Back to School Dinner Recipes

Last Updated on March 8, 2025 by Christin Gillespie

If you’re on the hunt for easy, healthy, & vegan recipes for school nights, then this post has got you, as well as your whole family’s taste buds covered. This back to school post includes quick dinner recipes that are perfect after a long day!

Back to school season is here and with that comes the endless amount of after school activities. 

Growing up, I was a competitive gymnast, which meant 8 hours of sitting in a classroom to 4 hours of gymnastics practice. 

Without getting into too much detail, our family dinners typically involved one of a few things. A drive-thru dinner, my dads infamous 4 minute meal, and the occasional home cooked meal.

It was like a bag of chex-mix, I never knew what was for dinner until a chalky day after gymnastics practice.

While I could ramble on and on about that, I’ll get to what you came here for, Back to School Dinner Recipes that are healthy, delicious, and easy to make.

I also want to note the importance of creating healthy meals for our families, as the nutrition we consume truly builds or deteriorates our bodies. 

Especially since school is back in session, kids of all ages require wholesome meals to fuel their mind, body, and souls with.

So without further ado, let’s get to the recipes.

10 Healthy Vegan Back To School Dinner Recipes

1. Vegan BBQ Beans with Coleslaw & Cauliflower Rice

If you’re looking for a meal that is both mouthwatering and quick to assemble, then this recipe is for you. And don’t for a second think that it won’t be the same, since it’s a vegan bowl. Trust me, this entrée doesn’t compromise any BBQ flavors that we all love. It can also be enjoyed cold, so if you need something for on the go, then this recipe is perfect!

2. Vegan Jamaican Rice & Peas (Jamaican Red Beans & Rice)

Cozy, creamy, & comforting. That’s what this Vegan Jamaican Rice & Peas recipe is all about. Unlike the traditional, this vegan version uses cauliflower rice instead of the typical rice and my spice combination is a tad different. While I am changing it up a bit, I can promise you that that flavor is on point. Not only is this vegan red beans & rice a healthier option, but it’s easy and quick to make, as well as perfect for leftovers.

3. Vegan Macaroni Pasta Salad

A classic that will have everyone impressed that it’s plant-based! Protein-rich macaroni lentil noodles and fresh veggies get coated in a creamy cashew mayo. It takes about 15 minutes make and is just as tasty for leftovers! 

4. Vegan Pinto & Lentil Taco Meat Salad

Craving tacos but not the discomfort? Well this is the recipe for you! This Vegan Pinto & Lentil Taco Meat Salad includes everything that you love about tacos, but with a deconstructed & plant-based twist. Massaged greens, a pinto & lentil taco meat mix, fresh veggies, and diced avocado, all get drizzled with a creamy cilantro avocado dressing. It’s a filling, yet healthy vegan taco salad recipe that is super flavorful!

5. Vegan Red Lentil Dal

This easy Vegan Red Lentil Dal recipe is the perfect meal on a chilly night. It’s full flavor, packed with nutrition, & is ready in under 30 minutes. A simple, yet delicious vegan Indian recipe that is a must try and is even better as leftovers. Also, if you’re concerned about it being spicy, it’s not. However, if you want to add a little kick to this curry dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

6. Vegan Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Some may question if it’s a salad since it doesn’t contain any greens, but don’t worry, it’s still very nutritious. Thanks to the nutty quinoa, protein-rich chickpeas, and lots of fresh veggies. It’s also simple to make, meal prep approved, & full of refreshing flavors!

7. Lemon Garlic Chickpea Sheet Pan Meal

This vegan sheet pan meal is the perfect nutritious dinner that makes eating healthy a breeze. From preparation to cook time, dinner is done in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a healthy meal prep option, or just want a tasty dinner, this Lemon Garlic Chickpea Sheet Pan Meal is your new go-to! 

8. Vegan Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew (Misir Wat)

If you need a little kick, then this recipe has got you covered. This Vegan Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew, also known as Misir Wat, is a flavorful dish that is easy to make. Fiber-rich red lentils, get coated in bold berbere spice and paired simply with fresh greens. It’s a healthy and spicy red lentil stew recipe that will be a favorite weeknight dinner. However, if you can’t handle the heat, I recommend starting with less spice and adding more as taste buds will permit. 

9. Sweet Potato & Black Bean Quinoa Chili

Need a big bowl of cozy? Nothing screams cozy more than a big bowl of chili or in this case, vegan Sweet Potato & Black Bean Quinoa Chili. It features hearty sweet potatoes, protein-rich black beans, nutty quinoa, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a homemade chili blend. Top it off with a dollop of homemade guacamole and fresh cilantro, for the ultimate healthy vegan chili recipe on a chilly day!

10. Chickpea & Sweet Potato Hash

Even though this dish was inspired by the typical breakfast hash, you can certainly have this Chickpea & Sweet Potato Hash for dinner. Who doesn’t love breakfast for dinner?! It’s a vegan sheet pan meal featuring oven roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized onions, vibrant bell peppers, and crispy chickpeas. Topped with creamy avocado, a spicy tahini dressing, and fresh cilantro, for an irresistible combination. Healthy, easy to make, and ready to be made by you!

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re equipped with 10 healthy + vegan Back to School Dinner recipes, which one are you going to try first?

Xoxo.

Christin.

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