Simple Plant-Based Dinner Recipes Designed by Tessa Howard

Although changing to a plant-based diet can feel daunting, Tessa Howard is here to make it tasty and manageable.

Tessa, a chef and food writer, focuses in making easy, savory dinners anyone might prepare following a hectic day. “Plant-based doesn’t have to mean difficult, she says. “It’s all about creatively employing fresh, nutritious foods.”

1. Chickpea Stir-Fry with Garlic Sauce

Tessa suggests a chickpea stir-fry for a hurried meal. Start by sautéing chopped garlic, ginger, and a rainbow of vegetables including bell peppers and broccoli. Add canned chickpeas and stir everything in a basic garlicky-soy sauce concoction. Present as a hearty dinner on quinoa or brown rice.


Tessa comments, “It’s protein-packed and flavored brilliantly.” “Even my friends that enjoy meat ask for seconds!”

2. Lentil Curry Made Creamy with Coconut

On quiet evenings, this one-pot meal is ideal. Sauté onions, garlic, and curry powder; then add chopped tomatoes, coconut milk, and red lentils. Simmer until the lentils are cooked; serve with warm Naan or basmati rice.

Tessa acknowledges, “This Curry is a lifesaver when I want comfort food without too much effort.”

3. Pesto Noodles Made with Zucchini

Try zucchini noodles topped with Tessa’s beloved homemade pesto for a lighter choice. Toss fresh basil, garlicky, pine nuts, olive oil, then spiralized zucchini. For a taste sensation of freshness, toss cherry tomatoes.


“My go-to for summer evenings is this. She adds, “It’s light, refreshing, and so easy.”

Tessa’s recipes show that great dinners are always within reach regardless of your level of experience with vegan cuisine or just beginning to investigate plant-based foods.