Meatless Monday Recipes - 50 Easy Dishes

If you do meatless Monday and are looking for new ideas, here are some delicious and easy meatless Monday recipes to try.

From a creamy and rich saffron risotto to bean-rich vegetarian nachos, to a chickpea and spinach curry there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Let these healthy meatless Monday recipes inspire you to explore plant-based meals. There is something for everyone, from comfort food ideas to recipes for picky eaters and budget-friendly ideas.

What Is Meatless Monday?

Meatless Monday is a global campaign that started in 2003 in association with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. 

This campaign encourages cutting out meat one day a week and is based on the idea that it will have a positive effect on health, the environment, and animal welfare.

By choosing to eat plant-based meals on Monday, people can improve their health by eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 

Eating less meat can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation, which are major environmental concerns associated with the production of meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Can You Eat On Meatless Mondays?

There are many nutritious options you can use when planning your meatless Monday recipes, such as:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat pasta, and quinoa are rich in fiber and filling.
• Legumes are high in protein and fiber. You could make healthy and filling dishes with beans, lentils, and chickpeas.
• Nuts and seeds are good sources of healthy fats and proteins.
• Plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, seitan, and soy-based meat substitutes are all great alternatives to animal protein.
• Plant-based milk like soy, almond, oat, or rice milk are good alternatives for dairy milk.
• Plant-based oils such as olive oil and avocado oil are healthier than animal fats or butter.
• Make meatless versions of your favorite dishes like meatless pasta, veggie burgers, or vegetable stir fry.
• Experiment with different cuisines that are heavily plant-based, like Indian, Mediterranean, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Middle Eastern cuisines.

How Do I Start Meatless Monday?

Starting a meatless Monday diet is easy:

Plan ahead

Take the time and think about the type of meatless dishes you want to make for the day. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Print out recipes, write a shopping list, and have all these ready before Monday.

Get creative

Don't be afraid to experiment with unfamiliar ingredients like plant-based proteins such as beans, tofu, and tempeh. You may be pleasantly surprised at how good these plant-based alternatives can taste.

Get the family involved

Getting the family involved by cooking meatless meals together is a great way to bond and learn new recipes, and it just may encourage picky eaters to eat what they have helped to make.

Keep it simple

Meatless Monday recipes do not have to be complicated. You can make simple meals like; pasta with a thick and rich marinara sauce, a veggie stir fry, or a hearty and filling veggie soup.

Be flexible

Meatless Monday is not a hard and fast rule, and if you slip up and eat meat, don't beat yourself up over it. Just try doing better the next time.

50 Meatless Monday Recipes

Below find easy and delicious meatless recipes, from hearty enchiladas to filling and refreshing salads, these dishes are full of flavor and nutrition.

So whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to add some variety to your meals, give these recipes a try on your next Meatless Monday.

Classic Comfort Food

Not sure where to start with meatless Monday dinner ideas. Why not start with some of these classic comfort foods that can all be made meatless:

1. Mac And Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic recipe made with dairy, which might be okay for some.

However, if you are vegan or vegetarian or looking to cut out all animal products, you can make it entirely plant-based, with plant-based milk, cheese substitutes, or vegetables. You can even make it with gluten-free pasta.

2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic comfort food that is quick and easy to make using dairy cheese. However, you can easily make a grilled cheese sandwich with vegan cheese.

Grilled cheese sandwiches go well with soups like this roasted tomato and red bell pepper soup.

3. Meatless Mushroom Meatballs

Make delicious and healthy mushroom meatballs, they are easy to make and are made with breadcrumbs, eggs, and herbs. These are then shaped, and baked and have a meaty texture similar to traditional meatballs.

Mushroom meatballs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals and are low in fat and low in calories. Eat them for a tasty snack or stir them into a quick and easy Napoli sauce and serve them with spaghetti.

4. Creamy Vegan Potato Soup

This easy budget friendly soup can be made with non-dairy milk and broth, top it with freshly chopped chives, dairy-free cheese, or vegan bacon bits. 

You might also like this easy 4 ingredient potato soup or see this collection of 40 potato soup recipes for more ideas.

5. Vegan Chili With Quinoa and Sweet Potatoes

This sweet potato chili is easy to make in an instant pot. Made with black beans, quinoa, tomatoes, red bell pepper, and spices this is a flavor-packed dish.

It is the perfect option for vegans or vegetarians, or for anyone who is looking for a plant-based comforting, and healthy meal. 

Serve this dish with sides like cornbread, guacamole, salsa, vegan sour cream or yogurt, or filled vegetables for a filling meal.

6. Meatless Dairy Free Lasagna

This dairy-free lasagna is a variation of the traditional Italian dish made with meat and dairy products.

This delicious dairy-free recipe has tofu, nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, plant milk, and layers of healthy vegetables.

Pair this dairy-free lasagna with a side of Italian green beans in tomato sauce and thick slices of homemade focaccia bread for a tasty Italian-inspired meal.

7. Nachos With Jackfruit and Vegan Queso

Try something different and make nachos with jackfruit confi and vegan queso!

Nachos with jackfruit is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional nachos and has a similar texture to pulled pork.

And this recipe is served with homemade vegan queso making it an all-plant-based meal.

Vegan queso is a dairy-free cheese alternative made with cashews and other seasonings to create a cream and flavorful sauce.

Serve these nachos as a snack, appetizer, or main course. Enjoy them on their own or with vegan sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. 

8. Gorgonzola Pizza With Pear And Prosciutto

This tangy, sweet, and savory pizza gets its flavor from the sharp-tasting Gorgonzola, sweet and juicy pears, and salty prosciutto.  

The combination of Gorgonzola, sweet pears, and prosciutto makes for a delicious sweet, salty, and tangy flavor you would not normally expect from a pizza.

Serve this hot with a nice glass of white wine for an elegant and simple dinner for two.

Affordable Meatless Recipes

Eating a meatless diet can be great for your health and reduce your environmental impact, but you might think it can be an expensive way to eat.

Eating meatless can be affordable when you use simple and budget-friendly ingredients.

The following ideas for meatless Monday recipes use plant-based proteins like beans, tofu, and lentils - these are packed with nutrients and are affordable.

9. Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Lentils are a good source of protein and are a budget-friendly buy. Use them to make hearty and filling soups that you can easily customize with whatever vegetable you have.

With a quick and easy prep time of 15 minutes and some time simmering on the stovetop, this hearty soup is perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Serve it with cheesy toasted sandwiches or soft and light dinner rolls for a satisfying end to the day.

10. Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos

Black beans are another cheap source of protein that can be used in many recipes like black beans and corn salsa. 

This black bean and sweet potato tacos recipe is a filling, healthy and budget-friendly meal.

For variety, serve these with corn on the cob, cilantro lime rice, a simple salad, or guacamole.

11. Lighter Vegan Eggplant Parmesan

When eggplants are in season, make this vegan eggplant parmesan and homemade vegan melted cheese sauce.

This simple recipe is lighter and healthier than the traditional version, is gluten-free, and can be ready in 60 minutes.

12. Vegetable Fried Rice Without Soy Sauce

Vegetable fried rice without soy sauce is a healthy alternative to traditional fried rice made with soy sauce. You can serve it as a main course or a side dish.

It can be enjoyed as is or served topped with a fried egg (or not), and chopped greens like spring onions or chives for added flavor and texture.

This dish is a great way to enjoy a meatless Monday meal that is both gluten-free, healthy, and budget-friendly.

13. Pasta e Fagioli

Pasta e Fagioli also known as "pasta and beans" is a classic Italian dish made with beans and small-shaped pasta. 

Traditionally made in a pot on the stovetop, this recipe has instructions for making it fast in the instant pot.

This delicious soup can be ready in 30 minutes, using canned beans, tomatoes, and pantry staples. Serve it with slices of crusty cob bread to complete the meal.

14. Tofu Scramble

If you love silken tofu? You will love this easy silken tofu scramble recipe, and it is a great meatless Monday recipe idea and is budget-friendly.

This dish is quick to make and looks like and has a similar texture to real scrambled eggs that are light, fluffy, moist, and silky smooth.

It is perfect for breakfast or snacks or a light evening meal.

15. Vegetable Stir Fry With Noodles

If you want a fast and easy meal? This 15-minute vegetable stir fry might be for you. Made with noodles and vegetables, this is a healthy and well-rounded meal packed with nutrients and is full of flavor.

16. Vegan Enchiladas With Black Beans

This vegan black bean enchiladas recipe is packed with plant protein, is gluten-free, and nut free, and is perfect for weeknight dinners or lunch. 

It is made with simple ingredients, and this recipe lets the flavors of the roasted and sauteed vegetables shine. 

It is quick and easy to make with simple instructions and is perfect if you want a fast dinner on the table.

17. Mushroom Pasta With Coconut Milk

This simple recipe for pasta with coconut milk is delicious for lunch or dinner. Made with pantry staple ingredients, it creates a stunning pink sauce that is both vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

This is a creamy and comforting recipe perfect for cold winter nights or any time you a craving something quick and easy.

18. Vegetable Tofu Skewers

These vegetable tofu skewers are quick and easy to make, and it is hard to stop at one. 

They are fast to make and just as easy to cook because they are oven baked on a single tray.

Serve these at your next get-together as healthy snacks or serve them with crunchy coleslaw or sweet potato chips.

19. Vietnamese Egg Omelette

The vegetarian Vietnamese egg omelet is a great meatless Monday recipe idea. Anyone can make this simple and affordable dish.It is quick to prepare to make perfect for those short on time or looking for a quick and easy breakfast, lunch or dinner.

20. Quinoa Salad

Add this quinoa salad to your list of summer meatless Monday recipes. This salad is tasty and easy to make, travels well and does not need reheating, and is packed with healthy protein and veggies that will keep you full until dinner time.  

21. Portobello Mushroom Burger

If you love burgers, try this meatless version made with portobello mushrooms.

This vegan recipe for portobello mushroom burgers is healthy, hearty, and full of umami flavor. The vegan cheddar sauce is easy to make and must try because you will want to eat it by the spoonful.

Just be sure to have a good supply of napkins on hand because this is the juiciest burger ever. 

22. Tomato Pulao

This tomato pulao is an easy-to-make rice dish that is vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free.

It is healthy, not too spicy, and perfect for a simple meatless dinner or a side to curries.

23. Vegan Pasta Frittata

If you have leftover cooked pasta make this vegan pasta frittata. It is so easy to make and slices beautifully for a sit-down meal. 

It is perfect for packing in a picnic hamper or a lunch box because it travels so well. 

Not only is it vegan, but it is a great way to reduce food waste.

Meatless Dinner Ideas For Picky Eaters

There are many meatless meal options for picky eaters, but they should be introduced to meatless meals slowly so they can get used to the new tastes and textures these healthy dishes offer.

You could start by serving them simple meatless dishes or snacks on Mondays and throughout the week to get them to enjoy more plant-based dishes.

Or, you could get sneaky and start with their favorite dishes like burgers, tacos, and pizzas and sneak in more veggies while gradually reducing the meat in these dishes until it is all plant-based.

24. Savory Sweet Potato Muffins

These easy savory sweet potato muffins are soft, moist, and oil and sugar-free.

Delicious hot, warm or cold, they are perfect for breakfast or the lunchbox and can be served with leaf green salad for a healthy light evening meal.

25. Dairy Free Breakfast Casserole

Need a delicious meat-free and dairy-breakfast casserole? Make this one! This gluten-free, dairy-free breakfast casserole is protein-packed with silken tofu and eggs and is loaded with plenty of vegetables like sweet potatoes, leek, and spinach.

26. Zucchini Pasta With Yogurt Herb Sauce

If you are looking to cut down on calories and carbs, make this delicious zucchini noodle pasta recipe. 

Made with half pasta and half spiralized zucchini noodles and plenty of vegetables. Then tossed in a light and creamy herb, Parmesan, and Greek yogurt sauce, you won't believe how delicious this is

27. Ham-less Swiss Cheese Sliders

f you are after something fast and easy, these Ham-less Swiss cheese hot slides might be just what you are looking for.

Perfect for serving as a quick and easy meal or parties, casual gatherings, or tailgating. These sandwiches will be the first to go.

28. Roasted Tomato and Pepper Soup

Perfect for a light lunch or dinner this roasted tomato and pepper soup is low in calories and high in taste. 

The vegetables are slowly roasted to bring out their natural flavor and then pureed to make a thick and velvety smooth soup. 

This recipe is quick to make and is sure to become a regular in your meatless Monday meal rotations.

29. Veggie Macaroni and Cheese

Veggie mac and cheese is a great dish for dinner or lunch. This healthier alternative includes zucchini, red pepper, and spinach but still has a velvety cheese sauce.

30. Sweet Potato and Kale Quesadillas

If you a looking to shift your focus towards lighter and healthier dishes, try this recipe for sweet potato and kale quesadillas.

This dish is not only satisfying but can be economical when you buy sweet potatoes that are on sale or in season. You could even substitute butternut squash if sweet potato is not available.

You might also like to check out our post on quesadilla fillings you are sure to find more ideas for meatless Monday recipes in there.

31. Dill Pickle Pizza

If you like dill pickles, you might like this unique pizza. This dill pickle pizza is made with a creamy white alfredo sauce, dill weed, and garlic. It's a great carnival food that you can make at home.

32. Black Bean Meatballs

These meatless black bean meatballs are delicious and nutritious and are a great alternative to traditional meatballs.

Made with canned black beans these meatballs are high in protein and fiber. 

You can serve these in several different ways, such as a simple toothpick appetizer, coated in a traditional marinara sauce over spaghetti, or toss them into a Southwestern-style salad.

33. Hummus Veggie Wrap

This healthy hummus veggie wrap is a refreshing and satisfying lunch idea for summer.

Made with a few simple ingredients, it is an economical choice. Great for taking a packed lunch or taking to a picnic, this is an easy on-the-go meal.

34. Simple Caprese Sandwich

This has to be the easiest sandwich ever, and when made with super-fresh ingredients the flavors are hard to beat.

Meatless Monday Pasta Recipes

These meatless pasta recipes are delicious and easy to make. They are a great way to add more vegetables to your diet.

These easy vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegan dinner recipes are perfect for a meatless Monday or any day of the week.

They are quick to make, delicious, and versatile, you can make them with different types of pasta, sauces, and veggies, and they are also budget-friendly.

35. Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad

This delicious pesto tortellini pasta salad will make summer entertaining a breeze. 

With only five ingredients, you can have this dish ready in under 20 minutes, making this the perfect quick and easy dinner option or a crowd-pleasing side dish.

It keeps well, making it a great dish to prepare in advance to take to picnics or potlucks.

36. Pasta Primavera

Want something to delight your taste buds? Make this mouthwatering pasta primavera. 

Made with fresh and vibrant flavors and a creamy, tangy lemon sauce it is hard to resist

.Whether you use in-season spring veggies or what you have in your fridge, the vegetable options are endless.

So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meatless meal.

37. Lobster Mushroom Pasta

Lobster mushroom pasta is easy to make, made with a creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan cheese. 

This pasta dish is well-balanced and can be ready in 30 minutes.

You can use fresh lobster mushrooms or rehydrated dried lobster mushrooms to create a quick and satisfying family dinner or a romantic date night. 

38. Creamy Oyster and Mushroom Pasta

This easy oyster mushroom pasta recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes.

This vegetarian dish is made with earthy and slightly sweet oyster mushrooms and a cream sauce. 

Serve it as a satisfying main meal or as a side dish.

39. Italian Penne Rosa Pasta

Penna rosa pasta is a creamy and delicious meatless dish. This one-pot wonder comes together quickly and easily, making it a great weeknight dish.

Made a little spicy with red pepper flakes in a creamy tomato sauce, this is bold and flavorful.

So if you are looking for a quick and easy dish with lots of flavors, make this Italian penne rosa pasta.

40. Roasted Red Pepper Gnocchi

Made with a few simple ingredients this roasted red pepper gnocchi is a quick and easy dish to make for a meatless Monday.

This dish is quick to make the premade gnocchi and roasted red pepper tomato soup. 

Make it filling by adding more veggies, and finish it with a sprinkling of your favorite cheese.

41. Creamy Vegan Zucchini Mushroom Pasta

Your meatless Monday just got tastier with the delicious creamy zucchini mushroom pasta recipe. 

This healthy dish is quick to make and perfect for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner.

Spiralized zucchini and spaghetti are tossed together in a creamy plant-based sauce made with meaty mushrooms, onions, and garlic.

This dish is perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or those looking for a meatless Monday dish.

42. Tahini Pasta

For an easy night in, make this one-pot tahini pasta. This thick and filling dish is easy to prepare. 

Made with tahini and flavored with lemon juice this comfort food is naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and nut free. 

3. Lemon Artichoke Pasta

This is another easy one-pot pasta that you can add to your collection of meatless Monday recipes. 

This seven ingredients Italian inspired dish can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

It is so quick to make because it uses prepared frozen artichoke hearts but you could also use bottled.

This dish is dairy-free, egg-free, and nut-free, and can be adapted and made gluten-free.

44. Tofu Pasta

Looking for something new and delicious try this tofu pasta recipe, made with a few simple pantry ingredients.

If you have never added tofu to your pasta then you are in for a treat! this recipe has a similar taste and texture to a bolognese sauce but is inspired by a tofu ground beef recipe.

Enjoy it like any other pasta dish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves on top for added flavor.

45. 20 Minute Spinach And Ricotta Pasta

If 30-minute pasta recipes are not quick enough, how about a 20-minute pasta recipe?

Give this 20-minute spinach ricotta pasta a try! This creamy, dreamy pasta dish is packed full of spinach, ricotta, and parmesan cheese. 

Serve it up with an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley.

Sheet Pan Meatless Monday Ideas

Sheet pan recipes are an easy and convenient way to whip up delicious and satisfying meatless meals. From roasted vegetables to tofu and more, the options for meatless dinner recipes are endless.

So, next time you are thinking about what to make for dinner on meatless Monday, consider these sheet pan recipe ideas.

46. Sheet Pan Garlic Potatoes And Green Beans

Want something fast and easy make this recipe for sheet pan garlic potatoes and green beans. This dish is packed with flavor and is perfect for a quick Monday night meal.

It makes a great main course when served with a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette and freshly baked bread.

47. Sheet Pan Gnocchi With Vegetables

This recipe for sheet pan gnocchi with vegetables is a quick one-pan dinner that will stop you from slaving for hours in the kitchen.

Made with store-bought gnocchi and healthy vegetables these are all perfectly baked a seasoned.

48. Easy Sheet Pan Vegan Fajitas

This meatless Monday, make this delicious Tex-Mex-inspired sheet pan vegan fajita recipe.

There is no standing in front of a hot stove because the veggies are oven baked.

Serve them with warm tortillas, a side of beans, and your favorite toppings for a family-friendly meal.

49. Sheet Pan Garlic Tofu and Brussel Sprouts

This sheet pan garlic tofu and brussels sprouts is a meal that is naturally plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free, making it a great option for everyone to enjoy.

This meal is bursting with natural flavor and is sure to become a family favorite.

50. Rainbow Roasted Vegetables

Want a delicious alternative to basic green vegetables, make this roasted rainbow vegetable recipe.

These colorful veggies are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other health benefits.

Serve them with a creamy tahini dressing for added flavor and interest.

I hope you enjoyed this collection of meatless Monday recipes. These recipes are a great starting point, but there are many other options to choose from too.

So if you have any favorites not listed above, feel free to share them in the comments section below.

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