If you looking for flexitarian dinner ideas where we focus on plants and don’t sacrifice flavor you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore a variety of mouthwatering Flexitarian dinner ideas and recipes that strike the perfect balance between flavors, textures, and nutrition.
But first, a little more about Flexitarian Diets.
What is a Flexitarian Diet?
A flexitarian diet is a flexible and inclusive approach to eating that emphasizes plant-based foods while allowing for the occasional inclusion of meat or other animal products. The term “flexitarian” is a blend of “flexible” and “vegetarian,” capturing the essence of a dietary pattern that adapts to individual preferences and health goals.
Flexitarian Diet – Key Principles
Let’s keep things really simple with just three key principles
Plant-focused healthy eating
Occasional Inclusion of Meat, fish, or other animal products like milk, eggs, and yogurt.
Balanced Nutrition with healthy recipes
Here are 23 Flexitarian Dinner Ideas
From hearty vegetable stir-fries to savory grain bowls and creatively crafted plant-centric dishes, flexitarian dinners celebrate the best of both worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned flexitarian or just exploring the concept, these healthy dinner ideas are sure to add vibrancy to your dining table.
Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian, or something else, these meals will appeal to you on those busy weeknights.
#1 Grain Bowl with Tofu
Savor the goodness of a Grain Bowl with Tofu where nutty grains meet savory tofu. Add some chopped fresh veggies with cucumber, onions, peppers, and greens for some added veggies.
Embrace the flavors of Vegan Yakisoba-inspired noodles. This is a plant-based delight that is inspired by Japanese cuisine. Add lots of veggies like mushrooms, edamame, spinach, and onions. Round this recipe out with some baked tofu or tempeh.
Spicy Tuna with Crispy Rice is one of my favorite easy weekday meals. Keep things even simpler buy serving this over a simple and quick sushi rice, no crisping needed!
I have relied on instant ramen for an easy healthy meal since college. I love to add eggs, vegetables (like frozen veggies), and other flavorings for a super easy meal any time of the week.
Enjoy this burger with a whole wheat bun and either oven-roasted sweet potato wedges or a simple salad. I like to make extra burgers for future easy weeknight meals.
Like the Tik Tok Baked Feta Pasta, my Pasta with Goat Cheese Bake is full of tomatoes and is served with pasta. I like to add a dollop of Harissa for an extra spicy kick.
Feeling fancy one weeknight? Make this Layered Arugula Salad. Option to pickle your own beets or grab store-bought. However, using the slightly sweet Apple Walnut Dressing is fantastic with the blend of flavors and the smoked fish.
I LOVE a veggie-packed chili. Honestly, I prefer this over any meat chilis. The secret ingredient in this chili is riced cauliflower. It’s bulky like ground meat but its cauliflower!
This AIP-compliant meal was made for a friend. She was struggling to find a variety of AIP-compliant recipes. However, this recipe is so good, that no AIP-compliant restrictions are needed!
I love this recipe on a cold night. Every bite of this Spicy Butternut Squash Farro “Risotto” is warming and nutritious. Looking for more protein? Serve this with some rotisserie chicken or some sausages.
Air-Fryer Chicken Wings is a go-to air-fryer meal in my house. They are seriously better than at your local watering hole! Serve them alongside a Kale Apple Walnut Salad to round out the meal.
I am a cottage cheese girly and cottage cheese has so many applications! This salad is a great way to get creative with cottage cheese, I love it with some fresh farmers’ market tomatoes.
Try my Glass Noodle Salad with Crispy Tofu. I love to pack this with shredded veggies like carrots. Top this with some Nuoc Cham Sauce and lots of fresh herbs!
Warm, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Thai-inspired chicken noodle soup combines tender chicken, rice noodles, and a rich, aromatic coconut broth for a flexitarian-friendly dinner everyone will love.
#25 Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles with Peanut Sauce and Veggies
Quick, flavorful, and packed with colorful veggies, this dish features Trader Joe’s Thai wheat noodles tossed in a creamy peanut sauce for a satisfying flexitarian dinner in no time. Curious about the blend itself? Check out Are Trader Joe’s Thai Wheat Noodles Good?: Dietitian Review for an in-depth look!
#26 Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Inspired by Greek Salads
This vibrant dish combines Trader Joe’s Harvest Grain Blend with fresh veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing, bringing the flavors of a classic Greek salad to your flexitarian table. Curious about the blend itself? Check out Is Trader Joe’s Harvest Blend Good? A Dietitian’s Review for an in-depth look!
#27 Eggplant Salad with Farro and Roasted Chicken or Fish
Hearty, wholesome, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this eggplant salad pairs nutty farro with roasted chicken or fish for a versatile flexitarian dinner that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Creamy burrata, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze come together in this classic Caprese salad, perfectly paired with crusty bread for a simple yet indulgent flexitarian dinner.
For Flexitarian Living, individuals who enjoy a mix of a plant-based diet and animal-based foods, plant-based proteins are a great way to balance your plate.
Plant-based proteins are incredibly versatile, and with so many options, it’s easy to find something you’ll love. Pair them with whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.
Whether you’re adding more meatless meals to your week or diving fully into plant-based eating, these protein-packed foods will help you feel energized and healthy while supporting a more sustainable planet.
The 4 Key Components of a Balanced Plant-Based Plate
To create a balanced plant-based plate, include these four essentials: plant-based proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
This combination provides a well-rounded mix of protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Plant-Based Protein
Start with a hearty source like beans, tofu, lentils, or tempeh. These will form the foundation of your meal.
A vibrant and nutrient packed dish, this Tofu Fried Rice stir fry is bursting with fresh veggies, and the crumbly tofu soaks up the sauces and flavors.
Whole Grains
Add a grain like quinoa, brown rice, farro, or whole-grain pasta to provide energy and additional protein.
Example:
Pair chickpeas with quinoa for a protein-packed combo. This recipe for a Greek-Inspired grain bowl combeins whole grains, veggies, tangy feta, and chickpeas for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Healthy Fats
Include sources of healthy fats such as avocado, olive oil, seeds, or tahini to support overall health and make meals more satisfying. You can drizzle a salad, or grain bowls with a tahini dressing or toss roasted veggies in olive oil.
Example:
This savory Spicy Tahini Noodle recipe is creamy, nutty, with rich flavors. Ideal for a quick satisfying meal.
Vegetables and Fruits
Fill half your plate with a mix of cooked and raw vegetables and fruits for a variety of flavors, textures, and nutrients.
Example:
A black bean burger salad is a wholesome and satisfying dish, combining crisp greens, flavorful toppings, and a protein-packed black bean patty.
Bottom Line
Building a balanced plate with plants is all about variety, simplicity, and nourishment.
By incorporating plant-based proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and vibrant fruits and vegetables, you can create meals that are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients to fuel your body and mind.
This recipe is making its rounds around social media much like the entire cucumber trend! For food creators like myself, there’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a humble main ingredient into a show-stopping dish.
So we have the onion boil, otherwise known as baked onions with butter and seasonings. This comforting recipe takes an entire onion, enhances its natural sweetness through slow baking, and pairs it with rich butter and flavorful seasonings.
Whether served as a side or savored on its own, these caramelized beauties showcase how simple ingredients can deliver bold, unforgettable flavors.
Ingredients For This Onion Boil Recipe
Whole Onion: The star of the dish. I love sweet onions in this recipe.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and enhances the onion’s natural flavor as it bakes.
Garlic Powder: A hint of savory depth to complement the onion’s sweetness.
Paprika: Adds a warm, smoky undertone and a touch of color to elevate the flavor profile.
Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Use a little at first then more for finishing per your taste.
Ingredient Substitutions or Add ins
Substitutions:
Vegan Options
Olive Oil: Use in place of butter for a rich, plant-based alternative.
Vegan Butter: A great swap for unsalted butter to keep the dish dairy-free while maintaining its creamy texture.
Switch the Onion
Red Onions: For a milder, slightly sweet flavor with a pop of vibrant color.
White Onions: Perfect for a sharper, more robust onion taste.
Yellow Onions: A good all around onion.
Add ins:
Seasonings
Cajun Seasoning: Add a spicy, smoky kick to elevate the dish with bold flavors.
Italian Seasoning: Infuse the onions with a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a savory Mediterranean twist
Old Bay Seasoning: As a Marylander, let me tell you, Old Bay is amazing. Pair it with a crab boil, and you’ve got the ultimate taste of the Chesapeake Bay.
Onion Powder: Because why not? Onion everything
Cheese: Take your onion boil to the next level with cheesy onion boil! Add your favorite cheese for an upgrade such as sharp cheddar, gooey mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan. Imagine this on a burger, whether veggie or non-veggie.
Step By Step Instructions Viral Onion Boil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
Slice off the top of the onion and peel away the outer layers. Using an apple corer or pairing knife, carefully remove the center of the onion, creating a hollow center to hold the seasonings and butter.
Step 2: Fill the Center
Place a generous pat of butter, along with your chosen seasonings, into the hollow center of each onion.
Step 3: Wrap in Foil
Place the prepared onion on a sheet of aluminum foil, folding it up tightly to seal in the moisture and create a steaming effect.
Step 4: Bake the Onion
Place the foil-wrapped onion on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes, until the onion is tender and starting to turn golden brown.
Onion Baking Tip: For a firmer, more onion “bite”, bake for about 45 minutes. If you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth onion, bake for closer to 60 minutes.
Step 5: Check for Doneness and Additional Seasoning
Unwrap the foil carefully and check if the onion is cooked al dente, or to your desired softness. Taste the onion and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Drizzle the buttery liquid from the foil over the tender onion, and serve hot as a side dish or a comforting snack. For extra flair, pair your baked onion with these ideas:
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbal freshness.
Make it part of a seafood boil spread for a comforting, rustic meal.
Add an extra sprinkle of salt just before serving to enhance the flavors.
Enjoy this versatile dish in any setting!
Storage Suggestions
Allow the baked onions to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or microwave until warmed through.
Reheating Tip: To preserve the buttery flavor, drizzle a little extra butter or broth over the onions before reheating.
This recipe is making its rounds around social media much like the entire cucumber trend! For food creators like myself, there’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a humble main ingredient into a show-stopping dish.
Slice off the top of the onion and peel away the outer layers. Using an apple corer or pairing knife, carefully remove the center of the onion, creating a hollow center to hold the seasonings and butter.
Step 2: Fill the Center
Place a generous pat of butter, along with your chosen seasonings, into the hollow center of each onion.
Step 3: Wrap in Foil
Place the prepared onion on a sheet of aluminum foil, folding it up tightly to seal in the moisture and create a steaming effect.
Step 4: Bake the Onion
Place the foil-wrapped onion on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes, until the onion is tender and starting to turn golden brown.Onion Baking Tip: For a firmer, more onion "bite", bake for about 45 minutes. If you prefer a softer, melt-in-your-mouth onion, bake for closer to 60 minutes.
Step 5: Check for Doneness and Additional Seasoning
Unwrap the foil carefully and check if the onion is cooked al dente, or to your desired softness. Taste the onion and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Indulge in the richness of creamy melted cheese with this easy-to-follow recipe for How To Eat Camembert an Air Fryer recipe.
Not only is this recipe quick, easy, and delicious but it has a gooey and creamy interior with crispy sweet and savory toppings on its exterior. Camembert has an earthy flavor but also a rich flavor and is delicious at any time of year. So come explore and savor the gourmet perfection of this Easy Air Fryer Camembert ready in just 15 minutes and perfect for your next dinner party!
Why You Will Love This Must Try Creation
Air Fryer Baked Camembert is a great recipe for numerous reasons.
Quick: This recipe comes together in under 15 minutes!
Easy: The Air Fryer makes this recipe super convenient. With only a few steps you can make a delicious appetizer or snack.
Versatile and Customizable: This recipe can be sweet, savory, or both! Pick your favorite toppings and feel free to experiment with flavors!
Perfect for Entertaining: Because this dish is quick and easy to put together it is wonderful for entertaining. Keeping things less stressful for the cook!
Explore Irresistible Flavor Pairings (How To Eat Camembert Cheese)!
The creamy cheese is excellent with a variety of flavor combinations and makes for so many great recipes. Below are some of my favorite creative ways to serve Camembert Cheese!
Make a Garlic and Herb Air Fryer Camembert with olive oil, fresh herbs, and lots of garlic! You can use Chopped, minced, or whole cloves of garlic! The first time I made camembert cheese I made this variation!
Indulge in a fruity and bright combination of cranberry sauce, orange zest, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and whole sprigs of rosemary. Excellent for all things Christmas or the festive season in winter.
For a savory snack combine caramelized onions with toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Finish it all off with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar reduction and lots of fresh basil. Keep things super simple with a fig jam pairing. Just air frying the cheese then topping that gooey cheese with fig jam or top it with fig jam, wrap it in puff pastry then pop it in the air fryer.
Serving Suggestions with Air Fryer Camembert
Some amazing serving suggestions for this Air Fryer Camembert are as follows:
Serve with crusty bread slices.
Offer crackers such as whole grain, seeded, or herb-infused.
Set out a bowl of warmed olives.
Include a variety of cured meats such as prosciutto or salami.
Pair with fresh fruit like apples, pears, grapes, or pomegranate
Enhance the flavors with some nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, or pine nuts.
Tools
Air Fryer – preferably one with an air fryer basket.
Parchment paper
Ingredients
Camembert Cheese (A Brie Cheese or another French cheese such as Reblochon would also work in this recipe)
Cranberries
Walnuts
Honey or Maple Syrup
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple instructions to achieve a perfect balance of crispy exterior and gooey interior in every bite. You can have this recipe together in just 15 minutes!
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
Remove any packaging from the wheel of Camembert, and if it’s in a wooden box, you can place the box directly in the air fryer. If not, wrap the Camembert in parchment paper. (I prefer to use parchment paper even if the cheese comes in a wooden box).
Using a sharp knife, score the top of the Camembert in a crosshatch pattern.
In a bowl, combine dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and honey.
Place the cranberry-walnut mixture on top of the cheese allowing it to fall into the scores.
Put the stuffed Camembert in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. Air fry the Camembert at 350°F (180°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Carefully remove the Camembert from the air fryer. You can serve it directly in its wooden box or transfer it to a serving plate.
Plate this creamy camembert recipe on a serving platter hot or at room temperature with torn crusty fresh bread, crackers, veggie sticks, wine such as white wine, chenin blanc, pinot noir, or even bubbly champagne. This recipe will be good the next day but for best results serve this immediately after baking.
FAQs (Ask a Dietitian!)
Can you eat the rind of Camembert cheese?
Yes! The rind of Camembert and Brie Cheeses are edible. The rind is a natural part of the cheese and develops as the cheese ages. It has a unique texture and flavor and compliments the creamy, gooey interior of the cheese.
Can you bake Camembert Cheese?
Yes! Prepare the cheese much like you would the air fryer camembert cheese. But, bake the Camembert cheese in a preheated oven to 375°F
Bake it for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Enjoy This Recipe? You Will Love These Delicious Recipes Too!
These recipes are a great way to check out more flexitarian recipes.
Remove any packaging from the Camembert, and if it's in a wooden box, you can place the box directly in the air fryer. If not, wrap the Camembert in parchment paper. (I prefer to use parchment paper even if the cheese comes in a wooden box).
Score the Cheese
Using a sharp knife, score the top of the Camembert in a crosshatch pattern.
Create the Cranberry and Walnut Mixture
In a bowl, combine dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and honey.
Top the Cheese
Top the cheese with the cranberry walnut mixture.
Place in the Air Fryer
Put the stuffed Camembert in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. Air fry the Camembert at 350°F (180°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is soft and gooey. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Serve
Carefully remove the Camembert from the air fryer. You can serve it directly in its wooden box or transfer it to a serving plate.
Love McDonald’s sweet and sour sauce? Now you can recreate that signature flavor right in your own kitchen!
Whether you’re whipping up homemade nuggets, crispy egg rolls, or easy oven-baked fries, this copycat recipe is your go-to for recreating that nostalgic McDonald’s sweet flavor at home. Say goodbye to leftover sauce dilemmas, make just the right amount and enjoy the perfect sweet pairing for your favorite dishes anytime!
Why I Love This Recipe
Here are several reasons why I love this homemade sweet and sour sauce recipe:
Homemade Sauces are THE BEST: Making it from scratch means no preservatives or mystery ingredients.
Quick & Easy: With simple pantry staples and just a few minutes, I have a delicious sauce ready to go.
Customizable: I can adjust the spice level or sweetness to suit my taste, making it perfect every time.
Versatile: It’s great for more than just dipping. I use as a glaze or even in stir-fries.
No High Fructose Corn Syrup: Made with simple ingredients, this sauce is free from high fructose corn syrup and other artificial additives.
Ingredients For McDonald’s Sweet and Sour Sauce Copycat Recipe
Sweet and Tangy Base
Apricot preserves
Ketchup
White vinegar
Brown sugar
Spices and Seasonings
Soy Sauce
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Ground ginger
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Optional Add-Ins
Cornstarch (for thickening)
Water (for thinning)
Add ins and Substitutions
Add-Ins for McDonald’s Sweet and Sour Sauce Copycat Recipe
Take your sauce to the next level with these optional add-ins to suit your taste:
Extra Spice
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Add Ginger
Freshly grated ginger enhances the warmth and depth of the sauce.
Extra Sweetness
Add honey, a bit more brown sugar, a splash of pineapple juice, or a touch of maple syrup for a richer, sweeter flavor.
Hot Honey
Add a drizzle for a blend of sweetness and heat that enhances the sauce’s flavor complexity.
Substitutions for McDonald’s Sweet and Sour Sauce Copycat Recipe
Looking to customize the recipe? Here are some easy swaps to suit your dietary needs or the ingredients you have on hand:
Gluten-Free Alternative
Soy Sauce: Replace with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version without compromising on flavor.
Natural Sweetener Options
Brown Sugar: Swap with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a naturally sweet alternative.
Adjust the Tang
White Vinegar: Use rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter, more mellow tang.
Fruity Twist
Apricot Preserves: Substitute with peach or pineapple preserves for a fun flavor variation. Apricot jam or another favorite jam works too!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine apricot preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Simmer
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it begins to simmer (about 3-5 minutes).
Step 3: Adjust Consistency
To Thicken: Dissolve 1 tbsp of cornstarch in 2 tbsp of water. Gradually add it to the sauce, stirring constantly, until the desired thickness is reached.
To Thin: Add a little water (1-2 tbsp) if you prefer a thinner consistency, adjusting to your taste.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and add more red pepper flakes if you’d like it spicier.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove from heat, let the sauce cool, and serve with nuggets, fries, or any snack!
Storage Suggestions
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy your homemade sweet and sour sauce!
In a small saucepan, combine apricot preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, white vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Simmer:
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it begins to simmer (about 3-5 minutes).
Adjust Consistency:
To Thicken: Dissolve 1 tbsp of cornstarch in 2 tbsp of water. Gradually add it to the sauce, stirring constantly, until the desired thickness is reached.To Thin: Add a little water (1-2 tbsp) if you prefer a thinner consistency, adjusting to your taste.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the sauce and add more red pepper flakes if you’d like it spicier.
Cool and Serve:
Remove from heat, let the sauce cool, and serve with nuggets, fries, or any snack!
