Delicious Cheap Vegan Meals
Delicious Cheap Vegan Meals That Won’t Break The Bank
Eating vegan doesn’t have to be expensive! Are you looking for cheap vegan meals that are delicious and budget-friendly?
With the right supplies and creativity, you can enjoy tasty, inexpensive, plant-based meals daily. Whether craving affordable vegan recipes like hearty stews, protein-rich dishes, or quick snacks, ingredients like beans, lentils, rice, and seasonal vegetables make it easy to eat well without overspending.
In this article, we’ll explore budget-friendly vegan meal ideas that are simple, tasty, and perfect for everyday cooking.
Cheap Vegan Breakfast Ideas
1. Oatmeal With Fruits & Nuts
Oatmeal is warm, comforting, gut-friendly, and long-lasting. Fruits add natural sweetness and essential nutrients.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: 1 cup
- Water or plant-based milk: 2 cups
- Banana: 1, sliced
- Apple: ½, diced
- Raisins: 2 tablespoons
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts): 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Method
- Bring water or plant milk to a boil in a saucepan.
- After adding the oats, lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and mix in fruits, raisins, and nuts.
- Serve warm and, if preferred, sprinkle with cinnamon.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fibre: 6g
- Fats: 9g
Health Benefits
Oats are rich in fibre, supporting digestion and heart health. Fruits provide antioxidants, vitamins, and natural sugars for energy. Nuts add healthy fats and protein, improving brain function and overall wellness.
2. Chickpea Flour Pancakes
This chickpea flour pancake is one of the best cheap vegan meal ideas. It offers a protein-packed, savoury breakfast that's nutritious and filling. Chickpea flour is rich in plant protein, making this meal both healthy and satisfying.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Chickpea flour: 1 cup
- Water: ¾ cup
- Turmeric: ½ teaspoon
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Onion: ½ small, chopped
- Bell pepper: ½, chopped
- Oil for cooking: 1 tablespoon
Method
- Whisk flour, water, turmeric, cumin, and sea salt into a smooth batter in a bowl. In a bowl
- Add onions and bell peppers, mixing well.
- Ladle batter into a pan with hot oil.
- For golden brown, cook for 3–4 minutes on each side.
- Serve warm with chutney or avocado.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fibre: 6g
- Fats: 5g
Health Benefits
Chickpea flour is high in plant protein and fibre, which help with indigestion and muscle health. Spices like turmeric and cumin are anti-inflammatory, and vegetables contain vitamins and antioxidants.
3. Peanut Butter Banana Toast
This quick, protein-rich breakfast fuels your day with essential nutrients. Whole-grain toast, peanut butter, and bananas balance fibre, protein, and natural sweetness perfectly.
Prep time: 3 minutes | Cook time: 2 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1
Ingredients
- Whole-grain bread: 2 slices
- Peanut butter: 2 tablespoons
- Banana: 1, sliced
- Chia seeds: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Method
- Toast the bread to your preferred crispness.
- Spread peanut butter evenly on both slices.
- Top with banana slices and sprinkle chia seeds.
- Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fibre: 7g
- Fats: 15g
Health Benefits
Peanut butter provides healthy lipids and plant-based protein. Bananas have potassium, which supports heart health and vitality. Whole-grain bread adds fibre, promoting digestion and keeping you full longer.
4. Tofu Scramble
Tofu Scramble is a cheap vegan meal that’s high in protein, packed with nutrients, and flavoured. It’s a hearty, energizing breakfast alternative to eggs.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Firm tofu: 1 block, crumbled
- Onion: ½ small, chopped
- Bell pepper: ½, chopped
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Kala namak (black salt): ½ teaspoon (optional for egg flavour)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Nutritional yeast: 1 tablespoon (optional)
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Method
- Over medium heat, heat the oil in a pan.
- Sauté onions and bell peppers for 2–3 minutes.
- Add crumbled tofu, turmeric, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Stir and cook for 5 minutes until flavours blend.
- Sprinkle with nutritional yeast and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fibre: 3g
- Fats: 15g
Health Benefits
This tofu scramble with turmeric, black sea salt, and vegetables is a perfect example of a cheap vegan meal packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, and black sea salt enhances flavour and provides minerals. Vegetables add essential vitamins and fibre.
Cheap Vegan Lunch Ideas
1. Lentil And Rice Bowl
The Lentil and rice bowl is a cheap, satisfying, and easy lunch that is high in protein. Rice and lentils combine to provide the ideal amount of protein, fibre, and other vital elements for a well-balanced meal.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Lentils (red or brown): ½ cup
- Rice (white or brown): 1 cup
- Water: 2 cups
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: ½, chopped
Method
- Rinse lentils and rice under running water.
- In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onions for 2 minutes.
- Add lentils, rice, water, cumin, and Sea salt.
- Simmer until tender, 15 to 20 minutes after bringing to a boil.
- Serve warm with a side of veggies.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fibre: 8g
- Fats: 5g
Health Benefits
Lentils, high in iron and protein, promote blood and muscle health. Rice provides energy-boosting carbohydrates. Fibre aids digestion and keeps you full, making this a tremendous budget-friendly meal.
2. Chickpea Salad Sandwich
This creamy, crunchy, and protein-rich sandwich, made with mashed chickpeas, is perfect for an easy and satisfying lunch.
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 1 can (or 1½ cups cooked)
- Vegan mayo or hummus: 2 tablespoons
- Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Onion: ½ small, chopped
- Cucumber: ½, chopped
- Sea salt and pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Whole-grain bread: 4 slices
Method
- Mash chickpeas in a bowl until slightly chunky.
- Mix in mayo, mustard, onion, cucumber, sea salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture onto bread slices.
- Serve as a sandwich or with a side salad.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fibre: 9g
- Fats: 8g
Health Benefits
Chickpeas are high in protein and fibre, which promotes healthy digestion and muscles. Whole-grain bread supports heart health, while onions and cucumbers add vitamins and hydration.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry With Noodles
This quick stir-fry with budget-friendly vegetables and noodles is a fantastic option for cheap vegan meal ideas that are both nutritious and satisfying.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Total time: 15 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Ramen noodles (or spaghetti): 1 packet
- Mixed vegetables (cabbage, carrots, bell peppers): 1 cup
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic: 1 teaspoon, minced
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Method
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Place oil in a skillet and sauté the garlic for one minute.
- For 3–5 minutes, stir-fry the mixed vegetables.
- Mix in cooked noodles, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fibre: 5g
- Fats: 6g
Health Benefits
This meal is high in fibre and antioxidants from vegetables. Soy sauce provides essential minerals, while noodles offer energy-boosting carbohydrates. It's a quick meal that will keep you full and active.
4. Black Bean And Corn Wrap
Black Bean and Corn Wrap is a simple, protein-packed meal full of fibre, flavour, and affordability, making it a delicious and nutritious choice.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Black beans: 1 cup, cooked or canned
- Corn: ½ cup
- Tomato: 1 small, chopped
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Whole-wheat tortillas: 2
Method
- Heat black beans and corn over low heat in a pan.
- Stir in tomatoes, cumin, and sea salt.
- Warm tortillas and fill them with the mixture.
- Roll up and serve.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fibre: 7g
- Fats: 5g
Health Benefits
Black beans are high in protein and fibre, which promote heart and digestive well-being. Corn adds natural sweetness and vitamins. Whole-wheat tortillas provide energy-boosting complex carbohydrates for sustained fullness.
Cheap Vegan Dinner Ideas
1. One-Pot Lentil Soup
This hearty, protein-rich soup is one of the best cheap vegan meal ideas. It offers a warm, filling, and nutrient-packed option.
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Lentils (red or brown): 1 cup
- Carrot: 1, chopped
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Water or vegetable broth: 4 cups
Method
- Heat a pot over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes.
- Add lentils, carrots, cumin, sea salt, and water.
- After the mixture boils, lower the heat for approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
- Serve warm with bread or rice.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fibre: 9g
- Fats: 3g
Health Benefits
Lentils provide plant-based protein and iron, supporting muscle and blood health. Carrots add antioxidants and vitamin A for immunity. This fibre-rich soup promotes digestion and keeps you full longer.
2. Cabbage Stir-Fry With Rice
A quick, nutritious, and budget-friendly stir-fry with simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Cabbage: 2 cups, shredded
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric: ½ teaspoon
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Cooked rice: 2 cups
Method
- For two minutes, cook the onions, stirring now and again.
- Add cabbage, turmeric, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 10 minutes until tender.
- Serve over cooked rice.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fibre: 6g
- Fats: 8g
Health Benefits
Cabbage is high in fibre and antioxidants, which support digestion and immunity. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. Rice provides energy-boosting carbohydrates, making this dish both nutritious and affordable.
3. Spaghetti With Tomato Sauce
This classic, simple meal is an excellent example of a cheap vegan meal idea. It uses pantry staples for a quick and delicious dinner.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: 200g
- Tomatoes: 2, chopped
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Method
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, sea salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes until soft.
- Mix with cooked spaghetti and serve.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fibre: 5g
- Fats: 8g
Health Benefits
Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants for immune health. Whole-grain spaghetti adds fibre for digestion. Olive oil contains healthy fats, making this meal nutritious, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare.
4. Chickpea And Spinach Curry
Chickpea and Spinach Curry is a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and pairs perfectly with rice or flatbread.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 1 can (or 1½ cups cooked)
- Spinach: 1 cup, chopped
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Water: ½ cup
Method
- Sauté onions for two minutes in a pan with heated oil.
- Add cumin, turmeric, and chickpeas. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in water and add spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Serve warm with rice or flatbread.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fibre: 9g
- Fats: 7g
Health Benefits
Chickpeas provide protein and Fibre for muscle and digestive health. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, boosting immunity. This dish supports heart health while being affordable and easy to make.
Cheap Vegan Snack Ideas
1. Roasted Chickpeas
This crunchy, high-protein roasted chickpea snack is one of the many cheap vegan meal ideas that are easy to make and perfect for on-the-go munching.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: 1 can (or 1½ cups cooked)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- After draining, use a towel to pat dry the chickpeas.
- Toss with olive oil, Sea salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Move to a baking sheet and bake, shaking occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Let's cool down and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fibre: 6g
- Fats: 6g
Health Benefits
Chickpeas' high protein and fibre content helps you feel fuller for longer. Olive oil supplies suitable lipids, and garlic and paprika contribute antioxidants to improve immunity and general health.
2. Peanut Butter Banana Bites
Peanut Butter Banana Bites are a quick, protein-rich snack with just three ingredients. They’re delicious, nutritious, and perfect for an easy, budget-friendly treat.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Banana: 1, sliced
- Peanut butter: 2 tablespoons
- Nuts or seeds: 1 tablespoon, crushed
Method
- Evenly coat half of the banana slices with peanut butter.
- Sprinkle with crushed nuts or seeds.
- Top with remaining banana slices to make little sandwiches.
- Enjoy immediately or freeze for a cold treat.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fibre: 4g
- Fats: 9g
Health Benefits
Bananas provide natural energy and potassium, which are suitable for heart health. Peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats, supporting muscle and brain function. This is a simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly snack.
3. Popcorn With Nutritional Yeast
This fibre-rich, cheesy-flavoured snack is an excellent cheap vegan meal idea that is both tasty and budget-friendly.
Prep time: 2 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Total time: 7 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Popcorn kernels: ½ cup
- Coconut or vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon
- Nutritional yeast: 1 tablespoon
- Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
Method
- In a spacious pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Put the popcorn kernels in and put a lid on it.
- Slow the popping by shaking the pot from time to time.
- Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with nutritional yeast and sea salt, and mix.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fibre: 4g
- Fats: 7g
Health Benefits
The high fibre content of popcorn promotes fullness and helps with digestion. Nutritional yeast adds B vitamins, making popcorn an affordable and nutrient-dense snack.
4. Cucumber And Hummus Bites
The cucumber and hummus bites are a refreshing, protein-packed snack that’s super affordable.
Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2
Ingredients
- Cucumber: 1, sliced
- Hummus: ½ cup
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Method
- Spread hummus on each cucumber slice.
- Sprinkle with black pepper.
- Enjoy immediately!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fibre: 3g
- Fats: 6g
Health Benefits
Cucumbers hydrate and provide antioxidants, while hummus offers plant-based protein and fibre for digestion. This nutrient-dense, low-calorie snack is perfect for healthy snacking on a budget.
FAQ
1. How Can I Make Vegan Meals More Flavourful Without Spending Extra Money?
Use budget-friendly spices like cumin, turmeric, garlic powder, and paprika. Fresh herbs, citrus juice, and nutritional yeast can add depth to your meals without breaking the bank.
2. Can I Eat A Healthy Vegan Diet On A Budget?
Yes! A vegan diet that emphasizes complete, plant-based foods like rice, oats, lentils, beans, seasonal vegetables, and frozen products can be both economical and nutrient-dense. Cooking at home and purchasing in bulk can further cut expenses.
Conclusion
Eating vegan on a budget is simple, with thoughtful planning and wholesome ingredients.
By incorporating smart shopping and affordable plant-based ingredients, you can easily prepare nutritious and delicious meals. Cooking at home, buying in bulk, and reducing food waste help lower costs even further.
A budget-friendly vegan diet can be economical and satisfying with creativity and mindful shopping. Enjoy tasty, cheap vegan meals every day!
I trust you enjoyed this article about the Delicious Cheap Vegan Meals That Won’t Break The Bank. Stay tuned for more blog posts soon. Take care!
JeannetteZ
>>>Please click here to read my Vegan Travel Guides To World Destinations<<<
>>>Want To Learn How To Create Delicious, Cruelty-Free, Healthy AND 100% Vegan Meals? Try These Awesome Vegan Cooking Courses With A Free 7-DAY MEMBERSHIP<<<
Your Opinion Is Important To Me
Do you have thoughts, ideas, or questions? I would love to hear from you. Please leave me your questions, experiences, and remarks about the Delicious Cheap Vegan Meals That Won’t Break The Bank in the comments below. You can also email me at Jeannette@LivingTheVeganLifestyle.org.
Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and other affiliate programs. Please read my full disclosure.
Here are links to some of my favourite articles:
Vegan Diet And Breastfeeding Secrets Every Mom Must Know
Irresistible Vegan Mediterranean Recipes
Mind-Blowing Vegan Japanese Curry Recipes
