Most people get scared off by the idea of vegan food, but not only is it delicious and healthy—it can also help you save a good amount of money. Not using meat is a budget-friendly way to cook, not to mention that you’re also helping out your health. It can seem daunting trying to find tasty vegan recipes, but luckily, we’re here to help.
Here are seven vegan recipes that will save you money, and won’t have you missing all that dairy or meat.
1. Vegan Chili
Just because you’re not eating meat for a meal doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a bowl of hearty, protein-packed chili. This vegan version is filled with kidney beans and pinto beans, carrots, celery and garlic—healthy ingredients, but ones that won’t break the bank.
Recipe: From My Bowl
2. Smoky Tomato Lentils Cooked In Coconut Milk
Green lentils are cooked in coconut milk with onions, garlic, smoked paprika, tomatoes and parsley for a rich vegan dish that’s not only filled with flavor, but easy on your wallet. This recipe is also gluten-free and nut-free as well.
Recipe: Heart Beet Kitchen
3. Black Bean Cilantro Lime Rice Bowls With Plantains
These black bean bowls are loaded with heart-healthy brown rice, plantains, mango, as well as some spices, jalapeño, and peppers. You’ll definitely feel satisfied after loading up on this bowl, and you might end up fantasizing about a trip to the Caribbean.
Recipe: Emilie Eats
4. One-Pot Vegan Mushroom Pasta
Even if you’re not eating meat and dairy, you can still enjoy a creamy pot of pasta, and it doesn’t have to come from an expensive vegan restaurant. This recipe uses coconut butter, almond milk and nutritional yeast for its creamy sauce, along with mushrooms, zucchini and peas for extra nutrients.
Recipe: Neurotic Mommy
5. Chickpea Salad Sandwich
All you need is some bread, a can of chickpeas, red onion, celery and vegan mayo to make this giant chickpea salad sandwich. Not only is it budget-friendly, it’s also filling and loaded with fiber and protein.
Recipe: Peas and Crayons
6. Spicy Vegan Portobello Mexican Burgers
If you find yourself craving a juicy hamburger, substitute it with these portobello mushroom burgers instead. In addition to mushrooms, these patties are made with black beans, onion, peppers, salsa and banana peppers for an extra kick.
Recipe: Sweet C’s Designs
7. White Bean And Tomato Soup
When in doubt, throw together a soup. With a tomato-based broth, white beans, kale and an assortment of other veggies, this soup is perfect for even the pickiest of eaters. You can always save leftovers for the rest of the week or freeze them, too.
Recipe: Making Thyme For Health