It’s time to try some new delicious & easy plant-based recipes for the New Year!
All of these recipes are made using whole food plant based ingredients, are gluten free, soy free and refined sugar free so everyone can enjoy them. Plus they are designed for skin health and are anti-inflammatory!
Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, enjoy wholesome ingredients, or try something new, these easy vegan and gluten-free recipes made with whole food ingredients will help you do just that!
Why Eat More Whole-Food, Plant-Based & Gluten-Free Recipes?
These recipes are all plant-based, gluten-free, and made with whole-food ingredients—perfect for anyone looking to eat healthier and cleaner in the new year.
By focusing on fresh vegetables, grains, legumes, and healthy fats, these dishes are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that your body craves.
Not only are they great for your health, but they’re also delicious and satisfying!
All in 30 minutes or less! From fresh salads and savory pastas to quick sandwiches and yummy desserts, these recipes will inspire you to eat more plant based food is actually delicious and sustainable!
1. 15-Minute Chickpea Quinoa Salad with Cumin Tahini Dressing
This chickpea quinoa salad is the perfect quick meal for a nutritious lunch or dinner. With protein-packed quinoa, fiber-rich chickpeas, and fresh veggies, it’s tossed in a creamy cumin tahini dressing for a flavor-packed dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.
Why Make It?
This salad is an excellent option for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. The cumin tahini dressing adds a unique flavor while keeping things light and nutritious.
2. Authentic Creamy Aglio e Olio Spaghetti (with hidden protein!)
This creamy aglio e olio spaghetti is a delicious, plant-based twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. Made with garlic, olive oil, and a creamy vegan base, this pasta is rich in flavor, satisfying, and ready in just 20 minutes. Using lentil spaghetti is the secret to adding protein & fiber to this recipe.
Why Make It?
If you’re craving a comforting, easy-to-make meal, this recipe is a winner. It’s light yet indulgent, and the garlic and olive oil combo is perfection!
3. 10-Minute Chickpea Tuna & Arugula Sandwich
This 10-minute chickpea tuna sandwich is a fantastic gluten-free option that’s perfect for a quick lunch. With mashed chickpeas, creamy vegan mayo, and a tangy lemon dressing, it mimics the flavors of tuna without any fish.
Why Make It?
If you’re short on time but still want something satisfying and wholesome, this sandwich is your go-to. Plus, it’s packed with plant-based protein and fresh arugula for extra crunch and nutrition. Meal prep the chickpea tuna mixture to have on hand for the week!
4. Kale & Apple Salad with Curry Tahini & Crispy Tofu
This kale and apple salad is a delightful combination of fresh kale, crisp apples, and crunchy, flavorful crispy tofu. Topped with a creamy curry tahini dressing, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious, and it’s ready in just 25 minutes.
Why Make It?
With a beautiful balance of sweet apples, savory curry tahini dressing, and protein-packed tofu, this salad makes a perfect light meal that’s full of nutrients and flavor.
5. Mediterranean Dense Bean Salad
The ULTIMATE meal prep salad! This Mediterranean bean salad is packed with hearty beans, fresh veggies, and a lemony dressing that gives it a bright and refreshing flavor. Full of fiber and protein, this salad is the perfect side or main dish for any meal.
Why Make It?
It’s super filling, naturally gluten-free, and full of healthy fats and fiber—great for a quick meal or a perfect potluck dish. Plus, it’s versatile, so feel free to add seasonal veggies or herbs!
6. 10-Minute Vegan Cold Sesame Noodles
These cold sesame noodles are a flavorful, quick meal that you can make in just 10 minutes. Tossed with a creamy sesame sauce, this dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. I meal prep this ALL the time!
Why Make It?
With minimal prep and just a few ingredients, this dish is a lifesaver for busy days. The sesame sauce is rich and savory, making it a satisfying meal on its own or as a side.
7. Arugula Quinoa Salad with Orange Poppy Seed Dressing
This arugula quinoa salad is a vibrant, tangy dish with fresh arugula, quinoa, and a citrusy orange poppy seed dressing. It’s packed with antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nourishing choice for any meal.
Why Make It?
This salad is light yet filling, with the perfect balance of flavors from the peppery arugula and sweet orange dressing. It’s great as a side dish or a standalone meal.
8. Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
Inspired by the star’s famous quinoa tabbouleh, this “Jennifer Aniston” inspired salad combines quinoa with fresh herbs, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing. It’s a fresh, nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for meal prep AND designed for skin health!
Why Make It?
This salad is refreshing, light, and full of fresh flavors. It’s ideal for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
9. Vegan Chickpea Buffalo Wings
This recipe goes viral every time I share it, they are just SO easy to make! These vegan chickpea buffalo wings are crispy, flavorful and absolutely delicious. Made from chickpeas and rice paper, they’re a great alternative to traditional buffalo wings!
Why Make It?
This dish is perfect for lunch, game day, parties, or a fun snack. The chickpeas create a great base that holds up to the tangy buffalo sauce, making each bite satisfying.
10. White Bean, Kale & Quinoa Salad
This white bean, kale, and quinoa salad is a wholesome, nutrient-dense dish that’s packed with plant protein and fiber. The lemon dressing adds a tangy kick that brightens up the hearty ingredients.
Why Make It?
This salad is a great way to get your greens and protein in one meal. It’s hearty enough for a main dish yet light enough for a side.
11. Red Cabbage Ragu
This red cabbage ragu is a savory, hearty dish made with tender red cabbage in a rich tomato sauce. Served with your favorite gluten-free pasta, it’s a comforting meal that’s full of bold flavors.
Why Make It?
The red cabbage provides a unique twist on a classic ragu, and the dish is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It’s perfect for a cozy, nutritious dinner.
12. Za’atar Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
This Za’atar shaved Brussels sprouts salad features thinly shaved Brussels sprouts tossed with the flavorful Middle Eastern spice blend, Za’atar, and topped with pomegranate seeds. It’s light, tangy, and full of fresh flavors.
Why Make It?
It’s a fresh, crunchy, and nutrient-dense salad that’s perfect as a side or light meal. The Za’atar seasoning brings an exciting depth of flavor that complements the Brussels sprouts.
13. Rainbow Soba Noodle Salad
This rainbow soba noodle salad is bursting with color and crunch, featuring a mix of fresh veggies, soba noodles, and a savory dressing. It’s a quick and vibrant meal that’s both light and satisfying.
Why Make It?
It’s a refreshing, flavor-packed dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge for several days.
14. Lion’s Mane Mushroom Steaks with Chimichurri
These Lion’s Mane mushroom steaks are pan-seared and served with a zesty chimichurri sauce. This dish is perfect for mushroom lovers and is an excellent plant-based alternative to traditional steak.
Why Make It?
The Lion’s Mane mushrooms have a meaty texture, making them perfect for grilling or pan-searing. Paired with the tangy chimichurri, they create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
15. Pumpkin Lentil Bolognese
This pumpkin lentil bolognese combines hearty lentils and pumpkin for a rich, savory pasta sauce. It’s full of flavor and perfect for a cozy, nutritious meal.
16. Rainbow Quinoa Salad with Creamy Lemon Dressing
This rainbow quinoa salad is as vibrant as it is healthy, with a creamy lemon dressing that brings all the ingredients together. Full of fresh veggies, quinoa, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition.
17. Parsley Pesto Veggie Quinoa Bowl
This parsley pesto veggie quinoa bowl is a quick and nourishing meal made with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a zesty parsley pesto. It’s colorful, fresh, and full of flavor.
Why you should make it: This bowl is packed with flavor and health benefits! It’s got protein to keep you full and the parsley pesto and truly a crowd pleaser.
18. 5-Minute Gochujang Tahini Noodles
These 5-Minute Gochujang Tahini Noodles are the perfect solution for a quick, flavorful meal that comes together in no time. The creamy tahini and spicy gochujang sauce create a deliciously bold combination that will satisfy your taste buds while being nourishing and simple to make.
Why you should make it: In just five minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful, comforting bowl of noodles that’s full of umami and heat. It’s the perfect quick fix for a busy day without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
19. Crispy Chocolate Almond Banana Date Dumplings
These Crispy Chocolate Almond Banana Date Dumplings are a sweet, indulgent treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate, the nuttiness of almonds, and the natural sweetness of banana and dates. Crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, they make for a delightful dessert or snack.
Why you should make it: If you’re craving a quick and decadent dessert that’s both delicious and healthier than traditional sweets, these dumplings are your answer. They’re easy to make, naturally sweetened, and perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings.
20. Apple Pie Rice Paper Dumplings
These Apple Pie Rice Paper Dumplings are a creative, lighter take on the classic dessert. Filled with sweet, spiced apples and wrapped in crispy rice paper, they’re baked to perfection for a warm, gooey bite of comfort.
Why you should make it: If you love apple pie but want something quicker and lighter, these dumplings are the perfect solution. They’re a fun, easy-to-make treat that delivers all the cozy flavors of apple pie in a fraction of the time.
21. Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch Cereal
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Crunch Cereal is a delicious, crave-worthy mix of peanut butter, chocolate, and crispy cereal, making it the perfect treat to start your day or enjoy as a snack or dessert. It’s quick to make and packs the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
Why you should make it: Whether you’re having it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this easy-to-make cereal satisfies both your sweet tooth and your need for a crunchy bite. It’s a fun and nutritious way to enjoy the classic peanut butter and chocolate combo!
22. Vegan Salted Date Caramel
This Vegan Salted Date Caramel is a rich, velvety caramel made with just a few simple ingredients like dates, coconut milk, and a pinch of sea salt. It’s naturally sweetened and can be drizzled over ice cream, apples, or enjoyed by the spoonful.
Why you should make it: This decadent caramel sauce is not only easy to make, but it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional caramel. It’s the perfect way to add a sweet and salty touch to your favorite desserts or snacks!
23. 3 Ingredient Macaroon Cookies
These 3-Ingredient Macaroon Cookies are simple, chewy, and naturally sweetened, with coconut as the star ingredient. Made with just coconut, maple syrup, and almond flour, they’re the perfect quick treat for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why you should make it: With only three ingredients and minimal prep time, these macaroons are an easy way to enjoy a sweet, coconutty bite. They’re perfect for a snack, dessert, or even a quick energy bite on the go!
24. Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats
These Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberry Shortcake Overnight Oats combine creamy oats with fresh strawberries and a hint of vanilla, giving you all the flavor of strawberry shortcake in a healthy, make-ahead breakfast. The oats soak overnight, creating a deliciously smooth and satisfying meal.
Why you should make it: Perfect for busy mornings, these overnight oats are a sweet, nourishing option that requires no cooking. They’re packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants—making them a delicious and healthy way to start your day!
25. Caramelized Banana Bread Pudding Overnight Oats
These Caramelized Banana Bread Pudding Overnight Oats offer a cozy twist on classic banana bread, featuring sweet caramelized bananas and warm cinnamon flavors. Prepared the night before, this easy, make-ahead breakfast is indulgent yet wholesome.
Why you should make it: This comforting overnight oats recipe is perfect for busy mornings, combining the flavors of banana bread with the simplicity of overnight oats. It’s a nutrient-dense breakfast that’s naturally sweetened and packed with fiber to keep you satisfied all morning.
26. Vibrant Mango Lime Chia Seed Overnight Oats
These Vibrant Mango Lime Chia Seed Overnight Oats are a refreshing, tropical breakfast made with chia seeds, creamy coconut milk, and sweet, tangy mango. The lime adds a zesty twist, making this an energizing and delicious start to your day.
Why you should make it: This easy, no-cook breakfast is packed with fiber, omega-3s, and antioxidants, perfect for busy mornings. It’s a light, yet satisfying way to fuel your day with natural sweetness and vibrant flavors.
some of the salads in my cookbook
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