15 Plant-Based Dinner Recipes for Meatless Mondays

Spicing up your Mondays with plant-based dinners can be both nourishing and incredibly flavorful. These handpicked recipes show just how diverse and satisfying meatless meals can be. From hearty pastas to vibrant veggie stir-fries, you’ll discover how easy and delicious it is to skip the meat.

Tricia Quitales
July 2, 2025
5 min read

15 Plant-Based Dinner Recipes for Meatless Mondays — Phat Nguy on Pexels

Embracing plant-based meals once a week is a simple and delicious way to improve your health and support the environment. Meatless Mondays encourage creativity in the kitchen while reducing meat consumption. These dinner recipes offer bold flavors, satisfying textures, and wholesome ingredients that make going meat-free easy and enjoyable.

1. Chickpea Coconut Curry

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Creamy, spiced, and comforting, chickpea coconut curry is perfect for a cozy Monday night. Simmer chickpeas with coconut milk, garlic, ginger, and curry powder until thick and fragrant. Add spinach for a pop of green and serve over steamed basmati rice. This dish is not only high in protein but also naturally gluten-free. The leftovers taste even better the next day.

2. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

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Sweet potatoes roast to caramelized perfection and pair beautifully with smoky black beans. Stuff everything into warm corn tortillas and top with avocado, lime juice, and cilantro. A quick slaw of red cabbage adds crunch and color. These tacos are satisfying, simple to prepare, and bursting with bold flavors. They’re ideal for a hands-on, casual dinner.

3. Lentil Bolognese with Spaghetti

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Swap ground meat for hearty brown lentils in this rich, savory pasta sauce. Simmer the lentils with crushed tomatoes, garlic, onion, and Italian herbs until thick and flavorful. Serve over spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a comforting classic with a twist. It’s full of fiber and plant-based protein, perfect for the whole family. Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Veggies

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Colorful bell peppers make the perfect edible bowls for this wholesome filling. Cooked quinoa mixes with sautéed vegetables, chickpeas, and herbs for a protein-packed meal. Bake the stuffed peppers until tender and golden on top. Serve with a drizzle of tahini or tomato sauce. It’s visually stunning and great for meal prep.

5. Vegan Pad Thai with Tofu

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This vibrant Thai-inspired dish substitutes meat for crispy tofu, retaining all the authentic flavors. Rice noodles are tossed in a tangy tamarind-lime sauce with crunchy peanuts and fresh veggies. Garnish with scallions and bean sprouts for freshness and texture. It’s quick, satisfying, and better than takeout. Best of all, it’s entirely plant-based.

6. Cauliflower Steaks with Chimichurri

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Thick slices of cauliflower are roasted until golden and served with herb-packed chimichurri. The bold green sauce, made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar, adds a punch of flavor. Serve alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. This dish is both elegant and earthy. It’s perfect for a simple but sophisticated Monday dinner.

7. Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff

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This creamy comfort dish gets a plant-based twist with sautéed mushrooms and dairy-free cream. Onion, garlic, and paprika build deep flavor without the need for meat. Serve over pasta or mashed potatoes for a filling meal. Add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra richness. It’s warming and indulgent without being heavy.

8. Falafel Bowls with Hummus and Greens

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Crispy baked falafel is served over a bed of grains, greens, and fresh veggies. Add a generous scoop of hummus and a drizzle of tahini-lemon dressing. This dish is full of texture and Mediterranean flavor. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings. It’s great for a nourishing and colorful dinner.

9. Eggplant Parmesan (Vegan Style)

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Slices of eggplant are breaded, baked, and layered with marinara and vegan cheese. It’s a satisfying alternative to the traditional version without sacrificing flavor. Serve it with pasta or crusty bread. The texture is perfectly tender inside and crisp on the outside. It’s a family-friendly favorite that feels like comfort food.

10. Thai Peanut Noodle Salad

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Cold rice noodles tossed with a creamy peanut sauce make a refreshing and filling dish. Add crunchy veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers for balance. Top with crushed peanuts and a squeeze of lime juice. It’s perfect for warm nights and quick weeknight meals. Make it in advance for even more flavor.

11. Vegan Chili with Cornbread

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Hearty and comforting, this chili features beans, tomatoes, and spices simmered to perfection. Serve it with a slice of golden cornbread for the ultimate combo. Add toppings like avocado, green onions, or jalapeños. It’s great for batch cooking and freezing. This dish is rich in fiber and flavor.

12. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

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Light, fresh, and loaded with green goodness, zucchini noodles are a low-carb favorite. Toss them with homemade basil pesto made from pine nuts and olive oil. Add cherry tomatoes or roasted chickpeas for texture. It’s a quick and vibrant dish ideal for busy nights. It’s a fun way to eat more veggies.

13. Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

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This is a comforting classic made with lentils and mixed vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. It’s hearty and deeply satisfying without any animal products. It’s great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. The layers of flavor come together beautifully in each bite.

14. Korean BBQ Tofu Lettuce Wraps

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Crispy tofu is glazed in a sweet and savory Korean BBQ sauce. It’s served in cool lettuce leaves with rice, carrots, and kimchi for a bold and fun meal. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced scallions on top. It’s light, fresh, and loaded with umami flavor. It’s perfect for a hands-on dinner that feels like takeout.

15. Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Basil Sauce

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Roasted spaghetti squash is a low-carb alternative to pasta that’s naturally flavorful. Top it with a simple tomato and fresh basil sauce for a bright, aromatic finish. Add olives or capers for extra depth. It’s easy to make and surprisingly satisfying. It’s a delicious way to enjoy more vegetables without sacrificing taste.