Working out the best vegan sandwich fillings can be a surprisingly tricky business for plant-based beginners.
Finding fillings that are both delicious and provide a plant-based protein boost can take some brainstorming. Do you want to replicate a beloved pre-vegan favorite like tuna mayo, or are you willing to spend an extra 5 minutes in the kitchen to make your sandwich into a real showstopper?
Whatever your preference, you’ll find inspiration in our top ten vegan sandwich ideas. These recipes are sure to whet your appetite and inspire some lunchbox creativity.
1. Chickpea ‘Tuna’ Mayo from Veggie Desserts
Who doesn’t love a classic tuna salad sandwich? The good news is you can veganize this iconic sandwich. “Mashed chickpeas make a fantastic base for flavorings, and give the sandwich a filling density,” says Kate from Veggie Desserts. You can add nori (seaweed) for a ‘fishier’ flavor, salty capers and other umami-boosting ingredients, or just keeping it quick and simple. This is a must-try vegan sandwich filler. Check out Veggie Desserts’ recipe!
2. Creamy Beetroot Hummus from Little Sunny Kitchen
Hummus is one of the most versatile ingredients around, so if you’re not sure what to put in a vegan sandwich, you really can’t go wrong with it. The color of this creamy beetroot hummus is a knockout, and its flavor really packs a punch with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Your perfectly pink sandwich will be the envy of your coworkers – pile it up with crisp lettuce and tomatoes.
3. Sun Dried Tomato Butterbean PÂTÉ from The Veg Space
Looking for a vegan sandwich that’s high in protein? This is the one for you. Butterbeans (aka lima beans) are protein powerhouses and packed with vitamins, making them must-have staples in a plant-based diet. They make a creamy base for this flavorful pâté from The Veg Space. Great in sandwiches, wraps or spread on baguette and scattered with pine nuts.
4. roasted red pepper sandwich with vegan mozzarella & Pesto from vegan huggs
Looking for something a bit more artisanal? Tangy pesto and creamy mozzarella take this sandwich by Vegan Huggs to the next level. It can be enjoyed while it’s still warm or even the next day after it has been refrigerated, making it the perfect workday lunch. If you’re short on time, just use your favorite store-bought vegan mozzarella cheese and pesto!
5. Vegan Bacon Lettuce Avocado & Tomato Sandwich from The Vegan Larder
Why not try BLT with a vegan twist? This classic sandwich has been reimagined by The Vegan Larder. Even if you think you don’t like tofu, you MUST try making smoked tofu ‘bacon.’ It’s incredibly tasty with a crispy and chewy texture and pairs perfectly with the avocado, lettuce, and tomato in this recipe.
6. Vegan Chickpea Caesar Salad Wraps from Rhian’s Recipes
Chickpeas are so versatile – used above to make a tuna replacement, and here as a chicken replacement in these classic Caesar salad wraps from Rhian’s Recipes. This creamy Caesar dressing is made from cashews, lemon juice and mustard, and the wraps (gluten free if you’d like) are layered up with lettuce and red pepper. Delicious!
7. Curried Tofu Salad from Veggie Inspired
If you were an egg salad sandwich fan before going vegan, the texture of this curried tofu salad from Veggie Inspired will be right up your alley. This isn’t just mush, though – crisp apple and celery give it a pleasing crunch, and it can even be whipped up in just 5 minutes. What more could you want from a sandwich?
8. pulled jackfruit sandwich from it doesn’t taste like chicken
If you’re after a meatier sandwich filling, you’ll want to give jackfruit a try. You might need to pack a few extra napkins if you plan to eat this Pulled Jackfruit Sandwich by It Doesn’t Taste Like Chicken on-the-go, but we promise it’ll be worth it. Top the bbq slathered jackfruit with some fresh cabbage mix or slaw for an extra crunch!
9. White Bean & Artichoke Vegan Sandwich Filling from A Virtual Vegan
Smashed white beans and artichokes in a creamy sauce with an extra crunch from sunflower seeds – yum! This flavor-packed filling from A Virtual Vegan is both delicious and nutritious, making it one of our favorite vegan sandwich ideas. Layer it up with grated carrot, sun dried tomatoes, or jalapeños for even more wow factor.
10. Broccoli Slaw Veggie Wrap with Spicy Hummus from Veggie Inspired
Crunchy broccoli slaw, apple, and crisp romaine lettuce – this wrap from Veggie Inspired is all about the texture, with a spicy kick from homemade (or store-bought) hummus. Easy to make gluten-free if you’d like, and perfect for picnics!
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PAGE UPDATED AUGUST 2021
