Veganuary doesn't have to be expensive. Whether you're doing it for the first time or you're already a vegan, these 12 cheap vegan meals are great inspiration for delicious plant-based dinners on a budget.
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Many people who think about switching to veganism are worried that their new diet is going to be expensive. This is a myth, and it's in fact very easy to cook nutritious plant-based recipes on a budget.
Being a vegan will make a dent in your budget only if you plan on living on processed, ready-made meals.
Because it's based on staples like beans, grains, and legumes, a healthy vegan diet is actually accommodating to just about any budget.
12 Cheap Vegan Meals for Veganuary
To help you get through Veganuary without breaking the bank, I rounded up 12 vegan recipes that use affordable ingredients.
These 12 easy cheap vegan recipes are all easy to cook and make perfect family dinners. You can also easily scale them down if you're cooking for one or two people.
I included a mix of pasta dishes, curries, and soups so you can get inspiration for whatever kind of dinner you're in the mood for.
Most of these recipes don't use meat substitutes, so if you're looking for new wholesome vegan recipes to try, you are likely to find something great on this list.
All the recipes are some of the most popular ones on my blog and take no more than an hour or so to make.
If you're looking for more plant-based inspiration, check out all my vegan recipes.
12 Cheap Vegan Meals for Veganuary
The Ultimate Vegan Zuppa Toscana
Creamy and super flavourful, this vegan Zuppa Toscana is so delicious you won’t be able to stop at one bowl. It’s so good, meat-eaters in your life are absolutely not going to believe it’s vegan.
Vegan Tagliatelle Bolognese with Mushrooms
These vegan tagliatelle Bolognese with mushrooms are incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. This easy vegan pasta with mushrooms recipe is likely to impress even meat-eaters.
Aubergine and Red Lentil Curry
A vegan curry that packs the goodness of aubergines and the texture of red lentils, this aubergine and red lentil curry is sure to satisfy the entire family.
Red Lentil Potato Soup with Lemon
This red lentil potato soup with lemon is vegan, easy to make, and full of flavour. Enjoy a bowl of this nourishing kale and lentil soup on its own or with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Vegan Cannellini Bean Stew
A super comforting bowl of goodness to keep you full and satisfied, this vegan cannellini bean stew is ready in under an hour. Serve it with crusty bread and make sure you make enough because everyone might go for seconds.
Vegan Sausage Pasta With Kale
Have you been looking for recipes for vegan sausages? This vegan sausage pasta with kale is ready in 30 minutes and it’s full of creamy goodness. Bonus — your family might not even notice it’s vegan!
Vegan Lentil Soup with Kale
This hearty vegan lentil soup with kale is full of nutrients such as fiber and protein and also has a little spicy kick. Just the perfect comfort bowl that’s also super healthy.
Instant Pot Cauliflower and Cashew Curry (Vegan)
Incredible flavours and rich textures make this Instant Pot cauliflower and cashew curry a vegan treat for a weeknight. Serve it over basmati rice or with naan bread for a filling dinner that will satisfy even meat-eaters.
30-Minute Vegan Chickpeas and Spinach Curry
A super flavourful dish, this vegan chickpeas and spinach curry is ready in 30 minutes. You can make it as creamy as you want and serve it with a bowl of basmati rice or naan bread. It tastes amazing either way!
Creamy Polenta with Vegan Ragu
This super easy creamy polenta with vegan ragu is like a warm blanket for your belly. A plant-based recipe that’s ready in 30 minutes, this vegan ragu is likely to become a staple family dinner.
Aubergine Thai Red Curry with Peppers
This vegan aubergine Thai red curry with peppers is the perfect meal for those days when you really want to hit your five-a-day but could also do with a treat. It’s super easy to make in just 30 minutes, and you can customise it, too, depending on what veggies you have on hand.
Thai Sweet Potato Curry with Spicy Chilli Peanuts
If you have an open jar of Thai red paste, try this sweet potato curry with spicy chilly peanuts that has a bit of kick and all the crunchiness you need for a very satisfying plant-based meal.
So there you go - 12 cheap easy vegan recipes to inspire you for Veganuary and beyond!
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Sharon Boyd says
I am just starting ti be a Vegan today and these recioes look delious. Where have you been. I wld hv started a long time before. TY
Alice says
Thank you so much, Sharon, I'm so glad you like my recipes. Good luck on your vegan journey!