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Healthy Eating

20 Easy Plant-Based Recipes for Beginners That Will Make You Drool

Posted by Laura Grande. Last updated on November 10, 2020

Thanks in large part to the long-anticipated overhaul of Canada's Food Guide in 2019 – and its emphasis on introducing more plant-based protein recipes – more and more Canadians are considering the transition to a vegan diet. Although this can be a daunting task for some, eschewing meat doesn't have to mean saying goodbye to some of your comfort food favourites – all they need is a clever plant-based twist. From protein-packed tacos and vegan pizza to meatless burgers and dairy-free waffles, it's easier to maintain a vegan diet than you might think.

  • Meatless BBQ Skewers
     
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    Meatless BBQ Skewers

    <p>Switching to a plant-based diet doesn't mean you have to bid farewell to summertime grilling. There are plenty of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/vegan-bbq-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">vegan BBQ recipes</a> that are just as lip-smacking. In fact, Brussels sprouts, tofu, cauliflower, pineapple and coconut-crusted tempeh are only a small handful of the myriad of skewer options you can toss on the grill.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-bbq-skewer-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Meatless BBQ Skewers</a></strong> </p>
  • 3 Ways with Cauliflower Wings
     
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    3 Ways with Cauliflower Wings

    <p> If you're looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, you'll be remiss to overlook the versatility of the unassuming <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/best-cauliflower-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cauliflower</a>. Much like tofu, the possibilities are endless, offering budding chefs the opportunities to play around with a variety of seasonings and flavours. So go ahead and enjoy these classic, perfectly crisped wings – sans meat. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/3-ways-with-cauliflower-wings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">3 Ways with Cauliflower Wings</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> This must-have gluten-free dish is steeped in rich complementary flavours, from its mushroom and almond meal falafel base to the creamy maple tahini sauce. It packs a protein punch, too, and is a lot easier to whip up in the kitchen than it looks. </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" target="_blank">Baked Falafel Sliders with Tabbouleh and Maple Tahini Sauce</a></strong> </p>
  • Cashew Mushroom Sliders
     
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    Cashew Mushroom Sliders

    <p> Even hardcore burger fans will be hard-pressed to find fault with this juicy, hearty plant-based alternative. If you're hosting a summer party, prep the patties in advance to allow the flavours to marinate overnight for an even richer taste. Either way, these cashew-mushroom burgers will become a household favourite in no time. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/recipe/cashew-mushroom-sliders/21916/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Cashew Mushroom Sliders</a></strong> </p>
  • Fully-Loaded Vegan Nachos
     
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    Fully-Loaded Vegan Nachos

    <p> Nachos are a fantastic way to ease yourself into your new plant-based meal planning. Easy to assemble, this summertime staple combines zesty guacamole with creamy vegan "cheese" and spiced black beans. Not only are you getting your fill of nachos, but you're also noshing on a snack that acts as a great source of fibre, antioxidants and phytonutrients (which helps fight against disease). </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/fully-loaded-vegan-nachos/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fully-Loaded Vegan Nachos</a></strong> </p>
  • Healthy Buddha Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing
     
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    Healthy Buddha Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing

    <p> Enlighten your taste buds with this scrumptious <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/dining-out/photos/toronto-vegan-restaurants/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegan restaurant-style</a> buddha bowl. Bright, crunchy and chock-full of bold flavours, recent plant-based converts can opt for a soba noodle or quinoa base – whatever suits your fancy when prepping this easy meal. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/healthy-buddha-bowl-with-creamy-tahini-dressing/16229/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Healthy Buddha Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing</a></strong> </p>
  • The Ultimate Vegan Pizza
     
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    The Ultimate Vegan Pizza

    <p> Yes, you get to keep pizza! This healthier alternative to the traditional pepperoni and cheese offering consists of basil pesto, marinara sauce, slivered kale pieces and dairy-free ricotta "cheese." If you're feeling particularly adventurous, go ahead and add some coconut "bacon" for a sweet and savoury finish that offers a positively irresistible smoky taste everyone will love. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-pizza-recipe-almond-ricotta-coconut-bacon/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Ultimate Vegan Pizza</a></strong> </p>
  • Rainbow Quinoa Taco Salad with Vegan Dressing
     
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    Rainbow Quinoa Taco Salad with Vegan Dressing

    <p> You can keep the tradition of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/healthy-vegan-taco-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Taco Tuesday</a> alive and well with this hearty rainbow salad featuring a quinoa base. Covered in all your favourite taco essentials – tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocados, red onion and cilantro – don't forget to add the creamy sunflower dressing to finish it off. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rainbow-quinoa-taco-salad-with-vegan-dressing/16231/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Rainbow Quinoa Taco Salad with Vegan Dressing</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Tacos, 3 Ways
     
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    Vegan Tacos, 3 Ways

    <p>From pulled jackfruit and crispy cauliflower to lentil walnut, these tacos will have everyone asking for seconds. For even more plant-based inspiration, try these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/vegan-mexican-recipes" rel="noopener" target="_blank">vegan Mexican recipes</a> that will spice up your kitchen. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/healthy-vegan-taco-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vegan Tacos, 3 Ways</a></strong> </p>
  • Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
     
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    Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

    <p> Everyone's favourite comfort food comes with a dairy-free vegan twist for those looking to add more plant-based meals into their <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/easy-vegan-weeknight-dinner-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">weeknight dinner</a> rotation. With a hearty "cheese" sauce made from cauliflower and nutritional yeast, you can enjoy this dish as is or bake it in the oven for a casserole-style variation. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/creamy-vegan-cauliflower-mac-and-cheese/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Creamy Vegan Cauliflower Mac and Cheese</a></strong> </p>
  • Classic “Tuna” Melt Sandwich with a Vegan Twist
     
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    Classic “Tuna” Melt Sandwich with a Vegan Twist

    <p> No, your tuna melt days aren't over. Pulse the recommended amount of walnuts, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds in a blender and mix with vegan mayo for a clever "tuna" twist. Add slices of cucumber, celery, kelp flakes and green onions to add a satisfying crunch to your sandwich. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/vegan-tuna-melt/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Classic “Tuna” Melt Sandwich with a Vegan Twist</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Kale Caesar Salad with Tempeh Bacon
     
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    Vegan Kale Caesar Salad with Tempeh Bacon

    <p> Recreate the classic Caesar salad with its own special vegan twist – all it takes are a few basic ingredients. With its creamy cashew dressing (be sure to leave plenty of time for them to soak in advance), this dish beautifully combines the flavours of lemon, garlic, medjool dates and tempeh bacon. Bon appetit! </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-kale-caesar-salad-with-tempeh-bacon/15177/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Kale Caesar Salad with Tempeh Bacon</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan “Meatballs” with Oven-Roasted Tomato Sauce
     
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    Vegan “Meatballs” with Oven-Roasted Tomato Sauce

    <p> Pack a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/high-protein-vegetarian-meals/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">protein punch the vegetarian way</a> with these scrumptious, hearty vegan "meatballs." Perfect as a stand-alone meal or as a companion to a piping hot bowl of spaghetti, this dish is made from textured vegetable protein (TVP), a great meat replacement for those still in the process of shifting to more plant-based meals. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-meatballs-with-oven-roasted-tomato-sauce/13672/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Vegan “Meatballs” with Oven-Roasted Tomato Sauce</a></strong> </p>
  • Easy Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese
     
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    Easy Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese

    <p> Is there anything better than a warm bowl of spaghetti bolognese? The Italian dinner staple is given a vegan twist with this fibre- and protein-packed recipe. You can thank the hearty mushrooms, filling lentils and crunchy walnuts for playing their part in making this an easy, healthy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/dairy-free-pasta-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">vegan pasta</a> you can enjoy with your family. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/easy-vegan-spaghetti-bolognese/" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><strong>Easy Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese</strong></a></p>
  • Black Bean Veggie Burger
     
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    Black Bean Veggie Burger

    <p> For those still navigating the ins and outs of their new plant-based diet, it's worth noting that black beans and quinoa frequently make excellent bases for dishes that involve meatball or burger alternatives – not to mention boasting a satisfying texture reminiscent of the beef burgers you grew up with. It's one of those little bonuses that will make the transition that much easier. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/black-bean-veggie-burger/13643/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anna Olson’s Black Bean Veggie Burger</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Apple Pie Oatmeal Bake
     
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    Vegan Apple Pie Oatmeal Bake

    <p> This nourishing baked oatmeal recipe boasts tangy apples, crunchy walnuts and chia seeds – skip the eggs and dairy. It's like a warm hug first thing in the morning. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/healthy-apple-pie-oatmeal-bake/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vegan Apple Pie Oatmeal Bake</a></strong> </p>
  • Overnight Oats with In-Season Peaches
     
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    Overnight Oats with In-Season Peaches

    <p> This no-fuss no-muss rolled oats recipe combines the complementary flavours of cinnamon, ginger, pecans, maple syrup and frozen peach slices to form a peachy-keen breakfast that will never get boring. Not into peaches? Substitute for your own preferred frozen fruit variety. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/breakfast-healthy-overnight-oats-with-peaches-and-pecans-37545/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Overnight Oats with In-Season Peaches</a></strong> </p>
  • Gluten-Free & Vegan Coconut Pancakes
     
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    Gluten-Free & Vegan Coconut Pancakes

    <p> This light and fluffy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/vegan-breakfast-recipes/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">vegan breakfast alternative</a> is guaranteed to become an instant household favourite thanks, in large part, to its perfect texture, and those heavenly hints of coconut. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/gluten-free-vegan-coconut-pancakes-34919/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Gluten-Free & Vegan Coconut Pancakes</a></strong> </p>
  • Whole-Wheat Vegan Waffles
     
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    Whole-Wheat Vegan Waffles

    <p>If you're plant-based, you can still enjoy Sunday brunch with a stack of crisp and tender waffles thanks to this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/blog/10-healthiest-whole-grains-plus-how-to-cook-them/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">whole-wheat</a> vegan recipe. Top it off with maple syrup, fresh fruit or nut butter for a hearty finish. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/whole-wheat-vegan-waffles/20854/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Whole-Wheat Vegan Waffles</a></strong> </p>
  • Vegan Blueberry Muffins
     
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    Vegan Blueberry Muffins

    <p> Whip up these soft and satisfying muffins as a healthy breakfast or snack option. Pro tip: although frozen blueberries work just as well, fresh ones tend to make the muffins more moist. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-blueberry-muffins/20157/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vegan Blueberry Muffins</a></strong> </p>
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