolate Cookies are the perfect cookie for even the beginning baker! These cookies are simple to put together and ready in just minutes. This cookie recipe is simply divine! It's soft, chewy, and delightful.

Vegan Blackberry Cookies

This summery cookie is a heavenly combination of both blackberry and orange flavors. These Vegan Blackberry Cookies are velvety, fluffy, and perfect for those who have a sweet tooth.

Vegan Hamantaschen (Traditional Purim Cookies)

These triangle Vegan Hamantaschen cookies are heavenly. They can be customized with your favorite fillings and flavors. Choose from apricot, peach, and strawberry to create the most quaint little cookies!

Easy Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies

Enjoy the comforting taste of peanut butter in this delectable recipe. This Easy Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies recipe is straightforward and easily customizable!

Vegan Peanut Butter Granola Cookies

These Vegan Peanut Butter Granola Cookies combine the smooth, nutty flavor of peanuts and the crunchy, sweet, and salty flavor of granola. These cookies are simple to make, sweet, and sure to be finished very quickly!

Einkorn Cocoa Walnut Cookies

These Einkorn Cocoa Walnut Cookies are light, fluffy, and high in protein. They're perfect for those of us who enjoy cookies for breakfast!

No-Bake Breakfast Cookies

This recipe makes delicious No-Bake Breakfast Cookies! These cookies are delicious for any time of day. This recipe makes swapping ingredients easy for all types of diets (low sugar, gluten-free, etc.).

Cinnamon-Tahini Cookies

This recipe makes a soft, chewy, moist cookie. The perfect amount of cinnamon spice makes these Cinnamon-Tahini Cookies delightful.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin is delicious all year round, and it's the shining ingredient in this recipe. These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are delicious, soft, and super chewy. The beautiful combination of pumpkin and sweet chocolate in this recipe is divine!

Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies

Nutritious and jam-packed with wholesome, healthy ingredients, these Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies are easy to make and will be quickly enjoyed. This recipe makes a sweet, indulgent cookie that is vegan and delicious!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Teff Cookies

These Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Teff Cookies are iron-rich and nutrient-dense. They are also perfect for those who have a sweet tooth! These cookies are delicious, moist, and comforting with the familiar taste of peanut butter.

Crunchy Almond Cacao Nib Cookies

Free of refined sugar, these Crunchy Almond Cacao Nib Cookies are healthy, light, and boast the perfect texture. Made with nature's chocolate chip (aka cacao nibs), these cookies are delicious and healthy! These cookies only take ten to twelve minutes to bake and probably less to eat!

Coconut, Almond, and Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

The combination of coconut, almond, and raspberry jam is hard to beat! These Coconut, Almond, and Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies are moist, flavorful, and the ultimate comfort cookie that you need in your cookie jar.

Chocolate-Flecked Pumpkin Seed Cookies

These rich Chocolate-Flecked Pumpkin Seed Cookies are chewy, moist, and sweet. In addition, pumpkin seeds are high in zinc and protein, making these cookies an excellent choice for any time of the day!

Low-Fat Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Using only a third of the sugar customarily required, these Low-Fat Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies are fantastic! The recipe makes approximately sixteen cookies and bakes for only ten minutes. Fast, easy, and mouthwatering, these are sure to be your next favorite cookies!

Vegan Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

These Vegan Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies are vegan and delightful for any time of day. Serve them with tea, coffee, or—well—anything! Because what doesn't taste delicious with chocolate chip cookies?

Vegan Black Bean Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Everyone will love these Vegan Black Bean Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. Soft, moist, and chewy, these cookies are amazing!

Pecan Shortbread Cookies

Crispy on the outside and perfectly soft and chewy on the inside, these Pecan Shortbread Cookies are going to be your new favorite. This straightforward recipe requires only four ingredients and bakes for only eleven minutes.

Cream-Filled Maple Leaf Cookies

These cookies are filled with a rich, luscious buttercream frosting. This recipe makes twenty-four Cream-Filled Maple Leaf Cookies and is made with pure maple syrup!

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies with Dates (Gluten Free)

These delightful Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies with Dates are full of nutrients and vitamins. This recipe is perfect in every way—and it's gluten-free!

Sesame-Crispy Rice Cookies

These crunchy little cookies will delight you! Sesame-Crispy Rice Cookies have the perfect amount of sweetness and are a treat for texture lovers. These cookies are light, crispy, and ultimately satisfying!

Seed Jumble Cookies

Full of seeds and packed with flavor, these Seed Jumble Cookies are splendid. Similar to a granola bar, these cookies are crumbly, filled with seeds, and delicious. Enjoy the seeds in these cookies—ground flax, sunflower, sunflower, and pumpkin.

Graham Thumbprint Cookies

These Graham Thumbprint Cookies are a treat to make and to eat. Fun to make and delicious to eat, these cookies will delight everyone you're serving!

Vanilla Wafer Cookies

These Vanilla Wafer Cookies have that delicious smooth buttery flavor of animal crackers. Top these cookies with crunchy nuts, vegan chocolate, or fruit jam. The sweet flavors of maple syrup and vanilla extract come together in these cookies. They are soft, moist, and scrumptious!

Photo Credit: www.deliciouseveryday.com

Strawberry-Shaped Vegan Sugar Cookies

Cookies don't get cuter than these, that's for sure! Decorated with fondant to look like chic tiny strawberries, these Strawberry-Shaped Vegan Cookies will be a hit with everyone. In addition, these cookies are vegan-friendly, easy to make, and can be made to accommodate a gluten-free diet.

Photo Credit: www.deliciouseveryday.com

Vegan Shortbread Cookies

These light, buttery Vegan Shortbread Cookies will be eaten quickly! This recipe requires only three ingredients and is super simple to make.

Photo Credit: www.deliciouseveryday.com

Vegan Snickerdoodles

Enjoy traditional snickerdoodles with a vegan flair! These Vegan Snickerdooles are chewy, soft, and packed with that delicious cinnamon-sugar taste you know and love.

Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, these Banana Oatmeal Cookies are fantastic any time of the day. Serve them with fruit for breakfast or enjoy them as a healthy snack. They come together in only twenty minutes and are oil-free and vegan!

Vegan Cookie Dough

If you love eating cookie dough, then this is the recipe for you! This Vegan Cookie Dough is sweet, savoury, and loaded with dark chocolate chips. This dough is bake-free, egg-free, and dairy-free.

Photo Credit: www.deliciouseveryday.com

Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

These Vegan Oatmeal Cookies are bursting with chocolate chips and rolled oats. Made with natural, whole, simple ingredients, these cookies are extra enticing. Add in your favourite nuts and seeds for added flavor and nutrition!

Photo Credit: www.deliciouseveryday.com

Totally Addictive Vegan Double Chocolate Cookies

Goey and decadent, these Totally Addictive Vegan Double Chocolate Cookies are going to have everyone begging you to bake more! They are soft, moist, and have the beautiful taste of sea salt and dark chocolate.

If you love these cookie recipe, be sure to check out these other delicious vegan desserts:

  • My Full Vegan Dessert Collection
  • 20 Incredible Vegan Pies
  • The Best Vegan Ice Cream Recipes
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Welcome!

Hi, I'm Nicole. I'm the creator behind VegKitchen, and the author of the popular cookbook, Weeknight One Pot Vegan Cooking.

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