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vegan five star diner
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Five-Star $5 Vegan Dinner

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Calories: 520kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • 1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables frozen works fine
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs cilantro, parsley, or basil for garnish
  • Juice of half a lemon optional zing

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more, just until fragrant. No wrinkly garlic should survive this step.
  • Stir in spices: cumin, smoked paprika, and chili flakes if you like a little heat. Toast for a minute to wake them up.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes and a splash of water if it looks too thick. Simmer 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
  • Add chickpeas and vegetables. Cook until everything is heated through and the veggies are tender, about 6–8 minutes.
  • Stir in cooked quinoa or rice and soy sauce. Adjust salt and pepper, then squeeze in lemon juice if you’re feeling bright.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot. If you’re fancy, a dollop of vegan yogurt or tahini on top won’t hurt.