IT'S TIME FOR WARM, COZY, COMFORTING MEALS!
LET'S MAKE THEM HEALTHY TOO!
As the days grow shorter and the chill of fall and winter settles in, there’s something special about finding comfort in a warm, nourishing meal at the end of the day.
This season, cozy up with hearty, plant-based dishes that are as satisfying as they are nutritious. From comforting classics like Shepherd's pie and potato soup to something a bit more creative like stuffed acorn squash with cranberries and quinoa, these recipes will warm you from the inside out.
Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering with loved ones or simply craving a comforting weeknight meal, these 8 delicious, wholesome dinners will make your fall and winter kitchen feel like home!
1. bean chili served with homemade cornbread
There’s nothing quite like the hearty warmth of a steaming bowl of chili paired with the comforting sweetness of homemade cornbread.
This Instant Pot Bean Chili served alongside fresh, homemade cornbread is a celebration of flavors and textures, and it’s as nourishing as it is delicious!
One of the beauties of chili is its versatility. Whether you prefer a mild dish or something with a little more kick, you can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your palate. You can also choose to make a vegan chili with beans or one with your preferred protein choice.
MAKE IT: BEAN CHILI WITH HOMEMADE CORNBREAD
READ MORE: Homemade bread vs. store-bought bread: The major differences


2. cranberry pecan and sweet potato pilaf
Our Cranberry Pecan and Sweet Potato Pilaf recipe brings together a blend of simple ingredients that pack a punch of taste, texture, and wholesome goodness!
Fluffy rice infused with aromatic herbs, complemented by the sweetness of sweet potatoes, the tangy burst of cranberries, and the crunch of pecan nuts, makes for a balanced combination that's easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this pilaf is versatile and delicious.
3. amaranth and carrot polenta
Have you ever tried amaranth? It's not your typical everyday grain, but it's one you should definitely give a try!
Amaranth stands out as a gluten-free powerhouse grain packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a delightful addition to any kitchen.
We paired this powerful ancient grain with carrots to make a vibrant and wholesome polenta dish that is not only tasty but also nourishes the body from within!
MAKE IT: AMARANT AND CARROT POLENTA WITH OLIVE PARSLEY OIL
READ MORE: 10 Ancient grains to elevate your health


4. stuffed acorn squash with quinoa and cranberries
This Stuffed Acorn Squash with Cranberries and Quinoa is a delicious, festive dish perfect for fall or to serve at a holiday gathering. Tender roasted acorn squash halves are filled with a savory-sweet mixture of quinoa, dried cranberries, pecans, and fragrant sage.
With a hearty base of quinoa cooked in vegetable broth and a touch of garlic and onion, this plant-based recipe is as nourishing as it is beautiful—a perfect centerpiece for any cozy meal.
MAKE IT: STUFFED ACORN SQUASH WITH QUINOA AND CRANBERRIES
READ MORE: 8 Reasons why quinoa is good for you
5. lentil loaf with mushroom sauce
This hearty lentil loaf with mushroom sauce is a satisfying, plant-based take on a classic comfort food. Made with French lentils, oats, walnut flour, and a flax egg for binding, it’s packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
The savory loaf is seasoned with our "Not Chicken" seasoning for a rich, umami flavor and topped with a luscious homemade mushroom sauce that adds an earthy, creamy finish.
It's perfect for a cozy dinner or as a centerpiece for special gatherings, this dish is both nourishing and full of flavor.
MAKE IT: LENTIL LOAF WITH MUSHROOM SAUCE
Have a look here at our variety of delicious organic seasonings!


6. low-carb eggplant lasagna
If you want to cut back on carbs, or simply find ways to eat more veggies, you have to try this eggplant lasagna!
In this recipe, we replaced traditional lasagna with eggplant slices for a more carb-friendly version and a way to get in those greens.
And to make this dish even more healthier, we are using tofu ricotta for that desired creaminess and saucyness that you would expect from a lasagna. Best of all, the tofu ricotta doubles down as that ever-important protein source!
MAKE IT: LOW-CARB EGGPLANT LASAGNA
7. lentil shepherd's pie
This Lentil Shepherd's Pie is a hearty, plant-based twist on a classic comfort dish, perfect for chilly evenings. A flavorful lentil base, simmered with carrots, peas, onions, and savory seasonings like thyme, sage, and garlic, creates a rich and satisfying filling.
Topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this wholesome dish is packed with protein and nutrients from the French lentils and vegetables. It's a cozy, nourishing meal that will warm you from the inside out, ideal for family dinners or special gatherings.
MAKE IT: LENTIL SHEPHERD'S PIE
READ MORE: Exploring 6 types of lentils: Their differences and how to use them


8. cheezy vegan potato soup
What would the colder months be without a warm bowl of comforting soup?? This creamy vegan potato cheese soup is delicious and packed full of cheezy flavor thanks to our yummy instant vegan cheez mix.
With only a hanful of ingredients, you will have a comforting dish that will warm you up on a cold evening. We like to enjoy this soup with some homemade sourdough bread, and we're sure you and your family will love it too!
MAKE IT: CHEEZY VEGAN POTATO SOUP