Everyday Cooking

Everyday Cooking

Make-Ahead Vegetarian Dinner Recipes You Should Cook Weekly

Posted by Leslie Wu. Updated on February 23, 2020 by Laura Grande

Looking to incorporate more meatless dishes into your weekly meal rotation? These make-ahead vegetarian and vegan recipes make it easy to spend a leisurely afternoon stocking the fridge or freezer. From hearty chili to lighter fare such as tofu skewers, we've rounded up recipes that will save your stomach during even the most hectic weeknights.

  • Veggie Burger
     
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    Veggie Burger

    <p> Bursting with corn kernels, mushrooms, scallions, spinach and potatoes, these loaded veggie burger patties are an absolute dream to freeze. You'll be forever grateful you prepped them in advance for those chaotic last-minute weeknight dinners. For more inspiration, try these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/freezer-friendly-vegan-dinners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">freezer-friendly vegan dinner ideas</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/veggie-burger/22753/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Veggie Burger</a></strong> </p>
  • Asparagus, Snap Peas & Chive Blossom Pasta
     
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    Asparagus, Snap Peas & Chive Blossom Pasta

    <p> Asparagus, snap peas, radishes and chive blossoms form the crux of this gorgeous lemon-drizzled pasta dish that makes the most of seasonal ingredients and is a whole lot easier to make than it looks. Perfect for a substantial lunch or weeknight dinner, you can even prep all the ingredients in advance so you're ready to start cooking as soon as you get home. Find more inspiration with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/all-time-best-vegetarian-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our all-time best vegetarian recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegetarian-dishes-with-lemon/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Asparagus, Snap Peas & Chive Blossom Pasta</a></strong> </p>
  • Zucchini Chili
     
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    Zucchini Chili

    <p> Save yourself time with this scrumptious make-ahead one-pot vegetarian chili that boasts the great tastes of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-and-delicious-zucchini-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">zucchini</a>, beans, rice and various herbs and spices. To avoid spending more dough than you have to, consider trying these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/one-pot-healthy-dinners-budget/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">budget-friendly one-pot dinners</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/zucchini-chili/19128/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Zucchini Chili</a></strong> </p>
  • Nut Meat Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
     
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    Nut Meat Tacos with Pickled Red Onions

    <p> Nuts and sundried tomatoes are the unexpected stars in this twist on the Mexican-inspired weeknight meal. We promise you won't have to forgo the traditional taco flavour, either, thanks to the inclusion of spicy chili powder and smoky paprika. Time-saving shortcuts like grating the cheese and chopping the cilantro in advance will get dinner on the table even faster. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-taco-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tasty taco recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/recipe/nut-meat-tacos-with-pickled-red-onions/22315/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nut Meat Tacos with Pickled Red Onions</a></strong> </p>
  • Tasty Thai Rolls with Pumpkin-Coconut Sauce
     
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    Tasty Thai Rolls with Pumpkin-Coconut Sauce

    <p> A Thai-inspired appetizer reminiscent of the fresh summer rolls you love from your favourite restaurant, this veggie variation features roasted sweet potato and cabbage, soba noodles and peanuts paired with a vibrant coconut milk and pumpkin sauce. Healthy and easy-to-prepare, you can also make these bad-boys up to one day in advance. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/thai-recipes-to-make-at-home/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Thai takeout recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/thai-fall-rolls-with-pumpkin-sauce/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tasty Thai Rolls with Pumpkin-Coconut Sauce</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream
     
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    Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream

    <p> Don't be deceived by its somewhat bland colouring, these scrumptious vegan fritters are positively drool-worthy, from their crispy exterior to the homemade jalapeno cream for dipping. They're also a cinch to make and keep well in the freezer, so prep them in advance and whip them out when you have guests over. Just watch how quickly they disappear! </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/vegan-corn-zucchini-fritters-with-jalapeno-cream/36680/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Corn Zucchini Fritters with Jalapeno Cream</a></strong> </p>
  • Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce
     
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    Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce

    <p> Although they only take 35 minutes to make, you can save yourself additional time by chopping all the ingredients the night before. Either way, you'll love every bite of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/delicious-gluten-free-comfort-food-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">gluten-free</a> baked falafels. Bonus: they keep well in the fridge or freezer and make for a great protein-packed lunch. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/baked-falafel-sliders-with-tabbouleh-and-maple-tahini-sauce-35387/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce</a></strong> </p>
  • Spaghetti Puttanesca with Cauliflower
     
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    Spaghetti Puttanesca with Cauliflower

    <p> This healthier veggie spin on the Italian pasta staple is not only jam-packed with salty umami flavours, Parmesan and fresh herbs – it's also a breeze to make if you spend time to prep the ingredients in advance. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/cauliflower-recipes-satisfy-carb-cravings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">creative cauliflower recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/cauliflower-puttanesca-pasta/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spaghetti Puttanesca with Cauliflower</a></strong> </p>
  • Goat Cheese Enchiladas
     
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    Goat Cheese Enchiladas

    <p> Whether you slice and dice the ingredients in advance or opt to freeze the final product entirely to keep for those nights <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-10-minute-meals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">when you just don't feel like cooking</a>, this mouth-watering enchilada recipe will become a go-to family favourite in no time. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/goat-cheese-enchiladas/16824/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Goat Cheese Enchiladas</a></strong> </p>
  • 30-Minute Instant Pot Curry
     
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    30-Minute Instant Pot Curry

    <p> Carve out some time the night before to chop up all the veggies and toppings in advance for this comforting and versatile curry recipe that will curb all your hunger pangs. Simply pop all the ingredients into your Instant Pot and <em>voila</em>: A mouth-watering one-pot meal that is ready in a breezy 30-minutes. Store the leftovers in the fridge for a quick <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/hot-lunch-ideas-to-warm-you-up/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">office lunch</a> the next day. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/healthy-instant-pot-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">healthy Instant Pot recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/30-minute-instant-pot-curry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">30-Minute Instant Pot Curry</a></strong> </p>
  • Healthy Eggplant and Kale Parmesan
     
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    Healthy Eggplant and Kale Parmesan

    <p> Eggplant + Parmesan = a classic comfort food dish you won't be able to resist. If you're short on time, however, consider stripping the kale from its stems, tearing up the fresh basil and grating all that cheese in advance for a simple make-ahead recipe you can quickly pop into the oven. Hearty weeknight suppers never tasted so good. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/recipe/healthy-eggplant-and-kale-parmesan/23091/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Healthy Eggplant and Kale Parmesan</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Lasagna
     
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    Vegan and Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Lasagna

    <p>Slow-cooker lasagna with a cashew-based vegan “cheese” is also gluten-free, and there’s no pre-cooking necessary, even for the lasagna noodles. For an even simpler weekday meal, prep all your ingredients right in the slow-cooker pot and stash it away in the fridge, so you can place it in the slow cooker and start it on low on your way out the door in the morning.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-gluten-free-slow-cooker-lasagna/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan and Gluten-Free Slow Cooker Lasagna</a></strong> </p>
  • Better-Than-Takeout Vegan Pad Thai
     
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    Better-Than-Takeout Vegan Pad Thai

    <p> Although the noodles are best when cooked right before eating, the prep work behind this vegan pad Thai can all be done ahead of time for a make-your-own meal kit that just requires heat and minimal cooking. Wash and slice vegetables for this delicious meatless stir-fry sauce using Medjool dates, and store them in the fridge for later in the week. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/better-than-takeout-vegan-pad-thai-34757/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Better-Than-Takeout Vegan Pad Thai</a></strong> </p>
  • Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Galette
     
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    Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Galette

    <p> A galette, or free-form pastry, takes the stress out of shaping perfect pie crusts – the dough comes together with a few quick stirs and is easily patted together. Make the dough ahead of time and freeze it along with pre-sliced <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/32-brilliant-ways-to-use-butternut-squash/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">butternut squash</a> for an easy-to-assemble and impressive entrée (or make the whole thing in advance and just reheat when you want to eat it). </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/butternut-squash-goat-cheese-galette/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Galette</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped with Cornbread
     
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    Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped with Cornbread

    <p> Chili is a make-ahead staple that’s sturdy enough for the freezer and contains flavours that get better as it sits. This one-pan chili/cornbread combination will make your life even easier with its no-fuss cornbread drop biscuit topper that holds the main dish and carbohydrates together for an easy-to-reheat entree. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/one-pot-comfort-food/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">comforting one-pot recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-skillet-chili-topped-with-cornbread/20474/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegetarian Skillet Chili Topped with Cornbread</a></strong> </p>
  • Tofu Peanut Satay and Cucumber Skewers
     
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    Tofu Peanut Satay and Cucumber Skewers

    <p> A well-made peanut sauce for dipping satay into is a joy, and vegetarians can also participate with these skewers threaded with chunks of firm tofu and ribbons of zucchini. Prep all the ingredients ahead of time, and let your family or guests help thread the skewers for the barbecue.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-bbq-skewer-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tofu Peanut Satay and Cucumber Skewers</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups with Almond Ricotta
     
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    Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups with Almond Ricotta

    <p> This ingenious method for transforming almonds into creamy ricotta means that vegans can dive right into this lasagna dish. The ricotta has to be made a day ahead in order to let it set, so why not plan ahead for later in the week and prepare the rest of the ingredients? </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong>Vegan <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/vegan-lasagna-roll-ups-with-almond-ricotta-37178/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lasagna Roll Ups with Almond Ricotta</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Shepherd’s Pie with Crispy Cauliflower Crust
     
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    Vegan Shepherd’s Pie with Crispy Cauliflower Crust

    <p> Using <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-cauliflower-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cauliflower</a> in place of potatoes is a blessing for those with dietary restrictions due to allergies or low-carb requirements. In this vegan twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie, sweet savoy cabbage and savoury lentils form the base of this meatless make-ahead all-in-one meal.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/vegan-shepherds-pie-with-crispy-cauliflower-crust/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Shepherd’s Pie with Crispy Cauliflower Crust</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Minestrone
     
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    Vegetarian Minestrone

    <p> Making a meatless minestrone is often as simple as substituting vegetable broth for the meat stock. Store them in individual servings for portable and healthy lunches, or larger containers for dinner.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-minestrone/20762/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Valerie Bertinelli's Vegetarian Minestrone</a></strong> </p>
  • Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables
     
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    Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables

    <p> Give a basic baked pasta dish an easy upgrade by adding smoked mozzarella for a hint of colour and flavour (blending it with meltable fontina makes sure the creamy texture remains). Store in the casserole dish you want to serve it in for a fridge-to-table supper. Find more of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/30-must-try-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our easiest casserole recipes</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-penne-with-roasted-vegetables/15496/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables</a></strong> </p>
  • Creamy Gluten-Free Kabocha Squash Gnocchi
     
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    Creamy Gluten-Free Kabocha Squash Gnocchi

    <p>Delicate and sweet kabocha squash will remove any misconceptions of heavy potato gnocchi from memory. Topped with a hearty cream sauce and lots of cheese, these gluten-free gnocchi are sophisticated and satisfying – and can be easily prepped ahead and frozen, either sauced or un-sauced.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/gluten-free-squash-gnocchi/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Creamy Gluten-Free Kabocha Squash Gnocchi</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Enchiladas
     
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    Vegetarian Enchiladas

    <p> These vegetarian enchiladas have pinto beans, fresh spinach and plenty of sauces for an easy mid-week meal. Enchiladas are a natural make-ahead meal that merely requires a quick reheat after storage in the fridge.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-enchiladas/20053/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegetarian Enchiladas</a></strong> </p>
  • Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
     
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    Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers

    <p>Don’t call it a comeback – stuffed peppers are a popular choice for many cooks due to the easy prep and storage in the fridge or freezer. Pre-portioned servings and pretty presentation also make this classic a natural for buffet dishes or large crowds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/quinoa-and-vegetable-stuffed-peppers/15724/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rachael Ray's Quinoa and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Tourtiere
     
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    Vegetarian Tourtiere

    <p> Tourtiere – that flaky and meaty star of French-Canadian cuisine – is made vegetarian with a hefty helping of lentils and cremini mushrooms. This recipe is particularly well-suited to the freezer because of its single crust across the top – there’s no bottom layer to get soggy while thawing and reheating. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/canadian-foods-you-havent-tried/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">classic Canadian foods you may not have tried before</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-tourtiere-bake/14043/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegetarian Tourtiere</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Chicken Fried Portobello Mushroom Steaks
     
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    Vegetarian Chicken Fried Portobello Mushroom Steaks

    <p> Chicken fried steak – a diner staple across North America – is made vegetarian by swapping in meaty mushrooms. These crispy treats will last in the freezer for up to a month, so plan ahead for future blue-plate specials. Like most breaded items, it’s just a matter of pulling them out of the freezer and giving them a turn in the oven or frying pan. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-chicken-fried-portobello-mushroom-steaks/20861/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegetarian Chicken Fried Portobello Mushroom Steaks</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
     
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    Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

    <p> Do your prep work ahead of time and then offer guests or family a choice of fillings for these stuffed portobello mushrooms – although with Mediterranean-style goodies, rice and salsa or chili lentil, it may be hard to pick just one.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/easy-vegan-stuffed-portobello-mushrooms/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegetarian Tortilla Casserole
     
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    Vegetarian Tortilla Casserole

    <p> If you can stack tortillas and spread the filling, then you can make this super-easy vegetarian tortilla casserole (a perfect recipe for kids to start helping prep dinner). Turn dinner time into a teachable moment by letting them pick the day you’ll create this make-ahead meal.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegetarian-tortilla-casserole/20856/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegetarian Tortilla Casserole</a></strong> </p>
  • Lentil-Mushroom Meatballs
     
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    Lentil-Mushroom Meatballs

    <p> Layers of flavour pack these meatless meatballs, with lentils, soy sauce and a vegan workhorse – nutritional yeast – all playing their equal parts. By freezing them on a sheet pan before popping them into a freezer bag, you’ll be able to tailor your serving size easily. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lentil-mushroom-meatballs/19517/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Meatballs</a></strong> </p>
  • Spiced Red Lentil Vegetable Stew
     
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    Spiced Red Lentil Vegetable Stew

    <p> This spiced lentil stew is relatively quick to put together. Once cooked, it will sit beautifully in the fridge or freezer, waiting to be reheated for a quick one-pot dinner.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spiced-red-lentil-vegetable-stew/14079/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spiced Red Lentil Vegetable Stew</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Spicy Thai Curry Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
     
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    Vegan Spicy Thai Curry Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk

    <p> Creamy coconut milk is a dairy substitute that’s delicious in its own right, taming the spiciness of this Thai curry pumpkin soup while amplifying the body of the pumpkin puree. The silkiness of the soup will be fine whether stored in the fridge or freezer – just give it a quick stir if there’s any separation. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-thai-curry-pumpkin-soup/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Spicy Thai Curry Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk</a></strong> </p>
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