Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

5 Recipes for Vegetarian Meals in Jars

Login to Save
2.8K views👍 207
Food Prep Guide
Food Prep Guide
9 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow Food Prep Guide to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipes in this Video

8 recipes
vegetarian

Vegetarian chili is a popular dish in American cuisine, especially among those seeking plant-based meals. It is often enjoyed during colder months or at gatherings, providing a hearty and nutritious option. The dish showcases the versatility of beans and vegetables, making it a staple for both casual dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

  • kidney beans
  • black beans
  • bell peppers
  • onion
  • garlic
  • tomato
  • corn
  • chili powder
  • cumin
  • olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. 2Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  3. 3Stir in diced bell peppers and cook for a few minutes.
  4. 4Add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans; mix well.
  5. 5Season with chili powder and cumin; stir to combine.
  6. 6Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Ingredient Alternatives

kidney beans

Healthier: canned lentils

Cheaper: pinto beans

Lentils are lower in calories and higher in protein.

bell peppers

Healthier: zucchini

Cheaper: carrots

Zucchini is lower in calories and adds moisture.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point.

Techniques

sautéingmixingsimmering

Equipment

large potwooden spoonknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Also Known As

Chili sin CarneVeggie Chili
vegetariangluten-free

Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Italy, Bolognese sauce is traditionally made with meat, but this lentil version offers a hearty, plant-based alternative. It reflects the Italian love for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish. Today, this vegetarian adaptation is embraced by those seeking healthier options without sacrificing flavor, making it popular in homes worldwide.

Ingredients

  • lentils
  • olive oil
  • onion
  • carrot
  • celery
  • garlic
  • canned tomatoes
  • vegetable broth
  • bay leaves
  • dried oregano
  • dried basil
  • red wine
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. 2Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. 4Add lentils, canned tomatoes, and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
  5. 5Season with bay leaves, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
  6. 6Reduce heat to low and cover; simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
  7. 7If too thick, add more broth or water to reach desired consistency.
  8. 8Stir in red wine and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
  9. 9Remove bay leaves before serving.
  10. 10Serve over pasta or with crusty bread, garnished with parmesan cheese.

Ingredient Alternatives

red wine

Healthier: grape juice

Cheaper: broth

Grape juice adds sweetness without alcohol.

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: pecorino cheese

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and adds umami.

Techniques

sautéingsimmering

Equipment

large skilletwooden spoonmeasuring cupsknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️LowContains Alcoholmilk

Also Known As

Vegetarian BologneseLentil Ragu
vegetariangluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, traditionally filled with various ingredients. Vegetarian tacos reflect a growing trend towards plant-based diets, celebrating the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and legumes. They are versatile and can be customized with numerous toppings, making them popular in both casual and gourmet settings.

Ingredients

  • corn tortillas
  • black beans
  • bell peppers
  • onion
  • avocado
  • cilantro
  • lime
  • spices

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the black beans by rinsing and heating them in a pot.
  2. 2Chop the bell peppers and onion, then sauté them in a pan until soft.
  3. 3Warm the corn tortillas in a separate skillet until pliable.
  4. 4Layer the sautéed vegetables and black beans onto each tortilla.
  5. 5Top with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
  6. 6Serve immediately with additional lime wedges on the side.

Ingredient Alternatives

black beans

Healthier: lentils

Cheaper: pinto beans

Lentils are lower in calories and high in protein, while pinto beans are often less expensive.

corn tortillas

Healthier: whole wheat tortillas

Cheaper: flour tortillas

Whole wheat tortillas offer more fiber, and flour tortillas can be cheaper.

avocado

Healthier: smashed peas

Cheaper: cucumber

Smashed peas provide similar creaminess with fewer calories, and cucumber is budget-friendly.

Techniques

sautéinglayeringwarming

Equipment

potpanskilletknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Veggie TacosPlant-based Tacos

Stuffed peppers are a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain and Italy. They are often filled with a mixture of meat, rice, and vegetables, making them a hearty and versatile meal. This dish can be adapted to include various fillings based on regional ingredients and personal preferences, showcasing the adaptability of traditional recipes.

Ingredients

  • bell peppers
  • rice
  • ground meat
  • onion
  • tomato sauce
  • cheese
  • spices

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  3. 3In a pan, sauté chopped onion until translucent.
  4. 4Add ground meat and cook until browned.
  5. 5Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, and spices; mix well.
  6. 6Stuff the mixture into the hollowed peppers.
  7. 7Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
  8. 8Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. 9Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  10. 10Serve hot.

Ingredient Alternatives

ground meat

Healthier: lean turkey

Cheaper: ground chicken

Lower in fat and calories, or more budget-friendly.

cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: processed cheese

More nutritious or a cheaper alternative.

Techniques

sautéingbaking

Equipment

baking dishpanknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumdairy

Also Known As

Stuffed Bell PeppersFilled Peppers

Mexican rice, also known as Spanish rice, is a staple side dish in Mexican cuisine, often served alongside beans, meats, and salsas. Its vibrant color and flavor come from the use of tomatoes and spices, making it a popular accompaniment to many meals. The dish has roots in traditional Mexican cooking, influenced by Spanish culinary practices, and is commonly found in households and restaurants across Mexico and beyond.

Ingredients

  • long-grain rice
  • tomato sauce
  • onion
  • garlic
  • vegetable broth
  • peas
  • carrots
  • corn
  • cumin
  • salt
  • pepper
  • cilantro

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. 2In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
  3. 3Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and toast for a few minutes until lightly golden.
  4. 4Stir in the tomato sauce, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  5. 5Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
  6. 6Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  7. 7Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in peas, carrots, and corn.
  8. 8Cover and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to heat the vegetables.
  9. 9Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

long-grain rice

Healthier: brown rice

Cheaper: white rice

Brown rice is more nutritious, while white rice is often less expensive.

vegetable broth

Healthier: homemade vegetable broth

Cheaper: water

Homemade broth is healthier, while water is a budget-friendly option.

peas

Healthier: green beans

Cheaper: frozen peas

Green beans are nutritious, while frozen peas are often cheaper.

Techniques

sautéingtoastingsimmeringfluffing

Equipment

large skilletmeasuring cupscutting boardknifefork
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Spanish RiceArroz Rojo
veganvegetarianplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Quinoa salad is a versatile dish that originated in the Andean region of South America, where quinoa has been cultivated for thousands of years. It has gained popularity worldwide due to its nutritional benefits and adaptability in various cuisines. Often served as a side dish or light meal, it is commonly enjoyed in Mediterranean-style preparations, featuring fresh vegetables and herbs. This dish is particularly favored for its health benefits and is a staple in many vegetarian and health-conscious diets.

Ingredients

  • quinoa
  • cucumber
  • cherry tomatoes
  • red onion
  • bell pepper
  • parsley
  • lemon juice
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse quinoa under cold water.
  2. 2Boil water in a pot and add quinoa.
  3. 3Cook quinoa until fluffy, about 15 minutes.
  4. 4Drain and let quinoa cool.
  5. 5Chop cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper.
  6. 6In a bowl, combine cooled quinoa with chopped vegetables and parsley.
  7. 7Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
  8. 8Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. 9Toss to combine all ingredients well.
  10. 10Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredient Alternatives

quinoa

Healthier: farro

Cheaper: rice

Farro is more nutritious, while rice is often cheaper.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

Techniques

boilingmixing

Equipment

potstrainerbowlknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Quinoa Salad BowlMediterranean Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, cheese, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. 3Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface.
  4. 4Divide the filling mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing it in the center of each one.
  5. 5Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to the top to form a burrito.
  6. 6Brush the outside of each burrito with olive oil to help them crisp up on the grill.
  7. 7Place the burritos seam-side down on the preheated grill.
  8. 8Grill the burritos for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  9. 9Remove the burritos from the grill and let them cool for a minute before slicing in half.
  10. 10Serve warm with sliced avocado and additional salsa on the side.

Equipment

grillmixing bowlspatulacutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low
veganplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Chipotle black bean soup has roots in Mexican cuisine, where beans are a staple ingredient. This dish is often enjoyed for its hearty texture and smoky flavor, making it a comforting meal. In modern times, it has gained popularity in various forms, often featured in health-conscious menus due to its high fiber and protein content.

Ingredients

  • black beans
  • onion
  • garlic
  • carrot
  • celery
  • bell pepper
  • chipotle peppers in adobo
  • cumin
  • oregano
  • vegetable broth
  • lime juice
  • cilantro
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • olive oil

Instructions

  1. 1Soak black beans overnight in water, then drain.
  2. 2Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  3. 3Add chopped onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. 4Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. 5Add soaked black beans, chipotle peppers, cumin, oregano, and vegetable broth.
  6. 6Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes until beans are tender.
  7. 7Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency, or leave it chunky.
  8. 8Stir in lime juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  9. 9Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

chipotle peppers in adobo

Healthier: smoked paprika

Cheaper: canned jalapeños

Smoked paprika adds flavor without the heat, while canned jalapeños are more budget-friendly.

black beans

Healthier: pinto beans

Cheaper: canned black beans

Pinto beans are often lower in cost and can be used interchangeably.

Techniques

sautéingsimmering

Equipment

large potimmersion blendercutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Hot

Also Known As

Spicy Black Bean SoupChipotle Bean Soup

More Vegetarian Chili Videos

(24 videos)

Similar American Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Dishes From Other Cuisines

(23 videos)