Home > Meal Plans

Complete meal plan for vegetarian

Embark on a journey with our complete meal plan for vegetarians that brings variety and flavor to your plate. Enjoy a week of delicious meat-free dishes that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you energized. Discover the joy of cooking with fresh, wholesome ingredients tailored for a vegetarian lifestyle.

Get grocery list
meal plan icon
complete meal plan
Full
shopping list icon
free shopping list
Full
Total
Full
review icon
Article reviewed
1
people
Complete meal plan for vegetarian photo cover

Meal plan grocery list

  • Tofu
  • Tempeh
  • Chickpeas
  • Lentils
  • Black beans
  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Whole wheat pasta
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli

  • Cauliflower
  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Avocados
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Mushrooms
  • Zucchini
  • Eggplant
  • Cucumbers
  • Apples

  • Bananas
  • Berries
  • Oranges
  • Pineapple
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Eggs
  • Olive oil

Save this list
Share this list
Article Reviewed
• Written by Zuzanna Kędziora
• Published on July 2, 2024.
• Updated on August 5, 2024.

Meal plan overview

The complete meal plan for vegetarian is all about filling your plate with vibrant, plant-based goodness. Expect a variety of meals featuring fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and protein-rich legumes, ensuring you get all the nutrients you need without any meat. Think colorful salads, delicious grain bowls, and hearty veggie stews.

This plan is perfect for those looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle while enjoying diverse and flavorful dishes. It offers an easy way to enjoy vegetarian meals daily, providing the necessary variety and balance for every meal.

Foods to eat

  • Fresh Vegetables: Include a variety of leafy greens, carrots, peppers, and tomatoes for essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Whole Grains: Opt for brown rice, quinoa, and oats to keep you full and energized.
  • Legumes and Beans: Chickpeas, lentils, and black beans are great sources of protein and fiber.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and sunflower seeds provide healthy fats and protein.
  • Dairy or Dairy Alternatives: Choose milk, yogurt, or plant-based options like almond or soy milk for calcium and vitamin D.
✅ Tip

Incorporate a variety of protein sources like lentils, chickpeas, and quinoa to ensure you get all essential amino acids.

Foods not to eat

  • Meat and Poultry: Avoid all kinds of red meat, chicken, and turkey.
  • Fish and Seafood: No fish, shrimp, or other seafood.
  • Gelatin-based Products: Steer clear of gummies and marshmallows containing gelatin.
  • Non-vegetarian Soups and Broths: Watch out for broths made with meat or bones.
  • Animal Fat Products: Skip lard and other animal-derived fats in cooking.

Main benefits

A complete meal plan for vegetarians ensures all nutritional needs are met with diverse plant-based foods. It includes a variety of proteins like legumes, nuts, and tofu to maintain muscle health. This plan incorporates a wide range of fruits and vegetables, ensuring essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, it emphasizes whole grains and dairy or dairy alternatives to provide a balanced diet.

Complete meal plan for vegetarian breakdown pie chart
Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

How to budget on this meal plan

For a vegetarian diet, planning is key. Buy seasonal produce as it’s cheaper and fresher. Opt for versatile staples like beans, lentils, and rice. These are cost-effective and provide essential nutrients. Don’t forget to buy in bulk when you can, especially grains and legumes. Frozen vegetables are a great budget-friendly option and minimize waste.

Download the grocery list FREE

  • Add & remove items
  • Sort items by store aisles
  • Share the list with others
Get grocery list
phone picture with a shopping list

Extra tips ✨

Any healthy snack ideas?

Here are some healthy snack ideas for a complete meal plan for vegetarians:

  • Greek yogurt with honey and berries
  • Hummus with cucumber and carrot sticks
  • Almond butter on apple slices
  • Edamame sprinkled with sea salt
  • Cheese and whole-grain crackers
  • Roasted chickpeas
  • Fresh fruit salad
What should I drink on this meal plan?

For a complete meal plan for vegetarians, you can enjoy various beverages such as water, herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and fresh vegetable juices. Smoothies made with plant-based milk, fruits, and vegetables are also great options. Avoid sugary drinks and opt for natural, unsweetened beverages. Green tea and black coffee in moderation are also acceptable.

How to get even more nutrients?

To enhance nutrient intake on a vegetarian diet, incorporate a variety of plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, tofu, and quinoa. Include a range of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to ensure ample fiber and a spectrum of vitamins and minerals. Add nuts, seeds, and avocados to boost healthy fats, and consider fortified foods or supplements for nutrients like vitamin B12 and iron.

Meal plan suggestions

Complete Meal Plan for Vegetarian

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with berries and a handful of almonds
  • Lunch: Spinach and kale salad with quinoa, chickpeas, bell peppers, cucumbers, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Tofu stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, and brown rice
  • Snack: Apple slices with cheddar cheese

Calories: 1500  Fat: 70g   Carbs: 180g   Protein: 70g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and whole wheat toast
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with tomatoes, carrots, and kale
  • Dinner: Tempeh with roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers
  • Snack: Banana with a handful of walnuts

Calories: 1600  Fat: 75g   Carbs: 190g   Protein: 75g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with Greek yogurt, pineapple, spinach, and sunflower seeds
  • Lunch: Black bean and avocado salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Eggplant and mushroom pasta with whole wheat pasta and olive oil
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of almonds

Calories: 1550  Fat: 72g   Carbs: 185g   Protein: 72g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with bananas and a handful of sunflower seeds
  • Lunch: Quinoa bowl with black beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado
  • Dinner: Baked tofu with roasted broccoli, cauliflower, and brown rice
  • Snack: Apple slices with cheddar cheese

Calories: 1500  Fat: 70g   Carbs: 180g   Protein: 70g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with Greek yogurt, berries, spinach, and a handful of walnuts
  • Lunch: Chickpea salad with kale, bell peppers, cucumbers, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Lentil and vegetable stew with sweet potatoes, carrots, and zucchini
  • Snack: Pineapple slices with a handful of almonds

Calories: 1550  Fat: 72g   Carbs: 185g   Protein: 72g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with kale and whole wheat toast
  • Lunch: Spinach and quinoa salad with chickpeas, bell peppers, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Tempeh stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, and brown rice
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of sunflower seeds

Calories: 1600  Fat: 75g   Carbs: 190g   Protein: 75g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with apples and a handful of walnuts
  • Lunch: Lentil salad with kale, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Baked eggplant and mushrooms with whole wheat pasta and olive oil
  • Snack: Banana with a handful of almonds

Calories: 1550  Fat: 72g   Carbs: 185g   Protein: 72g

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

Download the FREE grocery list for this meal plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list

Want to learn more?

⚠️ Keep in Mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.