Eating a plant-based diet has numerous health benefits, but it can also be expensive. Many people believe that eating vegan or vegetarian means spending a lot of money on specialty ingredients, but that doesn’t have to be the case. With a little creativity and planning, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious plant-based meals without breaking the bank. Here are 8 easy and budget-friendly plant-based meals to get you started.
Lentil Soup
Lentils are a great source of protein and are very affordable. A hearty lentil soup is a perfect meal for a cold day and can be made in large batches for leftovers. Simply sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot, add in lentils, vegetable broth, and your choice of spices, and let it simmer until the lentils are tender. Serve with crusty bread for a filling and budget-friendly meal.
Black Bean Tacos
Tacos are a crowd-pleasing meal and can easily be made plant-based. Instead of using ground beef, opt for black beans as your protein source. Season the beans with taco seasoning and serve with your choice of toppings such as salsa, avocado, and lettuce. This meal is not only budget-friendly but also quick and easy to make.
Chickpea Curry
Curries are a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet. For a budget-friendly option, use canned chickpeas as your protein source. Sauté onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables in a pot, add in canned chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry powder, and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. Serve over rice for a filling and flavorful meal.
Veggie Stir-Fry
Stir-fries are a great way to use up any leftover vegetables in your fridge. Simply sauté your choice of vegetables in a pan with some soy sauce and serve over rice or noodles. You can also add in tofu or tempeh for added protein, but this meal is just as delicious and budget-friendly without it.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa is a great source of protein and can be used in a variety of dishes. For a budget-friendly meal, make a quinoa salad with your choice of vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes. You can also add in some canned beans for added protein. Toss everything together with a simple vinaigrette dressing for a nutritious and budget-friendly meal.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Burritos
Burritos are another versatile and budget-friendly meal. For a plant-based option, use sweet potatoes and black beans as your filling. Simply roast diced sweet potatoes in the oven and mix with canned black beans, salsa, and your choice of spices. Serve in a tortilla with your choice of toppings for a delicious and budget-friendly meal.
Pasta with Marinara Sauce
Pasta is a staple in many households and can easily be made plant-based. Simply cook your choice of pasta and top with a homemade marinara sauce. You can also add in some sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini and mushrooms, for added nutrition and flavor. This meal is not only budget-friendly but also quick and easy to make.
Veggie Burger and Sweet Potato Fries
For a budget-friendly twist on a classic burger and fries, opt for a veggie burger and sweet potato fries. You can make your own veggie burgers using canned beans, oats, and spices, or purchase pre-made ones from the store. Serve with baked sweet potato fries for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.
By incorporating these budget-friendly plant-based meals into your diet, you can enjoy the health benefits of a plant-based diet without breaking the bank. Have any other budget-friendly meal ideas? Share them in the comments below!
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