10+ Cheap Vegetarian Recipes for Budget-Friendly Meals

Exploring cheap vegetarian recipes can be a great way to save money and enjoy delicious meals. Eating well on a meat-free diet doesn’t have to cost a lot. Whether you’re looking for quick options or hearty dishes, many affordable ingredients work beautifully in vegetarian cooking.

These recipes can help you eat nutritiously without breaking the bank. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create satisfying meals that fit your budget and taste preferences. Enjoy the benefits of incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine while keeping costs low.

1) Chilli, Cheese, and Garlic Mushroom Omelette

This Chilli, Cheese, and Garlic Mushroom Omelette is a simple and tasty dish. You can make it quickly, perfect for breakfast or any meal during the day. It’s also a great vegetarian option.

To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need eggs, mushrooms, cheese, garlic, and a bit of chili for heat. The flavors combine well for a satisfying meal.

Cooking is easy! Just sauté the mushrooms and garlic. Then, pour your beaten eggs over them. Add cheese and chili for extra richness. It takes about 10 minutes to cook. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 50g cheddar cheese, grated
• 3-4 mushrooms, chopped
• 1 spring onion, chopped
• 1/2 red chili, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, crushed

Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté mushrooms and garlic in a pan over medium heat (350°F/175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
2. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into the pan.
3. Add cheese and chili on top.
4. Cook until the eggs are set, about 5 minutes. Enjoy!

2) Charred Broccoli, Lemon & Walnut Pasta

This dish is a tasty and affordable option for your vegetarian meals. With charred broccoli, fresh lemon, and crunchy walnuts, it packs a lot of flavors.

To make this pasta, you will need simple ingredients. Start with whole wheat pasta and toss in broccoli for added nutrition. The lemon juice brings a bright taste while walnuts add a satisfying crunch.

You can cook this in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a healthy meal that won’t break the bank.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) whole wheat pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 1 cup walnuts (chopped)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil and add the broccoli. Char until tender.
3. Toss in cooked pasta, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Mix in walnuts, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your meal!

3) Vegetarian Pad Thai

Vegetarian Pad Thai is a simple and tasty dish that you can make at home. It’s packed with flavor and can be ready in about 30 minutes. You can use various vegetables and tofu for protein.

Use rice noodles for a gluten-free option. Add generous amounts of sauce for a savory taste. Top it with crushed peanuts and fresh herbs for extra crunch.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots)
• 1 cup tofu, cubed
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Crushed peanuts and cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Add tofu and sauté until golden.
4. Stir in vegetables and cook for a few minutes.
5. Mix soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar in a bowl.
6. Add cooked noodles and sauce to the skillet.
7. Toss everything together and serve hot, topped with peanuts and cilantro.

4) Enchilada Pasta

Enchilada pasta is a delicious and easy vegetarian dish that combines pasta with enchilada flavors. It’s great for a quick dinner and uses just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Start by cooking your favorite pasta, then mix in homemade enchilada sauce, onions, and bell peppers. Add black beans and corn for extra protein and fiber. Don’t forget to sprinkle some cheese on top before serving.

This meal is perfect on chilly nights or when you need something comforting and satisfying. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil and sauté diced onion and bell pepper until soft.
3. Stir in enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn.
4. Combine with cooked pasta and mix well.
5. Top with cheese, if desired, and serve warm.

5) Black Bean Rice Burgers

Black bean rice burgers are a tasty and affordable option for a vegetarian meal. You can make them easily at home with just a few simple ingredients. They are high in protein and fiber, making them filling and healthy.

To prepare, mash black beans and mix them with cooked brown rice. Add some spices and form the mixture into patties. You can cook them in a pan or grill for extra flavor.

These burgers are versatile. You can top them with your favorite veggies and sauces. Serve them on a bun or on a plate with a side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
2. Rinse and mash black beans in a bowl.
3. Add cooked rice, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Form mixture into patties.
5. Cook in the skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

6) Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew

This Easy Moroccan Chickpea Stew is a warm and filling dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in one pot. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare!

You can use canned chickpeas, veggies, and spices to create a delicious meal. It’s packed with protein and great flavor. Plus, it’s both vegan and gluten-free!

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the carrots and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices. Mix well.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes on low heat.
6. Serve warm. Enjoy your meal!

7) Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil Sauce

Spaghetti with tomato and basil sauce is a quick and delicious vegetarian meal. You can make this dish using simple ingredients that are easy to find.

Start by cooking your spaghetti according to the package instructions. While it cooks, prepare the sauce. Use fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil for the best flavor.

Once the pasta is ready, toss it with the sauce. This dish is light, fresh, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti
• 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and tomatoes; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine with cooked spaghetti and serve.

8) Curried Lentil Soup

Curried lentil soup is a tasty and budget-friendly dish. It’s rich in flavor and packed with nutrients. You can prepare it quickly, making it perfect for a busy day.

This soup combines lentils, veggies, and spices for a comforting meal. You can use ingredients like potatoes and carrots, which are affordable and add good texture. Coconut milk gives it a creamy finish that enhances the flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils (any type)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 carrots, diced
• 1 potato, diced
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add carrots and potatoes, cooking for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils, curry powder, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
5. Add coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 5 minutes and enjoy!

9) Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

A vegetable stir-fry with tofu is a quick and tasty dish you can prepare on a budget. It uses colorful veggies and protein-rich tofu, making it both healthy and filling.

Start with your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Cube the tofu and give it a nice sear for added flavor.

You can also customize this dish by adding sauces like soy sauce or teriyaki. Serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 block of firm tofu
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Cooked rice (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Press the tofu for 15 minutes to remove excess water.
2. Cut the tofu into cubes.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
4. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
6. Pour in soy sauce and stir for another minute.
7. Serve over rice if desired.

10) Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a great choice for a delicious and budget-friendly meal. These large pasta shells are filled with a tasty mixture of spinach and creamy ricotta cheese.

You can smother them in marinara sauce and sprinkle with cheese for extra flavor. This dish is satisfying and perfect for any occasion.

These stuffed shells are simple to prepare and can feed a crowd. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to get your veggies in!

Ingredients

• 12-14 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Then, drain and set aside.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Then, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft.
4. Add fresh spinach to the pan. Then, cook until it is wilted.
5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta and spinach mixture.
7. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Then, place the stuffed shells on top.
8. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.