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These are some of our favorite cold sides to bring to gatherings, and they’ve saved us from that last-minute stress more times than I can count!

Imagine your power going out before a party or being asked to bring a dish at the last minute. You’ll be so glad to have one of this list of easy, make-ahead vegan side dish recipes on hand!

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The Best Cold Vegan Side Dishes

No matter the occasion, these cold vegan side dishes are here to save the day! Whether you’re heading to a summer BBQ, packing for a picnic, or need a stress-free make-ahead option that doesn’t need to be reheated, these recipes are delicious, easy, and totally crowd-pleasing.

Salads & Slaws

When it comes to cold vegetable side dishes, salads are the obvious go-to—but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring! These vibrant, flavor-packed recipes prove that a great salad or slaw can steal the show at any meal.

Vegan Southwest Salad – This bold and flavorful salad is loaded with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing that brings it all together. Take it from Mildred who said: “I tried this recipe today. It was a big hit with my family. It was so yummy and satisfying. Thank you very much sharing this recipe.”

Vegan Olive Garden House Salad – Crisp, fresh, and topped with a homemade vegan Italian dressing, just like the restaurant favorite!

Southwest Three-Bean Salad – This protein-packed salad is great for meal prep and tastes even better after a day in the fridge!

Cucumber Tomato Salad – Light, refreshing, and bursting with summer flavors. This one is perfect for hot days or serving with falafel!

Healthy Broccoli Salad – Crunchy, slightly sweet, and completely irresistible. This is a true party in your mouth!

Easy Vegan Caesar Salad – A creamy, dairy-free Caesar dressing that pairs perfectly with crisp romaine and crunchy croutons.

Vegan Tuna Salad – This vegan tuna salad, made with white beans instead of chickpeas, is a creamy, protein-packed deli-style side perfect for serving with crackers at your next potluck or picnic.

Vegan coleslaw ideas

Lemon Tahini Slaw – A refreshing slaw with a creamy lemon tahini dressing. This one’s perfect for BBQs and makes a great topping for sandwiches, veggie burgers, and vegan fish tacos.

Creamy Vegan Coleslaw – A classic coleslaw that’s just as good as the traditional version but completely dairy-free! Perfect for pairing with sandwiches, burgers, or as a side dish on its own.

Dips & Spreads

Dips and spreads are the ultimate make-ahead cold vegan side dishes for parties, potlucks, and BBQs. They’re easy to prepare, effortless to serve, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you pair them with veggies, crackers, or chips, these flavorful recipes are perfect for sharing!

Plant-Based Taco Dip – Layered with creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors, this dip is always a crowd-pleaser!

Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip – This dip has been a consistent crowd-pleaser over the last 10 years we’ve been vegan. Skip the air fryer to serve it cold!

Pineapple Salsa – This fresh pineapple salsa is a fun twist on the traditional tomato salsa! Easy to make ahead and just perfect served with tortilla chips.

Creamy vegan dips

Spicy Garlic Hummus – A creamy, garlicky hummus with a kick of spice that makes it the perfect dip for veggies, crackers, or pita.

Vegan Queso Dip – Make this incredible vegan queso in 5 minutes flat, no cashew-soaking or even a stove top required! 

Dill Pickle Hummus – Tangy, briny, and loaded with pickle flavor. If you’re a pickle lover, this one’s for you! Take it from Cheryl who said “This is soooo good. Thank you!”

Extra Garlic Hummus – This Extra Garlic Hummus (emphasis on the “EXTRA”) is for all our fellow garlic lovers out there! It’s an easy-to-make 10-ingredient dip with a fantastically strong garlic flavor and silky smooth texture that will not disappoint.

Avocado Ranch Dip – This is perfect for drizzling on tacos, nachos, burgers, fries, everything! It’s made lighter and healthier by using silken tofu to replace the sour cream, but you won’t miss a bit of flavor!

Vegan Buttermilk Ranch Dip – A cool and creamy ranch dip that’s perfect for veggies or chips. We love this comment from Mel who said, “Hands down THE BEST vegan ranch recipe there is. I make this for my family, and they devour it!!! “

Easy Homemade Spreads

Vegan Beer Cheese – Thick, creamy, and slightly tangy, this beer cheese is perfect for dipping pretzels or spreading on burgers. 

Vegan Whipped Feta – This vegan whipped feta dip recipe with tahini is quick, uncomplicated, incredibly flavorful, and the perfect plant based party appetizer.

Olive Tapenade – Salty, briny, and packed with umami flavor! This tapenade is the ultimate spread for bread or crackers.

Vegan Cheese Ball – This is a family-favorite, a veganized version of my Nana’s classic cheddar cheese ball! Take it from MrsJennyK who said, “I made this for a holiday party we threw. I didn’t tell anyone, even my family, that it was vegan. It was a big hit!”

Tomato Jam – A bright savory jam that pairs beautifully with crackers or crostini.

Pasta Side Dishes

Pasta side dishes are a satisfying and versatile option that go way beyond the typical pasta salad. These cold vegan side dishes bring bold flavors and creative twists, making them perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering!

Avocado Tequila Lime Pasta – A unique twist on pasta salad with a creamy avocado lime dressing. This one can be served hot if you like, but we adore it served cold at a potluck! 

Vegan Pasta Salad – A classic pasta salad with fresh veggies, kalamata olives, and a tangy dressing.

Cold Noodle Salad with Peanut Lime Sauce – A flavorful Asian-inspired noodle salad that’s drenched in peanut sauce with a spritz of lime!

Pickled & Fermented Sides

Pickled and fermented sides are a fun and flavorful addition to any spread, bringing a tangy kick to balance rich and savory dishes. The best part? They’re the ultimate make-ahead option: Just prep a day or more ahead and let time work its magic!

Buffalo Ranch Pickles – Spicy, tangy, and total showstopper!

No-Cook Refrigerator Pickles – Super easy and customizable—once you make these, you’ll never buy store-bought pickles again.

Spicy Maple Bourbon Pickles – For those who love an extra kick in their pickles.

Finger Foods

Finger foods make fantastic cold side dishes because they’re easy to serve and even easier to eat—no forks required! These bite-sized options bring major flavor to any potluck, picnic, or BBQ spread.

Easy Vegan Pinwheels – Fun, flavorful, and easy to prepare and adjust for any event. Check out what Katie had to say: “Such a simple concept and low-effort meal— love these when I have zero energy to make anything! They also travel well and are delish for snacks on the go!”

Vegan Cheese Straws – A crunchy, cheesy snack perfect for dipping or just popping right in your mouth. Here’s what Donna M had to say: “I made these with a block of Violife cheddar and they came out great! Thanks for the amazing recipe.”

Air Fryer Pita Chips – Make your own pita chips in the air fryer with just 4 ingredients and 20 minutes of your time! They’re perfect for dipping into one of the many dips we listed above or just snacking on all on their own. Or, take this tip from Jeanna: “Amazing! Used some leftover pita and added oregano. I will be using these as croutons in a Greek salad.”

Easy Vegan Nachos – We’ve made these no-cook / no-heat vegan nachos for many potlucks, and they are such a hit every time!  

Tips for Serving Cold Vegetarian Side Dishes

• Make Ahead: Many of these side dishes taste even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, making them ideal for meal prep.
• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Most will keep for 3-5 days. Check the individual posts for exact timing!
• Serving: If bringing a dish to an event, pack it in a well-sealed container and consider bringing an ice pack to keep it cool if necessary (especially if you’re making one of our tofu cheese spreads!)

Looking for more vegan sides ideas? Check out our full collection of vegan side dishes!

No matter the occasion, these cold vegan side dishes are guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you need something quick for a potluck or a dish to prep ahead, this list has you covered!

Did we miss anything on this list? Let us know in the comments, so we can make this a more complete resource for future readers!

Happy cooking!

The post Cold Vegan Side Dishes appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

This post contains affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you). Click here to read our full policy about affiliate links. Thank you for shopping our affiliate links, as it helps us keep the free vegan recipes coming your way!

Growing a Garden for Your Vegan Kitchen

It’s that time of year again when gardeners, both seasoned and new, prepare their yards for planting. If you’re new to growing a vegetable garden, it can be a bit overwhelming knowing where to begin. 

That’s why we put together this guide for vegetable gardening for beginners. With a little planning before planting, even the most novice gardener with the smallest space can yield an impressive bounty. Yes, you can be growing produce even if you don’t have a traditional dirt yard! 

We only have a very small gardening area in front of our NE Philly rowhome, and it is a source of immense pride and joy. Not to mention growing vegetables at home offers a reliable and continual source of fresh herbs and veggies for our vegan recipes!

We love to use our garden hauls in all sorts of our delicious vegan recipes that we’ve included links to throughout this post. There’s also a quick guide to planting at the bottom of the post for your reference.

If you’re just starting your new favorite hobby, be sure to check out the Gardening Section for Beginners and our Amazon storefront for garden tools, planters, growing guides, and all your gardening needs. We’ve also included some “no-fail” plant options for any total novice gardener!

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Know Your Limitations, But Think Big

Before you start planting, you gotta start planning. Consider your growing space, available time, and energy. And of course, what you want to eat! More on that below.

Vertical gardening can be a game-changer for those with limited room. Utilizing or creating walls, trellises, or hanging baskets helps maximize yield in small spaces. 

Bucket gardening is also a great option. We’ve included several suggestions in the Small Space Gardening section below.

Plant What You Eat…Within Reason

The best advice we can offer for how to start a vegetable garden is simple: Grow what you love to eat. Skip the plants you don’t truly enjoy, no matter how easy or inexpensive they seem. 

Trust me, we learned the hard way with eggplants a few years ago. Turns out, we don’t really love them all that much!

Our yearly must-grow list includes:

• Tomatoes – Determinate tomato varieties are the best for small space gardening. We grow a couple different determinate & indeterminate tomatoes, mostly cherry (Indeterminate) and Roma (Determinate) tomatoes. These are great to use in our Savory Cherry Tomato Jam, Baked Feta Pasta Dish, Cucumber Tomato Salad, and of course Homemade Marinara Sauce.

• Cucumbers – A garden must for pickling, salads, and sandwiches. We love to use our cucumbers for our No-Cook Refrigerator Dill Pickles, Spicy Maple Bourbon Pickles, Buffalo Ranch Pickles, and as an integral part of our Bagel Veggie Sandwich.

• Peppers – Grow your own jalapenos, shishitos, poblanos, habaneros, and more!! And saving and growing peppers from seeds is so very easy! We love using the peppers in our Jalapeno Corn Fritters, Vegan Sausage and Peppers, and Spicy Garlic Hummus. We grow so many peppers, we even created a round-up of 24 Vegan Recipes with Peppers that goes way beyond the basic stuffed pepper recipe!

• Squash and Zucchini – Perfect for Zoodle Ramen, Vegan Squash Casserole, Creamy Zucchini Soup, Vegetable Barley Soup, and our incomparable Roasted Vegetable Pizza. 

• Beans and Peas – These grow easily and are perfect for vertical gardening. We love growing them for our Spicy Sauteed Green Beans and Homemade Campbell’s Vegetable Soup

• Various Herbs – Herbs should be part of any kitchen garden. Herbs are essential for making Fresh Vegan Pesto, Vegan Herb Biscuits, Vegan Minestrone, and so, so much more. Herbs are also a necessary component for seasoning vegetable soup.

Grow Harder-to-Find or Expensive Produce

Green bell peppers and regular tomatoes are usually pretty inexpensive. Want to get the most value out of your small space garden? Grow the pricier produce you usually buy at the store:

• Specialty peppers, like shishito or specific hot peppers and chiles can be expensive but are easy to grow.
• Heirloom or specialty tomatoes often come with a hefty price tag at the market.
• Bok choy and other Asian greens are both delicious but pricey and will grow quickly and cheaply in your garden.

Don’t Forget the Herbs!

Herbs are non-negotiable. They’re expensive to buy fresh but incredibly cheap and easy to grow. You can plant them in small pots on windowsills, balconies, or garden edges. 

We grow most of the standard kitchen herbs and a couple that are less common and hard to find, like our chocolate mint or lemon balm.

Herb essentials for your garden:

• Basil – A must in every cook’s garden! Also easy to propagate so you can continuously be growing new plants!
• Oregano – Oregano is low-maintenance and thrives even in poor soil. Greek or Italian oregano is a robust herb essential in cooking.
• Rosemary – A hearty evergreen you can source from all year long.
• Thyme – Another kitchen essential! Thyme adds depth to stews, soups, and roasted vegetables. It’s drought-tolerant and thrives even in rocky soil.
• Parsley – Flat leaf or curly.
• Cilantro – For those who celebrate. (I do; B does not.)
• Mint – Learn from my mistakes: Grow mint in a large container to prevent it from taking over your entire yard!

Check out our other posts featuring herbs: Favorite Herbs to Grow for Cooking (coming soon!) and Best Herbs for Vegetable Soup.

Know Your Zone

Different parts of the country, known in gardening parlance as “zones”, have different windows for optimal planting and gardening. It’s important to know your zone. 

If you’re in the US, you can use this Garden Zone Map from the USDA to find what gardening zone you’re in.

Know When to Grow 

Timing is everything in gardening. Starting your garden too early or too late can mean the difference between a bumper crop and a very disappointing season. 

Familiarize yourself with which plants thrive in cooler weather and which prefer the warmth.

• Cool-weather crops: Lettuces, kale, collard greens, spinach, bok choy, peas, broccoli, Brussels sprouts
• Warm-weather crops: Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, melons, okra, squash

Gardening Tips For Beginners

Starting a garden from scratch for the very first time can feel like a lot, but it doesn’t have to be! If you’ve never planted anything before, follow these simple gardening tips and tricks to set yourself up for success. 

See our vegetable garden planting guide section below for more information and tips. And be sure to check out our Amazon Gardening Store for everything you’ll need from the best garden boots to the world’s most beautiful composter and everything in between. 

• Start Small – Instead of planting a huge variety, choose 3-5 easy-to-grow plants you love to eat. Herbs, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and peppers are great beginner-friendly choices.
• Choose the Right Spot – Most vegetables need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Observe your growing space for a few weeks in advance and pick the sunniest areas for planting.
• Get the Right Tools – A large garden fork, aerator, and digging spade are obvious. But a set of hand tools in gardening is essential to get down to where the action is. A good set of shears, a trowel, and a small hand rake/aerator will be the gardening tools you use most often.
• Use Quality Soil – Good soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. Look for organic potting soil or mix in compost to add nutrients. It’s also a great idea to make your own compost to add to the soil when you can.
• Water Wisely – Overwatering is a common mistake. Most plants thrive with just 1-2 inches of water per week. Stick your finger in the soil – if it’s dry more than an inch down, it’s time to water! Create a garden hose guide by adding higher edging or planting stakes along the edge of your growing area so the hose doesn’t accidentally snap your plants.
• Keep It Simple – Raised beds, large pots, or container gardening make it easier to manage a small, thriving garden without feeling overwhelmed.
• Celebrate Small Wins – Gardening is a learning process. Even if a few of the plants don’t make it, you’ll gain experience and confidence along the way!

I also suggest seeing if your local library can recommend a gardening group nearby, or join one of the hundreds of thousand avid and beginner gardeners on Facebook groups. I suggest starting with the name of your hometown followed by “garden”.

“No-Fail” Plants for Anyone to Grow

If you’ve tried gardening before and struggled to keep plants alive, don’t worry! Some plants will practically take care of themselves, and these hardy, low-maintenance plants are perfect for novice gardeners.

• Mint – Almost impossible to kill, but use my early gardening experience as a cautionary tale and keep it in a container. 
• Green Onions (Scallions) – Regrow from store-bought ones! Just place a 2-3 inch piece with white roots in water or soil, and they’ll keep growing back.
• Basil – A tremendously forgiving plant! Snip a few leaves for cooking, and it’ll grow back quickly.
• Rosemary and thyme – Great kitchen staples that, once established, are almost impossible to kill and will come back year after year..
• Cherry Tomatoes – Compact, prolific, and resistant to many gardening mishaps. Can also be easily grown in large containers.
• Radishes – One of the fastest-growing veggies, ready in just 3-4 weeks!
• Lettuce & Kale – Keep harvesting leaves, and they’ll keep growing. Perfect for fresh salads all season long.

If all else fails, try self-watering containers or automatic drip irrigation to take the guesswork out of watering. 

With the right approach, even self-proclaimed plant killers can enjoy homegrown produce!

A Brief Garden Planting Guide

This is a brief how-to for how to grow cucumbers, tomatoes, peas, peppers, and the more common garden vegetables and herbs. We’ve also included some tips for small-space gardening and container or bucket gardening.

General Gardening Tips

• Use good, nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Add compost or organic matter regularly to maintain a healthy balance to your soil.
• Most vegetables need 1-2 inches of water per week. Consider rainwater-gathering containers to cut down on costs.
• Most vegetables require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
• Ensure proper spacing of plants to prevent diseases and allow airflow for the best growth and harvest.
• Add mulch or small companion or pollinator plants to maintain soil temp, retain moisture, and attract insects that aid pollination. 

Tomatoes

• When to Plant: After the last frost date; start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside.
• Support with cages or stakes for vertical growth when growing tomatoes.
• The best pots for growing tomatoes are well-draining deep containers or buckets (5 gallon buckets if not bigger).
• Companion plants: Basil, chives, or marigolds all support growth and deter pests.

Peppers

• When to Plant: After the soil warms up, 2-3 weeks after the last frost. Start from seed indoors 6-8 weeks before expected planting date.
• Space 18-24 inches apart to allow for top growth and full fruiting.
• Use containers that are at least 12 inches deep for container gardening.
• Mulch the soil around the plants to maintain soil temperature and retain moisture.
• Companion plants: Basil, onions, and parsley repel pests and attract garden-friendly insects

Cucumbers

• When to Plant: After the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 65-70°F (late spring to early summer).
• Plant 12-18 inches apart for bush varieties; 36-60 inches apart for vining types.
• Growing cucumbers on a trellis or cage is a great way to save space and improve air circulation, which reduces disease risk.
• Encourage pollination by planting flowers nearby or hand-pollinating if needed.
• Pick regularly when cucumbers are firm and before they become overripe. This also encourages continued production of cucumbers.
• Companion plants: Beans & Peas provide for a nitrogen-rich soil and Sunflowers off shade and vine support.

Beans and Peas

• When to Plant: Early spring for peas; late spring for beans, after frost.
• Vertical Gardening: Beans and peas love to climb. Use trellises or poles for pole beans and peas.
• Containers: Use pots that are at least 8 inches deep for bush varieties.
• Regular harvesting encourages more production.
• Companion plants: Corn or Sunflowers provide natural support for climbing beans.

Squash (Zucchini, Yellow Squash, etc.)

• When to Plant: Late spring when the soil is warm but before it starts getting too hot.
• Where: Full sun.
• These need plenty of space to grow and fruit properly. Grow vertically using a trellis to save some space.
• Plant in wide containers at least 24 inches deep.
• Hand-pollinate if necessary for better fruiting.
• Companion plants: Corn & Beans. These three plants all support each other and planted together form the classic “Three Sisters” combo.

Common Herbs (Basil, Mint, Parsley, Thyme, Rosemary)

• When to Plant: After the last frost for tender herbs; hardier, perennial herbs (like thyme and rosemary) can be planted earlier.
• Where: Most herbs love full sun; mint prefers partial shade as does cilantro in hotter climates.
• Containers: Herbs thrive in pots, allowing for easy access, pruning, and control.
• Vertical Gardening: Create or purchase a vertical herb wall or hanging pots for small spaces.
• Mint should be isolated in pots. It spreads quickly and aggressively and will take over your entire garden if you let it.

Maximize Your Space

Even a small gardening space can yield big results if you plan wisely. Here are a few strategies:

• Vertical gardening – Use trellises, shelves, stacked containers, and the like. Great for beans and peas, herbs, strawberries, and some varieties of tomatoes.
• Hanging Baskets – Great for strawberries or trailing herbs like thyme and even compact cherry tomatoes.
• Railing Planters – Utilize balcony or porch/deck rails for extra growing space with these planters that are designed to sit on the railing. Perfect for a small space herb garden.
• Bucket gardening – Many smaller vegetable plants and all herbs can be done in bucket or large container gardening to maximize your space. Use deep pots for root-heavy plants like tomatoes and peppers.
• Companion planting – Certain plants help each other thrive when grown together (e.g., basil with tomatoes). Conversely, some plant pairings will hinder growth.
• Succession planting – After harvesting a crop of quick growing vegetables, plant something new in its place to maximize your growing season.
• Grow Indoors – If you don’t have any growing space outside, you can try growing vegetables inside in an Indoor Gardening System. They’re also great for growing herbs.

Maximize Your Savings

Certain foods, like scallions or basil, can be regrown for years after a single purchase. 

I purchase one basil plant from the store in May and begin propagating at least 5 cuttings from it to grow in the garden. 

And we’re still using the green onions we started growing in the garden 5 years ago from a bundle purchased at the grocery store!

Identify and Save Seeds for Future Seasons

One of the most rewarding aspects of gardening is saving garden vegetable seeds from your successful crops for future planting. 

Saving seeds from the produce you grow can help you become more self-sufficient, reduce future gardening costs, and ensure you’re growing plants you love and are well-adapted to your specific growing environment.

• Harvest at the right time: Let vegetables fully mature on the plant before harvesting seeds. For example, leave beans on the vine until they dry or let the cilantro bolt to coriander seed before collecting.
• Clean and dry the seeds: Rinse off any pulp or residue and let the seeds dry completely to prevent mold.
• Store your seeds properly: Keep seeds in a cool, dry place, stored in labeled paper envelopes or glass jars.
• Consider joining a seed-swapping group! There are lots of local seed swaps and groups you can find in your local area. Ask at your local library or check Facebook for groups in your area. If you can’t find one, create one!

More Vegan Garden Vegetable Recipes

We’ve listed a few above, but I’d like to close this post with a few more of our top garden vegetable recipes because the whole point of growing a vegetable garden is to be able to feed your family with it! 

See all our veggie-loaded recipes in our Garden Vegetable Recipes collection! Here are some of the most popular:

• Copycat Olive Garden Salad
• Vegan Zucchini Lasagna
• Vegetable Hummus Wraps
• Pineapple Jalapeno Salsa
• BBQ Tofu Bowls
• Vegan Goat Cheese and Blueberry Basil Sandwich

Gardening doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task; it should be enjoyable and even therapeutic. Start small, grow what you love, and expand as you gain confidence. 

Your garden can become not just a source of fresh produce but also a source of joy, and a space for relaxation, creativity, and pride. If you have any questions, leave them below. I’d be happy to help!

Happy planting, and eating!

The post How to Start a Vegetable Garden appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

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Coconut milk is one of the most versatile ingredients in a plant-based kitchen—it can add creaminess to curries, richness to soups, and even work its magic in fluffy vegan quiches and dairy-free risottos. 

Unlike other roundup posts that cram in a bunch of recipes without testing them first, every suggestion on this list has been made and perfected in our small Northeast Philly kitchen. 

Meaning: We can personally (and enthusiastically) vouch for each one!

From breakfasts that are definitely not boring to decadent dessert recipes, these are accessible, delicious dairy free versions of foods you already know and love…all utilizing the magic of a can of coconut milk!

Whether you’re craving something traditional like a curry or something unexpected like a creamy risotto, there’s a coconut milk recipe here for you!

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Why You’ll Love These Easy Coconut Milk Recipes

• Innovative – You’ll love the dairy free take on so many beloved classic recipes
• Accessible – These are easy, accessible recipes we have vigorously tested and developed in our own kitchen and can personally vouch for each and every one.
• Delicious – We don’t just put any old recipe out there and call it a day. These amazing recipes will all have you coming back for more, even if you’re not a fan of the taste of coconut!

Tips for Cooking with Coconut Milk

Choosing the right coconut milk for cooking can be daunting, and picking the wrong one can completely throw off a recipe. With so many brands and varieties on the market, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. 

Some stores only carry specific brands, and they’re definitely not all the same. The right coconut milk can add incredible depth, creaminess, and flavor, while the wrong one can leave your dish too runny, too oily, or with an overpowering aftertaste. 

Here are our best tips for picking the perfect coconut milk for cooking (and the recipes below!):

First, look for unsweetened coconut milk with only one ingredient – coconut! And MAYBE water. If it has gums or fillers listed among the ingredients, set it aside. Brands that add gums or fillers can affect the texture and flavor of your dish, sometimes making it slightly gummy or loaded with strong coconut flavor. Sticking to pure coconut milk ensures the best flavor and performance in your recipe.

Again, coconut milk textures and flavors can be so different from brand to brand. If you don’t like one brand, try another until you find the one you do like. Then stock up on it! 

Also, light coconut milk is basically just watered down regular coconut milk, so it’s better just to get regular and water it down if needed. Plus, then you have remaining coconut milk to make more of these great recipes!

Our Top Vegan Recipes Using Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can add richness, creaminess, and depth of flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re making a cozy soup, a luscious dessert, or a creamy pasta sauce, it’s a fantastic dairy-free option.

That said, not every recipe below was originally written with coconut milk as the primary ingredient. Some call for vegan heavy cream or “high-fat plant milk,” but in all these cases, coconut milk works just as well—sometimes even better! 

Breakfast Recipes Using Coconut Milk

Vegan Quiche – The epitome of perfect brunch food, this vegan JUST Egg quiche turns any occasion into a special occasion. Filled with plant-based egg and packed with vegan cheese, spinach, mushrooms, and more, it’s baked to fluffy perfection that vegans and nonvegans alike are sure to love! While the original recipe calls for a plant-based heavy cream, we’ve tested it with canned coconut milk, and it works beautifully—giving the quiche a rich, creamy texture without overpowering the flavor.

Vegan Breakfast Casserole – Eggless and dairy-free, taste-tested and omni-approved, this vegan sausage, pepper, and JUST Egg casserole is sure to please everyone at breakfast, brunch, or any potluck gathering. And did I mention the tater tot crust? The original recipe calls for a plant-based heavy cream, but we’ve tested it with canned coconut milk, and it works perfectly—adding a creamy texture while letting all the savory flavors shine.

Vegan Lemon Ricotta Pancakes – These vegan lemon ricotta pancakes are light and fluffy with just a touch of sweetness balanced by a sprightly lemon flavor. These plant-based pancakes are an exquisite option for a weekend breakfast or brunch, or even when you’re craving breakfast for dinner. And they freeze remarkably well! The original recipe calls for a high-fat plant milk like cashew milk, but we’ve also tested it with canned coconut milk, and it works beautifully—adding richness while keeping the pancakes soft and tender.

Coconut Milk Soup Recipes

Zoodle Ramen – I swore I hated zoodles too, but you have to try this vegan zoodle ramen recipe! It’s cozy veggie ramen noodle soup that features a creamy green curry broth that packs a robust flavor. And it’s made right in your mason jar, so there’s no mess to clean up. Make them ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for a quick meal.

Creamy Tomato Soup – This dairy-free cream of tomato soup is freezer-friendly, perfect for meal prep, and has a rich, creamy texture you have to taste to believe. This simple blended soup is an easy and healthy vegetarian dinner or make-ahead lunch that can be made from either fresh or canned tomatoes and other simple ingredients. The original recipe calls for a plant-based heavy cream, but we’ve tested it with canned coconut milk, and it adds a luscious, velvety richness without that overpowering coconut taste.

Curried Pumpkin Soup – This vegan version of my mom’s pumpkin soup is a savory and easy one-pot plant-based meal. Make it on the stove or in the slow cooker with canned or fresh pumpkin and just a few kitchen staples. The original recipe calls for a plant-based milk, but we love it with canned coconut milk specifically. It adds a deliciously creamy texture with a hint of natural sweetness that complements the warm spices beautifully.

Dinners & Mains

Avocado Pesto Barley Risotto – A slightly different take on classic risotto, this Avocado Pesto Barley Risotto is a quick and easy recipe that is the perfect healthy plant-based lunch or dinner option! Serve this easy vegan risotto with our Lemon Pepper Tofu Cutlets for a perfect main course.

Slow Cooker Vegan Chicken Curry – This simple and delicious vegan chicken curry recipe is easily made in your slow cooker. We use meaty soy curls for the vegan chicken with a delightful blend of peppers, garlic, ginger, spices, and creamy coconut milk. Just place all the ingredients in your crockpot and let it cook until dinner time!

Vegan Chik’n and Dumplings – Creamy soup swimming with fluffy dumplings. What’s not to love?! This recipe makes a creamy, dairy-free veggie and soy curl stew topped with pillowy dumplings that will take you back! The original recipe calls for a high-fat plant milk to make the dumplings, but we’ve also tested it with canned coconut milk with beautiful results! 

Creamy Vegan Pasta alla Vodka  – This flavorful vegan Pasta alla Vodka uses a smoky sun-dried tomato “pancetta” sauce for an out-of-this-world taste you won’t believe. It’s a simple, one-pot recipe perfect for a dinner party, date night, or just when you’re in need of a cozy meal. The original recipe calls for oat cream, but we’ve tested it with canned coconut milk too, and it works deliciously.

Vegan Crab Cakes – These vegan crab cakes will have you doing double-takes! Made with hearts of palm for the perfect flaky texture, they’re delicious over creamy vegan pasta, on a sandwich (or sliders!), or served with air fryer potato wedges. The original recipe calls for vegan heavy cream, but coconut milk is a great option also. It keeps the crab cakes rich and not dry!

Coconut Milk Desserts

Vegan Whipped Cream –  5-ingredients, easy to make, freezer-friendly, and stays stable outside the fridge. This vegan whipped cream topping is a dairy-free Cool Whip copycat and a delicious take on classic coconut whipped cream recipes. A fantastic addition to sundaes, pancakes, or a big bowl of fresh strawberries! Or just eat it with a spoon.

White Chocolate Fudge -This Vegan White Chocolate Fudge is the dessert of your dairy free dreams! This decadent and delightful vegan fudge recipe only uses 6 ingredients and takes about 15 minutes of active time to make. You’ll be shocked how rich and creamy this fudge becomes (and NO coconut taste!).

Vegan Chinese Restaurant-Style Doughnuts – These vegan doughnuts are our homage to those soft yet dense, always delicious holeless doughnuts you get from your local Chinese take-out. They’re fluffy, deep-fried balls of dough coated in sugar that taste like a carnival in your mouth. They’re not exactly on the list of top health foods, but wow they’re good.

More Vegan Recipe Collections You’ll Love

• 24 Vegan Recipes with Peppers
• 17 Recipes with Silken Tofu
• 12 Epic Vegan Pizza Ideas
• 19 Best Vegan Soup Recipes

We hope these recipes give you some inspiration to whip up a culinary masterpiece with that can of coconut milk you’ve been staring at the past year!

And we’d love to know what you think! Feel free to leave any questions in the comments or let us know which coconut milk recipe we should try next!

The post Vegan Recipes Using Coconut Milk appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

This post contains affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you). Click here to read our full policy about affiliate links. Thank you for shopping our affiliate links, as it helps us keep the free vegan recipes coming your way!

With a deep umami, savory richness, this easy tofu recipe brings that restaurant-quality taste to homemade meals.

Now, I want to clarify this is not a traditional Thai red curry recipe. 

It is inspired by the flavors of the red curry tofu at my favorite Thai restaurant, but those flavors are fused with our Tofu Freezer Trick method to create the meatiest tofu cutlet that tastes like and has the mouthfeel of curried chicken!

If you don’t already know, our Tofu Freezer Trick is a method thousands of people have used to revolutionize the texture of their tofu, and this curry version lives up to the hype. 

Anyone you serve this to will be shocked it’s tofu, and it might just change a few minds about tofu being tasteless! 

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Why You’ll Love Red Curry Tofu

• Just 5 simple pantry staples and so flavorful. No bland and boring tofu here!
• The texture is perfectly meaty thanks to our Tofu Freezer Trick. 
• A deliciously convenient plant-based protein to add to bowls and salads or just eat right outta the fridge as a high-protein snack.

Red Curry Tofu Recipe Ingredients

This easy tofu recipe only requires 5 ingredients commonly found in any vegan kitchen.

Extra firm tofu – Frozen and thawed according to our Tofu Freezer Trick

Olive oil – Use a quality olive oil for the best flavor.

Vegan chicken bouillon powder – You can use store bought or make a batch of our Easy 7-Ingredient Vegan Chicken Bouillon

Red curry paste – Be sure to check the ingredients as some curry pastes contain fish sauce or shrimp paste.

Yellow curry powder – Make sure it’s fresh so it’s at its most flavorful.

Substitutions & Alterations

For the tofu: You might be able to use non-soy tofu like chickpea tofu, but we have not tried them with the tofu freezer trick.

For the curry paste: Feel free to vary the kind of curry paste you use – green curry paste and yellow curry paste will add different flavors, so have fun experimenting

For the bouillon powder: Bouillon paste can be used instead of bouillon powder, but I would cut the amount in half

Coconut Curry Tofu Variation: This recipe makes a red curry tofu without coconut milk, but you can add 2-3 Tbsp of coconut milk with the marinade ingredients for a coconut curry tofu marinade. I recommend using unsweetened coconut milk.

Oil-Free Note: If you want to make these cutlets oil-free, you could sub water for the olive oil, but remember this will add liquid to the tofu and affect the overall texture. This could be remedied by adjusting the baking time, but keep that in mind!

How to Make Curried Tofu

This is a very abbreviated version of the complete instructions found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

Step 1: Prep the tofu

1. First, freeze and defrost your tofu, leaving the package unopened.
2. When the tofu is thawed, squeeze it gently over the sink and press it with a tofu press or over paper towels to remove any excess liquid.
3. Place your tofu on a cutting board and slice it into 8 equal “cutlets”.

Step 2: Marinate the tofu

1. Mix all the ingredients for the red curry tofu marinade.
2. Pour the curry tofu marinade over your tofu cutlets, making sure each cutlet is coated.
3. Place the marinated cutlets in your fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight. You can also re-freeze the tofu in the marinade and defrost when you’re ready to cook and eat!

Step 3: Bake the tofu

1. Preheat your oven to 350F and line a large baking sheet with tin foil. 
2. Place the cutlets on the prepared baking sheet, not touching.
3. For extra flavor, you can brush the tofu cutlets with more marinade before baking and after flipping.
4. Bake at 350F for 60-75 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Red Curry Tofu Cutlets

• Follow our Freezer Tofu Method to achieve the meatiest texture to your tofu. 
• Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge so the flavors really develop. Overnight is ideal.
• Reserve some of the marinade so you can brush the tofu again before baking it.
• If your marinade is too thick to brush onto the cutlets, add 1 Tbsp water and mix it around. Be careful not to add too much water though or it will affect the texture.
• Use a tofu press or heavy cutting board and some paper towels to remove excess water from the tofu before marinating.
• If you love this tofu cooking method, always keep a block of tofu in the freezer so it’s halfway ready when you need it!

How to Serve Curried Tofu

Serve this vegan curry tofu over basmati, white, or brown rice. It’s also a great addition to any Thai dish like vegan Pad Thai, Khao Pad, or some simple spring rolls.

We’ve enjoyed them as a side with roasted seasoned potatoes and mashed potatoes, on top of a big salad with tahini sauce, or stuffed into a variety of sandwiches.

Curry tofu is also great alongside any vegetable curry dish or traditional Indian dishes like curried potatoes and chickpeas (chana aloo) or potatoes and cauliflower (aloo gobhi).

How to Store Vegan Curry Tofu

You can store these cutlets in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. 

You can also freeze them – before or after cooking – for up to 8 weeks! Just be sure cooked cutlets are completely cool before storing.

How to Reheat

Reheat cutlets in the microwave on high for 1 minute or until heated through. 

I usually find the microwave does just fine, but if the tofu could use some extra crispiness, feel free to reheat in the air fryer or oven.

But honestly, they’re also really good cold straight from the fridge!

FAQs

How do you thaw frozen tofu?

To thaw frozen tofu, leave the frozen tofu in the package and place in the fridge. A slow defrost is best and will allow for the greatest texture transformation. If you have the time, I would transfer the tofu to the fridge to fully defrost over 24-48 hours. 

If you want it to defrost in 1 day, you can transfer it to a dish and set it on your counter. This way, the tofu should defrost in 12-24 hours. Once defrosted, move the tofu immediately to your fridge until you’re ready to cook with it.

How do you defrost frozen tofu quickly?

If you forgot to take the tofu from the freezer and you don’t have 12-24 hours (been there), put the unopened container in a large container of tepid water. Done this way, the tofu should defrost in about 5-7 hours. 

More Tofu Cutlet Recipes

• Breaded Vegan Chicken Cutlets
• Vegan Honey Garlic Tofu Cutlets
• Lemon Pepper Tofu Cutlets
• Sweet Chile Tofu Cutlets

We’d love to hear what you think of this Red Curry Tofu recipe or if you’ve tried any of our other Tofu Freezer Trick recipes. 

Leave a comment and star rating in the section below so can cheer on your kitchen successes! This also helps other people find our recipes; we appreciate your support!

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Red Curry Tofu

If you love the flavors of red curry but are looking for more of a stand-alone tofu cutlet that you can add to bowls and salads or just eat right from the fridge as a high-protein snack, this red curry tofu recipe is going to be a game changer for you.

Course Entrees, Main Course

Cuisine Baked, tofu

Keyword baked tofu, easy tofu recipes, red curry, tofu recipes

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Resting Time 1 day day

Servings 8 cutlets

Calories 119kcal

Author Brittany Roche

Ingredients

• 16 oz block extra firm tofu

For the red curry tofu marinade:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp vegan chicken bouillon powder
• 2 Tbsp red curry paste
• 1 tsp yellow curry powder

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the tofu

• First, freeze and defrost your tofu. Place the whole container (do not open it) in the freezer overnight. In the morning, remove it from the freezer and set it in a shallow dish on your counter to thaw. This will take several hours.
• When the tofu is thawed, squeeze it gently over the sink and press it with a tofu press or on paper towels to remove any excess liquid.
• Place your tofu on a cutting board and slice it into 8 equal “cutlets”. I do this by slicing it in half, then slicing those halves in half, then cutting each of those slices in half.

Step 2: Marinate the tofu.

• Mix all the ingredients for the marinade.
• Pour the marinade over your tofu cutlets, making sure they are all nice and coated.
• Place them in your fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Step 3: Bake the tofu

• When you’re ready to bake your cutlets, preheat your oven to 350F and line a large baking sheet with tin foil.
• Place the cutlets on this baking sheet, about an inch or so apart.
• For extra flavor, you can brush the tofu cutlets with more marinade before baking. If the marinade has become too thick, feel free to add a drop or two of water to loosen it up.
• Bake at 350F for 60-75 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Step 4: Serve and store

• Serve this red curry tofu over rice or potatoes, on a salad, or alongside any vegetable curry.
• You can store them in an air-tight container in the fridge or freeze them for up to 8 weeks!

Notes

• Follow our Tofu Freezer Trick method to achieve the meatiest texture to your tofu. 
• Let the tofu marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge so the flavors really develop. Overnight is ideal.
• Reserve some of the marinade so you can brush the tofu again before baking it.
• If your marinade is too thick to brush onto the cutlets, add 1 Tbsp water and mix it around. Be careful not to add too much water though or it will affect the texture.
• Use a tofu press or heavy cutting board and some paper towels to remove excess water from the tofu before marinating.
• If you love this tofu cooking method, always keep a block of tofu in the freezer so it’s halfway ready when you need it!

Nutrition

Calories: 119kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Sodium: 361mg | Potassium: 97mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 593IU | Vitamin C: 0.3mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Red Curry Tofu appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

This post contains affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you). Click here to read our full policy about affiliate links. Thank you for shopping our affiliate links, as it helps us keep the free vegan recipes coming your way!

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in a homemade plant-based feast with your loved ones or to treat yourself!

At Plant Power Couple, every recipe we share has been meticulously tested in our own kitchen, so you know you’re getting tasted and approved by real life humans! 

These aren’t just random recipes we pulled from the internet. They’re some of our actual favorite date-night-in dishes. The ones we’ve personally enjoyed over our 10+ years as a vegan couple.

Whether you’re planning a cozy breakfast, an elegant dinner, a romantic lunch, or a decadent dessert, our curated list of 60+ vegan Valentine’s Day recipes has you covered!

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Vegan Breakfasts for Valentine’s Day

Starting Valentine’s Day with a homemade breakfast is one of the most thoughtful ways to show love. 

Whether you’re surprising your partner with vegan breakfast in bed or cooking together in the kitchen, these recipes set the tone for a cozy, love-filled day. 

We love making an indulgent breakfast spread on special occasions—it’s a little act of love that feels extra meaningful.

Savory Vegan Breakfast Options

Vegan Quiche (No Tofu!): This rich and savory quiche is a perfect way to start your Valentine’s Day. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s an elegant yet easy dish that we love to serve with fresh fruit and mimosas for a fancy brunch feel.

Vegan Omelette: A light yet satisfying omelette that’s completely plant-based but still fluffy and packed with flavor. We’ve spent many mornings perfecting this on. And it always reminds us that a simple meal made with love is the best way to start the day.

Vegan Sausage Gravy: If your love language is comfort food, this creamy, peppery sausage gravy is the ultimate way to say “I love you.” Serve it over biscuits for a hearty and nostalgic breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Vegan Fried Egg: Who says a classic fried egg can’t be vegan? This version brings all the nostalgia of a diner-style breakfast while being completely plant-based. We love making these when we’re craving something nostalgic to pair with toast and coffee.

Sweet Vegan Breakfast Options

Vegan French Toast: There’s something undeniably romantic about sharing a plate of golden, sugar-dusted French toast. This recipe has been a go-to for our special breakfast moments. And it’s even better when drizzled with maple syrup and topped with fresh berries.

Vegan Lemon Pancakes: Light, fluffy, and bursting with citrusy brightness! These vegan lemon ricotta pancakes bring a refreshing twist to a cozy Valentine’s breakfast. We love making these when we want something sweet but not too heavy—perfect for a long, leisurely morning together.

Vegan Waffles: Crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and totally customizable with all your favorite toppings. There’s something about waffles that just screams special occasion. And we love making these together, one waffle at a time, on slow weekend mornings.

Coconut Bacon Pancakes: A sweet and savory masterpiece, these pancakes balance the smoky crunch of coconut bacon with soft, buttery pancakes. It’s the perfect dish to surprise your partner with—a little unexpected, a lot delicious, and guaranteed to impress.

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: If cinnamon rolls and pancakes had a love child—this is it. Drizzled with dairy free cream cheese frosting and bursting with cinnamon-sugar flavor, these pancakes are pure romance on a plate.

Vegan Cherry Turnovers: Flaky, golden pastry filled with sweet-tart cherry filling—these turnovers are basically edible love notes. We adore making these when we want a handheld breakfast treat that feels fancy but is secretly easy to whip up.

Romantic Vegan Lunch Ideas

Valentine’s Day lunch is an underrated way to celebrate. 

Whether you’re sneaking in a romantic picnic in the park, surprising your partner with lunch outside their workplace, or setting up a cozy candlelit meal at home, a thoughtfully prepared lunch can turn an ordinary afternoon into something special. 

We love taking a break in the middle of the day to slow down and connect over a meal.

Vegan Soups and Salads

Vegan Olive Garden Salad: A fresh and zesty salad tossed in a creamy Italian-style dressing. Just like the one from Olive Garden—but better and vegan! We love serving this on its own as a light, refreshing romantic lunch. Or try pairing it with a comforting vegan minestrone or a gourmet sandwich.

Vegan Tomato Soup: Warm, velvety, and bursting with rich tomato flavor, this soup is pure comfort in a bowl. There’s nothing cozier than sharing a bowl of this on a chilly February afternoon. Especially when it’s paired with a vegan grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate nostalgic lunch date!

Vegan Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy air fryer croutons, and a creamy, garlicky dressing make this plant-based take on the classic Caesar salad absolutely irresistible. It’s perfect as a light lunch date served with our lemon pepper tofu cutlets for added protein!

Romantic Vegan Sandwiches

Cashew Cheese & Strawberry Sandwich: The perfect balance of sweet and savory, this sandwich features creamy cashew cheese, juicy strawberries, and a touch of fresh herbs. It’s an unexpected flavor combination that always surprises us with its deliciousness.

Vegan Goat Cheese, Blueberry & Basil Sandwich: I always say this sandwich is guaranteed to impress the pants off any lunch date. And after one taste, I think you’ll agree! It feels like a love letter to gourmet flavors, with tangy vegan goat cheese, juicy blueberries, and fresh basil all nestled between slices of a fresh ciabatta roll. It’s an elegant yet easy meal that’s perfect for a fancy-feeling lunch at home.

Vegan Feta Grilled Cheese: This crispy, melty vegan grilled cheese takes things to the next level with tangy vegan feta for a touch of Mediterranean flair. Serve it alongside a bowl of tomato soup or a fresh salad for a simple but deeply satisfying Valentine’s Day lunch.

Vegan Appetizers for Valentine’s Day

Appetizers are an easy way to make Valentine’s Day feel extra special. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant-style experience at home, sharing bites while cooking together, or skipping the big meal and setting up a spread of snacks for a cozy night in. 

We love putting out a few appetizers with a bottle of wine and playing our favorite board games like Monopoly or 500 Rummy—or going full nostalgia mode with a round of Mario Party 2 on the N64. 

However you celebrate, these appetizers will set the mood for a fun and delicious night together.

Vegan Crab Cakes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with coastal flavors. These vegan crab cakes feel like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce and a glass of white wine for a truly romantic appetizer.

Vegan Cottage Pie Cupcakes: These adorable mini shepherd’s pies are savory, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors. If you and your partner love cozy comfort food, this unexpected appetizer will steal the show.

Vegan Dips for Date Night

Olive Tapenade: This briny, garlicky olive spread is packed with bold Mediterranean flavors and perfect for serving with crackers or toasted bread. It’s an effortless yet elegant way to start a meal. Or to snack on while your partner keeps you company in the kitchen!

Vegan White Cheddar and Whiskey Fondue: Nothing says romance like dipping warm bread, roasted potatoes, or fresh veggies into a bubbling pot of vegan cheese fondue. Whether you make it the main event or just a starter, this interactive dish is perfect for a playful and intimate evening.

Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this warm and bubbly dip is the ultimate indulgence. Serve it with tortilla chips, bread, or even veggies. And get ready to dig into one of the best parts of any Valentine’s Day meal. This is T’s favorite!

Vegan Cheese Plate Options

Vegan Goat Cheese: This creamy, tangy vegan goat cheese is a must-have for any appetizer spread. Serve it with crackers, fruit, and nuts for a charcuterie board-style experience that’s perfect for nibbling on while you and your partner catch up on your day.

Vegan Whipped Feta Dip: A rich, savory dip with a Mediterranean twist. This tahini-feta combo is creamy, tangy, and totally delicious. It’s perfect for dunking fresh veggies or pita chips while you and your love unwind before dinner.

Vegan Feta Cheese: Crumbly, tangy, and oh-so-satisfying, this homemade vegan feta is amazing on everything from salads to crackers. If you love Mediterranean flavors, this is the perfect addition to your Valentine’s Day spread.

Vegan Cheese Ball: A classic party appetizer with a plant-based twist! This creamy, nutty cheeseball is rolled in crunchy nuts and herbs, making it a stunning centerpiece for any appetizer board. Plus, it’s fun to snack on while sipping wine and planning the rest of the night.

Valentine’s Day Drinks

A special drink can take any meal—or cozy night in—to the next level.

 Whether you’re starting your morning with a warm latte, sipping a cocktail alongside dinner, or enjoying a mocktail while curled up with a blanket, the right beverage can make your Valentine’s Day feel extra festive. You can pair a fun drink with any of the recipes in this collection, adding a little extra magic to the moment. 

From cozy and comforting to bold and bubbly, these drinks are the perfect way to toast to love, laughter, and delicious food.

Vegan Bloody Mary: If you love a savory cocktail, this bold and spicy Bloody Mary is the perfect way to kick off a special brunch. Garnish it with olives, pickles, or even a mini skewer of vegan cheese for a drink that feels like an experience.

Margarita for Two: This classic margarita is simple, refreshing, and perfectly portioned for a romantic evening. Whether you’re pairing it with a home-cooked Mexican-inspired meal or just sipping while playing a round of 500 Rummy and enjoying some chips and salsa, it’s a bright and festive way to celebrate.

Cozy Hot Drinks

Vegan Snickerdoodle Latte: This cozy, cinnamon-sugar-infused latte tastes like a warm hug in a mug. It’s the perfect way to start a slow, romantic morning togethe. Or to enjoy as a sweet treat while snuggled up on the couch.

Vegan Butterbeer: Sweet, cozy, and totally magical. This homemade vegan Butterbeer is perfect for the Harry Potter Dumbledork in your life! Serve it warm for a cozy movie night or chilled with a dash of cinnamon for a fun, unexpected treat.

Mulled Cider: This spiced, slow-simmered apple cider fills the house with the most amazing aroma. Making it perfect for setting a warm and inviting vibe. Whether you’re sipping it by candlelight or pouring it into a thermos for a moonlit walk, it’s pure cozy romance in a cup.

Vegan Valentines Dinner Recipes

There’s something extra special about making a restaurant-quality meal at home for Valentine’s Day. 

It’s more intimate than dining out, allows you to tailor the meal to your exact preferences, and gives you the chance to cook together. Turning dinner into a fun and romantic experience. 

Plus, veganizing your partner’s favorite restaurant dish is a thoughtful way to show you’re listening and that you care. 

Whether you’re recreating a nostalgic favorite, indulging in something rich and decadent, or keeping it light and fresh. These recipes will help you create the perfect Valentine’s dinner at home.

Our Favorite Vegan Valentine’s Day Meals

Easy Vegan Risotto: Creamy, dreamy, and endlessly customizable. This risotto tastes like a labor of love but is easily made in your rice cooker. We love making this recipe together while sipping a glass of wine. It makes for the perfect cozy Valentine’s night in!

Vegan Zucchini Lasagna: Layers of zucchini, creamy tofu ricotta, vegan beef, and rich tomato sauce make this dish a wholesome choice that still feels like you’re treating yourself. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something comforting but still packed with veggies.

Vegan Meatballs: These tender, flavorful vegan meatballs bring all the cozy Italian restaurant vibes to your table. Serve them with spaghetti or on their own, topped with melty vegan cheese with a side of crusty vegan garlic bread for dipping!

Avocado Pesto Barley Risotto: This fresh, creamy, and slightly nutty twist on risotto is as beautiful as it is delicious. The avocado gives it a luxurious texture, making it the perfect dish for an indulgent but still healthy meal.

Pesto Tofu: Crispy, herbaceous, and packed with bold flavor, this pesto tofu is a fantastic protein-packed centerpiece for your meal. Serve it over pasta, gnocchi, or with rice and roasted veggies for a dinner that feels fancy but is secretly so easy.

Vegan Chicken Stew: If you’re in the mood for something hearty and warming, this stew is like a big bowl of comfort. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy while wrapped in blankets, watching your favorite nostalgic movie together. Add some puff pastry triangles to take the fanciness up a notch with very little effort required!

Vegan Valentine’s Day Pasta Dishes

Vegan Linguine with Clam Sauce: If seafood pasta was your go-to for special occasions before going vegan, this recipe will bring all the nostalgia without sacrificing flavor. It’s a delicious way to show your partner that you can still enjoy those familiar favorites—just plant-based and better!

Vegan Baked Feta Pasta: This viral favorite is creamy, tangy, and packed with roasted tomato goodness. It’s an easy but impressive dish. Perfect if you want to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the night.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Broccoli Rabe: Simple yet incredibly flavorful. This classic garlic and olive oil pasta is a timeless romantic meal. The slight bitterness of broccoli rabe balances the dish beautifully, making every bite compelling.

Homemade Vegan Ravioli: Making homemade ravioli together is one of our favorite ways to slow down bond over food. Fill them with your favorite flavors, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something totally from scratch!

Vegan White Mushroom Lasagna Rolls: These creamy, dreamy lasagna rolls are packed with garlicky mushrooms and a luscious silken tofu white sauce. They’re elegant enough for a special occasion but easy enough to make for a laid-back celebration.

Quick and Easy Pasta Options

Vegan Spinach Pasta: This garlicky, lemon-kissed spinach pasta is both vibrant and comforting. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a meal that feels indulgent but still light enough to leave room for dessert.

Vegan Stuffed Shells: These classic, cheese-filled pasta shells are pure comfort food. They feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving with candlelight or curled up on the couch, they make for a delicious meal filled with love.

Vegan Vodka Sauce: Silky, rich, and slightly spicy. This dairy-free vodka sauce tastes like it came straight from a high-end Italian restaurant. Serve it over your favorite pasta and pair it with a glass of wine for the ultimate cozy date night.

Creamy Vegan Broccoli Pasta: This comforting pasta dish is easy to make. It’s our go-to recommendation when cooking for a non-vegan date. Serve it with our soy curl chicken pieces and watch them change their minds about vegan food!

Creamy Vegan Roasted Garlic Sauce: This rich and deeply flavorful sauce can be poured over pasta, pizza, or veggies to instantly elevate your meal. If garlic is the way to your heart, this one’s a must-make for your Valentine’s dinner!

Vegan Valentine’s Day Treats

Desserts and Valentine’s Day go hand in hand. Whether you’re ending a romantic dinner on a sweet note or skipping straight to the good stuff. 

There’s something so special about sharing a decadent homemade treat with the person you love. And making it together can be just as fun as eating it! 

From rich chocolate classics to fruity delights, these recipes will make your Valentine’s celebration extra indulgent and memorable.

PB&J Cups: These peanut butter and jelly cups are a playful twist on a childhood favorite. The combination of creamy peanut butter and fruity jam wrapped in chocolate is pure love in every bite. A great option for Valentine’s treats to make your kids!

Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies: These soft, chewy peanut butter cookies are a cozy and comforting treat. Bake a batch together and enjoy them warm with a glass of almond milk or spiked hot cocoa.

Vegan Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. This homemade vegan whipped cream is the perfect topping for any dessert. It’s also delicious as a strawberry dip or straight from the spoon—no judgment here!

Vegan Cannoli Cones: These crispy, creamy cannoli cones give all the flavor of the classic Italian dessert but in a fun, easy-to-make form. They’re the perfect hands-on treat for a playful Valentine’s night.

Vegan Affogato: A scoop of vanilla ice cream drowned in hot espresso—simple, elegant, and utterly divine. This Italian-inspired treat is perfect for coffee lovers looking for a sophisticated yet easy dessert.

Vegan Pies and Cheesecakes

Vegan Cherry Pie: Nothing says “made with love” quite like a homemade pie. This classic cherry pie is sweet, tart, and perfect for sharing. Especially when topped with a scoop of vegan ice cream.

Vegan Peanut Butter Pie: This dreamy, no-bake peanut butter pie is a must for peanut butter lovers. Creamy, rich, and topped with a chocolate drizzle, it’s the ultimate indulgence for a special night.

Vegan Cheesecake: This luscious, creamy cheesecake has the perfect balance of tang and sweetness. Whether topped with berries, chocolate, or caramel, it’s guaranteed to impress.

Vegan Champagne Cheesecake: This ultra-luxurious cheesecake has a subtle champagne flavor, making it the perfect way to celebrate love. Pop a bottle and enjoy a slice (or two)!

Chocolate Recipes for Vegan Valentine’s Day

Homemade Crunch Bars: These crispy, chocolatey treats bring all the nostalgia of store-bought favorites but with simple, clean ingredients. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy together. If your partner is a Crunch Bar fan, you have to try these!

Vegan Peppermint Patties: Cool, creamy, and coated in rich chocolate. These homemade peppermint patties spiked with vegan Baileys are a refreshing way to end a romantic meal. They’re also a fun treat to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week!

Vegan Chocolate Bars: If your Valentine’s tradition includes gifting chocolates, why not make your own? These silky-smooth bars are customizable with your favorite add-ins, making them extra special.

Vegan Peanut Butter Cups: A homemade version of a classic treat. These peanut butter cups are rich, nutty, and completely irresistible. They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.

Vegan Brownie Batter Dip: This rich, fudgy dip is like eating brownie batter by the spoonful. But totally safe and vegan! Serve it with fruit, pretzels, or just a couple of spoons for the ultimate indulgence.

Vegan White Chocolate Fudge: This creamy, melt-in-your-mouth white chocolate fudge is a unique and elegant way to end your Valentine’s dinner. A little goes a long way, making it perfect for gifting, too!

Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft, chewy, and loaded with gooey chocolate, these cookies are a classic for a reason. Bake a batch together and see who can resist eating them straight from the oven!

No matter how you celebrate, we hope these vegan Valentine’s recipes will help make your evening unforgettable. Cheers to love and delicious vegan food!

Which of these recipes are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!

The post 60 Vegan Valentine’s Day Recipes appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

This post contains affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you). Click here to read our full policy about affiliate links. Thank you for shopping our affiliate links, as it helps us keep the free vegan recipes coming your way!

When people hear we’re making vegan wings, they often roll their eyes and assume we mean flavorless baked cauliflower. 

And not that there’s anything wrong with cauliflower per se (we love a good cauliflower soup!), but when I want wings, I’m going for that meaty texture you can really sink your teeth into. 

What these doubters don’t realize is we have a few time-tested tricks up our sleeves to turn tofu into the type of meaty magic that will stop those doubts right in their tracks. And in this post, we are going to teach you how to do it too!

We took these vegan Lemon Pepper Wings (and many other flavors of tofu wings) to a Super Bowl party last year, and all the non-vegan guests couldn’t stop eating them. 

One person even said, “Wow, when you said tofu I wasn’t expecting it to taste so much like chicken.” We don’t mess around here at PPC!

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Why You’ll Love Our Lemon Pepper Tofu Air Fryer Wings

• They’re not cauliflower. Not that there’s anything wrong with cauliflower, but when I want wings, I’m going for that meaty texture you just can’t get from cauliflower.
• Amazing texture and flavor. We used our beloved “Tofu Freezer Trick” in this recipe to create the meatiest, tenderest, most flavorful tofu wings of all time. You’ve never eaten tofu like this before.
• They’re air fryer tofu wings. No hot oil to worry about spitting oil everywhere and clean-up is easy. And they still taste legit thanks to an oil-based marinade that adds just the right amount of fat.
• They’re a hit with both vegans and non-vegans alike! Make these vegan Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings for your next football party or tailgate, and watch all your family and friends rave about how delicious they are. 

What Are Lemon Pepper Wet Wings?

Lemon Pepper Wings started as a variation of the popular Buffalo wings. It is said that they were invented in Atlanta, GA in the early 2000s where the local residents would sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on their wings to cut the spicy heat of the Buffalo sauce a little.

The addition of the seasoning became so popular it found its way to being its own wing flavor, and the Lemon Pepper Wet Wing was born. Since its Atlantan inception, the flavor has grown in popularity across the south.

Lemon Pepper Wings went globally viral and became tremendously popular when a character in the TV show Atlanta received an order of Lemon Pepper Wings from real-life restaurant J.R. Crickets, a local Atlanta establishment known for its wings .

Lemon Pepper Tofu Wing Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best vegan lemon pepper wet wings in town!

For the Wings and Marinade:

Extra firm tofu – Frozen and thawed.  Make sure you get the kind that comes in water, not vacuum sealed. This is important for the texture when using the Tofu Freezer Trick.

Olive oil – I like to use an oil marinade rather than a water-based one because it doesn’t add more water to the tofu (which can negatively affect the texture when cooked). It also helps by adding fat and creating that “fried” effect without actually frying them.

Vegan chicken bouillon powder – We use our easy homemade bouillon powder which adds that perfect touch of chickeny flavor!

For the Breading:

Vegan seasoned bread crumbs –  Be sure to check the ingredients, as some contain milk / eggs. We used our homemade vegan Italian bread crumbs but also love Edward & Sons brand! You want to use very fine breadcrumbs, so avoid panko if you can. If your bread crumbs are a little chunkier, pulse them in the food processor a few times before using them!

Tapioca starch or cornstarch – I find tapioca starch adheres better than cornstarch, but the latter will work in a pinch.

Unsweetened plain non-dairy milk – It is crucial you use an unsweetened and neutral-tasting plant-based milk here so the wings don’t taste weird. We love the unsweetened line of plant milks from Elmhurst.

Apple cider vinegar – We’ll use this to make a vegan buttermilk in the breading.

For the vegan lemon pepper sauce:

Vegan butter – Use your favorite brand of plant-based butter. We love the Plant Butter sticks from Country Crock!

Lemon – You’ll use both the juice and zest.

Spice Cabinet: lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt

How to Make Crispy Lemon Tofu Wings

Follow these time-tested, step by step instructions to get the best results from your tofu wings. And make sure you start 1-3 days ahead!

Step 1: Prep The Tofu 1-3 Days Ahead (at least!)

Place the whole container (do not open it) in the freezer overnight. In the morning, remove it from the freezer and set it in a shallow dish on your counter to thaw. This will take several hours. 

If you need to thaw the tofu quicker than that, check out this video for our best tips.

When the tofu is thawed, squeeze it gently over the sink and press it with a tofu press or on paper towels to remove any excess liquid.

Step 2: Marinate the Tofu

Place your tofu on a cutting board and use your hands to gently rip wing-shaped pieces. (Alternatively, you can also slice the tofu into sticks, triangles, or flat rectangles for other shape options.) Just be careful not to make any of the pieces too thick or they won’t cook right.

Mix all the ingredients for the marinade and pour this over your tofu wings, making sure they are all nice and coated. 

Place the marinated tofu in your fridge for at least an hour or overnight.

Step 3: Set up the Breading Station

Remove the tofu from the marinade and place it on a plate or cutting board. 

To the container where the tofu was marinating, add the unsweetened milk and apple cider vinegar. Swish the mixture gently to combine. 

Then, get out two more shallow bowls or pie plates. To one, add the starch. To the other, add the seasoned breadcrumbs. 

Step 4: Bread the Tofu Wings

Dip each tofu wing in the starch, then in the marinade/plant milk mix, then in the bread crumb mixture.

Be sure to coat the tofu completely during each phase. Repeat for each wing.

Step 5: Air Fry the Vegan Wings 

Add tofu wings to the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them so that they’re on top of each other. Feel free to do this in 2 batches.

Air fry for 10 minutes at 350F. Stop to shake gently, just enough to loosen the pieces from the bottom of the basket, and air fry another 10 minutes. Then, stop to shake gently again and air fry for a final 10 minutes or until browned.

Step 6: Make Lemon Pepper Wing Sauce 

While the tofu is air frying, add the sauce ingredients to a saucepan and stir until the vegan butter is melted.

Then, let this come to a low simmer and as soon as the sides start to bubble, remove from heat.

Step 7: Bring it Together

Add the cooked tofu wings to a large mixing bowl and drizzle on half the lemon pepper wing sauce. 

Toss to coat all the wings evenly. 

Then, drizzle the remaining wing sauce over the tofu and continue tossing to coat.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Air Fryer Tofu Wings

• Make sure you don’t skip the freezing the tofu part. This is crucial, and without it you will have a far squishier texture. 
• When freezing the tofu, make sure you buy tofu packed in water and freeze it in the unopened package.
• Do not use silken tofu or soft tofu. Extra firm tofu works the best for the meatiest results.
• Use a plain, unsweetened plant based milk to avoid any overwhelming flavor. Avoid anything that says “vanilla.”
• To get really firm and crispy wings, bread and air fry them the night before the big game. Then, let them sit in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer before saucing and serving! 

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Tofu Wings

Serve these lemon pepper wings with carrot and celery sticks and Vegan Buttermilk Ranch Dressing for dipping those delicious lemon pepper tofu bites.

These crispy lemon tofu pieces also make an amazing dinner option paired with some white rice and sauteed veg. We love to throw leftovers into containers for meal prep with some veggies and dip on the side!

How to Store Leftover Vegetarian Wings

Allow the wings to cool completely before storing. Place leftover wings in an airtight container and eat within 4-5 days.

How to Reheat Leftover Lemon Pepper Tofu Wings

Reheat in the air fryer at 350° for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and nice and crisp.

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More Great Game Day Recipes

• Buffalo Vegan Chicken Wings
• Vegan Artichoke Spinach Dip
• 11-Layer Vegan Taco Dip
• The Best Loaded Vegan Nachos
• Check out all our favorite vegan football food in our Vegan Recipes for the Super Bowl round-up!

We can’t wait to hear what you and your guests thought about these crispy air fryer tofu wings! Did you get some surprise reactions?!

Leave a comment and star rating below to let us know. This also helps more people find our vegan recipes which we appreciate so much!

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Vegan Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

These Lemon Pepper Tofu Wings will change the way you think about tofu. Packed with chickeny flavor and coated in a piquant lemon pepper sauce, these air fried tofu wings have the meatiest texture thanks to our internet-famous Tofu Freezer Trick. If you want vegetarian lemon pepper wings that actually taste like boneless chicken wings and not some crunchy vegetable substitute, this is your recipe.

Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack, Vegan Side Dishes

Cuisine Air Fryer, American, Vegan

Keyword air fryer recipes, air fryer tofu wings, tofu recipes, tofu wings, vegan wings

Prep Time 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes minutes

Tofu Prep Time 1 day day

Total Time 1 day day 1 hour hour

Servings 6 servings

Calories 464kcal

Author Brittany Roche

Equipment

• 1 Air Fryer

Ingredients

For the wings/marinade:

• 16-oz package extra firm tofu
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp vegan chicken bouillon powder

For the breading:

• 3/4 cup vegan seasoned bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup tapioca starch or cornstarch
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plain non-dairy milk
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

For the vegan lemon pepper wing sauce:

• 1 cup vegan butter
• 1 lemon zested
• 1 lemon juiced
• 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sea salt

Instructions

• First, prep the tofu: Freeze and defrost your tofu. Place the whole container (do not open it) in the freezer overnight (at least). In the morning, remove it from the freezer and set it in a shallow dish on your counter to thaw. This will take several hours. When the tofu is thawed, squeeze it gently over the sink and press it with a tofu press or on paper towels to remove any excess liquid.
• Marinate the tofu: Place your tofu on a cutting board and use your hands to gently rip wing-shaped pieces off of it. Alternatively, you can also slice the tofu into sticks, triangles, or flat rectangles for other shape options. Mix all the ingredients for the marinade and pour this over your tofu wings, making sure they are all nice and coated. Place them in your fridge for at least an hour or overnight.
• Set up the breading station: Preheat the air fryer to 350F and spray the basket gently with oil. Remove the tofu from the marinade and place it on a plate or cutting board or the lid of the container. To the container where the tofu was marinating, add the unsweetened plant milk and apple cider vinegar. Swish the mixture gently to combine. Get out two shallow bowls or pie plates. To one, add the starch. To the other, add the breadcrumbs.
• Bread the tofu wings: Dip each tofu wing in the starch, then in the marinade/plant milk mix, then in the bread crumb mixture. Be sure to coat the tofu completely during each phase. Repeat for each wing.
• Air fry the vegan wings: Add tofu wings to the air fryer basket, enough to fill the bottom but not so many that they’re on top of each other. Feel free to do it in 2 batches. Air fry for 10 minutes at 350F. Stop to shake gently, just enough to loosen the pieces from the bottom of the basket, and air fry another 10 minutes. Then, stop to shake gently again and air fry for a final 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
• Make lemon pepper wing sauce: While the tofu is air frying, add the sauce ingredients to a small saucepan and stir until the vegan butter is melted. Then, let this come to a low simmer and as soon as the sides start to bubble, remove from heat.
• Bring it together: Add the cooked tofu wings to a large mixing bowl and drizzle on half the lemon pepper wing sauce. Toss to coat all the wings evenly. Then, drizzle the remaining wing sauce over the tofu and continue tossing to coat.
• To serve: Serve these air fried tofu wings on a platter with vegan ranch dressing, celery sticks, and carrots.

Notes

• Make sure you don’t skip the freezing the tofu part. This is crucial, and without it you will have a far squishier texture. 
• When freezing the tofu, make sure you buy tofu packed in water and freeze it in the unopened package.
• Do not use silken tofu or soft tofu. Extra firm tofu works the best for the meatiest results.
• Use a plain, unsweetened plant based milk to avoid any overwhelming flavor. Avoid anything that says “vanilla.”
• To get really firm and crispy wings, bread and air fry them the night before the big game. Then, let them sit in the fridge overnight and reheat in the air fryer before saucing and serving!

Nutrition

Calories: 464kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 39g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 19g | Sodium: 917mg | Potassium: 238mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1489IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Vegan Lemon Pepper Wings appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

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Whether you’re a football fan or not, or vegan or not, I’m sure we can agree on one thing: A big part of the excitement of any Super Bowl game day party is in the food. 

The food at a Super Bowl party is the equivalent of the ads during the game: Go big and be memorable. 

This collection of vegan recipes for the Super Bowl is sure to have you brimming with excitement, even if your favorite team didn’t make the big game this year. 

Remember, there’s always next year, and this amazing list of delicious vegan football food to cheer you up.

From unrecognizably dairy free Super Bowl recipes for your favorite dips to finger food, entrees, apps, and more, this collection of vegan and vegetarian super bowl recipes has something for everyone. 

Your guests may not agree which team to root for, but they’ll all cheer for these amazing vegan football recipes.

Best Game Day Recipes 

Let’s kick off this post right away with all the amazing vegan recipes to make your Super Bowl party more memorable than the Super Bowl commercials. 

Also, be advised, this post has more football puns than the Jets had penalties in 2024. Okay, maybe not that many!

Vegan Football Dip Ideas

Artichoke Spinach Dip – This vegan bread bowl dip has been a consistent crowd-pleaser over the last 10 years since we went vegan. Serve it hot or cold, in a bread bowl or serving bowl. You can also spread some on pizza dough for an amazing artichoke spinach dip pizza that will make you the MVP at any party!

Kalamata Olive Tapenade – This vegan Olive Tapenade is a really quick appetizer (like ready in under 5 minutes quick) that everyone always loves and thinks is so fancy! It is perfect for any game day party, or any party any time of year, really. 

11-Layer Vegan Taco Dip – The classic 7-layer taco dip goes for the extra points and scores with this vegan 11-layer taco dip. Yes, eleven layers of absolute deliciousness that will have people cheering this dip – and you – as much as they do their favorite player.

Vegan Queso – If you’re looking for WFPB super bowl recipes, make this incredible vegan queso. It requires no cashew-soaking or even a stove top, and can be made in less time than it takes most teams to line up for an onside kick! It’s creamy and flavorful and just perfect. Pro-Tip: Dip your pretzel bites or pigs-in-a-blanket in this!

Vegan Beer Cheese Dip – This thick and creamy vegan beer cheese dip has that classic beer cheese flavor but is made from tofu. Yes, tofu!! Serve it hot or cold as a dip with warm Homemade Pretzel Bites and veggies for the perfect dairy-free game day appetizer!

Hummus – From a Classic Garlic Hummus, an extra Spicy Garlic Hummus, or a piquant and delightful Dill Pickle Hummus, we’ve got fan-favorite flavors all your guests will enjoy. Don’t forget your food safety, and check out our How To Keep Hummus Fresh post for serving and storage tips.

Vegan Buttermilk Ranch Dip – This easy vegan buttermilk ranch dip recipe is the best plant based ranch ever! Seriously. Great for your game day party and perfect for dipping everything from veggies to wings to pizza and more!

Vegan Finger Foods and Snacks

Air Fryer Tofu Wings – Air fryer super bowl recipes are great for game day, and these Air Fried Vegan Buffalo Wings will have your guests wondering what sort of trick play you made to get these so delicious and meaty! Be sure to check out our vegan Lemon Pepper Wings too!

Loaded Vegan Nachos – If there’s one delicious dish that truly gathers a group together around a plate, it’s nachos. Our vegetarian loaded nachos are stacked high and layered with spicy walnut meat, vegan nacho cheese, black beans, and ALL the veggie toppings. They’re naturally dairy-free, cholesterol-free, and plant-based but are also easily made gluten-free and oil-free. These meatless nachos are sure to be a food-fan-favorite at your next game day 

Nana’s Vegan Cheeseball – Can you even call it a party if there’s not a cheeseball? This vegan cheese ball has a delicious cheesy flavor, mind-blowingly creamy texture, is omnivore-approved, and cashew-free! 

Vegan Bloody Mary Jerky – This amazing jerky is another of our favorite air fryer super bowl recipes. It’s a simple air fryer recipe with delicious results. Your guests won’t be able to resist this perfect game day snack. And they’re great with beer or, of course, vegan Bloody Marys. 

Polenta Pizza Bites – These Polenta Pizza Bites are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack for your game day gathering. Everything you love about pizza but with a crispy polenta crust. These easy mini pizzas are the perfect vegan game day food for kids and adults alike!

Vegan Pigs in a Blanket – The classic, and seriously loved, appetizer gets a vegan makeover. Baby carrots, trust me here!, are marinated in our special marinade and wrapped in puff pastry then baked to perfection. Your guests will rush these in a blitz!

Vegan Football Party Entrees

Hearty Vegan Chili – No vegetarian game day food list is complete without a big batch of great chili. This award-winning TVP chili doesn’t just taste amazing, it’s also a super easy and hands-off recipe. Just add everything to one pot and let it simmer ‘til gametime!

Vegan Sausage and Peppers – These vegan sausage and peppers are a crowd-pleaser through and through. We’ve served this plant-based dish to many crowds of non-vegans of all ages, and it is always a massive hit like a 300 pound linebacker sacking the QB.

Vegan Meatballs – These vegan meatballs are made with a meaty blend of TVP + seitan. And unlike other vegan meatball recipes, these bad boys DO NOT fall apart or turn to mush in your mouth! Absolutely perfect for meatball subs at your Super Bowl party.

TVP Sloppy Joes – The greatest Joe since “Broadway Joe” Namath! The mix is easy to make with a TVP base as our meat alternative and no lentils! And the spicy/sweet vegan Sloppy Joe sauce will have everyone clamoring for seconds.

Vegan French Dip Sandwiches – A classic game-day staple, these meaty, tender vegan french dip sandwiches are made with homemade seitan and dripping with a delicious au jus! Pro Tip: Spread some of the Vegan Beer Cheese Dip on your sandwich.

Vegan Doritos Mac and Cheese – We make a lot of mac and cheese recipes here, but this Sweet Chili Doritos Mac and Cheese always takes home the trophy. It’s going to change the way you think about vegan mac and cheese!

Pizzas – Probably the only thing we make more than mac and cheese around here are pizzas. Here are some of our favorites for game day:

• Vegan Stuffed Crust Pizza 
• Vegan Big Mac Pizza 
• Roasted Vegetable Pizza 
• Vegan Buffalo Chicken Pizza
• Vegan BBQ Chicken Pizza
• Vegan Chili Cheese Fry Pizza
• If you’re a pizza fan, you have to check out our post with a  Full List of Homemade Vegan Pizzas everyone will cheer for.

Vegan Game Day Desserts

Vegan Irish Potatoes – Sure these cute confections are most popular around St. Patrick’s Day, but trust me. These delicious bite-size candies will disappear faster than a fair weather fan.

Vegan Peanut Butter Cups – Our easy homemade chocolate peanut butter cup recipe is a Reese’s copycat that’s also vegan, dairy free, gluten free, and made without powdered sugar. Or try our Peanut Butter & Jelly Cups for a fun flavor twist!

Vegan No-Bake NY-Style Cheesecake – This simple recipe is the real deal and perfect for first time cheesecake makers – it doesn’t even require a springform pan! Plus, everyone loves New York cheesecake even if they don’t like NY teams (Go Birds!).

Cookies – You can’t go wrong with a plate of Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies or Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies. Just be sure to make a double batch of each in case the game goes into overtime!

Tips & Tricks

• If there are recipes you can make a day or two in advance, do so. Even if it’s just prepping certain ingredients like spice mixtures ahead to save some time. You want to be able to enjoy the game too!
• Check out our How to Serve Hummus post for safety tips on serving and storing your dips
• Use the Salton Warming Tray to keep your food warm while serving. People can be very unforgiving with vegan dishes, so keeping them properly warmed is key to success! I can’t tell you how many times this warming tray has saved our reputations, lol.

How to Store Leftovers

Be sure to check individual recipe posts for specific storage instructions and tips. They’re usually located near the bottom of the post before the recipe card.

If you make any of these awesome vegan recipes for your Super Bowl party, we’d love to hear about it! What did you choose? How did everyone love it?

Let us know by leaving a comment in the section below. Oh, and Go Birds!

The post 38 Vegan Super Bowl Recipes appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

This post contains affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you). Click here to read our full policy about affiliate links. Thank you for shopping our affiliate links, as it helps us keep the free vegan recipes coming your way!

People often ask if, as vegans, we miss eating pizza. And I just can’t help but laugh out loud because we eat a lot of pizza here. A lot of pizza. 

I’m always rolling out a batch of fluffy, homemade pizza dough and coming up with new vegan pizza ideas to try.

From a decadent Plant Based Cheeseburger Pizza to a more traditional but no less tantalizing Vegan Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza, you’ll find no shortage of tasty vegan pizza options and ideas in this list! 

We’ve also included our best ideas and suggestions for topping your pizzas and some tips and tricks to help your plant-based pizza making journey even easier.

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Why You’ll Love These Vegan Pizza Recipes

• All of these vegan pizza recipes are our personal recipes. If we can make great pizza, you can too!
• Each and every one of these pizzas has been tested in our small Philly kitchen.
• All of them are fit to be served to omnivores…with zero complaints. (Yes, we tested it!)
• They can be made in a pizza oven or traditional oven.

Tips & Tricks to Make the Best Pizzas

• Make sure your pizza dough is floured properly for rolling out
• Don’t overload the pizza dough with toppings that will make it too heavy
• Lots of corn meal on the pizza peel will help it slide into the oven easily
• If using a pizza oven, don’t let the pizza sit on the peel too long or the bottom may stick. This makes it more difficult to transfer

Vegan Pizza FAQs

What are good toppings for vegan pizza?

• Vegan Sausage – We like dicing up the Gardein sausage patties or slicing up their Ultimate Italian Sausage links. You can also use our walnut sausage or Italian seitan sausages recipe!
• Vegan Pepperoni – Field Roast makes an amazing vegan pepperoni perfect for pizzas. I love our Italian seitan sausage recipe, sliced thinly, as a pepperoni stand-in as well.
• All the veggies! – Mushrooms, green peppers, red onion, roasted red pepper, zucchini, squash, loads of minced garlic, etc. Toss them in some balsamic vinegar and a little olive oil first for a touch of flavor!
• Vegan Ham – We love to use leftover seitan ham after the holidays for pizza! (Pineapple or no)
• Olives – Kalamata olives and black olives are my favorites for pizza, especially paired with our vegan feta or vegan goat cheese!
• Peppers – Not just bell peppers, try some other sweet or hot varieties! Shishito peppers and poblanos are great on pizza. Jalapenos are the perfect addition to a spicy Vegan Buffalo Chicken Pizza.

Can vegans eat regular pizza dough?

“Regular” pizza dough’ is a misleading term. Most traditional pizza dough recipes are vegan. But many places, especially artisanal-style pizza shops, like to add specialized ingredients to give their dough a “personal touch”. 

I’ve worked in places that added eggs to the dough for binding, or used honey as the activator for the yeast. I’ve also worked in places that added whey powder to the flour to increase its protein content. I even worked in a spot in the early 2000s that added chicken fat to some of their specialty doughs. 

So, the name of the game here is always read the ingredients. This is just one of those products where you’ll always have to ask the restaurant or look at the ingredients if you’re buying a store-bought pizza crust. 

If you’re looking for a perfectly fluffy, vegan friendly pizza dough to make at home, try our easy Homemade Pizza Dough. The recipe makes two pizza doughs, so you can even freeze on for later.

What is the best vegan cheese for pizza? 

From Follow Your Heart to Vevan, Daiya to Parmela and more, there’s a plethora of plant-based pizza cheese available at many standard grocery stores these days. But not all cheeses are created equal.

Some vegan cheeses, like Violife in particular, need a very high heat to achieve a good meltability. Daiya, Vevan, and others melt well at a slightly lower temperature in both the pizza oven or traditional oven. 

This is important to remember when choosing a vegan cheese for your pizza. If you’re using a traditional oven to make pizza, you’ll want to err on the side of a low-heat easily meltable cheese like Daiya, Vevan, or Follow Your Heart. However, our Pizzadesso PIzza Oven gets up to 800F which melts the higher-heat cheeses like Violife perfectly, so we don’t have to be as selective.

If you’re looking for a homemade vegan pizza cheese, our go-to is our Homemade Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Sauce that is perfectly creamy and delicious and melts amazingly.

The Salton Pizzadesso 

The Salton Pizzadesso Ultra High Heat Pizza Oven is a game-changing countertop pizza oven/air fryer combo! We just absolutely love it. We make all our pizzas in it now and use its large variety of functions for lots of other fun recipes as well.

It has 15 versatile functions – including broiling, roasting, dehydrating, and defrosting – and 6 pizza-specific functions from deep-dish or wood-fired pizza to a NY style pizza. It also has a low-heat dough proofing function that will help get you enjoying your homemade pizza so much faster. 

Speaking of fast, the Pizzadesso countertop pizza oven from Salton heats up to 800°F on the Wood Fire setting and will cook your plant based pizza to perfection in just 3-4 minutes! Needless to say that this is our favorite pizza setting.

You’ll notice most of the vegan pizza recipes we’re sharing below will also contain specific Pizzadesso instructions, so be sure to look for that if you have one. 

And if you’re in the market for an indoor pizza oven, we can’t recommend this one enough! Just know you’ll have lots of recipes to make here if you decide it’s right for you!

Vegan Pizza Recipes

We start all our pizza recipes with this Fluffy Homemade Pizza Dough. You can use a vegan-friendly frozen pizza dough as well. We often find a couple brand varieties in our local store’s freezer section. Just be sure to read the package ingredients first.

Use your favorite store bought vegan shredded cheese or make your own Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Cheese Sauce in just a few minutes.

Roasted Vegetable Pizza

Roasted Vegetable Pizza – A roasted vegetable pizza that strikes a good balance between eating your veggies and indulging in comfort food! Fresh garden vegetables and herbs are seasoned with a simple flavor trick that will even get the kids eating their veg!

Vegan White Pizza

White Pizza with Marinated Veggies – This easy vegan white pizza recipe is impossible to resist! Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, olives, artichokes, and mushrooms are marinated and nestled between two layers of thick and creamy dairy-free white sauce that’s made without any vegan cheese, milk, or cashews!

Vegan Stuffed Crust Pizza

Vegan Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza – The Pizza Hut classic gets a vegan makeover with this amazing plant based pepperoni pizza. With a soft crust stuffed with melty dairy-free mozzarella and shredded vegan pepperoni, you won’t know which end to start at first!

Vegan BBQ Pizza

Vegan BBQ Chicken Pizza – The recipe that changed my mind about pineapple on pizza. Soy curls, red onions, and yes, pineapple combine for an amazing pizza everyone will love. And you might even change a few minds about the pineapple.

Vegan Buffalo Pizza

Vegan Buffalo Chicken Pizza – Why choose between Buffalo wings or pizza when you can have both? This vegan Buffalo Chicken Pizza is the perfect balance between creamy, spicy, and zingy with a splash of cooling from the dill pickle ranch. It’s one-part pizza, one-part buffalo wings, and 100% delicious.

Vegan Baked Ziti Pizza

Vegan Baked Ziti Pizza – Basically, this meat-free comfort food dish is everything you love about a classic baked ziti but veganized and on a PIZZA! This fun pizza recipe is shockingly easy and will be your favorite plant-based pizza to make. 

Vegan Big Mac Pizza

Easy Vegan Cheeseburger Pizza – Fluffy, homemade pizza dough is topped with our vegan burger sauce, diced vegan burger piecess, vegan cheddar, dill pickle chips, and shredded lettuce and tomatoes to make the most glorious vegan Big Mac pizza ever to grace a plate.

Vegan Chicken Parm Pizza

Vegan Chicken Parm Pizza – Kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and easy to make, this vegan chicken parm pizza is a delicious twist on two classic comfort foods. You can make this vegan pizza from-scratch OR use the store-bought shortcuts we suggest.

Vegan Pesto Pizza

Vegan Pesto Pizza with Walnut Sausage – This no-proof vegan pesto pizza is packed with dairy-free basil pesto sauce and wall-to-wall sausage-style walnut meat on a rustic whole wheat pizza dough. This healthy pizza recipe can be made in under 40 minutes!

Vegan Thanksgiving Pizza

Thanksgiving Leftovers Pizza – This Vegan Thanksgiving Pizza (also known as a Vegan Christmas Pizza come late December) is the funnest way to use up your holiday meal leftovers since the creation of the Thanksgiving sandwich.

Vegan Chili Cheese Pizza

Vegan Chili Cheese Pizza – Vegan chili cheese fries are loaded onto a pizza and baked to tasty perfection. Suitable for vegans, vegetarians, dairy-free and low-cholesterol diets, but not for the faint of heart! LOL!

If you make any (or all!) of these pizzas, or if you have any questions we didn’t cover here, we’d love to hear from you! Leave your comment or question below!

Until then, happy plant-based pizza making!

The post 12 Vegan Pizza Ideas appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

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This Vegan Sweet Chili Doritos Macaroni and Cheese is going to change the way you think about vegan mac and cheeses. 

It’s creamy (and stays creamy!), comforting, and completely delicious. The combination of mac and cheese and Doritos is a classic food combo that was born to happen.

We took a pan of this to my cousin’s baby shower last year, and ALL the guests, from age 5 to 85, raved about it! These are people who’ve never eaten vegan mac in their lives, so I considered it a major win. 

The pan was gone in seconds which was, first of all, relieving because you know the nerves you get when you bring a vegan dish to any family party.

But it was also a very clear sign that I needed to share this recipe with the world because every vegan needs this one in their back pocket for that family party confidence!

Our tofu cheese sauce makes this the creamiest mac and cheese, and not one cashew is needed. Serve this delicious dish on its own, pair it with some soup or salad, or serve it as a side dish with one of our suggestions below. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or quiet evenings at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Dorito Mac and Cheese Recipe

• Delicious – Even the nonvegans rave about the flavor. From my cousin’s 5-year-old to my 80-something-year-old grandparents, no one can resist. 
• Comforting – This recipe combines two great classic comfort foods that are both exciting and nostalgic.
• Creamy – Thanks to our signature tofu cheese sauce method, you get the dreamiest, creamiest results without a single cashew!

Ingredients for Doritos Baked Mac and Cheese

Pasta/Macaroni – We like elbow macaroni or small shells. Most commercial pasta brands in the US are vegan-freindly, but feel free to check out our Vegan Pasta List for more info!

Vegan cheddar shreds – We like Vevan or Daiya shreds for this recipe. I try to avoid a higher heat cheese like Violife because I find it’s tough to get that melt on top with a home oven.

Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos – Crushed. See the section below for more on vegan Doritos varieties throughout the world.

Firm tofu – Be sure to use firm and not extra firm tofu or soft.

Non-dairy milk – Plain and unsweetened, that’s important! We like Elmhurst’s unsweetened cashew milk.

Refined coconut oil – This is important: Make sure the coconut oil you use is “refined” coconut oil, so it doesn’t taste like coconut. If it says “unrefined” or “virgin” on the bottle, do not use it.

White miso – We love using Miso Master brand miso in our recipes.

Yellow mustard – This adds another level of tangy cheddar flavor.

Apple cider vinegar – You can sub white vinegar if needed.

Spice Cabinet: salt, onion powder

How to Make Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos Mac and Cheese

Step 1 – Cook Your Pasta

Use the lowest number they give on the package instructions in the time range to cook the pasta just below al dente. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2 – Make the Tofu Cheese Sauce

Add all the ingredients for the tofu cheese sauce to a high-powered blender or food processor. 

Blend the mixture, starting at a low speed and slowly increasing to high (use your tamper if needed), for at least 4-6 minutes. 

When ready, the sauce mixture will go from gritty and matte to smooth and shiny. That part is the key!

Step 3 – Bake Your Mac n Cheese

Preheat your oven to 325°F and combine the sauce and pasta in your baking dish. 

Top the sauced pasta with an extra cup of vegan cheddar, cover tightly with aluminum foil. and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Sprinkle the baked mac with extra Sweet Chili Doritos and serve immediately!

Recipe Notes and Tips

• Make sure you use a coconut oil that’s labeled “refined” so you do not get a coconut flavor.
• Do not use silken tofu. Soft or silken tofu will create a much looser sauce, and the sauce is creamy enough!
• Use any plant milk you like (soy, almond, oat, etc.), but make sure you use something with as neutral a flavor as possible. We love the unsweetened line of plant milks from Elmhurst.
• Blend the sauce until absolutely, completely. smooth. You want to fully emulsify the tofu and coconut oil, so blending can take up to 6 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mix goes from gritty and matte to smooth and shiny. 
• Make sure you use a high-power blender for best results and lean on your tamper to help you get things going. We’ve used our Vitamix plenty of times for this recipe, but our Salton Power Blender works just as well for a far more reasonable price!
• Serve the baked mac and cheese on a heat source like the Salton XL Hotray Warming Tray. Keeping the mac and cheese hot helps keep that sauce nice and creamy!
• Hippeas makes a widely available vegan nacho cheese chip if you can’t find vegan Doritos in your area.

What Doritos are Vegan?

To my knowledge, the only vegan friendly Doritos in the US are the purple-bagged Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos used in this recipe.

Most Doritos have dairy in them, and a couple, including the Salsa Verde flavor in the green bag, contain chicken fat and aren’t even suitable for vegetarians.

There are a couple international flavors not available in the US that are suitable for vegans. 

Be sure to read the package before purchasing or find the full ingredient lists for all your favorite flavors on the Doritos’ product page on their website.

Hippeas also makes a vegan nacho cheese chip if you can’t find vegan Doritos in your area.

To Make Your Own Doritos

Thee Burger Dude provides recipes for vegan versions of nacho cheese and cool ranch flavors of Doritos he boasts as “Easy, delicious, and almost unrecognizably vegan!”. You can find both his Homemade Doritos Recipes here. 

How to Serve Doritos Macaroni and Cheese

This amazing vegan macaroni and cheese recipe is a perfect meal all on its own or paired with some soup or salad.

We love it with our Vegan Tomato Soup or Vegetable Soup, or alongside a White Bean Toona Sandwich

This Doritos vegan macaroni and cheese also goes great as a side with our TVP Meatloaf or Buffalo Soy Curls.

How to Store Leftover Macaroni and Cheese

This Doritos vegan macaroni and cheese makes amazing leftovers. You can even make a big tray and save, and even freeze, some for later!

In the fridge: Let mac and cheese cool fully. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge for 5-7 days. 

In the freezer: You can freeze leftover tofu baked mac and cheese in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

We like to freeze leftovers in our 2-Cup Souper Cubes and pop them out once frozen to store in a freezer-safe bag. This gives us the perfect 1 or 2-serving portion for a quick dinner.

You can also cook the cheesy pasta right in the 2-Cup Souper Cubes, but it would probably need less time.

How to Reheat Leftover Macaroni and Cheese

Reheat in a preheated oven, covered, at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until hot. To maintain maximum creaminess, I like to add just a little plain, unsweetened non-dairy milk over the mac and cheese before covering.

If reheating in the microwave: Add a little unsweetened plain plant milk (I do a teaspoon or two per bowl) and reheat at 75-80% for 2-2.5 minutes until hot. Make sure you’re using plain, unsweetened, and neutral plant milk. We love the unsweetened line from Elmhurst.

To reheat from frozen: Defrost in the microwave on 50% for about 3-4 minutes until thawed. Add a little unsweetened, plain plant-based milk and reheat on high for 2-3 minutes until hot. For conventional ovens, place in an oven safe dish, add a little unsweetened plain plant milk, cover, and bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes.

FAQs

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More Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipes

• Vegan Baked Macaroni and Cheese
• Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese
• Silken Tofu Mac and Cheese
• Vegan Beer Cheese Mac

We’d love to hear what you think about this recipe! 

Did you try it? Did you serve it to anyone who’s never had vegan mac and cheese before? And did they love it? Let us know by leaving a star rating and comment in the section below the recipe card. 

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Vegan Doritos Mac and Cheese

This Vegan Doritos Mac and Cheese is like no other mac and cheese you’ve ever tasted. Creamy, comforting, and delicious, it’s everything you love about baked mac and cheese but vegan, and with loads of crushed Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos in every creamy bite. Whether your guests are vegan or not, they’ll love this Spicy Sweet Chili Mac and Cheese.

Course Entrees, Main Course, Vegan Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American, Baked, Pasta

Keyword baked vegan mac and cheese, dairy free mac and cheese, easy dairy free mac and cheese, healthy mac and cheese, plant based mac and cheese, tofu mac and cheese, vegan pasta recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 8 servings

Calories 687kcal

Author Brittany Roche

Ingredients

• 16 oz elbows or shells
• 1 cup vegan cheddar shreds
• 1 cup crushed Sweet Chili Doritos

For the tofu cheese sauce:

• 14 oz firm tofu
• 1 cup plain unsweetened non-dairy milk
• 1 cup crushed Sweet Chili Doritos
• 1 cup vegan cheddar
• 1/2 cup melted refined coconut oil
• 2 Tbsp white miso
• 2 Tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

• Cook your pasta according to the box directions. Use the lowest number in the time range they give you.
• Add all the ingredients for the tofu cheese sauce to a high-powered blender or food processor. Blend, starting at a low speed and slowly increasing to high (use your tamper if needed), for at least 4-6 minutes. When ready, the mixture will go from gritty and matte to smooth and shiny. That’s the key!
• Preheat your oven to 325F and combine the sauce and pasta in your baking dish. Top with 1 cup vegan cheddar and bake, covered tightly, for 15 minutes.
• Sprinkle the baked mac with extra Sweet Chili Doritos and serve immediately!

Notes

Make sure you use a coconut oil that’s labeled “refined” so you do not get a coconut flavor.

Do not use silken tofu. Soft or silken tofu will create a much looser sauce, and the sauce is creamy enough!

Use any plant milk you like (soy, almond, oat, etc.), but make sure you use something with as neutral a flavor as possible. We love the unsweetened line of plant milks from Elmhurst.

Blend the sauce until absolutely, completely. smooth. You want to fully emulsify the tofu and coconut oil, so blending can take up to 6 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mix goes from gritty and matte to smooth and shiny. 

Make sure you use a high-power blender for best results and lean on your tamper to help you get things going. We’ve used a Vitamix for this previously, but the Salton Power Blender works just as well for a much more reasonable price!

Serve the baked mac and cheese on a heat source like the Salton XL Hotray Warming Tray. Keeping the mac and cheese hot helps keep that sauce nice and creamy!

Hippeas makes a widely available vegan nacho cheese chip if you can’t find vegan Doritos in your area.

What Doritos are vegan?

To my knowledge, the only vegan friendly Doritos in the US are the purple-bagged Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos used in this recipe. Most Doritos have dairy in them, and a couple, including the Salsa Verde flavor in the green bag, contain chicken fat and aren’t even suitable for vegetarians.

There are a couple international flavors not available in the US that are suitable for vegans. 

Be sure to read the package before purchasing or find the full ingredient lists for all your favorite flavors on the Doritos’ product page on their website.

Hippeas also makes a vegan nacho cheese chip if you can’t find vegan Doritos in your area.

Nutrition

Calories: 687kcal | Carbohydrates: 79g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 899mg | Potassium: 317mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 122IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 222mg | Iron: 3mg

The post Vegan Doritos Mac and Cheese appeared first on Plant Power Couple.

This post contains affiliate links. As Amazon Associates, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases (at no cost to you). Click here to read our full policy about affiliate links. Thank you for shopping our affiliate links, as it helps us keep the free vegan recipes coming your way!

We’ve gathered our best kid friendly vegan recipes that will get even your pickiest eater interested and asking for more. These are recipes that we’ve taken to family parties and watched non-vegan children absolutely devour.

But these recipes aren’t just for kids! Here you’ll find great tasting vegan recipes for picky eaters of all ages. Trust me, B was one of the pickiest eaters I know, and every one of these recipes has been enthusiastically approved by her!

We’ve got everything from classic vegan burgers and the tastiest carrot dogs to easy casseroles and pasta dishes. And these are all kid friendly vegan dinners that have been reported by our readers who have exclaimed how much they were loved by their own picky eaters. There’s even a few tips and tricks to help make them a little less picky!

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Why Kids (and Adults) Love These Kid Friendly Vegan Recipes

• These recipes meet kids and picky eaters where they’re at. We’re not making cauliflower burgers or zucchini meatloaf here.
• We’ve included kid friendly vegan recipes that our readers report their kids love and ask for again and again. 
• These recipes have been taken to various family parties and all the kids devour them (adults too!). 
• B is also a picky eater and basically has the taste of a child. Every one of these recipes was run by her and enthusiastically approved!

Tips and Tricks to Help Transform Your Picky Eater

Most of what keeps a child from eating new foods is exactly that, they’re new! 

Everyone has a little fear of the unknown, especially as children, so one of the best ways to get your picky eater to eat new foods is by involving them in the process. 

These are just a few ideas to help familiarize your children with foods they might soon grow to love.

Plan and Prepare Family Meals As A Family

Planning your weekly meals together is a great way to spend time with your kids and find out what they’re in the mood to eat that week. You can sit down for an hour during the weekend and even just have extra time to talk with your kids. It doesn’t all have to be about the food.

When it comes time for making dinner, have your children help with prepping and cooking the meals. This gets them interested in what they’re going to eat. It will also teach great kitchen skills for the future.

Make Extras of Favorites for Leftovers 

Make large batches of their (and your) favorite meals. Then store extras in the refrigerator or freezer for when time is short or you just don’t feel up to cooking. That way, you’ll always have a variety of kid-friendly vegan meals ready to go.

Encourage and Educate 

Create a home where trying new foods is a common occurrence and every night isn’t vegan chicken fingers and fries. 

Try different cuisines once a week. If ordering from a restaurant, you can call in advance to ask what vegan recipes for picky eaters they offer and have suggestions ready. 

You can start with basic dishes and see how adventurous your picky eater becomes. An easy way to do this is to order a couple slightly more exotic things you like and offer them a taste.

You could also have them pick a “favorite vegetable of the week” and research where it comes from and various ways to prepare it. This also educates them not just about food, but about various global cultures and cuisines as well.

Google your local area for various farmers markets, fruit farms or orchards, or “international” grocery stores near you for fun field trips.

Get Them Involved at the Root

Another amazing way to get the kids involved is to start a garden. Kids are super curious and love to get dirty. Gardening combines those two great passions.

They can learn about how food grows and how various vegetables are used in a variety of recipes. Tomatoes are a great example.

And kids absolutely love to grow and pick their own vegetables. And the vegetables aren’t the only ones growing, because keeping a garden will also teach them responsibility and caring for living things. This works even if you just help them grow a few window-box herbs or scallions.

Vegan and Vegetarian Recipes For Picky Eaters

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Who doesn’t love macaroni and cheese?! These are 3 of our top reader favorite recipes that kids of all ages absolutely adore.

• Vegan Baked Mac and Cheese – This classic baked vegan mac and cheese is easy to make and the bright cheddar flavor will have even the pickiest eater at the table asking for seconds!
• Smoky Sweet Potato Mac & Cheese –  A great take on the classic that everyone in the family will ask for again and again.
• Silken Tofu Macaroni and Cheese – This oil-free vegan mac and cheese is an easy dinner to make with just 3 steps – boil, blend, and stir! It’s kid-friendly and omnivore approved, packs a plant protein punch, and has a dreamy creamy texture that is the real deal.

Pasta Dishes

Pasta is a familiar favorite most picky eaters will eat. Your pickiest eater is sure to love every one of these delicious dinners.

• Spaghetti and TVP Meatballs – Check the comments on this post. Many readers report our TVP Meatballs are the only vegan meatball their little ones will eat!
• Vegan Baked Feta Pasta – This Vegan Baked Feta Pasta our veganized version of the viral TikTok pasta recipe In our version, we take it to the next level with flavors like tahini, kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers, but you can adjust the ingredients to include your favorites. 
• Vegan Chicken Tetrazzini – This classic pasta casserole gets veganized with simple, chicken flavored soy curls and egg free noodles. Cut the mushrooms small if your picky eater doesn’t like large pieces of mushrooms. (That’s me, I don’t like large mushrooms. But I love this recipe!)

Casseroles

The vegan casserole dishes are the perfect cheap, easy, kid friendly vegetarian recipes you’ll go to again and again. They’re also great for leftover meals or freezing for later!

• Vegan Chicken Noodle Casserole – This classic casserole is a great take on chicken noodle soup that will get even the pickiest of eaters asking for seconds.
• Vegan Chicken and Rice Casserole – Another classic. You can start by omitting or decreasing the amount of broccoli if needed and start introducing more each time you make it.
• JUST Egg Breakfast Casserole – Get all your favorite breakfast components in this easy casserole with a tater tot crust. Who doesn’t love tater tots?!
• Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole – This recipe is truly a great one because it doubles as a breakfast or dinner side dish they are sure to love!
• Vegan Pot Pie Casserole – No picky eater can resist this delicious vegan chicken pie in an easy puff pastry crust.

Soups & Bread

Kids like foods they recognize. And nothing is more recognizable than these classic soup recipes made vegan.

Soups:

• Olive Garden Minestrone Copycat – This thick, delicious soup is packed with flavorful garden veggies, beans, and pasta. Serve our Olive Garden minestrone soup as an opener to an Italian-inspired meal or as a meal itself with some homemade crusty garlic bread. 
• Copycat Campbell’s Vegetable Soup – The classic Campbell’s soup gets veganized in this simple recipe that’s easy to make but hard to resist.
• The Best Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup – We’re not kidding when we say this is the best. Your kids will be slurping this soup up by the bowlful.

Breads:

• Vegan Garlic Bread – Buttery vegan garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to, well, just about anything! This crisp and soft garlic bread is an easy recipe that’s going to be a hit every time you make it!  
• Homemade Vegan Dinner Rolls – Simple to make with minimal active time, this dinner rolls recipe is perfect for all picky eaters and great for making game-day sliders and sandwiches.

Burgers and Dogs

These are great vegan options for barbecues, summer parties, or just simple weeknight dinners.

• The Ultimate Carrot Dogs – These easy and delicious carrot dogs are pure vegan magic! It’s our favorite vegan hot dog recipe, a long-time reader favorite, remarkably simple to make, and the marinade uses common pantry staples. They’re perfect for a summer cookout and make a fun lunch for both kids and adults alike! 
• Vegan Coney Dogs – If your eater is getting slightly more adventurous, try this amazing vegan coney sauce for topping your carrot dogs.
• TVP Hamburgers – Just a simple, great tasting vegan hamburger. 
• Vegan Sloppy Joes – The recipe is easy to make with a TVP base as our meat alternative and no lentils! And the spicy / sweet sloppy joe sauce will have everyone clamoring for seconds.

Pizza

Every kid big and small loves pizza! And these are the best kid friendly vegan recipes for homemade pizza everyone will enjoy.

We start all our vegan pizza recipes with this Fluffy Homemade Pizza Dough.  You can use store bought vegan shredded cheese or make your own Vegan Liquid Mozzarella Cheese Sauce in just a few minutes.

• Vegan Stuffed Crust Pizza – You can sub the vegan pepperoni for your favorite toppings or omit it for a plain pizza.
• Vegan BBQ Chicken Pizza – Classic barbecue chicken pizza made vegan. Kids and adults alike enjoy this flavorful pizza. Adjust toppings to fit your personal preferences and tastes.
• Vegan Baked Ziti Pizza – Two kids’ favorite recipes combine in this glorious and great tasting pizza. They’ll be asking for more for sure. 
• Roasted Vegetable Pizza – This might be for the slightly more adventurous eater or as your picky eater evolves. But this roasted veg pizza is a delicious way to get your child to eat their vegetables.

More Kid Friendly Vegan Recipes

These didn’t quite fit in the other categories, but we have received so many comments about how much picky children and adults alike have loved these recipes. So we just had to be sure to include them!

• Vegan Meatloaf – Serve with easy vegan mashed potatoes and whatever side vegetable you are able to get your child will eat.
• Vegan Tuna Sandwiches – A great pairing with any of our mac and cheese recipes. This easy kid-friendly and favorite recipe can be used for tuna salad or sandwiches.
• Corn Fritters – These vegan corn fritters are spicy, zesty, and imbued with a fresh and summery vibe. They’re astonishingly easy to make and versatile enough to complement anything from creamy pastas to crisp salads. You can decrease the amount of cumin if needed and use a milder pepper like the mini mild peppers available in the produce section..
• Hummus Pinwheels – Easy to customize with your picky eater’s favorite fresh veggies, these are flavor-packed vegetable pinwheels that will have even the pickiest eaters loving these veggie loaded snacks!

We hope you’ve enjoyed this collection of kid-friendly vegan recipes. If there are any of our recipes your kids love, we’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment in the section below and we’ll be sure to add it to our round up.

The post Kid Friendly Vegan Recipes appeared first on Plant Power Couple.