Discover a world of vibrant flavors with this selection of 30 easy summer vegetarian recipes. From refreshing salads and hearty grain bowls to delicious plant-based burgers and light pasta dishes, these recipes highlight the bounty of summer produce and offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these easy-to-follow recipes are sure to inspire and satisfy. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients and full of flavor, these meals are not only good for you, but they’re also perfect for savoring al fresco on warm summer evenings.
1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
A Delightful Grill Staple
Grilled vegetable skewers are a summer barbecue classic. The smoky flavor of the grill combined with the natural sweetness of the vegetables creates a delightful dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.
The Perfect Side Dish
These skewers make the ideal side dish for any summer cookout. Pair them with your favorite veggie burger or grilled tofu for a balanced, plant-based meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients.
Customize Your Skewers
Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables to create your own unique skewers. From bell peppers to zucchini to cherry tomatoes, the possibilities are endless.
2. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A Nutrient-Packed Meal
These quinoa stuffed bell peppers offer a delicious, nutrient-dense meal that’s perfect for a warm summer night. The combination of quinoa, black beans, and a variety of vegetables provides a hearty, satisfying dish.
Ideal for Meal Prep
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a quick, easy meal when you need it.
Personalize Your Peppers
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Add your favorite spices, swap out the black beans for lentils, or try different types of quinoa to make the dish your own.
3. Summer Vegetable Stir-Fry
A Quick and Flavorful Dish
This summer vegetable stir-fry is a quick and easy recipe that’s packed with flavor. The combination of fresh, seasonal vegetables and a tangy stir-fry sauce makes this dish a summer favorite.
Ideal for Busy Weeknights
This stir-fry is perfect for those busy summer nights when you want something nutritious and delicious, but don’t have a lot of time to cook. It can be ready in just a few minutes, giving you more time to enjoy the beautiful summer weather.
Mix and Match Veggies
Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite summer vegetables. From bell peppers to snap peas to zucchini, there are plenty of options to choose from.
4. Greek Salad with Tofu Feta
A Refreshing Summer Salad
This Greek salad with tofu feta offers a refreshing and protein-packed meal option for those hot summer days. The combination of crisp vegetables, tangy tofu feta, and a zesty dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser.
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Perfect for Picnics and Potlucks
This salad is a great dish to bring to a summer picnic or potluck. It’s easy to make, travels well, and offers a delicious vegan option that everyone can enjoy.
Customizable Ingredients
Feel free to add or swap out ingredients based on your preference. Try adding some olives, capers, or even some grilled vegetables for a unique twist on the traditional Greek salad.
5. Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
A Plant-Based BBQ Favorite
These vegan BBQ jackfruit sandwiches are a plant-based twist on a classic summer favorite. The jackfruit is cooked in a smoky BBQ sauce and has a texture similar to pulled pork, making it a hit even with non-vegans.
Perfect for Summer Gatherings
These sandwiches are perfect for summer gatherings. The tangy coleslaw and savory jackfruit create a flavorful combination that’s sure to impress your guests.
Customizable Toppings
Feel free to experiment with different toppings for your sandwiches. From pickles to vegan cheese to grilled onions, the possibilities are endless.
6. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
A Low-Carb Summer Dish
Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” with pesto are a refreshing, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. The zucchini provides a light, fresh base for the rich, flavorful pesto.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a simple summer lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up that summer zucchini from your garden or farmer’s market.
Play with Your Pesto
Feel free to experiment with different types of pesto. Try using basil, spinach, or even arugula to create a pesto that suits your tastes.
7. Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
A Hearty Veggie Burger Option
These grilled portobello mushroom burgers are a hearty, satisfying option for vegetarian grilling. The meaty texture of the portobello combined with the smoky, grilled flavor makes this a hit at any barbecue.
Perfect for Cookouts
These burgers are a great addition to any summer cookout. Serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings, or on a bed of greens for a lighter, low-carb option.
Customize Your Burger
Feel free to add your favorite condiments and toppings to your burger. From vegan cheese to avocado to grilled onions, there are plenty of ways to personalize your portobello burger.
8. Avocado and Tomato Salad
A Fresh Summer Salad
This avocado and tomato salad is the epitome of summer. Fresh, juicy tomatoes paired with creamy avocado and a tangy vinaigrette makes this salad a refreshing side dish or a light meal.
Ideal for Hot Summer Days
When it’s too hot to cook, this salad comes to the rescue. It’s easy to throw together and doesn’t require any heat, making it perfect for those scorching summer days.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to add additional ingredients to this salad to make it your own. Consider adding some fresh corn, black beans, or even some crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch.
9. Vegan Tofu Tacos
A Plant-Based Twist on a Classic
These vegan tofu tacos offer a plant-based twist on a classic taco. The tofu is seasoned with a variety of spices, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying taco filling.
Perfect for Taco Tuesday
Switch up your Taco Tuesday routine with these vegan tacos. They’re delicious, easy to make, and a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your week.
Personalize Your Tacos
Feel free to customize your tacos with your favorite toppings. From fresh salsa to guacamole to shredded lettuce, there are plenty of ways to make these tacos your own.
10. Watermelon Feta and Cucumber Salad
A Refreshing Summer Salad
This watermelon, feta, and cucumber salad is the ultimate summer salad. It’s light, refreshing, and full of flavor. The combination of sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, salty feta and fresh mint makes this salad a go-to for hot summer days.
Perfect for Picnics
This salad is perfect for picnics or any summer gathering. It’s easy to make and travels well, so you can bring it with you to share with friends and family.
Add Your Own Twist
Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Try adding some olives, swapping the mint for basil, or adding some lime zest for an extra burst of flavor.
11. Vegetarian Grilled Corn on the Cob
A Summer Cookout Staple
Grilled corn on the cob is a staple of summer cookouts. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the corn, making it a delicious and easy side dish.
Perfect with a Variety of Toppings
This grilled corn is perfect when slathered with your favorite toppings. Try it with a bit of vegan butter, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Easy and Delicious
This recipe is both easy to make and delicious, making it a hit at any summer gathering.
12 Vegan Pasta Salad
A Classic Summer Dish
This vegan pasta salad is a classic summer dish made plant-based. With a variety of fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ideal for Potlucks and Picnics
Pasta salad is perfect for potlucks and picnics, as it can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature.
Customize with Your Favorite Ingredients
Feel free to add or swap out ingredients based on your preference. Try adding some olives, capers, or even some grilled vegetables for a unique twist on the traditional pasta salad.
13 Veggie Kabobs with Halloumi
A Grill Favorite with a Twist
These veggie kabobs with halloumi offer a unique twist on traditional grilled kabobs. The combination of fresh, colorful vegetables and the unique texture of grilled halloumi cheese makes for a fun and delicious dish.
Perfect for Grilling Season
These kabobs are a fantastic addition to any summer barbecue. They’re easy to prepare, cook quickly, and offer a vegetarian option that everyone can enjoy.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to swap out the vegetables or cheese based on your preferences. You could use zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even add some tofu instead of halloumi.
14. Chopped Salad with Air-Fried BBQ Chickpeas
A Nutrient-Dense Meal
This salad is a nutrient-dense meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of vitamins. The combination of chickpeas, quinoa, and avocado make a filling base, and work beautifully with the vegetables (tomatoes, red onions, lettuce, etc).
Perfect for a Main Course
This filling salad can easily be served as the main course, or you could pair it with the main course if it needs some extra help.
Customizable Ingredients
Feel free to experiment with the ingredients for your chickpea salad. Try adding different vegetables, spices, or even some cheese if you’re not vegan.
15 Avocado Sushi Rolls
A Healthy and Delicious Meal
Avocado sushi rolls are a healthy and delicious meal that’s perfect for summer. The combination of creamy avocado, crispy cucumber, and tangy sushi rice wrapped in a seaweed sheet is both refreshing and satisfying.
Perfect for a Light Lunch or Dinner
These sushi rolls are perfect for a light lunch or dinner. They’re also a great option for a picnic or packed lunch, as they travel well and can be eaten cold.
Get Creative with Your Fillings
Feel free to experiment with different fillings for your sushi rolls. Add some carrots, bell pepper, or even some mango for a sweet twist.
16 Grilled Veggie and Tofu Wraps
A Flavorful Summer Meal
These grilled veggie and tofu wraps are packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of marinated tofu and fresh, grilled vegetables all wrapped up in a soft tortilla makes for a satisfying and delicious summer meal.
Perfect for a Summer Cookout
These wraps are a great option for a summer cookout. They’re easy to make, packed with protein, and can be customized based on your guests’ preferences.
Make it Your Own
Feel free to add or swap out ingredients based on your tastes. Try adding some grilled mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some fresh avocado for added creaminess.
17 Vegan Greek Salad
A Classic Salad with a Vegan Twist
This vegan Greek salad offers a plant-based twist on a classic Greek salad. It features fresh vegetables, tangy olives, and a delicious vegan feta cheese.
Ideal for a Light Lunch or Dinner
This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It’s also a great side dish for any summer gathering.
Customizable Ingredients
Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences. Try adding some chickpeas for extra protein, or swap out the vegan feta for another type of vegan cheese.
18 Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream
A Refreshing Summer Treat
This vegan strawberry ice cream is a refreshing treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. It’s made with just a few simple ingredients and is free from any artificial flavors or preservatives.
No Ice Cream Maker Required
This recipe doesn’t require an ice cream maker, so it’s easy to make at home. All you need is a blender or food processor and a little patience while it freezes.
Customize with Your Favorite Flavors
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding your favorite flavors. Try adding some chocolate chips, a swirl of peanut butter, or a handful of fresh berries for a unique twist.
19 Vegan Quinoa Curry Bowl
A Plant-Based Curry Bowl
These quinoa curry bowls are a perfect option if you want something spicy and filling for dinner (or lunch). You’ve got stir-fry frozen veggies as the curry base, spices, and the cooked quinoa to pull everything together.
Perfect on its own or as a side
These curry bowls resemble a stir fry and aren’t very wet. They can easily be paired with a protein or main course and served as a side dish, or you can serve them as-is.
Customize Your Toppings
Feel free to customize your quinoa bowl with your favorite toppings. Try adding some green onions, corn, or even some avocado for added creaminess.
20 Vegan Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
A Sweet Summer Dessert
This vegan strawberry rhubarb crisp is a sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for summer. The combination of fresh strawberries and tart rhubarb topped with a crispy oat topping is a delicious way to enjoy summer’s bounty.
Great for Gatherings
This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings. It’s easy to make, can be served warm or cold, and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vegan ice cream.
Customize with Your Favorite Fruits
Feel free to swap out the strawberries and rhubarb for your favorite summer fruits. Blueberries, peaches, or cherries would all be delicious alternatives.
21 Summer Veggie Paella
A Taste of Spain in Your Kitchen
This summer veggie paella brings a taste of Spain to your kitchen. Loaded with fresh seasonal vegetables, saffron-infused rice, and aromatic herbs, this colorful dish is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Perfect for Dinner Parties
Serve this paella at your next dinner party and wow your guests. Its vibrant presentation and complex flavors are sure to impress.
Experiment with Ingredients
Feel free to add or substitute ingredients as per your preference. Try adding some artichoke hearts or capers for a different twist.
22 Vegan Pasta Primavera
A Fresh and Flavorful Pasta Dish
This vegan pasta primavera is the perfect way to enjoy summer’s bounty. Loaded with fresh vegetables and tossed in a light and flavorful sauce, this pasta dish is both delicious and nutritious.
Ideal for Quick Weeknight Dinners
This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s also easy to customize based on what vegetables you have on hand.
Personalize Your Pasta
Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes and types. Whole grain pasta, chickpea pasta, or gluten-free pasta would all work great in this recipe.
23 Vegan Summer Rolls
A Light and Refreshing Meal
These vegan summer rolls are light, refreshing, and perfect for hot summer days. Filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and served with a flavorful dipping sauce, they’re a tasty and healthy meal option.
Fun to Make and Eat
Making these summer rolls can be a fun and interactive activity. Get your family or friends involved in the process!
Customize Your Fillings
Feel free to play around with different fillings. Try adding some tofu or tempeh for added protein, or swap out the vegetables for your favorites.
24 Vegan Zucchini Bread
A Sweet Treat with a Healthy Twist
This vegan zucchini bread is a delicious way to use up summer zucchini. It’s sweet, moist, and filled with warm spices. Plus, it’s vegan and can easily be made gluten-free.
Perfect for Breakfast or Snack
Enjoy a slice of this zucchini bread for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. It’s a versatile treat that everyone will love.
Customize Your Bread
Feel free to customize your bread by adding in some nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips. You can also experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger.
25 Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish
This vegan pesto pasta salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, and barbecues. The combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and creamy vegan pesto is both refreshing and satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish is great for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Customize Your Salad
Feel free to switch up the vegetables or add some protein like chickpeas or tofu. You can also try different types of pasta like whole wheat, gluten-free, or even a spiralized vegetable pasta.
26 Vegan Strawberry Shortcakes
A Classic Summer Dessert
These vegan strawberry shortcakes are a classic summer dessert. Sweet, juicy strawberries are piled on top of fluffy, biscuit-like shortcakes and topped with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a delectable treat.
Perfect for Special Occasions
These shortcakes are a great dessert option for special occasions or casual get-togethers. They’re sure to impress with their delicious taste and beautiful presentation.
Customize Your Shortcakes
Feel free to customize your shortcakes by using different fruits like peaches or blueberries, or add some fresh herbs like mint or basil for an extra flavor boost.
27 Vegan Tomato Gazpacho
A Refreshing Summer Soup
This vegan tomato gazpacho is a refreshing and light soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. Made with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and a touch of spice, this chilled soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Great for Light Lunches or Starters
This gazpacho is perfect for a light lunch or as a starter for a summer dinner party. It’s best served chilled and can be made in advance.
Personalize Your Gazpacho
Feel free to personalize your gazpacho by adding other vegetables or herbs, or by adjusting the level of spice to suit your taste.
28 Vegan Eggplant Parmesan
A Hearty Italian-Inspired Dish
This vegan eggplant Parmesan is a hearty Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a summer dinner. Breaded eggplant slices are baked until crispy and then layered with marinara sauce and vegan cheese for a delicious meal.
Perfect for Family Dinners
This dish is perfect for a family dinner. It’s comforting, satisfying, and can be served with a side of pasta or a fresh salad.
Customize Your Dish
Feel free to customize your dish by adding other vegetables or using a different type of vegan cheese. You can also adjust the level of seasoning to suit your taste.
29 Vegan Summer Corn Chowder
A Creamy and Comforting Soup
This vegan summer corn chowder is a creamy, comforting soup that’s perfect for making the most of summer’s fresh corn. Combined with potatoes and flavorful spices, this chowder is a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ideal for Chilly Summer Evenings
This chowder is perfect for those slightly chilly summer evenings. It’s warming, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Personalize Your Chowder
Feel free to personalize your chowder by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adding some spice with a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
30 Vegan Black Bean Burgers
A Plant-Based Grill Favorite
These vegan black bean burgers are a plant-based favorite for summer grilling. They’re hearty, flavorful, and hold together well on the grill.
Perfect for Barbecues
These burgers are perfect for summer barbecues. Serve them on a bun with all the classic fixings, or on a bed of greens for a lighter option.
Customize Your Burgers
Feel free to customize your burgers by adding different spices, herbs, or even mixing in some veggies like corn or bell peppers. You can also adjust the level of spice to suit your taste.
Conclusion
These 30 summer vegetarian and vegan recipes are a testament to the variety and flavor possibilities of plant-based cuisine. From satisfying mains to light and refreshing sides, these dishes celebrate the season’s best produce and offer a delightful culinary journey.
Whether you’ve been a long-time vegetarian or are exploring meat-free options, these recipes demonstrate that veggie-based summer meals can be just as vibrant, satisfying, and delectable. So, embrace the joy of cooking with fresh summer ingredients and let these recipes inspire your culinary adventures.
Happy summer cooking!
