17 Vegan Italian Recipes You Need to Try
Have you ever craved that comforting, rich taste of Italian cuisine but wanted it to be entirely plant-based? I felt the same way. The good news is that you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of Italy, from creamy pasta to rich risottos, without using any animal products.
Let’s dive into some of the most delightful vegan Italian recipes out there—and don’t worry, I’ve got links ready so you can grab the recipes in a snap.
1. Creamy Vegan Alfredo Pasta
Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to create that luxurious, velvety Alfredo sauce without the dairy? This vegan Alfredo recipe is all about cashews, nutritional yeast, and a blend of spices that bring the classic Alfredo flavor to life. Trust me, you’ll love how creamy it is.
2. Classic Margherita Pizza
Pizza lovers, rejoice! This vegan Margherita is topped with the perfect balance of homemade cashew mozzarella, fresh basil, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a classic for a reason—simple, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.
3. Hearty Mushroom Risotto
There’s nothing quite like a creamy, savory risotto on a chilly night. Made with rich vegetable broth, mushrooms, and just a hint of white wine, this dish is all about depth and flavor—the kind that makes you feel hugged from the inside.
4. Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
I felt something was missing in my life until I discovered this pesto pasta recipe. The rich green pesto, made with fresh basil, garlic, and nuts, pairs perfectly with sun-dried tomatoes. It’s bright, bold, and ridiculously easy to put together.
5. Vegan Eggplant Parmigiana
Who knew eggplant could taste so good? This plant-based spin on the classic Parmigiana will blow your mind. Layers of crispy eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and melty vegan cheese—it’s everything you’d want from comfort food.
6. Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers
These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a mix of lentils, quinoa, and Italian herbs. They make the perfect meal when you’re looking for something wholesome yet bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make ahead.
7. Vegan Lasagna with Spinach & Tofu Ricotta
Layers of tender pasta, savory marinara sauce, and creamy tofu ricotta—this lasagna is everything you love about the original, without the dairy. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table ask for seconds.
8. Vegan Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is one of those dishes that makes you feel instantly at home. With loads of veggies, beans, and pasta, this hearty vegan version has all the warmth and comfort of traditional minestrone—and it’s perfect for those cozy nights in.
9. Vegan Gnocchi in Tomato Cream Sauce
These soft, pillowy gnocchi are coated in a rich tomato cream sauce that’s dairy-free but oh-so-creamy. If you’ve never made gnocchi from scratch, don’t be intimidated—it’s easier than you think, and so worth it.
10. Vegan Bolognese Sauce
A hearty and rich Bolognese sauce made with lentils, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs.
11. Vegan Carbonara
A creamy plant-based version of the classic carbonara, featuring smoky tofu bits and a rich cashew sauce.
12. Vegan Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, cashew mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
13. Vegan Focaccia Bread
Fluffy, homemade focaccia topped with rosemary, olives, and sea salt.
14. Vegan Stuffed Shells
Jumbo pasta shells filled with tofu ricotta and spinach, baked in marinara sauce.
15. Vegan Italian Wedding Soup
A comforting soup with vegan meatballs, greens, and pasta in a savory broth.
16. Vegan Polenta with Mushroom Ragù
Creamy polenta served with a savory mushroom ragù, perfect for a hearty dinner.
17. Vegan Italian Lemon Cake
A light and fluffy lemon cake, topped with a sweet lemon glaze for a perfect ending.
