As busy schedules fill our days, finding time to prepare nutritious meals can feel overwhelming. At Forager Project, we believe that plant-based ingredients can transform your weeknight dinner routine, making your favorite meals not just delicious but also more sustainable and healthy. From creamy pastas to hearty soups, our weeknight recipes are here to help you craft meals that nourish both body and soul while keeping preparation time minimal.
Let's celebrate quick, healthy cooking while nurturing ourselves and the planet. Read on to discover our favorite weeknight dishes that will revolutionize your dinner routine.
1. One Pot Lentil Soup
A satisfying soup combining fresh veggies and protein-rich lentils for a healthy and filling dinner that can be made in just 45 minutes! The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and creamy plant-based additions creates a soup that tastes like it's been simmering all day.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
One-Pot Wonder:
- Everything cooks in a single pot for minimal cleanup
Make-Ahead Friendly:
- Can be prepared in advance and reheated
Protein-Packed:
- Lentils provide substantial protein
- for growing families
Customizable:
- Easily adapt the vegetables based on what you have on hand
Freezer-Friendly:
- Make a double batch and freeze portions for future meals
The Star Ingredient
The secret to this soup's creamy, rich texture is Forager Project Sour Cream. It adds a luxurious tanginess while keeping the soup dairy-free and provides the perfect finishing touch that transforms this from a simple soup into a memorable meal. The plant-based sour cream melts beautifully into the hot soup, creating silky swirls of creaminess throughout.
2. Butternut Squash Pasta with Sautéed Kale and Mushrooms
Create a velvety and satisfying dairy-free pasta sauce with roasted butternut squash and Forager Project Unsweetened Plain Cashewmilk Yogurt. Sautéed mushrooms and tender kale add earthy depth and texture, while the creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta perfectly.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Quick Prep:
- Ready in just 40 minutes
Vegetable-Forward:
- Sneaks in multiple servings of vegetables
Kid-Friendly:
- Creamy sauce appeals to picky eaters
Leftovers Are Great:
- Tastes even better the next day
Nutrient-Dense:
- Combines protein, fiber, and essential vitamins
Meal-Prep Option:
- Sauce can be made ahead and stored separately
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Unsweetened Plain Cashewmilk Yogurt creates the base for an impossibly creamy sauce without any dairy. It provides the perfect balance of tanginess and richness while adding protein and probiotics to your meal. The yogurt's smooth texture blends seamlessly with the roasted butternut squash, creating a sauce that rivals traditional cream-based alternatives.
3. Curry Ramen
This one-pot curry ramen brings restaurant-quality flavors to your weeknight dinner table in just 30 minutes. The combination of aromatic curry, tender vegetables, and creamy broth creates a comforting bowl that's both satisfying and nutritious.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Super Quick:
- Ready in under 30 minutes
Customizable:
- Works with any vegetables you have on hand
One-Pan Meal:
- Minimal cleanup required
Kid-Approved:
- Familiar noodles with exciting flavors
Balanced Meal:
- Combines protein, carbs, and vegetables
Perfect for Leftovers:
- Flavors develop overnight
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Drinkable Cashewmilk Yogurt transforms the broth into a creamy, rich base that perfectly complements the curry flavors. It adds protein and beneficial probiotics while creating a silky texture that makes this ramen extra special.
4. Crispy Cauliflower Tacos
These family-friendly tacos feature perfectly seasoned, crispy cauliflower topped with a cooling cilantro yogurt sauce. They're a creative way to incorporate more vegetables into your weekly rotation while keeping dinner fun and interactive.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Interactive Assembly:
- Get the whole family involved
Prep-Ahead Options
- : Make components in advance
Versatile:
- Customize toppings for each family member
Plant-Powered:
- Creative way to serve vegetables
Budget-Friendly:
Perfectly Portioned:
- Easy to scale up or down
The Star Ingredient
The combination of Forager Project Cashewmilk Yogurt creates the perfect coating for crispy cauliflower and a creamy sauce that brings everything together. The yogurt-based sauce provides a cool, tangy contrast to the spiced cauliflower.
5. BBQ Tofu Sandwiches
Transform ordinary tofu into a mouthwatering sandwich filling with this quick and flavorful recipe. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and creamy toppings makes these sandwiches an instant family favorite.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Quick Preparation:
- Ready in 30 minutes
Make-Ahead Friendly:
- Tofu can be prepared in advance
Protein-Rich:
- Satisfying plant-based protein source
Kid-Friendly:
- Familiar BBQ flavors
Portable:
- Perfect for busy practice nights
Customizable:
- Each person can add their favorite toppings
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Dairy-Free Sour Cream adds richness to the barbecue sauce while providing the perfect creamy topping. It helps balance the tangy BBQ flavors and adds a luxurious touch to these casual sandwiches.
6. Spiced Roasted Vegetable & Cannellini Bean Bowl
A Mediterranean-inspired bowl that combines tender roasted broccolini with perfectly seasoned cannellini beans. The creamy yogurt sauce brings everything together in a dish that's both nourishing and satisfying.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Simple Components:
- Basic ingredients with big flavor
Hands-Off Cooking:
- Most time is roasting in the oven
Meal-Prep Friendly:
- Components can be made ahead
Nutritionally Complete:
- Protein, fiber, and healthy fats
Flexible Recipe:
- Adapt with seasonal vegetables
Great for Leftovers:
- Tastes great cold or reheated
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Unsweetened Cashewmilk Yogurt creates a luxurious sauce that ties all the components together. Its creamy texture and subtle tanginess complement the roasted vegetables perfectly while adding protein and probiotics to your meal.
7. Taco Salad
This fresh and filling salad features seasoned tempeh, black beans, and a creamy dairy-free dressing that transforms simple ingredients into an exciting weeknight meal.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
No Cooking Required:
- Perfect for hot evenings
Build-Your-Own:
- Family members can customize
Prep-Ahead Friendly:
- Components can be made in advance
High in Protein:
- Satisfying and nutritious
Budget-Friendly:
- Uses pantry staples
Travels Well:
- Great for busy sports nights
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Sour Cream creates a creamy, tangy dressing that perfectly complements the spiced tempeh and fresh vegetables. It adds richness without dairy while keeping the dish light and refreshing.
8. Spicy Mac and Cheese with Jalapeño and Kale
A healthier take on classic mac and cheese that incorporates superfood kale and a kick of spice from jalapeños. The creamy sauce gets an innovative twist from butternut squash and plant-based ingredients.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Kid-Friendly Base:
- Familiar comfort food with healthy additions
Sneaky Vegetables:
- Kale and squash add nutrition
Adjustable Heat Level:
- Customize spiciness to taste
Make-Ahead Option:
- Sauce can be prepared in advance
Protein-Rich:
- Satisfying main dish
Reheats Beautifully:
- Great for planned leftovers
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Unsweetened Plain Cashewmilk Yogurt creates the base for a creamy sauce that rivals traditional cheese sauce. It provides the perfect texture while adding protein and beneficial probiotics.
9. Thai Panang Curry with Tofu
A flavorful curry that's easier than takeout and healthier too. While the tofu benefits from longer pressing time, the actual cooking takes just 35 minutes.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Flavor-Packed:
- Restaurant-quality taste at home
Versatile:
- Works with any vegetables you have
Meal-Prep Option:
- Makes great leftovers
Protein-Rich:
- Satisfying plant-based meal
Customizable Heat:
- Adjust spice to family preference
One-Pan Cooking:
- Easy cleanup
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Organic Unsweetened Oatmilk creates the perfect base for this creamy curry sauce, providing protein and a silky texture without any dairy.
10. Vegan Summer Pizza with Pesto Yogurt Sauce
This light and fresh take on pizza features a bright herb-filled sauce and seasonal vegetables. It's perfect for busy evenings when you want something special but quick.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Quick Assembly:
- Uses simple ingredients
Kid-Friendly:
- Fun to customize toppings
Light Yet Satisfying:
- Perfect warm-weather dinner
Make-Ahead Components:
- Sauce can be prepared in advance
Crowd-Pleasing:
- Appeals to all ages
Versatile:
- Use any seasonal vegetables
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Cashewmilk Yogurt transforms into a creamy pesto sauce that adds protein and probiotics while keeping the pizza light and fresh.
11. Vegan Buffalo Chickpea Cauliflower Casserole
A spicy, satisfying casserole that combines the kick of buffalo sauce with creamy, dairy-free comfort. While it takes a bit longer to prepare, most of the time, it is hands-off baking.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Hands-Off Cooking:
- Most time is in the oven
Make-Ahead Friendly:
- Can be assembled in advance
Protein-Rich:
- Chickpeas provide staying power
Crowd-Pleasing:
- Familiar flavors in a new format
Meal-Prep Star:
- Great for planned leftovers
Budget-Friendly:
- Uses simple ingredients
The Star Ingredient
The combination of Forager Project Sour Cream and Unsweetened Cashewmilk Yogurt creates the perfect creamy base that balances the spicy buffalo sauce while keeping the dish dairy-free.
12. Falafel Bowl
These baked falafels are healthier than traditional fried versions and pair perfectly with fresh vegetables and a creamy cucumber dip. They're ideal for meal prep and versatile enough to use throughout the week.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Baked, Not Fried:
- Healthier and easier
Prep-Ahead Friendly:
- Make components in advance
Versatile:
- Use in multiple ways throughout the week
High in Protein:
- Satisfying plant-based protein
Kid-Friendly:
- Fun finger food option
Budget-Conscious:
- Uses pantry staples
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Unsweetened Plain Cashewmilk Yogurt creates a creamy cucumber dip that perfectly complements the falafels while adding protein and probiotics to your meal.
13. One-Pot Vegan Fettuccine Alfredo
A creamy, satisfying pasta dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. The innovative sauce uses roasted cauliflower and plant-based ingredients for a healthier twist on the classic.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
One-Pot Wonder:
- Minimal cleanup
Quick Cooking Time:
- Ready in 30 minutes
Kid-Approved:
- Familiar comfort food
Hidden Vegetables:
- Cauliflower in the sauce
Protein-Rich:
- Satisfying main dish
Reheats Well:
- Great for leftovers
The Star Ingredients
The combination of Forager Project Cashewmilk and Unsweetened Cashewmilk Yogurt creates an incredibly creamy Alfredo sauce that's dairy-free yet decadent.
14. Veggie Burgers with Zingy Special Sauce
A satisfying burger option topped with a creamy special sauce that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Quick Assembly:
- Easy to put together
Customizable:
- Add favorite toppings
Kid-Friendly:
- Fun finger food
Make-Ahead Option:
- Patties can be prepared in advance
Portable:
- Great for busy nights
Protein-Packed:
- Combines lentils (18g protein per cup), mushrooms, and nutritious vegetables for a filling meal that provides sustained energy
The Star Ingredient
Forager Project Unsweetened Plain Cashewmilk Yogurt creates a zingy special sauce that elevates these burgers from good to great while keeping them dairy-free.
15. Shepherd's Pie
A hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd or having planned leftovers. While it takes a bit longer to prepare, most of the time is hands-off.
Why It's Perfect for Weeknights
Make-Ahead Friendly:
- Can be assembled in advance
Crowd-Pleasing:
- Familiar comfort food
Packed with Vegetables:
- Sneaky nutrition
Protein-Rich:
- Satisfying lentil base
Freezer-Friendly:
- Make extra to freeze
One-Dish Meal:
- Complete nutrition in one pan
The Star Ingredients
Forager Project Cashewmilk and Vegan Sour Cream create incredibly creamy mashed potatoes that form the perfect topping for this plant-based shepherd's pie.
Pantry Essentials
- Keep your pantry stocked with Forager Project essentials like Cashewmilk Yogurt and Sour Cream Store shelf-stable ingredients like pasta, grains, and canned beans Keep frozen vegetables on hand for quick additions to any meal
Time-Saving Strategies
- Prep vegetables on weekends for easier weeknight cooking Cook grains in large batches to use throughout the week Keep fresh herbs in water to extend their life Make double batches when possible for planned leftovers
Family Involvement
- Assign age-appropriate tasks to kids Create a weekly meal plan together Let family members choose their favorite toppings Make cooking time quality family time
Storage Tips
- Invest in quality storage containers Label and date everything Keep prepped ingredients visible in the fridge Store Forager Project products properly for maximum freshness
Whether you're looking for a quick pasta dish for Monday night or a hearty casserole to last through the week, these recipes prove that plant-based cooking can be both convenient and delicious. With Forager Project's dairy alternatives, you can create creamy, satisfying meals that your whole family will love, all while staying true to your health and environmental values. Weeknight cooking doesn't have to be stressful or time-consuming. With these recipes and Forager Project products in your arsenal, you can create nutritious, delicious meals that will please everyone at your table. The key is to start with quality ingredients, plan ahead when possible, and keep your favorite Forager Project products on hand to add creaminess and nutrition to any dish.
