73 Delicious and Nourishing Vegan Food​s You'll Want to Eat Everyday in 2024

Consumption of vegan food​ is on the rise. According to the Good Food Institute between 2017 and 2023, the U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods jumped from $3.9 billion to $8.1 billion. 

Though not everyone who prefers the occasional plant-based meal is vegan, these vegan food ideas will resonate with many. Read on to find the best vegan food brands and ideas! 

Jump to Section

• Vegan Food Ideas​
• Vegan Fast Food​
• Vegan Mexican Food​
• Vegan Breakfast Foods​
• Vegan Chinese Food​
• Vegan Soul Food​
• Vegan Indian Food​
• Vegan Food Substitutes
• Vegan Foods FAQs

Vegan Food Ideas​

The best vegan food ideas in the world won’t mean a thing if you can’t cook. You can run through the best vegan restaurants in NYC and fast food options but when it comes time for home cooking you may need some tips. Online cooking classes or cooking classes near you are a fun and educational way to gain some cooking skills. 

Check out cooking classes in Albuquerque, cooking classes in Memphis, cooking classes in West Palm Beach and more. There are plenty of vegan-specific classes available to offer helpful vegan food tips and cooking ideas. 

Vegan Fast Food​

Many vegans agree that the best fast food dinner, lunch and breakfast food ideas can be found at Taco Bell. However, there are plenty of other fast food vegan options. The following options are usually on the menu but call ahead to your local spot to confirm. 

1. Taco Bell - Black Bean CrunchWrap Supreme

The black bean crunchwrap supreme at Taco Bell is a vegan’s dream with just a few tweaks. Order it without sour cream and nacho cheese to enjoy a layered combination of black beans, lettuce, tomatoes and a crunchy tostada shell all wrapped in a grilled tortilla. Add guacamole or spicy sauce for an extra kick.

2. Subway - Beyond Meatball Sandwich

Subway’s Beyond meatball sandwich is a filling, plant-based take on the classic sub. The Beyond Meat meatballs are smothered in marinara sauce and served on freshly baked bread. Skip the cheese, and load up on veggies for added crunch and nutrition. 

3. Burger King - French Toast Sticks

French toast sticks from Burger King are a delightful surprise for vegan fast-food enthusiasts. These golden, crispy sticks are cooked without animal-derived ingredients, making them a sweet and satisfying breakfast option. Pair them with a coffee or orange juice for a quick, plant-based start to your day. 

4. Chipotle - Vegan Bowl

Chipotle makes plant-based eating easy with its customizable vegan bowl. This bowl features sofritas—a flavorful, tofu-based protein—paired with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fajita veggies and fresh salsa. Skip the cheese and sour cream to keep it vegan, and enjoy the delightful combination of hearty, spicy and fresh flavors. 

5. Wendy’s - Baked Potato

Wendy’s baked potato is a simple yet satisfying vegan option if you ask them to hold the sour cream. Warm, fluffy and naturally vegan when served plain, this classic dish can be elevated with a sprinkle of black pepper or hot sauce for extra flavor. Pair it with a side salad (no cheese or croutons.)

6. Burger King - Impossible Whopper

The Impossible whopper is a game-changer for vegans. This juicy plant-based burger is served on a toasted sesame bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles and onions. Be sure to order it without mayonnaise for a fully vegan experience. It’s hearty, satisfying and tastes so much like the real thing that it’s hard to believe it’s entirely plant-based. 

7. Jimmy John’s - Veggie Sandwich

Jimmy John’s offers a fresh and customizable veggie sandwich for vegan diners. It’s made with lettuce, sliced cucumbers, tomato and avocado spread. You should request it without cheese or mayonnaise and consider pairing it with the kettle-cooked chips for a complete vegan meal.

8. Panera Bread - Baja Grain Bow

Panera Bread’s baja grain bowl is a wholesome choice for vegan diners. Packed with quinoa, brown rice, black beans and roasted corn, this bowl is a blend of earthy and zesty flavors. Skip the feta and yogurt dressing.

9. Hardee’s - Beyond Breakfast Sausage Biscuit

Hardee’s serves up a hearty vegan breakfast option with their beyond breakfast sausage biscuit. It’s made with a savory, plant-based sausage patty in a warm biscuit. Ask for it without cheese or butter to keep it vegan.

10. Panda Express - Chow Mein & Eggplant Tofu

At Panda Express, the chow mein and eggplant tofu make a winning vegan combo. The chow mein features savory, stir-fried noodles with veggies, while the eggplant tofu is a deliciously saucy mix of eggplant, tofu and bell peppers. Together, they create a meal that’s both comforting.

Vegan Mexican Food​

Use this vegan food list to come up with some Mexican-flavored food prep ideas. 

11. Green Chile Tofu Stew

Green chile tofu stew is a hearty dish brimming with intense flavors. The roasted chiles add a smoky heat that pairs nicely with the umami notes of the tofu.

12. New Mexican Christmas Greens

New Mexican Christmas greens bring together sautéed leafy greens with the vibrant flavors of red and green chile sauces—aptly called “Christmas-style.” The combination of earthy greens and tangy chiles creates a dish that’s both festive and nourishing. 

13. Super Easy Salsa Roja

Super easy salsa roja is a fresh, tangy and slightly spicy dip made with roasted tomatoes, onions, garlic and chili peppers. Quickly blended into a smooth or chunky consistency, it’s a go-to recipe for chips, tacos or burritos.

14. Chipotle Chili Beans

Chipotle chili beans are a smoky, spicy dish made with tender black beans simmered in a sauce of chipotle peppers, tomatoes and garlic. This versatile recipe works as a main dish over rice, but you can also use it as filling for burritos.

15. Vegan Taco Soup

This soup is packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s like a traditional taco filling in soup form. Serve with tortilla strips and avocado slices. This is a vegan meal you’ll want over and over again. 

16. Mexican Beans and Greens

Mexican beans and greens combine tender black beans and sautéed greens in a flavorful, mildly spicy tomato sauce infused with cumin, garlic and chili powder. This dish is hearty enough to be a main course or a delicious side when paired with rice or tortillas.

17. Mexican Tofu Sofritas

These sofritas are made with crumbled tofu simmered in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce. This dish replicates the savory richness of traditional sofritas, delivering big flavor without animal products. Serve it in tacos, burritos or bowls with fresh salsa, guacamole and rice for a satisfying and healthy vegan Mexican food. 

18. Incredible Tofu Taco Crumbles

Incredible tofu taco crumbles are a protein-packed, plant-based alternative to classic taco filling. Crumbled tofu is seasoned with a mix of cumin, paprika, chili powder and garlic, then pan-fried until golden and crispy. Use these flavorful crumbles to fill tacos or nachos, and top with fresh pico de gallo.

19. Sopa de Lima (Mexican Lime Soup)

Make soup for anyone with a cold. It’s a Mexican lime soup made with a rich broth of lime juice and tomatoes. The addition of vegetables and cilantro creates a solid balance of tangy and savory flavors. 

20. Papas con Rajas

Papas con rajas is a comforting dish made with creamy potatoes and roasted poblano strips in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. The mild heat from the poblanos complements the softness of the potatoes, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Serve as a side or enjoy it as a taco filling.

21. Authentic New Mexican Red Chile Sauce

Authentic new Mexican red chile sauce is a deeply flavorful blend of dried red chiles, garlic and spices simmered to perfection. This velvety sauce delivers a smoky, slightly spicy kick and is a topping for enchiladas or tamales. Its rich, earthy flavor captures the essence of New Mexican cuisine.

Vegan Breakfast Foods​

22. Whole Oat Porridge

Savory oatmeal is an exciting twist on a breakfast classic. Simmer whole oats until creamy, then season with tamari, miso and garlic. Add toppings like roasted squash, green onions and sesame seeds for a filling and nutrient-dense breakfast that will keep you satisfied until lunch. This unique porridge proves oatmeal doesn’t always have to be sweet!

23. Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

For a protein-packed breakfast, try a cinnamon quinoa bowl. Simmer quinoa with plant-based milk and a pinch of cinnamon until tender. Sweeten with a drizzle of maple syrup, and top with seasonal fruits, nuts or a spoonful of almond butter. 

24. Easiest Chia Pudding

Chia pudding is a quick, grab-and-go vegan breakfast option. Stir chia seeds with your favorite plant-based milk, a splash of vanilla and a touch of sweetener. Let it chill overnight, and by morning, the seeds will have absorbed the liquid, creating a thick, creamy pudding. Add fresh berries or granola for a nutritious and satisfying start to the day.

25. Overnight Oats

This recipe went viral for a reason. Overnight oats are the ultimate make-ahead vegan breakfast. Simply combine oats with your favorite plant-based milk, a touch of sweetener and a pinch of salt.
Let the mixture chill overnight in the fridge, and in the morning, you’ll have creamy, ready-to-eat oats. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, seeds or even a dollop of almond butter for a wholesome, customizable meal.

26. Banana Pancakes

Fluffy and full of flavor, banana pancakes are a vegan breakfast food staple. Made with a mix of oat flour and whole wheat pastry flour, these pancakes are naturally sweetened with mashed bananas. Pair them with maple syrup, or slather with peanut butter and extra banana slices for a comforting, homemade treat for weekend mornings.

27. Carrot Breakfast Cookies

These carrot breakfast cookies are like having dessert for breakfast—but healthier! Packed with shredded carrots, oats and a mix of nuts and seeds, they’re naturally sweetened with dates or maple syrup. They’re portable and easy to make for busy mornings when you need a quick option.

28. Whole Wheat Vegan Waffles

Light, crispy and tangy, Whole Wheat Vegan Waffles are a breakfast favorite. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a “buttermilk” flavor that elevates the texture and taste. Top these waffles with fresh fruit, maple syrup or coconut whipped cream for a decadent morning treat. Bonus: Leftovers freeze beautifully and can be reheated for quick weekday breakfasts.

29. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is a classic, versatile vegan breakfast. Start with a slice of toasted whole-grain bread, then pile on creamy avocado slices or mash. Add a sprinkle of sea salt, a squeeze of lemon or toppings like cherry tomatoes, sprouts or vegan feta. Simple yet satisfying, it’s good for a quick and nutritious meal.

30. Homemade Bagels

These aren’t easy to make but nothing beats the freshness of homemade bagels. Crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, these vegan bagels are easy to customize with toppings like everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds or coarse salt. Serve them toasted with vegan cream cheese or hummus.

31. Vegan Carrot Lox

Vegan carrot lox is a plant-based twist on the classic bagel topping. Thin strips of salt-roasted carrots mimic the flavor and texture of salmon. Marinate the carrots with liquid smoke, lemon juice and capers for a smoky, tangy profile. Pair them with a toasted bagel and fresh dill for a sophisticated breakfast.

Vegan Chinese Food​

Use these plant-based recipes to make satisfying vegan Chinese food. Some of the following vegan food ideas may even work for backpacking food ideas. 

32. Vegan Mooncakes

Mooncakes, traditionally filled with egg yolks and lotus seed paste, can be made vegan with sweet fillings like red bean paste or black sesame. These elegant pastries are for festive occasions and can be customized with your favorite plant-based ingredients for a traditional yet animal-free treat.

33. Cucumber Salad

A refreshing side dish, this salad features cucumbers marinated in soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil and garlic. It’s quick to prepare and a solid accompaniment to heavier stir-fries or noodle dishes.

34. Chinese Stir-Fried Eggplant and Green Beans

Eggplant and green beans come alive in this stir-fry, coated in a savory, slightly spicy garlic sauce. The dish is both rich and balanced, with tender eggplant and crispy green beans. Serve over steamed rice for a complete meal.

35. Tea-Brined Tofu

Tofu is infused with the delicate flavors of black tea, soy sauce and five-spice powder in this unique recipe. The brining process gives it a firm texture and a smoky, aromatic taste that works as a centerpiece or appetizer.

36. Chinese Vegetarian Roast Goose

This mock meat dish uses bean curd sheets seasoned with hoisin sauce, five-spice powder and soy sauce to mimic the flavors of roast goose. It’s crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

37. Simple Millet Congee

This light, warming porridge is made with millet instead of traditional rice. It’s ideal as a breakfast or soothing comfort food.

38. Vegan Salted Egg Yolks

Made from mashed mung beans and nutritional yeast, vegan salted egg yolks are creamy, salty and rich. Use them in mooncakes or as a topping for congee and noodles.

39. Simple Stir-Fried Zucchini with Garlic

This quick stir-fry highlights fresh zucchini and works great as a side or over rice for a simple meal.

40. Vegan Dan Dan Noodles

These spicy, nutty noodles feature a rich sesame and peanut sauce topped with crumbled tofu and pickled mustard greens. A Sichuan classic, reimagined for a plant-based diet.

41. Tofu and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A staple dish of tofu cubes and crisp-tender broccoli in a savory garlic and ginger sauce. It’s easy to make, nutrient-packed and works well for weeknight dinners.

Vegan Soul Food​

42. Quick Fried Green Tomatoes

Slices of green tomato are coated in cornmeal, seasoned and fried until golden and crispy. These tangy, crunchy bites are a vegan twist on a classic Southern appetizer.

43. Smoky Black-Eyed Pea Cakes

These cakes are pan-fried to perfection and served with a side of remoulade or hot sauce.

44. Vegan Grits and Greens

Creamy vegan grits pair beautifully with sautéed collard greens, seasoned with garlic and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Together, they create a comforting, flavorful breakfast or brunch dish.

45. Easy Vegan Cornbread

This cornbread is moist, slightly sweet and made with plant-based milk and a flaxseed egg. Eat on its own or as a side to soups and stews.

46. Vegan Chicken and Dumplings

A hearty, satisfying stew with tender vegan chicken, fluffy dumplings and a creamy broth packed with vegetables. A comfort food classic made plant-based.

47. Vegan Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy cashew or butternut squash-based sauce coats al dente pasta in this rich, dairy-free mac and cheese. Add a breadcrumb topping and bake for an extra crispy finish.

48. Easy Vegan Candied Yams

These sweet potatoes are soft, caramelized and bursting with flavor.

49. Rice with Collard Greens

A mix of collard greens, vinegar and spices creates a tangy relish that complements fluffy rice. This dish brings together bold flavors in a simple bowl.

50. Instant Pot Vegan Grits

These quick-cooking grits are creamy and smooth, thanks to the Instant Pot. Add vegan butter and nutritional yeast for a cheesy twist.

51. Air Fryer Okra with Smoked Paprika

Lightly coated in cornmeal and smoked paprika, okra crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. A healthier take on a classic Southern snack.

Vegan Indian Food​

52. Lentil Wellington

A showstopping dish ideal for celebrations, this Wellington features a spiced lentil filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Serve with a chutney or coconut curry sauce for added flavor.

53. North Indian Curries

Rich and flavorful, these curries feature plant-based proteins like tofu, chickpeas and lentils simmered in creamy tomato or cashew-based sauces. Serve this classic vegan Indian food with naan or rice for a satisfying meal.

55. Chai Spice Mix and Chai Concentrate

Blend cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and cloves to make a fragrant chai spice mix. Combine it with black tea and plant-based milk to create a rich chai concentrate for lattes.

55. Ethiopian Split Pea Stew

This Indian-inspired stew combines split peas with warm spices like turmeric, cumin and coriander. Serve with injera or rice for a hearty meal.

56. Indian-Inspired Masala Vegetable Pot Pie

A creamy masala filling with mixed vegetables is baked under a golden, flaky crust in this Indian twist on a classic pot pie.

57. Restaurant-Style Butter Chicken

A vegan take on the popular dish, made with tofu or chickpeas. This dish features a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s good for dipping bread.

58. Chili Miso Pasta with Spicy Tofu Crumbles

This fusion dish combines spicy miso pasta with tofu crumbles seasoned with Indian spices. A creative and satisfying meal.

59. Khichdi in a Jar

A portable twist on a traditional Indian comfort food. Layer lentils, rice and spices in a jar for an easy, pre-measured meal. Just add water and cook.

60. Chicken Angara

Vegan chicken chunks are cooked in a smoky, spiced tomato gravy, creating a rich and aromatic dish that pairs wonderfully with basmati rice.

61. Tacos with Butter Chicken Lentils

Spiced lentils in a creamy butter sauce are served in soft tortillas for a fusion take on Indian and Mexican cuisines. Add fresh cilantro and lime for a zesty finish.

Vegan Food Substitutes

Transitioning to a vegan diet is easier than ever, thanks to a wide variety of substitutes for traditional animal-based ingredients. These substitutes make it simple to enjoy your favorite dishes while maintaining a plant-based diet. Explore these options and discover new flavors and textures to elevate your vegan cooking.

Here are some excellent options to help you create delicious vegan meals.

62. Aquafaba

The water from canned chickpeas works as an egg white replacement in recipes like meringues, mousses and macarons. It also lightens buttercream and can be used in batters, sauces or even cocktails.

63. Jackfruit

A versatile ingredient that mimics the texture of shredded meat, jackfruit works for dishes like pulled pork, tacos, gyros and even crab cakes. It’s a non-processed, pantry-friendly option often found canned.

64. Milk Substitutes

Plant-based milks, such as soy, almond, oat or cashew, are excellent alternatives for cooking, baking and beverages. Experiment with different types to find the best fit for your recipes.

65. Alternative Cheeses

From mozzarella-style slices to artisanal vegan cheddar, the variety of plant-based cheeses continues to grow. Nutritional yeast is also a great substitute for parmesan, adding a savory, cheesy flavor to dishes.

66. Alternative Creams and Yogurts

Coconut-based creams and soy or almond yogurts are ideal for cooking and baking. Use them to add creaminess to curries, desserts or snacks.

67. Seitan

Made from wheat protein, seitan is a highly adaptable meat substitute. It can be seasoned and cooked to resemble chicken, beef or bacon, making it ideal for dishes like stir-fries or sandwiches.

68. Mock Meats

For fast-food favorites like vegan burgers, sausages and nuggets, there’s a range of mock meats available in stores, offering convenience without compromising flavor.

69. Tofu and Tempeh

Both tofu and tempeh are protein-rich options made from soybeans. Tofu works well in stir-fries, scrambles or puddings, while tempeh’s firmer texture makes it ideal for bacon or sandwich fillings.

70. Spreads and Fats

Dairy-free butter and spreads are widely available and suitable for baking, cooking and everyday use. Experiment with brands to find your favorite.

71. Nutritional Yeast

This pantry staple offers a savory, cheesy flavor that's used for sprinkling on popcorn, pasta or roasted veggies. It’s also packed with B vitamins and works as a flavor enhancer. 

72. Egg Substitutes

Options like flax or chia eggs, made by mixing seeds with water, are great for baking. Aquafaba serves as an egg white alternative, while powdered egg substitutes are easy to find in supermarkets.

73. Plant-Based Seafood Alternatives

Vegan seafood substitutes like hearts of palm, artichokes and store-bought options mimic the texture of fish and shellfish. Hearts of palm work wonderfully in vegan crab cakes and artichokes can replace tuna in salads or dips.

Vegan Foods FAQs

What Foods Can You Eat as a Vegan?

You can eat any of the above foods as a vegan. If you’re ordering the above from a restaurant just double-check their base ingredients. So, what is a typical vegan meal? Mostly, the typical vegan meal is something delicious and simple. 

You can use some of these recipes as vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes, or for a dinner party or just non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes.

What Foods Are 100% Vegan?

Many nutrient-rich foods are naturally vegan, making them ideal for a plant-based diet. These foods are free from animal-derived ingredients and are packed with essential nutrients to support a balanced vegan lifestyle. Here are some examples:

• Legumes

• Nuts and Seeds

• Whole Grains and Pseudocereals

• Fruits and Vegetables

• Tofu and Tempeh

• Seaweed

• Nutritional Yeast

• Calcium-Fortified Plant Milks and Yogurts

These 73 plant-based options show that there’s no limit to what you can enjoy on a vegan diet. Use this guide to craft recipes that satisfy every craving. 

For even more delicious food ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!