Mediterranean meal plan for vegans

Perfectly tailored for a vegan lifestyle, the Mediterranean meal plan for vegans marries classic Mediterranean ingredients with purely plant-based choices. It's a creative and compassionate way of eating.

Focusing on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, this plan offers a wholesome and delicious approach to vegan eating with a Mediterranean zest.

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Meal plan grocery list

Spinach
Whole grain bread
Eggs
Greek yogurt
Chia seeds
Strawberries
Blueberries

Raspberries
Lentils
Cucumbers
Tomatoes
Feta cheese
Olives
Olive oil

Almonds
Bell peppers
Hummus
Salmon
Mixed vegetables
Almond milk
Walnuts

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Article reviewed

Written by our editorial team.
Published on Feb. 29, 2024.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2024.

Meal plan overview

Focusing on fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, this plan offers a wholesome and delicious approach to vegan eating with a Mediterranean zest.

Foods to eat

Whole Grains: Quinoa, barley, and whole wheat bread for carbohydrates and fiber.
Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, and black beans for protein.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, flaxseeds, and hemp seeds for essential fats and proteins.
Plant-Based Proteins: Tofu, tempeh, and seitan.
Fruits and Vegetables: A diverse range for a variety of nutrients.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocados, and coconut.
Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives: Almond milk, soy yogurt, and cashew cheese.
Herbs and Spices: To add flavor and nutrients without extra calories.

✅ Tip

Use tahini or hummus as a creamy salad dressing alternative to add flavor and healthy fats to meals without using animal products.

Foods not to eat

All Animal Products: Including meat, dairy, eggs, and fish.
Processed Vegan Foods: Often high in sodium and artificial ingredients.
Refined Grains and Sugars: Such as white bread and sugary snacks.
Fried Foods: High in unhealthy fats.
High-Fat Plant Foods: In excess, like avocados and nuts.
Alcohol and Sugary Beverages: Can be high in empty calories and sugars.
Artificial Sweeteners: Not in line with a whole foods approach.
Trans Fats: Found in some processed and fast foods.

Main benefits

The Mediterranean meal plan for vegans combines the healthful and diverse aspects of the Mediterranean diet with a strictly plant-based regimen. It includes a wide array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, ensuring a rich intake of nutrients. This plan excludes all animal products, focusing on high-fiber, nutrient-dense foods that support overall health. The inclusion of healthy fats from sources like olive oil and the variety of plant-based proteins ensures a balanced diet. This meal plan is ideal for vegans seeking to enjoy the flavors and health benefits of Mediterranean cuisine, maintaining a nutritious and ethically aligned diet.

🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

A Mediterranean meal plan for vegans can be both satisfying and delicious with these alternatives:

For a protein boost, consider using hemp seeds instead of chia seeds in smoothies and salads.
Try coconut cream instead of coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture in dishes.
Swap out quinoa for freekeh to add a different flavor and texture to your meals.
Incorporate nutritional yeast instead of almond cheese for a cheesy flavor in vegan recipes.
Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter for a unique spread on whole grain bread.

How to budget on this meal plan

Opt for a variety of vegetables like spinach, banana, and almond milk, buying them in season for better prices. Bulk-buying nuts and seeds like almonds and flaxseeds can lead to significant savings. Homemade almond butter and coconut yogurt can be more economical than store-bought versions. Consider making your own vegan-friendly pancake mix using almond flour and coconut flour.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

Delightful vegan snacks that align with the Mediterranean Diet:

Vegetable sushi rolls with avocado
Chickpea salad with cucumbers and tomatoes
Roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
Stuffed grape leaves (dolmas)
Quinoa tabbouleh
Artichoke hearts with lemon zest
Baba ganoush with carrot sticks

What should I drink on this meal plan?

Vegans following the Mediterranean diet should focus on water for hydration, plant-based milks like almond or soy milk, herbal teas, freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices for added nutrients, and avoiding animal-derived beverages, including limiting coffee and alcohol.

How to get even more nutrients?

Vegans can also thrive on a Mediterranean diet by substituting animal proteins with plant-based sources such as legumes, nuts, and seeds, which are already integral to the diet. Fortified plant-based alternatives can substitute for dairy and provide necessary vitamins like B12 and D. This diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats, ensuring a well-rounded intake of essential nutrients.

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