Summer is flying by, and before we know it, Labor Day will be upon us. As we’re approaching the midpoint of the season, I’m excited to share a special collection of vegan recipes with all my plant-based friends out there.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your recipe box or simply seeking some inspiration for your summer gatherings, this list has got you covered.
From mouthwatering main courses and sides to decadent desserts and savory appetizers, I’m thrilled to share 28 of the most scrumptious vegan recipes that will elevate your summer celebrations.
Appetizers
Spicy mango guacamole
Kick your summer gatherings into high gear by elevating the classic guacamole recipe with the sweet and tangy addition of chopped mango. The combination is nothing short of magical, especially when paired with a spicy kick from fresh jalapeño peppers. Whether you like it a little hot or a lot hot, this twist on a timeless favorite is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Healthy spinach artichoke dip
Our gatherings wouldn’t be complete without the spinach artichoke dip, a fan favorite that’s won hearts with its creamy, savory goodness. What sets this recipe apart is the clever combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, onions, garlic, mayonnaise, and cashew cream, all of which come together in perfect harmony after being baked to a golden brown perfection.
This delectable dip is not only a crowd-pleaser but also boasts an impressive array of health benefits, thanks to its dairy-free and paleo-friendly ingredients that make it accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Caramelized onion white bean dip
You might think that the previous two dips are the most popular choices in this category, but the caramelized onion white bean dip is definitely a dark horse contender. One of its biggest advantages is just how effortless it is to prepare!
Grilled jalapeño polenta bites
Be cautious of the irresistible allure surrounding these grilled jalapeño bites. A symphony of flavors awaits your taste buds, especially when they’re cooked to perfection. The secret lies in the polenta’s transformation from cooked to grilled, resulting in a singular culinary experience that will leave you craving more. A spicy kick from the jalapeño adds an extra layer of excitement.
To recreate this delightful dish, simply gather polenta, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper, jalapeños, hummus, and microgreens.
Easy stuffed mushrooms
When it comes to impressive yet effortless party fare, my friend recently introduced me to an ingenious twist on the classic stuffed mushroom recipe. What struck me was the sheer versatility of these easy-to-make treats, which not only tantalized taste buds as a main course but also served as a delightful side dish, effortlessly bridging the gap between savory and sweet.
Vegan nachos with BBQ “pulled pork” and queso
The true showstoppers in this vegan nacho recipe are the effortless mushroom BBQ ‘pulled pork’ and the creamy cashew-based queso cheese sauce, guaranteed to tantalize your dairy-free cravings. The combination of these flavors is elevated by the addition of smoky roasted jalapeños and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, creating an irresistible blend that will leave you hooked on these addictive vegan nachos.
Baked tomatoes
Get ready to indulge in a taste of Italy without leaving home. A plate of delectable baked tomatoes can be the perfect culinary escape! These flavorful bites combine the sweetness of vine-ripened tomatoes with the savory goodness of panko bread crumbs, vegan parmesan, onion, parsley, and garlic. The result is a dish that’s sure to transport your taste buds to the Tuscan countryside.
Sides
Easy baked cabbage
We’re just getting started with the vegan world’s best-kept secrets. The magic hasn’t worn off yet! Take a look at the easy-baked cabbage, a game-changer when it comes to roasted sides. This flavorful dish is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals, and its tender texture is a far cry from the bland, boring cabbages of yesteryear. The key lies in baking the shredded leaves in the oven, allowing them to soften and absorb all the rich flavors that surround them.
Vegan southern potato salad
This vegan Southern potato salad is a refreshing twist on the classic summer side dish, reminiscent of old-fashioned recipes that evoke warm weather nostalgia. When served at cookouts, BBQs, or potlucks, it’s particularly coveted for its effortless charm and instant appeal. With its ease of preparation and indulgent flavor profile, this gluten-free and allergy-friendly recipe is sure to become a staple in your summer gatherings.
Easy vegan Bombay carrot salad recipe
For those with limited time, I’m excited to share a simple vegan Bombay carrot salad recipe that’s incredibly easy to prepare. This salad’s versatility lies not only in its simplicity but also in its ability to retain its flavor and texture for four to five days when stored in the refrigerator. Whether you’re a carrot enthusiast or just looking for a convenient and delicious addition to your meals, this recipe is sure to impress.
No-mayo Carolina coleslaw recipe
For fans of CookingChew, it’s no secret that the ‘super yummy’ no-mayo Carolina coleslaw recipe is a standout side dish. Its unique flavor profile and texture make it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, particularly those featuring vegan steak or BBQ options. As summer draws to a close, this refreshing slaw is sure to be a hit at any Labor Day gathering.
Vegan caramelized onion mashed potatoes
Indulge in the extraordinary flavor of these vegan caramelized onion mashed potatoes, where every bite is a sensory delight. The key to unlocking their irresistible taste lies not in the ingredients, but rather in the cooking technique used to bring them together.
Cauliflower rice
Looking for a healthier and lighter option to fill the void? It may seem like an oxymoron, but it’s definitely possible. A great starting point is cauliflower rice, which not only boasts impressive nutritional credentials – lower in calories and carbs, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants – but also has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be easily incorporated into your meals. Want to know how to make it?
Let’s get started!
Roasted broccoli
Indulge in the ultimate roasted broccoli experience, now at your disposal. This versatile recipe allows for multiple iterations throughout the week, effortlessly pairing with pasta or salads alike. For those seeking to unlock the secrets behind its superior flavor, this is the place to start.
Mains
Vegan pot pie casserole
Say goodbye to savory chicken pie cravings while following a vegan diet – we’ve got you covered! Meet the vegan pot pie casserole, a game-changer that’s surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients like frozen mixed vegetables and store-bought puff pastry, this recipe is a breeze to whip up. No need to stress about complex ingredient combinations or lengthy cooking times – this comforting dish is ready in no time!
Classic vegan lasagna
Despite the abundance of delectable dishes in today’s culinary landscape, there remains one vegan recipe that has stood the test of time. Its enduring popularity is likely due to a combination of factors that make it truly exceptional.
This classic vegan lasagna is a prime example. By layering lasagna sheets with a meat-free ‘meat’ sauce and dairy-free alternatives to ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, this plant-based masterpiece has won the hearts of many.
Its appeal is further enhanced when served in a cozy setting, making it an ideal choice for a comforting dinner with loved ones.
Vegan snack board
The Vegan Snack Board is a showstopper that’s taking center stage in many plant-based gatherings. It’s no wonder why – this visually stunning arrangement is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. For me, it’s all about combining unexpected flavors and textures to create a truly unforgettable experience. My go-to combination includes heritage cherry tomatoes, sweet candied ginger, chewy dried apricots, crunchy roasted cashews, and savory mixed olives.
And when I’m feeling extra creative, I like to add some fresh flair with celery sticks, baby carrots, and radish halves. The beauty of this snack board lies in its customizability – feel free to get creative and tailor it to your guests’ unique tastes and preferences.
Butternut squash stuffed shells
If you’re craving a vegan main dish that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these butternut squash stuffed shells. The combination of creamy spinach ‘ricotta’ and caramelized roasted butternut squash is sure to transport your taste buds to the autumn season.
The magic of this recipe lies in its harmonious balance of tangy and sweet flavors. Roasted butternut squash adds a depth of sweetness, while the spinach ‘ricotta’ brings a creamy richness.
To make these delightful shells, follow this simple recipe:
1-pot vegan spaghetti
Savvy vegans seeking a hassle-free spaghetti experience can rejoice! This game-changing 1-pot vegan spaghetti recipe is the perfect solution for those who want to skip the tedious boiling and draining process. By incorporating an array of veggies, al dente noodles, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish offers a satisfying and nutritious main course that’s ready in just 30 minutes. To elevate the flavor and texture, top it with creamy vegan parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
The best part? This recipe requires minimal effort and can be enjoyed on any day, not just Labor Day!
Easy veggie vegan pizza with the 20-minute crust
With its no-fuss crust, this veggie-vegan pizza is a real showstopper. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, briny kalamata olives, pungent garlic, and rich olive oil results in a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. And when you add the tangy kick from the vegan parmesan and the bright, herbaceous note from the fresh basil, it’s no wonder this pizza has become a summer staple for many pizza enthusiasts.
5-ingredient vegan tacos
The most uncomplicated recipe on my list is the 5-ingredient marvel. This vegan taco recipe, while perfect for Labor Day celebrations, is versatile enough to be enjoyed during road trips, camping adventures, or as a convenient lunch option any time of the year. To elevate the dish further, I suggest incorporating TVP (textured vegetable protein), which mimics the texture of ground beef in this recipe, making it an excellent substitute.
Desserts
Vegan cheesecake
The allure of cheesecake is undeniable, but its vegan iteration elevates it to unprecedented heights of deliciousness. The seemingly impossible task of crafting a vegan baked cheesecake that shuns both tofu and nuts is indeed a feat. Fortunately, Daiya’s cream cheese ingredients list coconut as an alternative, making it a suitable substitute for traditional recipes.
This vegan masterpiece boasts a thick, creamy, and rich texture that defies the typical heaviness associated with this beloved dessert.
Vegan zucchini brownies
Imagine indulging in velvety, fudgy brownies that just happen to be packed with fiber. Sounds too good to be true? Enter these vegan zucchini brownies, which are not only ridiculously easy to make but also boast a texture so divine it’s hard to stop at one bite. And the best part? The subtle hint of zucchini is masked by the rich, chocolatey flavor, making them a treat kids will devour without even realizing they’re getting a healthy dose of fiber.
Vegan brown “butter” peach cobbler
Innovative and indulgent, this vegan brown butter peach cobbler is a game-changer in the world of desserts. By combining the sweetness of peaches and blueberries, this treat boasts a harmonious balance of flavors. The outside crust is perfectly caramelized, offering a delightful textural contrast to the tender cake within.
What’s not to love about this recipe? Perhaps the most significant drawback is the cooking time – approximately 45 minutes.
While it may seem like a long wait for dessert, the end result is well worth the patience.
But trust us, the reward is well worth the wait.
Vegan tiramisu
Indulge in the rich flavors of this decadent vegan tiramisu, featuring vanilla cake fingers drenched in a bold, coffee-infused liqueur. The key component? A creamy cashew-based mixture that adds a velvety texture to each layer. And just when you think it’s all over, a dramatic flourish of thick cocoa powder takes center stage, delivering a deep, chocolatey finish that’s impossible to resist.
Vegan vanilla cake with buttercream frosting
The vegan vanilla cake with buttercream frosting has become a staple for birthdays and holidays, earning its spot on this exclusive list. What sets it apart is its unparalleled moisture and fluffy texture, infused with the deep sweetness of high-quality vanilla extract. The buttercream frosting takes it to the next level, boasting a richness that lingers long after the final bite. For those looking to indulge, check out the recipe here.
Vegan and paleo pecan pie bars
Pecan pies have long been a crowd-pleasing favorite on my dessert menu. However, I’m more than happy to accommodate my vegan friends by offering a game-changing alternative: vegan and paleo pecan pie bars that are perfect for Labor Day celebrations.
These scrumptious bars are crafted with almond flour and sweetened naturally with a blend of coconut sugar and pure maple syrup – the combination is nothing short of delightful!
If you’re as impressed as I am, you’ll be thrilled to know that they’re also free from animal-derived ingredients.
Vegan chocolate cream pie
While our vegan chocolate cream pie may not contain tofu or nuts, it’s still a decadent treat that just so happens to be paleo-friendly. And the best part? It requires a mere six ingredients to whip up the creamy filling.
The bottom line
With roots dating back over a century, Labor Day has become a cherished American holiday that honors the struggles and triumphs of working-class individuals. The early labor movement faced numerous challenges, including grueling 12-hour workdays and hazardous conditions. Today, this commemorative day serves as a testament to the perseverance and resilience of workers who fought for better working standards.
