Finding time to cook during the week can feel overwhelming, especially if you're trying to eat more plant-based meals. Vegetarian recipes are often seen as time-consuming or complex, but they don’t have to be. In fact, with a little planning, you can whip up hearty, flavorful dinners that take less than 30 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to eat more vegetables, these quick meals will fit easily into your weekly routine.

One of the simplest ways to get dinner on the table fast is to use pantry staples like canned beans, lentils, pasta, and grains. Combine those with fresh or frozen vegetables and a few spices, and you can create countless variations of healthy vegetarian meals. Stir-fries, pastas, grain bowls, and soups all come together quickly and can be customized based on what you have.

Taco night is an excellent choice for a quick vegetarian meal. Swap out meat for seasoned black beans, roasted vegetables, or even tofu. Add some avocado, shredded lettuce, and salsa, and dinner is done. The key to keeping things easy is choosing recipes that rely on minimal ingredients and prep work while still packing a punch of flavor.

Sheet pan dinners are another great solution for weeknights. Just toss chopped vegetables and chickpeas with olive oil and spices, roast them, and serve over couscous or quinoa. You can switch up the vegetables based on the season or what’s in your fridge. These meals are not only fast to prep but also require minimal cleanup, which is perfect after a long day.

Another smart option is keeping a batch of cooked grains in the fridge. You can reheat them and top with sautéed greens, a fried egg, or a dollop of hummus for a balanced and nourishing meal. Prepping just one or two components in advance can save you serious time when hunger hits.

If you enjoy cooking, even a simple curry can be made in under half an hour with canned coconut milk, curry paste, and vegetables. Curries are deeply satisfying, and leftovers often taste even better the next day. They also store well, making them perfect for lunch or dinner the next day.

Don’t underestimate the power of a hearty salad. Use protein-rich ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, nuts, or cheese to make them more filling. With the right dressing and toppings, a salad can be just as satisfying as any cooked dish. Make sure to include different textures and flavors to keep things interesting.

When you’re tired but still want a homemade meal, it’s all about keeping things simple. Choose recipes that require just a few steps and ingredients. With these quick vegetarian dinners, you can nourish your body and enjoy delicious food—without spending hours in the kitchen.