Congratulations, you’ve made it to Week 2 of your Veganuary journey! That’s a fantastic achievement, and you should be feeling proud. Now, let's keep the momentum going and make this week just as enjoyable, satisfying, and easy as the last. Whether you're looking for quick meals to whip up or seeking plant-based versions of your favourite dishes, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, you’ll find tasty recipes, helpful tips, and simple ingredient swaps that will keep you feeling great and motivated throughout Week 2 of Veganuary.

Tips for a Smooth Week 2

As you move into the second week, it’s natural to experience some cravings or moments of doubt. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to keep things exciting and enjoyable as you continue your plant-based adventure.

Craving Cheese? Here’s How to Handle It

For many people, cheese is one of the hardest foods to give up when going plant-based. Luckily, the world of vegan cheese has expanded significantly, offering many tasty alternatives that will satisfy your cheesy cravings.

First things first, it’s a good idea to explore different types of plant-based cheeses to find the ones that best mimic the texture and taste of traditional cheese. From soft spreads to hard cheeses, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for more info, check out our guide to the best vegan cheeses, which dives into various options and how they compare in terms of taste, meltability, and versatility.

When it comes to your comfort food favourites, like a grilled cheese sandwich, there are some great vegan options to try. If you’re craving a warm, cheesy toastie, why not give a Roasted Pumpkin Toastie a try. There are plenty of recipes on Google and It’s slightly sweet, super savoury, and has that melt-in-your-mouth quality that you miss from regular cheese. If you want something a little richer and more indulgent, this creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese is the perfect fix. It’s loaded with flavour, incredibly comforting, and a real crowd-pleaser.

For those days when you’re in a rush and don’t have time to cook, try adding Root Kitchen Vegan Lasagne to your shopping list. It’s a ready-made, plant-based meal that’s just as creamy and cheesy as the traditional version, making it a great go-to when you need something quick and comforting.

Is Your Coffee or Tea Just Not the Same?

If you’ve made the switch to plant-based milks but find that your coffee or tea isn’t tasting quite right, you’re not alone. Some plant-based milks can behave differently than dairy milk, especially in hot beverages. If you’re looking for the best plant-based milks for coffee or tea, try searching for barista-style milks. These tend to have a higher fat content, which makes them perfect for creating creamy lattes or smooth cups of tea without separating or curdling.

Some of the top plant-based milks for hot drinks include oat milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Oat milk, in particular, is popular for its naturally sweet taste and smooth texture. But ultimately, the best option will depend on your personal taste preferences. Our Vegan Milk Guide can help you navigate the options available and choose the one that works best for you, based on taste, price, and convenience.

Week 2 Meal Ideas: Simple, Flavourful Recipes

Now that we’ve got the tips covered, let’s dive into some delicious and easy-to-make recipes that will take you from breakfast to dinner. These meals are designed to be quick, nutritious, and perfect for leftovers, so you can stay on track no matter how busy you are.

Breakfast Ideas

Kickstart your day with a breakfast that’s both satisfying and plant-based. These options are nutritious, filling, and full of flavour.

Mango Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are one of the easiest and most convenient ways to have a hearty breakfast without spending too much time in the kitchen. Simply mix rolled oats with plant-based milk (oat milk is a popular choice here), add in a little sweetener like maple syrup, and top with fresh mango slices for a tropical burst of flavour. Let it sit overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have a quick, no-cook breakfast ready to go when you wake up.

Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes
Who doesn’t love pancakes? Peanut Butter and Banana Pancakes are a great way to start your day with a combination of protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. Blend a ripe banana with plant-based milk, flour, and a spoonful of peanut butter, and cook up fluffy pancakes that are sure to satisfy your morning cravings. Top with fresh banana slices and a drizzle of maple syrup for the ultimate breakfast treat.

Vegan Shakshuka
For something savoury and filling, try a Vegan Shakshuka. This North African-inspired dish features poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, but we’ve swapped the eggs for tofu scramble to keep it plant-based. The tofu is cooked with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a mix of spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric, creating a rich and flavourful sauce. Serve with crusty bread to soak up all the goodness.

Lunch Ideas

When it comes to lunch, it’s all about easy, satisfying meals that can be prepped in advance or thrown together in no time. Here are some options to keep you feeling nourished and energised.

Mediterranean Vegetable Pasta
This Mediterranean Vegetable Pasta is a simple, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick and light lunch. Roast some bell peppers until they’re soft and charred, then toss them with cooked pasta, olives, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. You can add some vegan feta or chickpeas for extra protein, making this salad a well-rounded meal.

Pumpkin and Roasted Red Onion Toastie
If you’re craving something comforting and warm, try a Pumpkin and Roasted Red Onion Toastie. This is a simple yet delicious sandwich made with roasted pumpkin, caramelised red onions, and a spread of vegan cheese. Toast it until crispy, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch that will keep you full and happy for hours.

Vegan Chickpea Tuna Sandwich
If you’re a fan of tuna salad, give this Vegan Chickpea Tuna Sandwich a try. Simply mash up chickpeas with vegan mayo, mustard, celery, and a little lemon juice to create a creamy, savoury filling that tastes just like classic tuna salad. Spread it between slices of whole grain bread and enjoy!

Root Kitchen Thai Red Curry
For an easy, all-in-one meal, look no further than the Root Kitchen Thai Red Curry. This hearty meal includes a mix of plant-based protein, crunchy vegetables,Jasmine rice, and an authentic Thai red curry sauce. It’s an easy, customisable meal that can be made ahead of time and eaten throughout the week.

Dinner Ideas

For dinner, you’ll want meals that are satisfying, flavourful, and easy to prepare. Here are some of our top picks for Week 2:

Vegan Mac and Cheese

Who says you can’t enjoy mac and cheese on a plant-based diet? This Vegan Mac and Cheese is creamy, rich, and comforting, with a cheesy flavor that comes from nutritional yeast and cashews. Serve with your favourite pasta for a hearty meal that’s sure to please even the most die-hard cheese lovers.

Cottage Pie
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a warm, hearty Vegan Cottage Pie. This plant-based version features a savoury filling made with lentils, mushrooms, carrots, and peas in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold winter night, and leftovers are even better the next day!

Aubergine Al Forno
A creamy, earthy Aubergine Al Forno is the ultimate cozy dinner option. Cooked with delicious roasted aubergines, 'creamy' sauch, and sautéed tomatoes, this dish is rich in flavour and texture. The classic Italian dish is made even better with a dash of nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan, giving it that cheesy, umami kick.

Wrapping Up Week 2

Congratulations on making it to Week 2 of Veganuary! This week’s meal plan is all about keeping things simple, satisfying, and stress-free. With these easy-to-make breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas, you’ll be able to stay on track and continue enjoying delicious plant-based meals. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you—whether that means experimenting with new ingredients, trying plant-based versions of your favourite comfort foods, or just keeping it simple with hearty bowls and salads.

Keep it up, and remember, every step you take toward a plant-based lifestyle is a step in the right direction. You’ve got this!