These are good vegan meals that even a child will like
It’s not easy to ensure your whole family are getting the right nutrients, especially if someone in your family has a dairy intolerance or you’re on a budget.
Trying to keep your shopping bill down when vegan can feel impossible, with many household food bills coming in at over £100 a week!
Our really easy vegan menu is completely family-friendly and for those who need to curb their spending. None of this is set in stone and can be changed up depending on what your family likes to eat.
If you’re struggling for cheap meal ideas, then come join our Money Saving Mums Facebook group with over 350 mums who all want to save their family more money.
We’ve got loads of friendly vegan recipes below that are easy to cook even if you are time-poor.
Use some of these recipes if you want to start bulk cooking too. But cooking is a great way to always have healthy and quick meals you can defrost in a few minutes.
If you are looking for more vegan recipes then have a look at:
71 Budget Vegan Slimming World Recipes for the Whole Family – These are the best vegan Slimming World recipes for the whole family. They are all £1 a head as well.
51 Easy Vegan Lunch Ideas For the Whole Family – It can be hard to find vegan lunch ideas. These help you to fill up your meal plan.
The Best Cheap Vegan Meals For The Whole Family – These are the best and cheapest vegan meals that you can make for your family. They are all easy to make as well.
The Best Pasta Vegan Recipes for Under £1 a Head – We love pasta and it’s a great way to fill the whole family up when you are on a budget.
If you are looking for vegan baby led weaning ideas then have a look at Mummy To Dex post here.
Easy ideas for vegan meals
This easy vegan meal plan can feed four people (2 adults and 2 children) with leftovers!
It does assume that you have a few of the cupboard kitchen staples in, like herbs, flour, few spices and pasta.
Everything is cooked from scratch and some can be prepared in advance or leftovers be frozen for the following week. Snacks of apples and bananas have been included for the kids too!
This vegan grocery shopping list and meal plan was done at Asda and with fresh vegetables, but to lower the cost a bit more, you could even swap to frozen vegetables and try a local discounter like Aldi or Lidi.
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51 Quick Vegan Meals on a Budget
These easy vegan recipes are perfect for the whole family. You can make them in advance or freeze them if you decide to batch cook.
These simple vegan meals can be swapped in and out. Most can be done using some of the staples you already have or can be pre-prepared.
All these vegan meals are quick to make. A win when you have a busy family to please!
Vegan Breakfast Ideas
1. Strawberry Oatmeal Waffles
This strawberry waffle recipe is really easy to make and you can use frozen strawberries if you prefer.
250g wheat flour £1.10
1 tablespoon baking powder 5p
1 teaspoon salt 2p
1 teaspoon ground allspice 5p
250g oats 20p
100g unsweetened applesauce 45p
100g unsweetened non-dairy milk 30p
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup 5p
2 tablespoons canola oil 7p
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 5p
150g frozen strawberries 71p
Total: £3.05 that’s 76p for 4 people.
Start by sifting the flour, baking powder, salt and allspice into a mixing bowl. Blitz the oats so they are small then add to the micing bowl. Make a small well in the center of teh flour mix and add the applesauce, milk, maple syrup, oil and vanilla.
Stir with a wooden spoon until combined. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes or so in the fridge, it will thicken a bit don’t worry. If it does look thin, add a little more flour and mix again, then wait. Keep doing this until you are happy. Add in the frozen strawberries.
These can be defrosted or cut up smaller frozen. We cook our waffles in a waffle maker. Spray the inside first, then add about a tablespoon of batter. The first one, like a pancake might be a bit rubbish but don’t worry, the rest do get better.
2. Vegan banana bread
This is a great way to use up your brown bananas!
3 large ripe bananas 60p
75ml vegetable oil 85p
100g brown sugar 29p
225g plain flour 20p
3 heaped tsp baking powder 5p
3 tsp cinnamon or mixed spice 5p.
Total: £2.04 that’s 51p for four people.
3. Peanut Butter Pods
Made with blitz porridge oats, soya yogurt and cinnamon, this peanut butter cups are a great breakfast idea for the whole family. You can add whatever fruit you like here but our favourite is almost brown banana as it adds that sweetness that this sometimes needs.
300g porridge oats 25p
2 tsp cinnamon 5p
2 medium bananas 40p
500g soya yogurt £1.40
80g peanut butter 45p
Total: £2.55 that’s 63p for 4 people.
4. Homemade vegan bagels
This makes about 10 homemade bagels. You can even freeze them and defrost them when you need them.
7g sachet dried yeast 16p
4 tbsp sugar 5p
2 tsp salt 2p
450g bread flour 45p.
Total: 68p that’s 17p for four people.
These bagels are really easy to make. Start by adding the yeast with 4 tbsp sugar into a large bowl, and pour in 100ml warm water. Leave for 10 minutes as the mixture needs to bubble. In the same bowl, add 200ml warm water, flour and kneed. The mixture might be sticky, so you may need extra flour. Separate the dough into little balls and leave to raise.
They need about an hour or longer if possible. Heat your oven to 200 fan. Weight the dough and try and get them the same size. Use a teaspoon to put a hole in the middle. Bring a large pan of water to the boil and add one bagel and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. Then add to the oven for 25 minutes or until full cooked through.
5. Eggless Pancakes
This eggless recipe makes 10 pancakes which can be frozen then grilled back to warm. They take about 5 minutes to make and about 2 minutes to cook.
Read how we make The Best Eggless Pancakes Recipe Ever here.
150g self-raising flour 10p 1 tablespoon baking powder 2p 1/2 teaspoon salt 2p 2 spoonfuls of maple syrup, or granulated sugar 10p 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted 15p 250ml soya milk 17p Total: 56p that’s 14p per person.
6. Breakfast smoothie
This is a quick breakfast that is great for the whole family. You can whizz it up and add whatever fruit you like.
1 banana 13p
40g porridge oats 10p
80g frozen soft fruit 75p
150ml soya milk 30p
1 tsp sweetener 5p
1 tsp vanilla extract 5p
Total: £1.38 that’s 34p for 4 people.
7. Waffles
These are great for a waffle maker and make a great weekend treat. We have them with frozen fruit or with chocolate spread.
4 large eggs 32p
300g plain flour 30p
½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 5p
2 tbsp golden caster sugar 5p
50g soya butter 25p
600ml soya milk £1.20
Total: £2.17 that’s 54p a person.
8. Overnight oats
This is a yummy breakfast for the whole family. You make it the night before and add it to the fridge before you go to bed.
¼ tsp ground cinnamon 5p
50g rolled porridge oats 8p
2 tbsp soya yogurt 10p
50g mixed berries 25p
1 tbsp sweetener 5p
Total: 53p that’s 13p per person.
9. Breakfast Potatoes
This does take about 40 minutes to cook but is a really filling breakfast for the whole family. You can use your air fryer to cook your potatoes or the oven. Start by setting the oven or air fryer to 185 degrees. Cut the potatoes into quarters, this helps them cook quicker. Add the potatoes to a bowl with the Paprika, Salt, Oregano and pepper.
With a spoon, stir all the ingredients together so the potatoes are covered. Then, cut the mushrooms into quarters, all the frozen peppers, frozen onions and a handful of spinach. Spray it all in the pan with some low fat cooking spray. If you are using stock, then add it now to the deep pan. If you are using your air fryer, you probably don’t need the stock. You can eat this with eggs or with your cooked breakfast.
10. Banana French Toast
For a real American-style feel, decorate with fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of icing sugar, and drizzle of maple syrup.
4 ripe bananas 28p
8 slices white bread 17p
110ml semi-skimmed milk 11p
1 tin of chickpea liquid (Aquafaba) 14p
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 20p
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 5p
Total = 95p that’s 23p a head for four people.
11. Banana Slow Cooker Oats
I make these overnight Banana Slow Cooker Oats once the kids have gone to bed, and by the time 6 am comes, they’re ready to eat. Both of them love them and can’t get enough! These Banana Slow Cooker Oats only have three ingredients too!
200g of rolled oats 15p
2L milk 87.2p
Maple syrup 4p
Banana 13p
Total = 89p that’s 22p a head for four people.
12. Banana Muffins
These Banana Muffins make a great midweek treat. They are really easy to cook and the bananas make them really sweet too. Make sure the bananas are really ripe to make these extra soft.
250g self-raising flour 18p
1 tsp baking powder 5p
½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 5p
110g caster sugar 37p
75g soya butter 55p
1 tsp vanilla extract 5p
1 tin of chickpea liquid (Aquafaba)14p
2 large ripe bananas 26p
125ml soya milk 37p
50g pecans 50p
Total = £2.52 that’s 63p a head for four people.
13. Chocolate Banana Smoothie
We love this Chocolate Banana Smoothie because it’s really easy to make and tastes like a real treat. It comes in under 19p a head for four people and puts a smile on all our faces.
1 cup soya milk 30p
2 bananas frozen 26p
1 tablespoon maple syrup 15p
1 tablespoon cocoa powder 5p
Total = 76p that’s 19p a head for four people.
14. Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
This Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich is a classic! A lunchtime treat like this will never be forgotten. We find that the more ripe the bananas are the better!
2 tablespoons peanut butter 10p
2 slices whole wheat bread 14p
1 banana 7p
Total = 31p that’s 7p a head for four people
Vegan Lunch Ideas
15. Carrot & lentil soup
This is great slow cooker soup recipe that can be made in the morning and ready for when you get home.
2 tsp cumin seeds 5p
1 pinch chilli flakes 5p
2 tbsp olive oil 8p
600g carrots 55p
140g split red lentils 28p
1l hot vegetable stock 5p
125ml soya milk 85p
Total: £1.91 that’s 47p for four people.
16. Tomato bruschetta
This is a perfect lunchtime delicious vegan recipe that is easy to make and great for the whole family. Mix up the vegetables and leave for an hour to marinate. Then lightly toast the bread and spread.
50g red onion 21p
500g tomatoes £1
10g garlic cloves 15p
5g dried basil 5p
30ml balsamic vinegar 20p
60-80ml extra virgin olive oil 34p
400g loaf crusty bread 80p
Total: £2.75 that’s 68p for 4 people.
17. Cauliflower buffalo wings
Cauliflower buffalo wings These buffalo wings are lightly spicy and make a great snack or lunch idea. They come in at under £1 a head and make a great healthy meal.
10g dried smoked paprika 5p
10g ground cumin 5p
5g garlic powder 5p
100g plain flour 6p
200ml coconut milk 37p
500g cauliflower £1.75
80g hot sauce 60p
1½ tbsp maple syrup 5p
1 tbsp vegan butter 10p
100g celery sticks 37p
Total: £3.45 that’s 86p for 4 people.
18. Tofu scramble
This budget meal is great for the whole family. It’s easy to make and will keep you full for ages.
1 tbsp olive oil 5p
50g frozen onion 10p
1 garlic clove 10p
5g turmeric 5p
5g ground cumin 5p
5g sweet smoked paprika 5p
280g extra firm tofu £2
100g cherry tomatoes 45p
5g dried parsley 5p
Total: £2.90 that’s 72p for 4 people.
19. Tomato & lentil soup
We love this soup as you can make it spicy if you prefer and the lentils in the soup help yo keep you filled up till dinner. This recipe makes enough soup for four people but you can double it to make leftovers for the next day if you prefer.
1 tbsp oil 5p,
400g tin carrots 28p,
50g frozen onion 4p,
100 ml vegetable stock 10p,
400g tin tomatoes 38p,
200g red lentils 50p.
Total: £1.35 that’s 33p for four people.
Start by frying the onions in the pan, then add the carrots. Add the stock, tomatoes and lentils. Bring it all to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes. When ready, blend the soup to your chosen consistency. We like ours smooth.
20. Butternut squash risotto
This makes a great lunch box snack. It goes take 20 minutes to make but it’s worth the time.
1kg butternut squash £1
3 tbsp olive oil 5p
5g dried sage 5p
1½l vegetable stock 5p
50g vegan butter 16p
50g frozen onion 10p
300g risotto rice 50p
50g vegan cheese 62p
Total: £2.53 that’s 63p for 4 people.
21. Mushroom risotto
This cheap vegan mushroom risotto does take 25 minutes to cook but it’s worth the wait.
1 vegetable stock cube 5p
2 tbsp olive oil 5p
100g onion 10p
10g garlic cloves 5p
250g pack chestnut mushrooms £1
300g risotto rice 87p
25g vegan butter 15p
5g dried parsley 5p
Total: £2.32 that’s 58p per person.
22. Vegan scones
350g self-raising flour 30p
¼ tsp salt 5p
1 tsp baking powder 2p
3 tbsp caster sugar 7p
95g vegan vegetable spread 25p
150ml soy milk 20p
Total: 89p that’s 22p for 4 people.
23. Thai Vegetable Soup
This is a simple soup recipe that you can eat on the move. It is full of vegetables and perfect for cold water nights.
100g frozen onion
180g of aubergine
100g sweet potato 2 tsp Thai Red Curry Paste
120ml vegetable stock
1 tsp fish sauce
100g courgette
300g frozen mixed veg
120ml coconut milk
Peel the sweet potato and cut into chunks. Roast the chucks in the oven for 20 minutes or until they are soft. In the pan, fry off the aubergine and onion and add a little salt. Wait until the aubergine in soft. Add the sweet potato into the pan as well. Add the curry paste and fish sauce. Then add the stock and reduce down. Add the courgette and frozen veg to the pan about 10 minutes before the end. The coconut milk can go right in at the end and then you can serve.
24. Sweet Potato Carrot Soup
This sweet potato carrot soup recipe is really easy to make and is great for weekend lunches. Everything you need should be in your cupboard or freezer.
Read how we make our Sweet Potato Carrot Soup Recipe here.
The roasted sweet potatoes taste really nice in this soup.
500g chopped and cubed sweet potatoes 55p
400g tin carrots 49p
3 tbsp olive oil 5p
100g frozen onion 16p
2 garlic cloves 5p
1L vegetable stock 5p
100ml tin coconut milk 82p
10g pinch chilli flakes 10p
Total: £2.27 that’s 56p a person.
25. Cooked Brunch
We love a classic cooked breakfast. This is really easy to make and is cheap on the wallet too.
4 hash browns 60p
400g tin of baked beans 30p
8 vegan sausages £1.30
Total: £2.52 that’s 30p per person for four people.
26. Vegan brunch muffins
These take about 30 minutes to cook but they freeze really well when you need a breakfast treat on the go.
150g muesli mix 30p
50g light brown soft sugar 14p
160g plain flour 10p
1 tsp baking powder 5p
250ml sweetened soy milk 17p
1 apple 54p
2 tbsp grape-seed oil 5p
50g almond butter 10p
40g demerara sugar 10p
50g pecans 50p
Total: £2.05 that’s 51p per person.
27. Burritos
I do these burritos when I know friends are coming over. I love the idea of everyone helping themselves and tucking straight in.
100g Frozen onion 10p,
350g long-grain rice 40p,
400g tin Red kidney beans in water 21p,
8 Tortilla wraps 92p,
2 Little Gem lettuce 75p,
31g Fresh basil 80p,
300g Salsa 69p (Optional),
Total: £3.87 that’s 96p for four people.
28. Vegan tacos
These vegan tacos are really easy to make. They aren’t spicy at all, and the homemade salsa is really fruity.
Read how to make our vegan tacos here.
175g pack baby corn £1.20
190g frozen red onion 25p
100g frozen peppers 20p
½ tsp cumin seeds 5p
2 tsp olive oil 5p
110g kiwi 11p
400g tin tomato 42p
100g wholemeal flour 20p
1 large garlic clove 5p
5g dried coriander 5p
1 tsp vegan bouillon powder 5p
½ tsp smoked paprika 5p
85g red cabbage 20p
Total: £2.88 that’s 72p a person.
29. Mexican Red Rice
A very simple dish that takes only 20 minutes to cook, this Mexican red rice dish is perfect for the whole family.
1 tbsp oil 5p,
2 garlic cloves 5p,
1tsp dried coriander 5p,
1 tbsp chilli powder 2p,
100g frozen onion 15p,
350g long-grain rice 40p,
1 veggie stock 15p,
3 tbsp puree 10p,
250g frozen vegetables 20p.
Total: £1.17 that’s 29p for four people.
Start by heating the oil and cook the garlic, dried herbs and onion. Add the rice to the pan with your 1 litre of stock and tomato puree. Add the mixed veg and reduce the stock down. The rice will take on the stock but it may take about 15 minutes. When you are done, remove from the heat and rest the dish for around 15 minutes to make sure that the rice has taken on all the liquid and flavour.
Vegan Dinner Ideas
A lot of these recipes you can even make the night before or freeze them for when you need them. We use frozen Quorn meat when we can’t get around it or sub the meat for more vegetable, normally sweet potato.
30. Vegetarian quesadillas
This is a really quick and easy vegetarian lunch recipe that works well in a lunch box. They are great for the whole family to enjoy as a cheap snack too.
2 x 400g cans mixed bean salad £1.20
3 tbsp chipotle sauce 6p
1tbsp dried coriander 5p
140g red Leicester cheese £1.50
8 flour tortillas £1
Total: £3.81 that’s 95p a person.
31. Grilled Ratatouille Linguine
This is an easy ratatouille recipe that is really quick to make. You can grill all these vegetables and mix them when ready with the vegetables.
210g linguine 10p
80g courgette, cut into chunks 40p
100g red or yellow peppers, cut into chunks 40p
100g onion 30p
Total: £1.20 that’s 30p per person.
32. Napa cabbage
This is a perfect dish for a quick dinner when you are on the go. It only takes 10 minutes to cook and a few minutes to prep.
1 chopped Napa cabbage
3 cloves of garlic
4 spring onions
1 tsp chilli flakes
2 tsp of soy sauce
60ml water
2 tsp maple syrup
1 tsp sesame oil
Chop the cabbage really small and fry the garlic in a pan. Put the soy sauce, chilli flakes, water and cabbage together and mix. Add it all to a frying pan then add the spring onions and maple syrup. Keep coating the cabbage with the liquid as this will turn into a lovely glossy sauce.
33. Penne with Arrabbiata
Now, this arrabbiata is my go to recipe if I fancy a bit of spice. I tame it down a bit for the kids, so might add some chilli flakes in at the end for myself and my husband. It takes 20 minutes to boil down but is so worth it.
Wholemeal penne (500g) 55p
Onion 22p
Chillies (60g) 55p
Smartprice Passata (500g) 35p
Asda Vegetable stock (12x10g) 50p
Total: £2.17 that’s 54p for four people.
34. Vegan Mushroom Bolognese
Just like a meaty bolognese, this vegan one makes the best comfort food dish for a weekend. We use mushrooms to get that amazing flavor.
1 onion chopped 22p
1 tbsp tomato puree 9p
2 tins chopped tomato 58p
1 tbsp caster sugar or to taste 4p
1 celery stick chopped 10p
1 carrot chopped 7p
2 cloves garlic chopped 4p
1 tsp oregano 2p
2 large mushrooms chopped 75p
1 vegetable stock cubes 6p
210g spaghetti 25p
Total: £1.94 that’s 48p per person.
35. Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
This is a great recipe if you need to feed a lot of people quickly. Make this in the morning and just chuck it in the oven when you need it.
Read how to make our vegan shepherd’s pie here.
400g tin chickpeas 33p,
400g tin lentils 55p,
2 large potatoes 20p,
3 sweet potatoes 47p,
125g frozen onion 8p,
4 sun-dried tomatoes 20p,
2 carrots 14p,
5 mushrooms 40p,
2 celery sticks 60p,
2 garlic cloves 5p,
300ml vegan stock 3p,
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 6p,
2 tbsp tomato puree 10p,
2 tbsp low cal spray 10p.
Total: £3.31 that’s 82p for four people.
36. Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This is one of those “chuck in whatever you have” recipes. It’s mega easy and even grilling the tomatoes only takes minutes.
Wholemeal penne (500g) 55p,
Cherry tomatoes (250g) 53p,
Dried basil (14g) 69p,
Total: £1.77 that’s 44p for four people.
37. Spicy mixed bean tortillas
These Spicy mixed bean tortillas are great for weekend days when you want something quick and easy. All of these ingredients come from tins or the freezer.
8 tortilla wraps 85p
200g onion 10p
1 tin of carrots 49p
400g can chopped tomatoes 39p
400g can kidney beans 30p
400g can of mixed beans in a mild chilli sauce 30p
100g vegan cheese 49p
Total: £2.92 that’s 73p for 4 people.
38. Homemade pizza
This is an easy quick Friday night dinner. You can make the dough in the morning or straight away as it doesn’t need to sit. We use plain flour, dried yeast, and some water to make the dough.
375g plain flour 20p
1 teaspoon salt 5p
1 tablespoon caster sugar 5p
7g dried active baking yeast 8p
225ml warm water 0p
100g vegan cheese 85p
400g chopped tomatoes 31p
400g tin mushrooms 20p
Total: £2.36 that’s 59p a person.
39. Chickpea Curry
This is a really easy chickpea curry that is perfect for the whole family. It costs under £1 a head for 4 people and you can use all your cupboard staples with it including tins of chickpeas, tomatoes, and loads of ground spices.
Cook time for this simple chickpea curry is about 20 minutes depending on how you like your chickpeas. We like ours really soft so tend to wait until the liquid has reduced quite a lot. If you like your curry spicy then you could add some curry powder or red pepper.
Read how to make our Chickpea Curry here.
To help make this creamy you could add yogurt as well as coconut milk. You could also add a dash of lime juice. If you are using the slow cooker then we would suggest you make the paste as below and then add everything to the slow cooker.
Put it on high heat for 6 – 8 hours as the liquid does need to reduce.
For the paste:
2 tbsp oil 5p
100g frozen onion 25p
5g dried chilli 5p
9 garlic cloves 25p
5g ground ginger 5p
5g ground coriander 5p
7g ground cumin 5p
5g garam masala 5p
10g tomato purée 11p
For the curry:
2 x 400g tin chickpeas £1.10
400g tin canned tomatoes 42p
100g tin coconut milk (optional) 18p
100g spinach (optional) 20p
250g rice 40p
Total: £3.21 that’s 80p for 4 people.
Start by making the paste. Add the oil then fry off over medium heat with the onion and chilli flakes until the onion is clear. This is when you want to put the rice on as per the packet instructions. Whizz up the garlic cloves, ginger, coriander, cumin, garam masala, tomato purée, and salt. Once it’s turned into a smooth paste, add it to the pan.
Stirring occasionally will help the paste not stick to the pan or wok. Drain the chickpeas and add them and the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Turn the heat down and simmer for 5 minutes. This will help all the liquid to reduce down. If you like your curry creamy, then add the coconut milk and keep reducing it down for another 5-10 minutes. When the curry is ready, add the spinach.
40. Vegetarian Chili
4 of your 5 a day, this Vegetarian Chilli only takes about 30 minutes and can be bunged into a pan and left to its own devices.
Courgette 30p
Frozen onion 7p
400g Frozen peppers 60p
400g tin tomatoes 34p
400g tin Kidney Beans 30p.
Total: £1.61 that’s 40p per person
41. Falafel burgers
These falafel burgers make a great weekend treat. They do take time to make and fry but they are full of flavor.
400g can chickpeas 55p
50g red onion 21p
5g garlic clove 10p
5g dried parsley 5p
5g ground cumin 5p
5g ground coriander 5p
5g dried chilli powder 5p
10g plain flour 20p
2 tbsp sunflower oil 5p
4 rolls 50p 200g tub tomato salsa 60p
Total: £2.41 that’s 60p per person.
42. Pulled Mushrooms with BBQ Sauce
This is a great fakeaway recipe that tastes so much like pulled pork it’s unreal! This serves four people and makes a perfect Friday night treat.
500g of king oyster mushrooms
1 tsp olive oil
120ml vegetable stock
2 spring onions
Barbecue sauce:
180ml passata
2 tsp maple syrup
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp yellow mustard
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp dark soy sauce
½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
Cut the mushrooms into really small pieces or pull them with two forks like you would pork. Heat the pan in some oil, and add the mushrooms. Add some salt and pepper while cooking. Add some stock slowly as the mushrooms are reducing down. In a separate sauce pan, add all the sauce ingredients and simmer until the sauce is thicker. When ready, pour the sauce across the mushrooms and make sure they are all covered. Serve with your choice of sides.
43. Tomatoes and White Beans
This is a super easy recipe that can be a main meal or a side dish. It takes about 25 minutes to cook but only takes 5 minutes to prep.
100g frozen onion
100g cloves of garlic
1 tsp paprika
1 chilli
400g chopped tomatoes
400g haricot beans
1 tbsp tomato paste
240ml vegetable stock
10g fresh parsley
10g fresh basil
Fry the onion and garlic together in a pan. Add in the peppers and paprika. After a few minutes, add the tin tomatoes, beans, paste and stir. You can add a spoonful of sugar to counter the tomatoes if needed. Bring to the boil and shimmer for about 15 minutes. Season and then add the fresh parsley and basil then serve.
44. Chipotle Pasta
This is a great vegan pasta recipe for the whole family. It makes a creamy vegan pasta sauce that has zero lumps as you blend it all together then heat it in the pan.
100g Almonds £1.40
50g Almond milk 10p
50g Chipotle pepper 30p
10g Garlic 5p
75g Water 5p
55g Tomato 25p
5g Lemon juice 2p
210g spaghetti 25p
Total: £2.42 that’s 60p for 4 people.
45. Vegan Lasagna
This lasagna will get the whole family asking for more. It does take a while to make the white sauce as it needs to thicken. Once both sauces are ready then layer it up with the sliced tomatoes on top. We cook it until the white sauce has set so about 20 minutes for us.
For the lasagna:
4 lasagna sheets 13p
140g firm tofu £1
5g olive oil 2p
100g frozen onion 15p
3 garlic cloves 5p
2g dried oregano 2p
100g mushrooms 25p
225g frozen spinach 37p
White sauce:
5g olive oil 2p
100g all-purpose flour 25p
50g almond milk 10p
5g. nutritional yeast 10p
5g garlic powder 5p
55g 3 tomatoes 25p
Total: £2.76 that’s 69p a person.
46. Pesto pasta
All these vegetables can be grilled can be quickly grilled and mixed in with the green pesto and spaghetti. This makes a great and easy family dinner when you are in a rush.
210g spaghetti 25p
2 corn on the cob 95p
100g frozen squash 50p
165g tomatoes 42p
100g spring onions 37p
75g green pesto 37p
Total: £2.86 that’s 71p for 4 people.
47. Mango and Tomato Curry
Who needs a takeaway when you can cook this mango and tomato curry for less at home. This is so simple and is a hit with the whole family.
Red onion 17p,
Green chillies (50g) 65p,
Loose tomatoes 60p,
Small mango £1.15,
Soya yogurt (150g) 49p,
Basics long-grain rice (350g) 40p,
Total: £3.46 that’s 86p for four people.
48. Roasted aubergine & tomato curry
This vegetarian curry is really easy to make. You can grill or roast the aubergines which help make them sweet.
600g aubergines 70p
3 tbsp olive oil 5p
100g frozen onions 22p
2 garlic cloves 4p
1 tsp garam masala 5p
1 tsp turmeric 2p
1 tsp ground coriander 2p
400ml can chopped tomatoes 42p
400ml can coconut milk 75p
Total: £2.27 that’s 56p a person.
49. Stir Fry
We use loads of frozen vegetables for this so it’s great on shopping day. Dried noodles are great as they can sit in the cupboard for as long as you need them to.
600g Frozen peppers £1
250g Noodles 92p
Frozen onions 22p
Spring onions 49p
4tbsp Soy Sauce 58p
Total: £3.21 that’s 80p per person.
50. Lentil and quinoa soup
This is an easy vegan soup that you can make on a cold day.
2 tbsp olive oil 7p
200g onions 20p
2 garlic cloves, 10p
5g hot chilli powder 5p
5g ras el hanout 5p
1kg butternut squash £1
100g red lentils 22p
1l hot vegetable stock 7p
5g dried coriander 5p
10g soya yogurt 15p
Total: £1.96 that’s 49p a person.
51. Parsnip soup
We love this easy parsnip soup as it can be eaten chunky or smooth. It is really easy to make and tastes great the next day as well. This makes enough for four people but you can double it to make extras for leftovers.
2 tbsp butter 5p,
50g frozen onion 4p,
1 crush garlic clove 5p,
500g parsnips 60p,
500ml vegetable stock 5p,
225ml soya milk 25p.
Total: £1.04 that’s 26p for four people.
Vegan Menu
If you need some meal plan inspiration then try this quick and cheap meal plan. You and swap and change the meals out from the above food list.
This vegan menu below costs under £25 for a family of four.
Sunday
Breakfast: Overnight oats
Lunch: Soup & bread (tomatoes, herbs)
Dinner: Roast (mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, roast parsnips, onion & carrot)
Monday
Breakfast: Bruscetta toast (bread,tomatoes,onion & herbs)
Lunch: Salad & falafel (flour, chickpeas, spices, spinach, tomato, onion, pepper)
Dinner: Spag Bol (meat free mince, leftover veg)
Tuesday
Breakfast: Porridge (optional banana)
Lunch: Falafel wrap (carrots, celery)
Dinner: Chilli & rice (mixed beans, lentils, chopped tomatoes, onions & peppers)
Wednesday
Breakfast: Overnight oats
Lunch: falafel wrap (carrots, celery)
Dinner: Lentil shepherds pie (lentils, chopped tomatoes, onions, carrots & potatoes)
Thursday
Breakfast:Toast & guacamole (bread, avocado, onions)
Lunch: Jacket potato and beans (Potatoes and beans)
Dinner: Stuffed aubergine & salad (aubergine, rice, onions, tomato, spices and spinach)
Friday
Breakfast: Bruscetta toast (bread, big tomatoes, onion & herbs)
Lunch: Salad & falafel (flour, chickpeas, herbs, spinach, tomato, onion & pepper)
Dinner: Stir fry (carrots, onion, pepper, broccoli, rice, tofu plus anything else you have)
Saturday
Breakfast: Eggless pancakes (made from kitchen staples)
Lunch: Soup & bread (tomatoes and herbs)
Dinner: Curry with rice (potato, coconut milk, chickpeas, lentils, spinach and spices)
Vegan Shopping List
If you use the above meal plan then here’s the vegan shopping list to go with it. Some of the menu does regular you have some kitchen staples in like chopped tin tomatoes and rice.
2x Aubergine £1
Peppers 97p
Parsnips 60p
Cherry Tomatoes £1
Leeks £1
Broccoli 55p
Big tomatoes £1
Carrots 35p
Onions 68p
Bananas 94p
Celery 54p
Spinach £1
Avocado 67p
Apples 80p
Potatoes £1.18
Coconut milk 67p
2x Chickpeas 76p
2x Tin chopped tomatoes 60p
Hummous £1.40
Tofu £1.75
Lentils £1.15
Mixed beans 57p
Bread 50p
Oats 75p
Rice 45p
Soy 84p
Curry powder £1.13
Meat free mince £1.50
Total £24.35
(This is correct at time of publishing.)
Vegan Grocery List on a Budget
If you’re new to vegan cooking as a family, then here are a few tips to help you get started on a budget:
Check the labels on everything! This includes stock cubes, sauces, spreads and breads. Red markers are words like whey, casein and lactose, which all come from milk. Don’t rely on the bolded words.
Watch out for wines and beers as some non-vegan varieties may have been processed with animal products or even contain dairy.
Most breads and pastries contain butter and some milk. Always ask or check the label if you’re unsure or make your own to cover your basis.
If the kids have a sweet tooth, then look for agar-agar or vege-gel which are both made from seaweed.
Related Posts:
- Feeding a Family on a Budget: This Weekly Shop is Just £18
- 75 Slimming World Vegetarian Recipes That The Whole Family Will Enjoy
- 71 Budget Vegan Slimming World Recipes for the Whole Family
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If you’re worried about using dairy alternatives, then have a look for silken, soft tofu or fortified soya milk as they contain added vitamins.
If you buy food online then make sure that you buy through a cashback site that gives you money back.
We use OhMyDosh* and Quidco* the most but there are loads out there.
I really hope this vegan grocery list on a budget has helped and goes towards saving your family more money.
Laura x
If you enjoyed this post and would like some more family-friendly budget recipes or meal plan ideas, then head over to the budget food section here on Savings 4 Savvy Mums where you’ll find over 30 cheap posts dedicated to helping you cook and shop wiser for less. There’s enough tips to help you save over £300 a month! You could also pop over and follow my family food Pinterest boards for lots more ideas on how to eat well and spend less; Family Meal Plans on a Budget, Budget Family Meals & Budget Slimming World Recipes for Families.
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Tiffany
Monday 3rd of June 2019
Loved this! I can't wait to try these meals. Thanks for sharing ♥️ ♥️ Interested in doing collabs? xx
EM
Thursday 9th of May 2019
I'd love to use some of your recipes. Thank you so much!