116 dairy-free vegetable mains for two

Build the meal around a substantial vegetable component, then vary the supporting ingredient to suit both of you. A tray of vegetables, a pot of rice, or a tomato-based mixture can work with chicken, fish, beans or tofu, so the shared preparation stays the same while preferences still have room. Choose two or three such meals in a week, rather than trying to make every dinner radically different.

Vegetables provide volume and fibre, but many people also need protein and a satisfying starch to stay full. Pair them with beans, lentils, eggs, tofu, fish, chicken or meat, then add rice, potatoes, noodles or another grain when the dish needs more staying power. Fat also affects satisfaction, so use a sensible amount of oil, avocado, nuts or seeds where the recipe allows, without relying on dairy.

Start by agreeing on three different shapes of meal, such as a one-pot dish, a quick stir-fry and something baked. Add variety in protein and texture, and check that the vegetables overlap enough to make shopping manageable without making the week repetitive. Nomme is useful here because both people select from the same set, so the plan is built from genuine overlap rather than one person quietly conceding each night.