Budget vegetarian meal plan
Keep costs down with these budget vegetarian recipes that use both affordable ingredients and fuel-efficient cooking
Get creative in the kitchen with seven days of top-rated budget vegetarian main meals. The majority of the recipes in this plan serve four adults, and any leftovers can be eaten the following day. We’ve also added a selection of budget-friendly side dishes for larger portions or to stretch the recipes to feed more people.
If you're cutting out animal products completely but still want to keep costs down, try our budget vegan meal plan. For recipes that make the most of fresh, seasonal produce, explore our spring budget meal plan or summer budget meal plan.
Looking for meal plans to suit your lifestyle? Try our budget high-protein meal plan for a nutritious boost, or explore quick budget meals, budget family chicken recipes, and budget comfort food for fuss-free, affordable cooking.
Our new meal plan hub has all our meal plans in one place.
7-day budget veggie meal plan
Monday: Vegetarian fajitas
For a quick and easy veggie family meal, try these black bean, avocado and pepper fajitas. Black beans are a budget-friendly storecupboard staple, while avocado adds creaminess and extra goodness. They’re a great high-protein alternative to pricier options like chicken or prawns – delicious, filling and cost-effective.
Tuesday: Leek & pea soup
This leek and pea soup is a brilliant budget-friendly option. It's made with leeks that cost pennies and frozen peas which stay fresh for whenever you need them – helping to reduce food waste. It’s a vibrant, nutritious blend of leeks, peas, and watercress, packed with flavour yet low in calories and fat.
Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it an excellent batch-cook option for busy days – reheat and enjoy a nourishing bowl without the fuss.
Wednesday: Harissa aubergine kebabs with minty carrot salad
Try these harissa aubergine skewers for an easy dinner for two, or enjoy them cold the next day – they make a great packed lunch. Ready in just 25 minutes, they have a kick from the harissa, perfectly balanced by cooling mint and yogurt.
Thursday: Veggie yaki udon
Load up on veg and flavour with this Japanese-inspired yaki udon. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a healthy, low-fat, and budget-friendly option. Ignoring meat substitutes and opting for fresh vegetables keeps costs down and adds natural sweetness and crunch.
Friday: Saag paneer
A flavour-packed Indian classic, saag paneer is a budget-friendly vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Spinach is affordable and widely available, bringing a boost of calcium and folate, while paneer is a cost-effective protein. Served with rice or naan, it’s a filling yet affordable meal that makes the most of simple storecupboard ingredients. Plus, it's naturally gluten-free.
Saturday: Vegetarian bolognese
Make the most of vegetarian mince for this easy veggie bolognese that's low in fat and calories. Cook a large batch ahead and freeze for easy family dinners.
Sunday: Carrot pilaf
This healthy carrot pilaf is a quick, budget-friendly midweek meal, ready in under an hour. It’s a great way to add colour and flavour with minimal effort. Serve with a homemade coriander chutney and crispy fried onions for a delicious finishing touch.
Sides:
Crusty garlic bread
Broccoli with garlic & lemon
Warm lemony courgette salad
Shopping list
Shopping list for vegetarian budget meal plan (side dish ingredients not included)
Smart planning and cooking will help you make nutritious meals that taste great.
For more budget recipe inspiration, money-saving tips and useful guides, take a look at our budget family meal plan and budget recipe hub. We'd love to hear how this meal plan goes for you and, if we were to repeat it, what you'd like to see more of, or done differently. Please use the comment box below to let us know, or tag us on social using #gfcooksmart.
Looking for grocery shopping advice? See the free supermarket price comparison tool on Which.co.uk.