Earth Day is a holiday that flies a bit under the radar. I feel like I really remember celebrating it in elementary school, but as an adult, I often forget about it. Part of the reason is that I don’t really know how to celebrate Earth Day! It falls on April 22nd this year and I’m really in the mood to try and lean in. So, this Earth Day, I am planning to make totally plant-based meals all day long!
To get ready, I’ve lined up some Earth Day recipes that are plant-based, healthy, colorful and kid-friendly, too! Vegan food does not have to be boring and eating a plant-based diet is one of the easiest ways we can support the health of our planet. Best of all? These vegan Earth Day recipes are completely delicious! I don’t think we’ll miss the meat one bit.
Overnight Oats
This is such a simple and healthy way to start any day, but it’s an especially nice way to start Earth Day! Just two ingredients and a super super fast prep that happens the night before, it’s the grab-and-go plant based breakfast of my dreams.
Beet Hummus
Just looking at this magenta-hued hummus will feel like a celebration of earth’s bounty! It’s an edible reminder of the daily wonders that are right at our fingertips. It’s also always a hit with kids!
Homemade Ratatouille
I love reminding people that many classic dishes are naturally vegan, and ratatouille is one of the most obvious examples of that. Rich baked tomatoes, silky eggplant and lots of olive oil make this dish so hearty. Pair with homemade bread!
Chickpea Curry
Easy, healthy, warming and (of course) vegan, this simple curry is earth-friendly and sure to please! Loaded with spices and veggies, you won’t miss the meat at all.
Homemade Marinara Sauce
Again, another classic recipe that just happens to be vegan! If you’ve got picky kids (maybe we should call them selective?) this is the perfect meat-free earth day recipe for you! Who doesn’t love spaghetti?
Kung Pao Mushrooms
I love this recipe for when I am craving something a little take-out-y but really want to keep things healthy. Mushrooms can be so meat-y so really stand in perfectly for the usual chicken or beef. It’s all about that kung pao sauce, anyway, so no one will miss the meat.
Roasted Cauliflower Salad
If you’re celebrating with friends, this salad is sure to steal the limelight! It’s grown up vegan food that really shows just how dazzling vegetables can be when they’re handled with a little care and paired with bold flavors.
Golden Soup
I can’t resist the warm, sunny yellow of this soup, which is good for you and good for the planet! It’s creamy from coconut and a little sweet from the carrots, too. It’s somehow exciting and soothing all at once, and of course, easy on the planet.
Falafel
Yes, it’s yet another recipe that’s classic AND naturally plant-based. A Mediterranean feast is always a great way to keep things plant-based without feeling deprived at all. Serve it with hummus and tahini sauce, and you’re sure to find yourself surrounded by a happy crowd.
Guacamole and Chips
Heck yes! Chips and guacamole are obviously plant-based and (bonus) the green of guacamole just feels extra right on Earth Day.
Dairy Free Mac and Cheese
Folks with kids, here’s another one for you! This vegan mac-and-cheese is creamy as can be, with no butter or cream in sight! It just might make it into your regular rotation.
Buddha Bowl
These easy grain bowls are so adaptable and family friendly, I make them all year round, but I always feel extra excited to eat them around Earth Day. Do not sleep on the vegan “cheese” sauce that tops them!
