12 Healthy Plant-Based Breakfast Recipes

You wake up refreshed after a good night’s sleep, ready to take on the day. But first, you need some fuel. As someone focused on healthy eating, you know a plant-based breakfast is the way to go.

You’ve tried some recipes before but want to mix it up. Well, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ve compiled 12 of the tastiest and most satisfying plant-based breakfast recipes out there.

From sweet to savory, filling to lighter, there’s something for every mood and every day of the week. Best of all, these recipes are easy to make and loaded with nutrition to power you through your morning.

So pour yourself a cup of coffee, tea or a smoothie and get ready to discover your new favorite breakfast meals. Your body and taste buds will thank you. Now, let’s get cooking!

Table of Contents

What Is a Healthy Plant-Based Breakfast?

A healthy plant-based breakfast gives you energy to start your day while keeping you full until lunchtime.

For starters, focus on whole foods like:

Oatmeal with nuts, seeds, and fruit. Oats are high in fiber and protein to keep you satisfied. Add in extras like flax or chia seeds, sliced almonds or walnuts, and top it off with fresh or frozen berries.
A veggie scramble. Sauté chopped kale, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions, then scramble in eggs or a vegan egg substitute. Serve with a side of beans, potatoes or a whole grain like quinoa.
A smoothie with greens. Blend a banana, berries, plant-based milk and a handful of spinach or kale. Greens add nutrition but you won’t even taste them.
Avocado toast. Mash half an avocado and spread it on whole grain toast. Top with lemon juice, salt and red pepper flakes. Avocados provide healthy fats to balance your blood sugar.

A good plant-based breakfast should also include:

A source of protein like nuts, seeds, nut butters, beans or a plant-based meat substitute. Aim for 10 to 15 grams to keep you full.
Healthy carbohydrates such as whole grain bread, oats or starchy veggies. Choose complex carbs over simple sugars.
Fruits and vegetables which provide fiber, vitamins and minerals. Berries, bananas, leafy greens and tomatoes are all great options.
Plant-based milk, yogurt or a dairy-free milk substitute to get calcium and other nutrients. Two to three cups is a good target.

With the right mix of foods, you’ll have an energizing breakfast to power you through your morning. Eating more plant-based meals is also good for your health and the planet. Why not start your day with a breakfast that checks all the boxes?

Benefits of Starting Your Day With Plants

Starting your day with plant-based breakfasts has some major perks.

For one, you’ll get a burst of energy that lasts. Whole grains, fruits, and veggies provide fiber, complex carbs, and nutrients for sustained fuel. No crash later!

Two, your brain and body will function better. Plant foods deliver compounds like antioxidants that promote cell health and protect your memory and cognitive abilities.

Three, your mood will improve. Plants have compounds like folate that help produce mood-regulating neurotransmitters in your brain. A balanced, feel-good mood can influence your whole day.

Four, you’ll maintain a healthy weight. High-volume, low-calorie plant foods fill you up without filling you out. They aid digestion and metabolism to support weight management.

Five, you’ll reduce disease risk. A diet high in plant foods and low in animal products is associated with lower risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Starting each day with plants helps you reap these long-term benefits.

In short, plant-based breakfasts are nutritional powerhouses that fuel you up, clear your mind, lift your mood, support your weight goals, and promote wellness. Make your mornings meatless and reap the rewards all day long.

12 Delicious Plant-Based Breakfast Recipes

1: Overnight Oats 3 Ways

Overnight oats are a perfect healthy breakfast option when you’re short on time. Simply combine oats, yogurt or milk and your favorite toppings before bed, then wake up to a delicious chilled bowl of oatmeal. The oats will soften as they soak overnight, creating a creamy texture. Here are three delicious ways to make overnight oats.

1. Berry Almond Oats

Combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup almond milk, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons honey and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract. Stir in 1/2 cup fresh berries of your choice such as raspberries, blueberries or sliced strawberries. Refrigerate overnight. Top with more berries, sliced almonds and a drizzle of honey before serving.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Oats

Mash 1 medium banana and combine with 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup milk of your choice, 2 tablespoons peanut butter, 2 tablespoons honey and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Refrigerate overnight. Top with extra banana slices, peanut butter, chopped peanuts and a drizzle of honey.

3. Pumpkin Spice Oats

Combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup milk of your choice, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Refrigerate overnight. Top with pepitas, dried cranberries, coconut flakes, maple syrup and extra pumpkin pie spice before serving.

Overnight oats are highly customizable. You can use dairy milk, non-dairy milk or yogurt and add in your favorite mix-ins like nut butters, fruits, spices or chocolate chips. The combinations are endless. Make a big batch on the weekend so you have breakfast ready for the week ahead. Your belly and taste buds will thank you!

2: Vegetable Omelets and Frittatas

A vegetable omelet or frittata is a perfect plant-based breakfast option. Eggs provide protein to keep you full, while vegetables add volume, nutrition and flavor.

Ingredients

For a single-serve omelet, you’ll need:

2-3 eggs
1/4 cup milk or water
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped veggies such as spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, broccoli, etc.
2 tablespoons shredded cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

Whisk the eggs, milk/water and salt and pepper in a bowl. Add in the chopped veggies and cheese (if using) and stir to combine.
Heat the olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture.
As the omelet begins to set, use a spatula to gently push the eggs from the edge into the center, tilting the pan to allow the uncooked egg to flow underneath.
When the omelet is nearly set, take the pan off the heat. Place your filling ingredients on half of the omelet.
Fold the bare half of the omelet over the filling and slide onto a plate.
Garnish with salsa, avocado, scallions or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your healthy and delicious breakfast!

A frittata is made similarly, but instead of folding the egg over a filling, you simply mix the fillings directly into the eggs before cooking and broil the frittata briefly at the end to cook the top. Either way, a veggie-packed omelet or frittata is a perfect plant-based breakfast to energize your day.

3: Avocado Toast Upgrade

Take your avocado toast to the next level with these healthy additions.

Smashed Chickpeas

Mash one 15-ounce can of chickpeas and spread it on your toast with the avocado. Chickpeas add protein, fiber and a creamy texture. Season with lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Roasted Veggies

Roast veggies like bell peppers, zucchini and eggplant, then pile them on top of the avocado. The roasted veggies enhance the flavor of the avocado and make it more of a meal.

Hummus

Spread hummus on the toast before adding the avocado. Hummus provides protein and healthy fats, and its creamy texture pairs perfectly with avocado.

Kimchi or Sauerkraut

Add some probiotic kimchi or sauerkraut. Fermented foods aid digestion and give the avocado toast a spicy kick.

Nut or Seed Butter

Swap half the avocado for your favorite nut or seed butter like almond or sunflower seed butter. Nut butters provide healthy fats and protein to balance the carbohydrates from the toast.

Poached or Scrambled Egg

Top your avocado toast with a poached or scrambled egg. The runny egg yolk helps create a creamy sauce for the avocado and toast. Eggs are a perfect accompaniment, adding protein to make it a balanced breakfast.

•Consider mashing the avocado and spreading it on both pieces of toast to make an avocado toast sandwich with your favorite add-ins in the middle.

•For extra nutrition, use a whole grain, seeded or sprouted bread.

•Add lemon or lime juice, sea salt, and crushed red pepper flakes for some zest.

•Mix in diced tomatoes, red onion or cilantro for freshness.

4: Smoothie Bowls

Smoothie bowls are a delicious way to start your day with a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables. For an extra nutritious bowl, add in plant-based proteins and superfoods.

Chia pudding

Chia seeds are a perfect smoothie bowl addition. Soak 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds in 1 cup of plant-based milk for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Add to your smoothie base for a protein boost. Chia pudding has a tapioca-like texture and is packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Nut butters

Swirl in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite nut or seed butter for healthy fats and protein. Almond butter, peanut butter, and sunflower seed butter all work great. Nut butters add richness, creaminess and a slight nutty flavor to smoothie bowls.

Granola

For extra crunch, top your smoothie bowl off with a few tablespoons of homemade or store-bought granola. Look for a granola with natural ingredients and not too much added sugar. Granola provides fiber, protein and healthy fats to keep you full.

Fresh fruit

No smoothie bowl is complete without fresh fruit. Berries, bananas, mango and kiwi are all great options. Chopped fruit adds natural sweetness, texture, color and nutrients like vitamin C. Aim for 1-2 cups of mixed fruit on top of your smoothie bowl.

Coconut

Shredded coconut, coconut flakes or coconut chips make a tasty topping. Coconut adds a tropical twist plus manganese, copper and B vitamins. Just 2 tablespoons provides fiber, protein and healthy fats.

With the right mix of smoothie base, toppings and add-ins, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying smoothie bowl to power you through your morning. Experiment by mixing and matching different fruits, nuts, seeds and grains to find your perfect combination.

5: Tofu Scrambles

Tofu scrambles are a delicious, protein-packed way to start your day. Silken or soft tofu works best for scrambles.

Ingredients:

1 pound soft or silken tofu, drained
2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for spice)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Press the tofu for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Crumble it with your fingers into small chunks.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper and garlic and sauté until the veggies are tender, about 5 minutes.
Add the crumbled tofu, turmeric, chili powder (if using), salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the tofu is heated through, about 5 more minutes.
You can also add other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini or spinach and fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano or rosemary.
For extra protein, mix in cooked grains like rice, quinoa or farro or top your scramble with avocado, nuts or nut butters.

A tofu scramble is a perfect plant-based breakfast that will give you energy to start your day. Customize it with your favorite veggies, spices and mix-ins for a healthy, satisfying first meal. Enjoy your scramble on its own, in a wrap or on toast. The possibilities are endless!

6: Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos and Sandwiches

Making breakfast burritos and sandwiches ahead of time is a great way to ensure you have a healthy, homemade breakfast option even when you’re rushed in the morning.

Create a burrito or sandwich bar with all the fixings and let everyone build their own. Some protein-packed fillings to include are:

Black beans
Diced potatoes
Scrambled tofu
Shredded zucchini and carrots

Provide lots of veggies like:

Spinach
Bell peppers
Mushrooms
Tomatoes

Don’t forget extras such as:

Avocado
Salsa
Nut butter
Hummus

Use whole grain tortillas, bread, or lettuce leaves for the wraps. Once assembled, wrap tightly in foil, plastic wrap, or reusable beeswax food wraps and refrigerate.

In the morning, grab one from the fridge, unwrap and enjoy! For an easy reheat, place unwrapped in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Burritos and sandwiches will last up to 5 days refrigerated.

For extra nutrition, consider making and freezing a batch of breakfast hash, fruit salad, or overnight oats to have on the side. A balanced, homemade breakfast will fuel you up and give you energy to take on your day. With a bit of planning, you’ve got a quick, healthy breakfast option all set for the week ahead.

7: Plant-Based Pancakes and Waffles

Plant-based pancakes and waffles are a delicious and healthy breakfast option. Ditch the eggs and dairy and try one of these recipes:

Banana Oat Pancakes

Mash 2-3 bananas and combine with 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup plant-based milk, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the batter in circles, flipping once, until golden brown. Top with maple syrup, fruit, or your favorite toppings.

Buckwheat Pancakes

Whisk together 1 cup buckwheat flour, 1 cup plant-based milk, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 2 tbsp olive oil, and 1 tsp baking powder. The batter should be slightly thicker than regular pancake batter. Cook on a hot griddle, turning once, until browned. Buckwheat has an earthy, nutty flavor and is high in protein.

Blueberry Waffles

Blend 1.5 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tsp baking powder,1/2 tsp salt. Add 1 cup plant-based milk, 1/3 cup oil, 1 tsp vanilla and mix until just combined. Gently fold in 1 cup blueberries. Cook in a preheated waffle iron until golden brown. The waffles will be crisp on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside, studded with bursts of blueberry flavor in each bite.

•Use coconut or almond flour for grain-free and gluten-free options.

•Add in mix-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or fresh or frozen fruit.

•Top your pancakes and waffles with coconut whipped cream, nut butters, or dairy-free yogurt.

•For extra protein, use a plant-based protein powder.

A delicious, healthy breakfast is a great way to start your day. Give these plant-based pancake and waffle recipes a try—your taste buds will thank you!

8: Chia Puddings

Chia puddings are a creamy, protein-packed way to start your day. Chia seeds are tiny but mighty, loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. When soaked in liquid, they swell up and develop a tapioca-like texture. You can customize chia puddings with your favorite mix-ins and toppings.

To make a basic chia pudding, combine:

1/3 cup chia seeds
2 cups non-dairy milk (like almond or coconut milk)
2 tbsp maple syrup (or sweetener of your choice)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a jar or container and stir well to combine. Refrigerate overnight, stirring once during that time. The chia seeds will absorb most of the liquid, thickening the pudding.

Before serving, give the pudding a stir. You can top it with:

•Fresh or frozen fruit like berries, bananas, or mango

•Nuts like almonds, walnuts or pecans

•Nut or seed butters

•Cinnamon, nutmeg or cocoa powder

•Coconut flakes

Chia puddings will last up to 5 days refrigerated. The texture may continue to thicken over time – just stir in a splash of milk before eating.

Chia puddings provide lasting energy to fuel your morning. They require minimal effort but yield a decadent treat. With so many possible mix-ins and toppings, you can enjoy a different version each day of the week! Why not try chocolate chia pudding, peanut butter banana chia pudding or berry chia pudding next? Your taste buds will thank you.

9: Granola and Muesli

Granola and muesli are healthy, delicious plant-based breakfast options packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients. Homemade versions are simple to make and allow you to control the ingredients. Here’s how to whip up a batch of granola or muesli to enjoy all week long:

Granola

Preheat the oven to 300°F and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1/2 cup chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, 1/3 cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds, and 1/3 cup shredded coconut.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir to coat evenly.
Spread the granola onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, until lightly browned.
Let cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. The granola can be enjoyed with milk or yogurt, as a topping for fruit, or by the handful as a snack.

Muesli

In a large bowl, combine 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup chopped nuts, 1/2 cup shredded coconut, and 1/2 cup dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, apricots or cherries.
Add 1 cup milk or nondairy milk like almond or oat milk and stir to combine. Cover and chill in the refrigerator overnight.
Before serving, you can add more milk for a porridge-like consistency or enjoy as is. Top your muesli with fresh fruit, more nuts and seeds, yogurt or nut butter.

Muesli and granola provide a perfect plant-based balance of protein, healthy fats and fiber to energize your morning. Whip up a batch to enjoy all week long!