Going vegan doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or fun at the dinner table! These Family Friendly Vegan Recipes are here to prove that plant-based meals can be exciting, satisfying, and enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting to explore plant-based eating, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
Bringing Everyone to the Table: Vegan Meals for All
One of the best things about cooking vegan is the opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. These recipes are designed to appeal to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Crowd-Pleasing Vegan Mains: From Weeknights to Weekends
Looking for hearty and satisfying vegan meals that will please even the pickiest eaters? These recipes are packed with flavor and easy to make:
1. One-Pan Roasted Veggie and Chickpea Fiesta
This colorful dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for a busy weeknight.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and toss to coat.
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
Chef’s Tip: Serve this dish with a dollop of vegan sour cream or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor. – Chef Emily Carter, Certified Plant-Based Chef
Colorful Roasted Vegetable and Chickpea Fiesta
2. Lentil “Meatloaf” with Mushroom Gravy
This comforting classic gets a vegan makeover!
Ingredients:
For the Lentil Loaf:
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
- Prepare the lentil loaf: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the remaining lentil loaf ingredients.
- Drain the lentils and add them to the bowl with the other ingredients. Mix well to combine.
- Press the mixture into a loaf pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until firm.
- Make the mushroom gravy: While the loaf is baking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
- Serve the lentil loaf with a generous drizzle of mushroom gravy.
Chef’s Tip: For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the lentils. – Chef Emily Carter, Certified Plant-Based Chef
Vegan Lentil Loaf with Rich Mushroom Gravy
Fun and Flavorful Vegan Sides
No meal is complete without delicious and satisfying side dishes! These recipes are sure to become new family favorites:
1. Crispy Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
These sweet potato fries are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and crispy.
Crispy Roasted Sweet Potato Fries on Baking Sheet
2. Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
This plant-based mac and cheese is so delicious, no one will miss the dairy!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- While the macaroni is cooking, drain the cashews and place them in a high-speed blender with the remaining ingredients.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot.
- Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the macaroni and stir to coat.
- Heat over low heat until warmed through.
Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese in Pot
Deliciously Easy Family Friendly Vegan Recipes: Conclusion
These family friendly vegan recipes are just the beginning of your plant-based culinary adventures. With a little creativity and these delicious recipes as inspiration, you can bring the joy of vegan eating to your family table. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute ingredients in these recipes?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze these recipes?
Most of these recipes can be frozen for later use. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
4. What are some other family friendly vegan recipes?
Check out the “Purely Vegan” website for a wide variety of family friendly vegan recipes, including soups, salads, and desserts.
5. What are some tips for making vegan meals appealing to kids?
Involve kids in the cooking process, let them choose their favorite vegetables, and get creative with presentation.
