If you’re new to cooking vegetarian meals, these cheap vegetarian dinner recipes are easy to prepare, affordable, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something a bit more hearty, these recipes will satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank.

1. Veggie Stir-Fry with Rice

This veggie stir-fry with rice is simple, healthy, and budget-friendly. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rice ($0.50)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced ($0.75)
• 1 zucchini, sliced ($0.75)
• 1 carrot, sliced ($0.20)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce ($0.20)

Total cost for 2 servings: Approximately $2.40

Instructions:

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, sauté the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot until tender.
3. Stir in soy sauce and serve over cooked rice.

2. Lentil Soup

This lentil soup is hearty, nutritious, and perfect for beginners.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry lentils ($0.80)
• 1 onion, chopped ($0.50)
• 2 carrots, diced ($0.40)
• 1 can diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• 1 tablespoon cumin ($0.20)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $2.90

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and carrots until soft.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, and 4 cups of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.

3. Black Bean Tacos

These black bean tacos are a delicious and affordable dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained ($1.00)
• 6 small tortillas ($1.00)
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce ($0.50)
• 1/4 cup salsa ($0.50)

Total cost for 3 servings: Approximately $3.00

Instructions:

1. Heat the black beans in a pan over medium heat.
2. Warm the tortillas and fill with black beans, lettuce, and salsa.
3. Serve with additional toppings like avocado or cheese if desired.

4. Chickpea Curry

This chickpea curry is full of flavor and can be made in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained ($1.00)
• 1 can coconut milk ($1.50)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder ($0.30)
• 1 onion, chopped ($0.50)

Total cost for 4 servings: Approximately $3.30

Instructions:

1. In a pot, sauté the onion until soft.
2. Add the chickpeas, coconut milk, and curry powder.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Baked Sweet Potatoes with Black Beans

This baked sweet potatoes with black beans dish is simple yet hearty.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes ($1.50)
• 1 can black beans, drained ($1.00)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional) ($0.50)

Total cost for 2 servings: Approximately $3.00

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-60 minutes until tender.
3. Top with black beans and shredded cheese.

Conclusion

These cheap vegetarian dinner recipes for beginners are ideal for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet without spending a lot of money. From veggie stir-fries to chickpea curry, these dishes are easy to prepare, affordable, and satisfying.