23 meat-free Lenten dinners for busy folks

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Tired of the same old meatless meals during Lent? Ditch the tuna salad and skip the cheese pizza this year. We’ve got a delicious line-up of recipes that are bursting with flavor, easy on your wallet, and perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters. From creamy pasta dishes to cozy winter favorites, these meat-free meals are sure to become new family traditions.

Image shows Creamy Pea Pasta in an enameled cast iron pot.
Creamy Pea Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Pesto Salmon

Image shows Salmon with pesto and rice on a blue plate.
Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Succulent salmon baked with flavorful pesto creates a healthy and delicious meal packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vibrant herbs. This smart dinner option is easy to prepare and satisfying for both taste and well-being.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salmon

Risotto with Peas and Lemon

Image shows a Spoonful of risotto with peas and lemon with the rest of the bowl in the background.
Risotto with Peas and Lemon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy risotto studded with sweet peas and infused with fresh lemon zest creates a bright and zesty flavor combination. Enjoy this sophisticated and easy-to-make dish for a special occasion or elevate your weekly dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Risotto with Peas and Lemon

Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza

Image shows a close up of an Asparagus and Goat Cheese Pizza on a pizza peel sitting on a black counter.
Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Move over traditional pizza! This unique option uses no sauce and minimal cheese, letting the flavors of asparagus and goat cheese shine through. It’s a surprisingly delicious and easy-to-make alternative to your usual pizza routine.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Goat Cheese Pizza

Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup

Image shows a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup with a drizzle of olive oil in a green bowl.
Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the comfort of velvety Tuscan bean soup, a blend of cannellini beans, kale, and Italian herbs simmered in a flavorful broth. This hearty and satisfying soup warms you from within with its creamy texture and delightful Tuscan flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Bean Soup

Creamy Pea Pasta

Image shows Creamy Pea Pasta in an enameled cast iron pot.
Creamy Pea Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fresh peas blended into a smooth sauce coating tender pasta, finished with dill for a light and flavorful dish, ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights. Serve it with Parmesan cheese on the side for an extra touch of flavor and let everyone customize their plate.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pea Pasta

Potato Gnocchi

Image shows a bowl of Potato Gnocchi with grated cheese atop it.
Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fluffy potato dumplings tossed in your favorite sauce for a quick and satisfying Italian-inspired dinner, light enough for spring but cozy enough for cooler nights. Pair it with a tomato sauce for a classic taste, or experiment with pesto or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Potato Gnocchi

Miso Glazed Salmon

Image shows a Bite of miso glazed salmon with rice on a fork with the rest of the plate in the background.
Miso Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Miso’s savory and slightly sweet notes enhance the salmon’s succulence for a flavorful and unique main course. This impressive dish is perfect for those seeking to elevate their meal with a touch of sophistication.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Salmon

Poached Orange Salmon

Image shows a spoon drizzing orange sauce over a salmon filet in a blue dish.
Poached Orange Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Flaky salmon poached in a citrusy orange-infused broth for a light and elegant meal. This simple yet refined dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Poached Orange Salmon

Cacio e Pepe

Image shows a plate with cacio e pepe in a neat pile topped with shaved parmesan cheese.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Simple yet elegant pasta dish featuring only Pecorino Romano cheese and black pepper for a bold and unforgettable flavor, showcasing the magic of minimalist cooking. Use the freshest ingredients you can find to let the true flavors shine through, and experiment with different types of pepper for a unique twist.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Soy Ginger Salmon

Image shows Soy ginger salmon on a white plate with sweet potato tater tots.
Soy Ginger Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Simple yet flavorful, this salmon is marinated in a punchy blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before baking to flaky perfection. This healthy and easy-to-prepare weeknight meal is packed with satisfying taste.
Get the Recipe: Soy Ginger Salmon

Asian Glazed Salmon

Image shows a fork holding a bite of an Asian glazed salmon with the remaining serving in the background.
Asian Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Pan-seared salmon glazed in a vibrant blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a sweet and savory explosion. This impressive yet easy dish brings Asian flavors to your table in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Asian Glazed Salmon

Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.
Tuna and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Flaky tuna and juicy tomatoes tossed with pasta in a flavorful sauce for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, a healthy and protein-packed option that’s perfect for busy families. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of brightness, or stir in some chopped olives or capers for a salty and savory twist.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Carrot Ginger Soup

Image shows A bowl of carrot ginger soup sprigs of dill.
Carrot Ginger Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Sweet carrots and zesty ginger combine in a warm and wholesome soup perfect for any season. This easy recipe brings everyday ingredients together for a comforting and flavorful soup experience.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Ginger Soup

Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Image shows an overhead shot of Spinach Parmesan Quinoa in a blue bowl with a sprinkle of cheese on top.
Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Nutty quinoa tossed with earthy spinach and creamy Parmesan cheese makes for a delicious and nutritious side dish. This wholesome choice is a perfect complement to main courses and provides a satisfying balance of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Parmesan Quinoa

Apple Puff Pancake

Image shows an overhead shot of an Apple Puff Pancake in a cast iron skillet.
Apple Puff Pancake. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This giant pancake bakes up fluffy with tender apples throughout, offering a fun and festive centerpiece for breakfast or brunch. Dust it with sugar or top it with ice cream for a delightful and satisfying treat.
Get the Recipe: Apple Puff Pancake

Calzones

Image shows an overhead shot of a Calzone cut in half on a wooden board with a small bowl of marinara above it.
Calzones. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Golden pockets filled with savory ingredients like ricotta, mozzarella, and your favorite meats or vegetables for a hearty and customizable winter meal, offering endless possibilities for creative fillings and flavors. Get creative with the fillings, using leftover cooked chicken, roasted vegetables, or even breakfast sausage for a fun twist. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy them plain for a portable and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Calzones

Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Image shows A bowl of broccoli cheddar soup with broccoli around it.
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Indulge in the comforting embrace of Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a velvety blend of creamy cheese and tender broccoli florets in under 30 minutes. This hearty and filling soup is perfect for cozy weeknights, offering a satisfying meal that stands on its own without needing additional sides.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Image shows an overhead shot of Easy Cheesy Stuffed Shells with a small plate holding one and the rest of the pan next to it.
Cheesy Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Creamy ricotta and spinach filling baked inside giant pasta shells for a delicious and comforting weeknight meal, perfect for satisfying picky eaters and grown-ups alike. Enjoy it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Stuffed Shells

Lasagna Pizzas

Image shows a close up of a Lasagna Pizza Appetizer topped with freshly grated parmesan sitting on a white plate with another one in the background.
Lasagna Pizzas. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Experience the best of both worlds with pizza topped with layers of seasoned ground beef, ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. This convenient fusion of two beloved Italian classics satisfies pizza cravings with the comforting flavors of lasagna.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna Pizzas

Caprese Panini

Image shows a sliced caprese panini on a wooden board with the melted cheese oozing out.
Caprese Panini. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Savory grilled cheese gets a cozy winter twist with mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh basil. This classic comfort food is easy to make and adds a touch of warmth to your winter meals.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Panini

Nicoise Omelet

Image shows a slice of a Nicoise Omelet on a white plate with the cast iron skillet behind it.
Nicoise Omelet. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Eggs, tuna, olives, and vegetables come together in a protein-packed and flavorful omelet. This quick and easy meal provides a satisfying balance of taste and nutrition, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Nicoise Omelet

Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups

Image shows a lasagna roll up on a white plaet.
Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Layers of lasagna goodness, including ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, rolled up in pasta sheets for an easy and delicious weeknight meal, packed with all the familiar lasagna flavors everyone loves. Prepare them in advance and bake just before serving for a stress-free meal, or freeze them for later for a convenient and tasty option any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Lasagna Roll Ups

Mexican Skillet Quinoa

Image shows a wooden spoon holding a scoop of Mexican skillet quinoa with the full pot behind it.
Mexican Skillet Quinoa. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Protein-rich quinoa combines with Mexican-inspired ingredients like black beans, corn, and spices for a flavorful and wholesome one-pan meal. This satisfying dish is perfect for busy weeknights and allows for customizing with your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Skillet Quinoa

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