If you’re planning a camping trip and looking to maintain a whole food plant-based diet, you might be concerned about the options available. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these 35 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that will keep you satisfied and energized during your outdoor adventure.
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about some essential tips and tricks for preparing and storing food while camping.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to plan ahead and make a list of all the ingredients you’ll need. This will help you avoid forgetting anything important and ensure that you have enough food for the duration of your trip.
When it comes to storing food, it’s best to use airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent moisture and critters from getting inside. You can also use a cooler with ice packs to keep your perishable items fresh.
It’s also important to keep your cooking equipment simple and lightweight. Consider investing in a portable stove or grill, along with a few pots, pans, and utensils that can be easily packed and transported.
Now, let’s explore some delicious whole-food plant-based camping recipes that you can enjoy on your next outdoor adventure!
- Vegan Chili
This hearty and flavorful vegan chili is the perfect meal for a chilly night around the campfire. Packed with protein and fiber from beans and vegetables, it will keep you full and satisfied all evening.
- Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is an excellent option for camping as it’s easy to prepare and can be made in one pot. This recipe includes carrots, celery, and onions, making it a nutrient-dense meal.
- Vegan Sloppy Joes
These vegan sloppy joes are a crowd-pleaser and can be made in advance and stored in a container for an easy dinner option. They are made with lentils and are high in protein and fiber.
- Chickpea Salad
This refreshing chickpea salad is perfect for a light lunch or snack while out hiking. It’s loaded with vegetables, chickpeas, and a lemony dressing that will keep you energized and satisfied.
- Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a perfect side dish for any camping trip. It’s easy to make and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
- Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a simple yet delicious option for a side dish or even a main course. You can grill zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a tasty and nutritious meal.
- Vegan Tacos
These vegan tacos are filled with black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, and avocado salsa. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
- Vegan Hot Dogs
These vegan hot dogs are made with carrot dogs, which are an excellent alternative to processed meat. They can be grilled over an open flame for an authentic camping experience.
- Vegan S’mores
No camping trip is complete without s’mores! These vegan s’mores are made with graham crackers, vegan chocolate, and vegan marshmallows for a delicious and satisfying treat.
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom Burgers
Grilled portobello mushroom burgers are a delicious and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional burgers. Simply marinate the mushrooms in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then grill them until tender and juicy. Serve on a whole grain bun with your favorite toppings like avocado, tomato, and lettuce.
- Vegetable Skewers
Vegetable skewers are a colorful and flavorful addition to any camping menu. Simply chop your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and mushrooms into bite-sized pieces and skewer them. Brush with olive oil and season with herbs and spices, then grill until tender.
- Vegan Bean Burgers
Vegan bean burgers are a hearty and delicious option for camping. Made with mashed black beans, oats, and spices, they can be cooked on a grill or over an open fire. Serve on a whole grain bun with your favorite toppings.
- Chickpea Stew
Chickpea stew is a comforting and filling option for cooler camping nights. Simply sauté onion, garlic, and carrots in olive oil, then add chickpeas, vegetable broth, and spices like cumin and coriander. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the stew is fragrant.
- Vegan Pasta Salad
Vegan pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish for hot camping days. Cook your favorite pasta and toss it with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Dress with a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
- Lentil Salad
Lentil salad is a protein-packed and nutritious dish that can be eaten cold or warm. Cook lentils until tender, then toss with chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes. Dress with a vinaigrette made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
- Vegan Curry
Vegan curry is a warming and comforting option for cooler camping nights. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in olive oil, then add chopped vegetables like sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and bell peppers. Add coconut milk, curry powder, and spices like cumin and coriander. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the curry is fragrant.
- Vegan Breakfast Burritos
Vegan breakfast burritos are a filling and delicious way to start your camping day. Cook tofu with spices like cumin and turmeric, then wrap it in a whole grain tortilla with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onion. Top with avocado and salsa.
- Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are a convenient and healthy breakfast option for camping. Mix rolled oats with your favorite plant milk and toppings like chopped nuts, fresh fruit, and cinnamon. Let sit in the fridge overnight and enjoy in the morning.
- Vegan Pancakes
Vegan pancakes are a classic breakfast option that can be made with simple plant-based ingredients. Mix flour, plant milk, baking powder, and a sweetener like maple syrup, then cook on a griddle or over an open fire. Serve with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Vegan Banana Bread
Vegan banana bread is a comforting and satisfying snack or breakfast option for camping. Mash ripe bananas, then mix with flour, plant milk, and a sweetener like maple syrup. Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips if desired. Bake in a cast iron skillet or over an open fire.
- Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Vegan chocolate chip cookies are a sweet and indulgent option for camping. Mix flour, plant-based butter or oil, sugar, and vegan chocolate chips, then bake in a cast iron skillet or over an open fire until golden brown.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are a simple and flavorful side dish for any camping meal. Simply slice sweet potatoes into rounds, brush with olive oil and season with herbs and spices like thyme and paprika. Roast in a cast iron skillet or over an open fire until tender and caramelized.
- Vegan S’mores
Vegan s’mores are a classic camping treat that can be made without animal products. Toast vegan marshmallows over an open fire, then sandwich them between graham crackers and a piece of vegan chocolate.
- Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a sweet and juicy dessert or snack option for camping. Simply slice pineapple into rounds and grill until tender and caramelized. Serve as is or with a dollop of coconut cream.
- Vegan Trail Mix
Vegan trail mix is a convenient and nutritious snack option for camping. Mix together a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits like almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and cranberries.
- Grilled Tofu
Grilled tofu is a flavorful and protein-packed option for camping. Simply marinate tofu in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger, then grill until charred and tender.
- Vegan Baked Beans
Vegan baked beans are a comforting and filling side dish for camping meals. Simply sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, then add canned beans, tomato sauce, and a sweetener like maple syrup or brown sugar. Simmer until thickened and fragrant.
- Vegan Chili
Vegan chili is a warming and flavorful option for cooler camping nights. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil, then add canned beans, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder. Simmer until the flavors meld together.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a simple and tasty side dish for camping meals. Simply brush corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, then grill until charred and tender.
- Vegan Caesar Salad
Vegan Caesar salad is a refreshing and flavorful option for camping meals. Toss chopped romaine lettuce with a vegan Caesar dressing made with ingredients like tofu, garlic, and nutritional yeast. Top with croutons made from whole grain bread.
- Vegan Coleslaw
Vegan coleslaw is a crunchy and flavorful side dish for camping meals. Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss with a dressing made from plant-based mayo, apple cider vinegar, and a sweetener like maple syrup. Season with herbs and spices like dill and mustard powder.
- Vegan Hummus
Vegan hummus is a creamy and flavorful dip for camping snacks. Simply blend cooked chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Serve with raw vegetables or whole grain crackers.
- Vegan Guacamole
Vegan guacamole is a fresh and flavorful dip for camping snacks. Mash ripe avocados with chopped onion, tomato, garlic, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Vegan Quesadillas
Vegan quesadillas are a cheesy and satisfying option for camping meals. Fill whole grain tortillas with plant-based cheese and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onion. Cook on a griddle or over an open fire until golden and crispy.
- Vegan Ramen Noodle Soup
Vegan ramen noodle soup is a comforting and filling option for camping meals. Simply bring vegetable broth to a simmer, then add ramen noodles and chopped vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, and carrots. Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a flavorful and satisfying soup.
Related: 30+ Make Ahead Vegan Camping Meal Ideas
Tips For Staying Healthy While Camping
Now that you have a variety of whole food plant-based camping recipes to choose from, let’s take a look at some tips for staying healthy while camping.
- Stay hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of water while camping, especially in warmer weather. Bring a refillable water bottle and aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water per day.
- Pack nutrient-dense foods: Choose foods that are high in nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you energized and satisfied throughout your camping trip.
- Bring snacks: Pack plenty of healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits and vegetables to keep you fueled between meals.
- Stay active: Take advantage of the outdoors and go for hikes, bike rides, or swim in a nearby lake to stay active and burn off calories.
- Practice good hygiene: Proper hygiene is essential for staying healthy while camping. Wash your hands frequently and bring hand sanitizer to use when water is not available.