Welcome to the world of vegetarian keto, where the fusion of two healthy approaches opens up a realm of exciting recipe possibilities. The keto diet, known for its low-carb, high-fat principles, has gained popularity for its potential health benefits in weight loss, improved mental clarity, and increased energy levels. However, following a vegetarian keto diet adds an extra layer of complexity because it requires omitting animal-based proteins while also maintaining low-carb, macronutrient ratios. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create tasty and nutritious vegetarian keto recipes that’ll inspire your culinary adventures while helping you stay on track!

Navigating the world of vegetarian keto can be challenging because it requires careful planning and understanding of which plant-based ingredients also fit into a low-carb, high-fat diet. It’s important to strike a balance between healthy fats, plant-based proteins, and low-carb vegetables and fruits so you can achieve ketosis but still meet all of your nutritional needs. This is where recipe inspiration and planning become invaluable. By incorporating a diverse range of vegetarian keto recipes, you can keep your meals exciting, maintain variety in your diet, and make sure you’re obtaining all essential nutrients to support your health. From innovative meat alternatives to vibrant veggie creations, these recipes will inspire your creativity and transform your vegetarian keto lifestyle into a flavorful culinary journey. So grab your kitchen apron and get ready to take your low-carb diet game to the next level!

Are you always too short on time to make healthy, keto meals? Our expert chefs at Hungryroot have crafted a wide variety of delicious recipes and low-carb groceries delivered straight to your doorstep, so you can enjoy tasty, keto meals even if you’re on a hectic schedule. Take our personalized quiz here and kickstart your clean eating journey on the right step from day one!

Vegetarian Keto: What Foods Can You Eat?

Looking for ways to stay on track with your vegetarian keto diet during the week? Fear not, because, with a little planning and our helpful tips and tricks, you can easily prepare delicious vegetarian keto meals to keep you fueled and energized all day long. Let’s dig in and learn about the essential tools, ingredients, and pantry staples you will want to stock in your kitchen:

• Low-carb vegetables and fruits: Make sure to stock up on fresh leafy greens and veggies like iceberg lettuce, red onion,  spinach, purple cabbage, and kale to provide a strong, low-carb veggie base for your meals. If you want to add umami flavor with a crunchy texture, consider grabbing some grape tomatoes.
• Healthy and plant-based fats: Healthy fats are the name of the game when it comes to the keto diet! Make sure to grab some wholesome staples like avocado, olive oil, peanut butter, and almond butter.
• Plant-based proteins (and eggs): With the recent popularity of plant-based meat alternatives, maintaining a vegetarian lifestyle has become more accessible, even when it comes to traditionally animal protein-centric dishes. Thanks to brands like Beyond Meat, you can now enjoy juicy burgers by opting for their ground beef, sausages, and beef patties, all crafted entirely from plant-based ingredients. For those following a lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet, incorporating eggs and dairy products into your meals can be an excellent way to boost protein intake and enhance the nutritional value of your dishes.
• Nuts and Seeds: Nourishing your body with healthy fats from nuts such as almonds and macadamias, along with seeds like pumpkin seeds, serve as excellent sources! Not only are nuts and seeds rich in beneficial fats, but they also add a delightful crunch when used as toppings on salads, breakfast bowls, and yogurts.
• Low-carb sauces: While keeping your keto lunch routine on track, it is helpful to complement your meals with flavorful sauces. You have the option of making your own homemade dressing or choosing from a variety of store-bought options, but be sure to check the net carbs to make sure your sauce is keto-friendly. A few of our favorite sauces and condiments include olive oil, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and herb blends like Italian seasoning, ranch seasoning, etc. To add zest to your meals, freshly squeezed lime and lemon juice should do the trick.

Vegetarian Keto Recipe Ideas

We’ve combed through and picked our favorite vegetarian keto recipes from our library of over 2000 free healthy and tasty recipes! Created by expert chefs at Hungryroot, these low-carb, vegetarian recipes will keep you energized and your taste buds satisfied all day long.

Artichoke Umami Roasted Beet Salad: Elevate your vegetarian keto game with this umami artichoke and beet salad ready in just 2 minutes! Packed with leafy arugula, tender, cooked beets, and tangy artichoke hearts, this salad is a feast for the senses. Drizzle on the creamy miso dressing for an extra umami kick and toss it all together for a harmonious blend of flavors. With only 240 calories a serving, you can indulge guilt-free while packing your body with essential nutrients!

Melty Marinara Stuffed Peppers: Enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that’s bursting with whole and creamy ingredients and ready in just 30 minutes. Delight in oven-baked red bell peppers stuffed with sauteed pumfu sausage crumbles and a generous amount of marinara sauce for a rich, savory taste. To top it all off, the melted mozzarella cheese adds a creamy flavor and hearty texture to tie the meal together. With only 360 calories per serving, you can enjoy this savory plant-based meal, guilt-free!

Zesty Beyond Meat Sriracha Chopped Salad: In just 6 minutes, you can savor the bold and plant-based flavors of this mouthwatering beyond-meat sriracha salad. Featuring seared Beyond Meat burgers cooked to perfection, seasoned with a savory blend of taco seasoning. Assemble with vibrant chopped salad in a bowl and drizzle with a creamy, sriracha sauce for a burst of texture and dressing. With 570 calories per serving, this salad is a filling and nutritious option to keep you satisfied throughout the day. 

Curry Lemongrass Tofu Veggie Stir Fry: Experience the magic of Thai-inspired flavors with this creamy, tofu and veggie curry ready in just 15 minutes. Indulge in a sautéed vegetable mix of earthy baby bella mushrooms and tender sweet baby broccoli paired with zesty, lemongrass tofu nuggets that are seared to perfection. The star of the show is the creamy coconut curry sauce that ties the vegetables and tofu nuggets together. With just 450 calories per serving, this vegetarian keto option is a delicious way to embrace a low-carb lifestyle! 

Paneer Cauliflower Tikka Masala Bowl: Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this paneer, cauliflower tikki masala bowl, the ultimate vegetarian keto delight. This recipe’s star is the sautéed golden cubes of paneer, an Indian cheese that boasts a creamy texture. The paneer is paired with steamed, nutrition-packed cauliflower and layered in a warm, tikka masala simmer sauce packed with aromatic spices and vibrant flavors. With a hearty 530 calories per serving, this bowl will keep you full all day long!

Black Bean Guac Burger on Lettuce Bun: Get ready to sink your teeth into a delicious, leafy green, and a low-carb burger that’s easy to whip up in just 7 minutes. Sear black bean burger patties until beautifully browned and place them on top of crispy lettuce buns to create a healthy delight. To top it all off, add a touch of thinly sliced cucumbers and a generous serving of creamy guacamole for an explosion of flavor. With just 260 calories a serving, this meal is a guilt-free indulgence packed with fiber and nutrients. Say goodbye to heavy buns and embrace the vibrant, leafy green goodness of this lettuce bun burger.

Sesame Ginger Braised Tofu Baby Broccoli: If you’re looking for an Asian-inspired, vegetable-packed keto meal, then look no further than this filling tofu, broccoli bowl. Packed with fiber and protein-dense sweet baby broccoli, this dish also features savory ginger braised tofu covered in a tangy, sesame ginger sauce. This meal is a powerhouse of nutrients offering 410 calories per serving and a well-balanced ratio of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats!

Coconut Curry Paneer Broccoli Peppers: Another Asian and Indian-inspired, vegetable-packed meal, this coconut curry is easy to prepare and ready in about 17 minutes. Combine sautéed broccoli, red bell peppers, and seared paneer cubes with a hearty, coconut curry sauce to create a rich, flavorful meal. This vegetarian keto recipe provides a total of 510 calories per serving, making it a delicious option for a quick and easy meal.

Beyond Enchilada Zucchini Boats: This recipe starts with juicy, plant-based Beyond burger crumbles cooked to perfection covered in a tangy, red enchilada sauce. Once ready, prepare organic zucchini boats by slicing the zucchini in half and scooping out the zucchini flesh! Top off each zucchini with saucy burger crumble mix and top it off with melted vegan cheddar to add a gooey delight. With just 430 calories per serving, these zucchini boats are a flavorful and guilt-free indulgence. 

Tandoori Paneer w/ Roasted Cauliflower: Savor the burst of Indian-inspired flavors with this hearty, veggie-packed dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Featuring roasted cauliflower florets paired with caramelized red onions in combination with seared paneer, a creamy Indian cheese. The magic of this dish happens when you toss the paneer in the irresistible tandoori masala sauce, coating each nugget in a burst of spices and flavors. With just 480 calories per serving, this vegetarian keto option is a flavorful meal that will keep your carb count in check.

Beyond Meatball Marinara Stuffed Mushrooms: Indulge in the earthy-packed flavors of portabella mushrooms and zest of marinara sauce, with this stuffed mushroom recipe. This recipe features baked portabella mushrooms topped off with seared Beyond Meat meatballs smothered in a generous amount of tomato marinara sauce. Tie it all together by sprinkling vegan mozzarella shreds and letting them melt to create a creamy, gooey topping. With just 390 calories per serving, this dish is a guilt-free delight that will satisfy all your cravings.

Zesty Beet Salad with Paneer: If you’re looking for a quick option on busy weekdays, then this zesty beet salad is a refreshing option that can be prepared in just 5 minutes. Sauté paneer cubes till golden in a skillet and pair them with a fresh bowl of arugula for a salad base. Toss in tender beets and paneer and then mix together to coat everything in Hungryroot’s house dressing. Packed with vibrant flavors and textures, this salad provides a total of 510 calories per serving.

Beyond Taco Salad w/ Creamy Lime Dressing: This plant-based recipe is a perfect, healthy twist on a classic Mexican taco dish that won’t break the carb bank! Beyond burger crumbles cooked with your favorite spices makes a perfect, protein-packed base for this salad. The creamy, lime dressing is made by whisking lime juice, sour cream, and spices together. Simply toss the lettuce, beyond burger crumbles, avocado, sliced cucumbers, and dressing in a large bowl. This satisfying salad is not only delicious but also provides a balanced nutritional profile with 420 calories per serving and only 11 grams of net carbs.

Thai Peanut Lemongrass Tofu Crisp Veggies: Embrace the taste of Thai cuisine with this Asian-inspired, hearty vegetarian keto recipe. Packed with seared tofu nuggets that are paired with sautéed salad mix and coated in a generous amount of Thai peanut sauce. The result is a sensational fusion of textures and flavors that’ll leave you nourished and full for the day. This dish offers a well-rounded meal coming in at 440 calories per serving and 13.5 grams of net carbs per serving.

Scrambled Egg Avocado Cauli Toasts: Start your day on a delicious and nutritious note with these egg + avocado low-carb toasts. This easy-to-prepare recipe features a toasted cauliflower sandwich thins topped off with a spread of zesty avocado crema. Top off each sandwich thin with a sauteed rainbow veggie mix and scrambled, fluffy eggs. With 540 calories a serving, this recipe provides a nourishing start to your day and a delightful combination of textures and flavors to keep you satisfied.

Lemongrass Tofu Nuggets Garlicky Mixed Veggies: Incorporating a wholesome, veggie-packed meal into your busy schedule has never been easier with this recipe ready in just 10 minutes. The highlight of this recipe is the sautéed tofu nuggets, seasoned with a savory, garlic and herb seasoning blend adding a burst of flavor to each bite. To complete this meal, pair the tofu nuggets with a vibrant seven-veggie stir fry to enjoy a fantastic combination of textures and flavors. Each serving features 340 calories and 11 grams of net carbs for a well-balanced, keto meal.

Setting Yourself Up For Vegetarian Keto Success

Following a vegetarian keto lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor, variety, or a wholesome nutritional balance. By exploring recipe inspirations like some of our favorite, chef-created recipes shared in this guide, you can create exciting meals that also align with your dietary goals! Planning ahead and incorporating a diverse array of ingredients into your vegetarian keto diet makes sure that you’re able to receive vital nutrients your body needs. It’s all about finding creative ways to combine plant-based proteins, healthy fats, and low-carb vegetables to keep your meals interesting and nutritious. With the right approach, you can achieve your health and wellness goals while enjoying a delicious, fulfilling experience every step of the way.

Do you want to eat well while sticking to your vegetarian keto diet, but find yourself struggling with meal prep and grocery shopping? Hungryroot offers a wide variety of healthy and fresh groceries, along with easy-to-follow recipes that will make your low-carb dreams come true. 

With Hungryroot, you can save time and energy by having all your groceries and meal ideas delivered right to your doorstep. Take our personalized quiz now and discover the perfect, keto-friendly recipes so you can make yummy meals without the hassle of planning, prepping, and cooking!