Cutting back on inflammation-causing foods? Sticking to Whole30? Or just trying to steer clear of anything bloat-causing? That means one thing: no dairy. But that doesn't mean a life void of tacos, burgers, and pasta. This is 2017! Nut milks and vegan cheese are everywhere, and savvy plant-based bloggers have perfected recipes using sneaky substitutes, like nutritional yeast flakes.
But of course sometimes there just isn't time to experiment with new ingredients. You worked late or hit up an evening spin class, and now you're home, starving. To help you deal, here are some super-easy dishes for those nights when you want something quick, nourishing, and delicious.
Keep reading for 14 dairy-free recipes you can make in 15 minutes or less.
1. Tracy Anderson's Go-To Chopped Salad
This recipe ensures you get your daily protein, greens, and fermented foods, all in one meal. Anderson doesn't take any supplements whatsoever—she relies on what she eats to get everything she needs, so you know this simple salad will cover all your bases.
2. Chicken Bruschetta Zoodles
All you need to complete this masterpiece is one large pot and eight ingredients. When it comes to quick dinners, the spiralizer is going to be your BFF.
3. Lentil and Quinoa Salad With All The Trimmings
Even if you're only cooking for yourself, you deserve a lovely-looking meal—and this one is chock-full of delicious plant-based protein. To make it 100 percent dairy-free, just use coconut yogurt in the dressing instead of milk-based.—plus, the tropical taste will fit right in with the rest of the flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Pad Thai
Yes, sweet potato "spoodles" are a thing. Whip out your spiralizer, and you can make this dish in just a few minutes. Your cravings will thank you (and so will your bank account) when you resist ordering takeout...again.
5. Rens Kroes' Quinoa Salad
The Danish food blogger (and sis to Victoria's Secret model Doutzen Kroes) is super busy these days, so she's perfected meals that are two things: fast and energizing. And her signature quinoa salad delivers on both. Just swap out the feta for tofu to keep it dairy-free—it will be just as satisfying.
6. Honey Hi's Tahini and Fennel Zoodle Salad
With a hint of tahini and a whole lot of zucchini noodles, this healthy dinner practically makes itself—which is why it's a great option for when you're exhausted, running low on time or just #can'teven.
7. Portobello Mushroom Burger With Red Pepper Sauce
A major bonus of going plant-based with your patty choice: it cooks way faster than beef. The red pepper sauce adds a bit of a kick—so if you like your burger with a bite, this just might be your new favorite dinner.
8. Sweet Potato al Pastor
These plant-based tacos will spice up your weeknights in the best way. This recipe is the quick and healthy way to satisfy your cravings for Mexican food—without shelling out cash for cheese-laden takeout.
9. Tabbouleh With Edamame And Pomegranate
There is a whole lot of plant-based goodness packed into this colorful and filling dish. Your taste buds will appreciate the balance between the sweetness of the pomegranate seeds with the salty edamame.
10. Japchae
When push comes to shove and you're tired after a long day, tossing veggies into a pan to create a delicious Korean stir fry is the best idea ever. The secret: a killer spice combo.
11. Speedy "Pot Noodle" Soup
Perfect for those nights when you want to curl up with something warm, this dish even helps when you feel a little sick (the ginger helps calm an upset stomach). Bonus: You'll only dirty one dish while whipping it up.
12. Vegan Sloppy Joes
Bring this childhood favorite back into your weeknight dinner routine, with a few health-oriented modifications, substituting the bun for a gluten-free option or simply ditching it all together. Hint: Your sloppy joe is way less sloppy when you gobble it down with a fork.
13. Maple Crusted Salmon
This omega-3 packed dish is ready in just 10 minutes. While it's cooking, heat up some rice and frozen veggies to pair it with and soak up the extra flavor. Who knew #adulting and making healthy dinners could be that easy?
14. Cauliflower Fried Rice
The best part about making cauli-rice is you can make a big batch to last you through the week in mere minutes. This recipe is a healthier fried rice that's satisfying on its own, or pairs well with chicken or tofu. Feel free to get creative with your add-ins.
If you're always pressed for time, try these meal prep hacks to keep you organized. And coconut oil fans (who isn't?): Here's how to get the most out of every jar.
Loading More Posts...
