SparkPeople Slideshows

12 Irresistible Meatless Meals

  • Quinoa-Black Bean Casserole

    This quinoa and black bean casserole was created as a way to use up leftovers, but it has quickly morphed into one of our most popular vegetarian recipes. Change up the dish by swapping in your favorite salsa, and use cooked brown rice or pasta if you don't have quinoa on hand.

  • Secret Ingredient Pasta

    White beans have a creamy, almost buttery taste, making them a favorite high-fiber secret ingredient in pasta dishes. This hearty meal starts with a base of whole-grain pasta, and is then topped with tomatoes, spinach and basil. White beans and plenty of Parmesan cheese add a rich finish.

  • Awesome Vegetarian Chili

    This mild, veggie-packed chili is a hit with meat eaters and vegetarians alike. It's simple to make and serves a crowd, and the leftovers are great on a baked sweet potato or atop brown rice or pasta.

  • Easy Enchilada Casserole

    This easy-to-assemble casserole is a tasty twist on enchiladas and a great way to sneak in extra vegetables. Everything bakes together in one dish, which makes cleanup a breeze. If you aren't into kale, swap in spinach or shredded chard.

  • Cheesy Stuffed Mushrooms

    Stuff portobello mushrooms with cheese and tomatoes, and not only do you have an easy, delicious meatless main dish, but you've also got yourself a low-carb pizza swap. Pair these with gnocchi tossed in pesto sauce.

  • Slow Cooker Vegetable Curry

    Slow cookers aren't just for meat! This is a tasty, affordable one-pot vegetarian meal that's filling and perfect for your slow cooker. This curry is flavorful, yet mild in spice, making it a perfect beginner's introduction to Indian cooking.

  • Easy Poached Eggs and Pasta

    We can't get enough of this easy pasta recipe; it's ready in 15 minutes! The still-runny egg yolk adds a creaminess to the sauce and perfectly mixes with the spinach.

  • Spicy Black Bean Burgers

    These fiber-rich burgers are spiced to perfection. To make them even hotter, you could melt pepper Jack cheese on each patty and serve topped with salsa. If you prefer them to be milder, skip the jalapeno. Either way, they're delicious!

  • Mini Vegetable Frittatas

    Make these mini frittatas ahead of time and then refrigerate for a quick, protein-packed breakfast that's also portion-controlled. Top with salsa (optional) and serve with toast for a complete meal. And eggs aren't just for breakfast in our book--try these for dinner, too!

  • Creamy Quinoa and Cheese

    Is there anything better than a big bowl of mac and cheese? How about a big bowl of quinoa and cheese? This version comes together in just 20 minutes, and it's packed with protein--and light enough that it can easily fit into a heart-healthy diet.

  • Easy Bean Tostadas

    Tostadas are one of our favorite 15-minute meals. Basically open-faced tacos (but we like to call them Mexican pizzas), you can top them with any ingredients you have on hand. Start with beans, cheese and salsa, then get creative; chopped onions and peppers, olives, pickled jalapenos, and green onions are all tasty toppings.

  • Meatless Meatloaf (Lentil Loaf)

    Just about every iconic American meal can be made meatless, and meatloaf is no exception. Lentils are a fine stand-in, and they even mimic the texture of meatloaf. Pair this fiber-rich dish with sweet corn and broccoli--and top your loaf with plenty of ketchup. You can even turn leftovers into a filling sandwich with sharp Cheddar, red onions and crunchy leaf lettuce.

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12 Irresistible Meatless Meals

By Stepfanie Romine, Staff Writer

Usually low in cholesterol and full of fiber and health-boosting phytonutrients, meatless meals are a great way to integrate more heart-healthy dishes into your meal plan. From spicy chili to enchilada casserole, cheesy stuffed mushrooms to hearty lentil loaf, we've got crave-worthy meat-free meals for you!

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Quinoa-Black Bean Casserole

This quinoa and black bean casserole was created as a way to use up leftovers, but it has quickly morphed into one of our most popular vegetarian recipes. Change up the dish by swapping in your favorite salsa, and use cooked brown rice or pasta if you don't have quinoa on hand.