Even though I myself am not actually a vegetarian, more often than not my diet consists of vegetables, carbs and fruits, mostly due to my unending laziness when it comes to cooking meat in my sad little apartment’s kitchen. However, without meat as an option, making meals that keep me full enough to avoid the massive bag of popcorn shoved in my cupboard is a challenge.
Never fear, because vegetables can actually be quite filling and taste good if you do it right. Here’s how to make some vegetarian meals that are quick, easy and will actually satiate you.
1. Vegetarian Chili
Photo by Erica Sloan
This chili is a must-make for any vegetarian. It’s super easy to throw together, and the best part is that you can freeze it and eat it later when you’re pressed for time.
2. Mashed Chickpea Salad
Photo by Alyssa Loebig
Chickpeas are seriously a blessing. They’re so versatile and protein-packed that if I could incorporate them in every meal, I would. This salad is a great way to get your daily chickpea dose and a perfect meal for a weekday night.
3. Black Bean Burger
Photo by Parisa Soraya
Sure, you can buy pre-made veggie burgers from the store, but making your own ensures that the patty will actually be made with fresh ingredients and not just fillers. This burger is made with beans, so you know the protein will keep you full all day.
4. Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup
Photo by Sarah Silbiger
I know I said I love chickpeas, but my adoration of sweet potatoes is on another level. They are so easy to prepare and always satisfying, and this soup is a great way to take advantage of their awesomeness.
5. Warm Quinoa Lime Salad
Photo by Julia Maguire
Ah, quinoa, the preferred grain of millenials. But honestly, it actually is that great, especially for vegetarians. Make a huge batch of this warm salad and be prepared to inhale it for both lunch and dinner for a week straight.
6. Vegetarian Pasta Carbonara
Photo by Kevin Trieu-Nguyen
Now I know pasta may not seem like the most filling meal, but with the addition of eggs, this carbonara is actually pretty satisfying. I mean, who are we kidding; pasta is crucial to any vegetarian, and there’s no reason not to embrace that.
7. Apple Chickpea Hash
Photo by Kendra Valkema
Did you think I could get through this post without another chickpea recipe? This one is warm, which makes it perfect for dinner alongside a fresh veggie salad.
8. Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu and Sesame Ginger Sauce
Photo by Katherine Baker
Stir fry is perfect for nights when you don’t have much time but want to eat something other than peanut butter on toast. This one is protein-packed, tasty, and fast.
9. Mango Kale Salad
Photo by Nicole Laszlo
You either love or hate kale, but you can’t deny that it’s one of the more filling greens available. This salad screams summer, and I don’t know why you wouldn’t want to eat something that reminds you of the warm weather coming to us very soon.
10. Eggplant Parmesan
Photo by Helena Lin
This eggplant parmesan is a little more indulgent, but with all the veggies you’re eating, why not have a little cheese thrown in, too?