Jennifer Lopez [1] is a fan; Beyoncé credits it for her svelte Met Gala figure [2]. Their weight-loss secret? The 22-day vegan challenge, created by Beyoncé's trainer, Marco Borges [3]. The challenge is built on the concept that it takes 21 days to break a habit, and its premise is simple: eat a healthy vegan diet for 22 days and see how you feel. The result, according to 22-day devotees: more energy, a better relationship with food, and even weight loss. "I didn't know how good you can feel when you put healthy stuff in your body," Jennifer said after forgoing meat and dairy for three weeks [4] (and then some!).
Think you have what it takes to tackle Beyoncé and Jennifer's challenge? We've rounded up 22 vegan dinners that may surprise you: filling, flavorful meals that satisfy without depriving you of nutrients — or taste. Check out our dinners here, and don't forget about our vegan breakfasts [5] and vegan lunches [6]!
Vegan Bolognese
Start off with a comforting bowl of vegan bolognese [7]. Chewy bites of tempeh ensure that you won't miss the meat in your dinner.
Indian-Spiced Chard
After a long day, a bowl of Indian-spiced chard [8], served alongside whole-wheat pita or rice, will fill you up.
Nondairy Pumpkin Soup
You won't believe there's no cream — just a hearty helping of coconut milk — in this nondairy pumpkin bisque [9].
Sweet Potato Salad
This colorful side makes an even better prep-ahead main meal; the flavors in this sweet potato salad [10] meld the longer you keep it in your fridge, so make ahead to enjoy on an especially busy weeknight.
Peanut-Ginger Soba Noodle Salad
For another make-ahead meal, this peanut-ginger soba noodle salad [11] won't disappoint. A creamy peanut and sesame ginger sauce is addictive and filling to help ensure you beat after-dinner cravings.
Sweet Potato Soup
If you're tired of your normal vegan rotation during your challenge, blending up a Middle Eastern-inspired sweet potato soup with za'atar oil [12] can reawaken taste buds. Za'atar is a spice blend of oregano, thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac; look for it at your local supermarket in the spice aisle.
BBQ Black-Eyed Peas
While vegans can easily get enough protein every day as omnivores, sometimes it takes a little more thought. A batch of BBQ black-eyed peas [13] is a tasty way to fill up on protein and fiber, sans meat.
Quinoa Tomato and Cucumber Salad
For a fresh, light dinner on a hot day, this quinoa tomato and cucumber salad [14] — one of Jennifer Aniston [15]'s favorites — is a refreshing option.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Burrito
High-fiber, vitamin-A-rich sweet potatoes are a healthy pantry staple; this sweet potato black bean burrito [16] is sure to become a weeknight favorite even after your vegan challenge.
Sesame Ginger Quinoa Salad
This prep-ahead sesame ginger quinoa salad [17] makes a great meal, no matter what time of day. If you need a filling, ready-to-go dinner after a late-evening yoga class, this salad is perfect.
Paleo Pad Thai
No need for takeout; this low-calorie, noodle-free Paleo pad thai [18] is waistline-friendly and just as tasty. It uses spaghetti squash instead of noodles to save on calories.
Spicy Sesame Carrot Salad
Ribboning your veggies is a fun way to add pizzazz to a normal weeknight meal without a lot of extra effort. This spicy sesame carrot salad [19] is great on its own or with a side of vegan soup.
Vegan Farro Salad
Switch up your carb rotation by opting for chewy, satisfying farro for this vegan farro salad [20].
Spaghetti in White Wine Sauce
Low-calorie and satisfying? This spaghetti in white wine sauce [21] has everything you need for a flavorful dinner that will fill you up without going over your calorie quota.
Sweet Potato, Chickpea, and Quinoa Burger
Jonesing for a burger? Don't stop at the nearest fast-food spot; instead, stay with your vegan challenge and whip up this tasty sweet potato, chickpea, and quinoa burger [22] instead.
Garlicky Zucchini Pasta
For another pasta alternative that satisfies without the carbs, try this garlicky zucchini pasta [23]. Be sure to sprinkle with toasted almond meal, as shown, to mimic that satisfying breadcrumb texture.
Asparagus Ginger Soba Noodles
Ready for another soba salad? This asparagus ginger soba noodle salad [24] has a different flavor profile but is just as addictive as your other soba noodle dinner.
Black Bean Mango Salad
Fresh, healthy, filling, and fast: what more could you want? Chop up this black bean mango salad [25] for a vegan dinner you'll love.
Vegan Mac and Cheese
Miss dairy? You won't after making this vegan mac and cheese [26] recipe. The "cheesiness" comes from nutritional yeast, a vegan favorite that adds a distinct flavor to many dairy-free meals.
Paleo Carrot Pasta
Go to bed without the bloat with another bowl of healthy "pasta." This Paleo carrot pasta [27] is comforting and filling without making you feel stuffed.
Slow-Cooker Chickpea Curry
If you've got a slow cooker, this slow-cooker chickpea curry [28] takes minutes to prep in the morning and will be ready for you as soon as you walk in the door.
Cauliflower Stir Fry
For another healthier take on takeout, sub white rice with a surprising ingredient: cauliflower. This cauliflower stir fry [29] is Paleo and vegan approved!