The 4th of July – a time for celebration, family, and of course, delicious food! But what if you’re looking to go vegan? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This Independence Day, fire up your grill (or not) and get ready to indulge in some seriously patriotic eats. From classic BBQ fare with a plant-based twist to refreshing summer treats, our collection of 20 scrumptious vegan recipes is sure to make your taste buds do the stars-and-stripes dance.
Grilled BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Elevate your backyard barbecue game with these mouthwatering Grilled BBQ Jackfruit Sliders. This plant-based twist on traditional sliders is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jackfruit (canned or fresh)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slider buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and avocado (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together jackfruit, olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the mixture for 5-6 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, toast the slider buns on the grill.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing the grilled jackfruit mixture onto the buns, followed by your choice of toppings (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red White and Blue Vegan Fruit Salad
Brighten up your table with this vibrant and refreshing fruit salad, perfect for patriotic gatherings or everyday snacking!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup blueberries, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup white grapes, halved
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, and white grapes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes!
Vegan Loaded Potato Skins
Transform classic potato skins into a plant-based delight with this simple recipe. Crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with flavorful fillings – these vegan potato skins are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup vegan sour cream
– 1/2 cup shredded Daiya mozzarella cheese (or similar vegan mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional toppings such as diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub potatoes clean and poke some holes in each with a fork.
3. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Slice potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch of potato on the skin.
5. Fill each potato skin with vegan sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, salt, and pepper.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and add any desired additional toppings.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour total, including baking time.
Firecracker Vegan Hot Dogs
Add some excitement to your vegan hot dog game with this spicy and flavorful recipe! These firecracker dogs are packed with a punch of heat and a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package vegan hot dogs
– 1/4 cup Firecracker Sauce (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and/or sliced jalapeños for topping
Firecracker Sauce:
– 1/2 cup vegan mayo
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Firecracker Sauce ingredients.
3. Grill hot dogs according to package instructions.
4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized (5-7 minutes).
5. Add garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Assemble hot dogs by spreading Firecracker Sauce on each dog, then topping with grilled onions and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Star-Spangled Vegan Burgers
Star-Spangled Vegan Burgers Recipe
Celebrate American pride with a twist on the classic burger! These vegan burgers are packed with flavor and topped with a star-spangled flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup vegan mayo (optional)
– Lettuce, tomato, avocado, and red onion for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mash black beans using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add oats, breadcrumbs, bell pepper, onion, garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Form into 4-6 patties depending on desired size.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Assemble burgers on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Patriotic Vegan Pasta Salad
Celebrate Independence Day with a twist on classic pasta salad! This vibrant dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings and potlucks, featuring colors of the American flag.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. vegan penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and bell peppers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the vegetable mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl; toss gently to coat with dressing.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time)
Grilled Corn with Vegan Garlic Butter
Elevate your backyard gatherings with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of grilled corn with the savory richness of vegan garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
3. Meanwhile, mix softened vegan butter with minced garlic in a small bowl.
4. Brush garlic butter mixture evenly onto grilled corn ears during the last minute of grilling time.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Mac and Cheese Bites
Vegan Mac and Cheese Bites Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with these crispy, cheesy bites! Made with a blend of vegan macaroni and cheese sauce, breadcrumbs, and spices, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan macaroni
– 1/2 cup vegan cheddar cheese shreds
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, combine the cheese shreds and olive oil over low heat. Stir until melted and smooth.
4. Add the cooked macaroni, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Using your hands or a spoon, shape the macaroni mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs until coated evenly.
7. Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
American Flag Vegan Pizza
Celebrate Independence Day with this vibrant vegan pizza that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to look at!
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked whole wheat pizza crust (or homemade)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup roasted red bell pepper strips, cut into flag stripes
– 1/4 cup sliced vegan mozzarella cheese (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– 1/4 cup sliced black olives
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Arrange the red bell pepper strips in a diagonal stripe pattern to resemble the American flag.
4. Top with vegan mozzarella cheese and black olives.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Vegan Baked Beans
Elevate your barbecue game with these smoky vegan baked beans, packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for your favorite BBQ feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and bake for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Vegan Coleslaw with Creamy Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw, this vegan version is perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish to your favorite BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or red)
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise (such as Vegenaise or Just Mayo)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty goodness of quinoa. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped onion, garlic, black beans, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Potato Salad with Dill
This refreshing potato salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion, featuring the bright flavor of dill and the creaminess of vegan mayonnaise. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying vegan version of this classic summer salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, vegan mayonnaise, chopped dill, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for boiling potatoes)
Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steaks
Elevate your meal with the earthy flavor of grilled portobello mushroom steaks. This vegetarian delight is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced into 1-inch thick “steaks”
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and thyme.
3. Brush both sides of the mushroom steaks with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Vegan Watermelon Feta Skewers
These colorful skewers combine the sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta, perfect for hot summer days. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful vegan appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed watermelon (seedless)
– 1/2 cup crumbled vegan feta cheese (such as Kite Hill or Miyoko’s)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– Lime juice and zest for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes.
2. Thread a piece of watermelon, followed by a cube of feta cheese, onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a watermelon cube.
3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! These skewers are ready to go straight from assembly.
Enjoy your refreshing vegan Watermelon Feta Skewers!
Sparkling Berry Lemonade Mocktail
Celebrate the sweetness of summer with this refreshing and fizzy mocktail. This Sparkling Berry Lemonade Mocktail is perfect for a warm day or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the mixed berries and lemon juice. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the berry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the sugar to the pitcher and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
6. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Sparkling Berry Lemonade Mocktail over the ice.
7. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Vegan Strawberry Shortcake
Sweeten your summer with this refreshing vegan strawberry shortcake recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup plant-based butter, softened (such as Earth Balance)
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, replaced by 2 flax eggs*
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Replace eggs with flax eggs- and add vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow shortcake to cool completely before serving.
8. Top with sliced strawberries and whipped cream or coconut whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
*To replace eggs, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water; let sit for 5 minutes until thickened and gel-like.
Blueberry Coconut Ice Cream
Enjoy a refreshing and creamy dessert with this unique blueberry coconut ice cream recipe. Perfect for hot summer days, this treat combines the sweetness of blueberries with the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar until dissolved.
2. Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Add the blueberries and vanilla extract to the mixture and stir well.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling and freezing)
Vegan Apple Pie Bars
Vegan Apple Pie Bars: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat!
These bars are the perfect blend of warm spices, tender apples, and crumbly oat topping – all vegan-friendly! With a short baking time and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying these scrumptious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, almond butter, maple syrup, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Press half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Arrange apples on top of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle remaining oat mixture over the apples.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Patriotic Chia Pudding Parfaits
Celebrate Independence Day with a healthy and delicious dessert that’s perfect for your patriotic gathering! This refreshing parfait combines the classic flavors of strawberry, blueberry, and vanilla with the nutritional benefits of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chia seeds
– 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Just before serving, layer the chia pudding with sliced strawberries and blueberries in small glasses or parfait dishes.
4. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with a deliciously patriotic twist! This collection of 20 vegan recipes features all-American classics with a plant-based spin. From grilled BBQ jackfruit sliders and star-spangled burgers, to red white and blue fruit salad and firecracker hot dogs, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the patriotic pasta salad, smoky baked beans, and sparkling berry lemonade mocktail. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just want to add some vegan flair to your 4th of July festivities, these recipes are sure to impress!