17 vegetarian meals that will shock you they’re so full of flavor

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These recipes prove that you don’t need meat to make a meal exciting. We’ve picked a bunch of flavorful, easy-to-make dishes that anyone can enjoy. From rich sauces to hearty vegetables, these meals are all about making meatless eating both simple and delicious. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking to try something new – these recipes are perfect for adding some variety to your meals.

Cheddar cauliflower burger with pickled cabbage and pesto on a plate.
Cheddar Cauliflower Burgers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Vegetable Bean Skillet

Cast iron skillet with beans and vegetables.
Vegetable Bean Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Throw some veggies and beans in a skillet, and you’ve got yourself a protein-packed meal that’s surprisingly flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Bean Skillet

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Imagine sweet potato in your mac and cheese. It’s creamy, it’s got spinach, and it’s a little healthier. Plus, it’s just really good.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese

Curry Roasted Eggplant Burgers

Roasted eggplant curry burger on a bun with kale, red onions and cilantro hummus sauce.
Curry Roasted Eggplant Burgers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spice things up with these eggplant burgers. The curry gives it a kick, and the creamy yogurt sauce cools it all down. It’s a summer must-try.
Get the Recipe: Curry Roasted Eggplant Burgers

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Mushroom risotto with peas and mushrooms in a pot with wooden spoon.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This risotto is all about the mushrooms and peas, making it insanely creamy without any dairy. It’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Vegetable Cheddar Quesadilla

Cheddar quesadilla with summer vegetables.
Vegetable Cheddar Quesadilla. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Quick, cheesy, and with plenty of veggies, these quesadillas are a great pick for when you need something tasty and fast.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Cheddar Quesadilla

Sweet & Sour Tofu

Sweet and sour tofu in a bowl with rice and chopsticks on the side.
Sweet & Sour Tofu. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crispy tofu with a sticky sweet and sour sauce makes this dish a hit for anyone looking for a great vegetarian meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Tofu

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon ricotta pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil on a white plate.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Simple yet so good, this lemon ricotta pasta is light but feels indulgent. The basil and tomatoes keep it fresh and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Red lentil pasta with garlic lemon greens in a bowl.
Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish is all about simplicity and taste. Red lentil pasta with garlicky greens and a bit of cheese is perfect for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Tofu Fried Rice

Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This tofu fried rice is as flavorful as it is easy to make. It’s a great way to use up veggies and get a tasty meal on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Instant Pot Picadillo

Vegan tempeh picadillo served in a bowl with cauliflower rice.
Instant Pot Picadillo. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This dish is a flavor bomb, with olives, capers, and raisins making the tempeh and lentils sing. It’s a quick, hearty meal that’ll make you forget it’s vegetarian.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Picadillo

Lentil Stuffed Eggplant

Eggplant slices on a baking sheet topped with lentil stuffing.
Lentil Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Packed with lentils, tomatoes, and greens, these stuffed eggplants are a hearty meal on their own. Add some goat cheese for extra creaminess.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Stuffed Eggplant

Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli

Spaghetti alfredo with broccoli florets in a pot with wooden spoon.
Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Who knew a lighter Alfredo could still pack so much flavor? This spaghetti with broccoli is creamy, cheesy, and just plain good.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli

Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Lemon pasta with spinach, feta and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bright lemon, creamy feta, and fresh spinach come together in this pasta. It’s a super easy meal that’s packed with flavor, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Kung Pao Chickpeas

Kung pao chickpea dish in a bowl with rice and skillet off to the left.
Kung Pao Chickpeas. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Love Kung Pao? This chickpea version has all the bold flavors you crave, making it a perfect dish for those looking for a tasty veggie option.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chickpeas

Italian Black Bean Meatballs

Black bean meatballs in tomato sauce with a spoon.
Italian Black Bean Meatballs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Forget what you thought about meatless meatballs. These Italian black bean balls are hearty and full of flavor, great with pasta or zoodles.
Get the Recipe: Italian Black Bean Meatballs

Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables

Sheet pan tofu and vegetables with BBQ sauce on a plate.
Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sheet pan dinner is a no-brainer. BBQ tofu, crunchy veggies, and a ton of spices make it a meal that’ll surprise you with how good it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan BBQ Tofu & Vegetables

Cheddar Cauliflower Burgers

Cheddar cauliflower burger with pickled cabbage and pesto on a plate.
Cheddar Cauliflower Burgers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These aren’t your average veggie burgers. With cheddar stuffed inside and a punchy cilantro pesto on top, they’re a mouthful of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Cauliflower Burgers

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