My Favorite Vegan Options at Applebee’s (2023)
Navigating a restaurant menu can be a tad challenging for a vegan, but my visits to Applebee’s have always been a pleasant surprise. The array of vegan options available is quite delightful. Here’s a rundown of some of my favorites that not only satisfy the palate but also adhere to vegan dietary restrictions.
Appetizers
Pretzels
The pretzels from the Brew Pub Pretzels section are a simple yet satisfying start. Ordering just the pretzels without the honey mustard or cheese dip, and opting for regular mustard or marinara sauce instead, makes it a vegan-friendly choice. The soft, warm pretzels paired with tangy mustard or hearty marinara make for a comforting appetizer.
White Queso Dip Guacamole & Chips
A little modification to the White Queso Dip & Chips by substituting the queso with guacamole and/or chipotle lime salsa transforms this dish into a vegan delight. The crispy chips coupled with the creamy guacamole or the zesty chipotle lime salsa offer a burst of flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser among my vegan and non-vegan friends alike.
Salads
Strawberry Balsamic Salad
The Strawberry Balsamic Chicken Salad has a delightful twist for vegans. By replacing the chicken with an Impossible patty, you get a hearty meal. The fresh greens, garden tomatoes, red onions, sliced almonds, and fresh strawberries drizzled with balsamic glaze, accompanied by a lemon olive oil vinaigrette, make a tantalizing combination.
House Salad
A simple House Salad sans cheese and with a vegan dressing of choice is a refreshing option. The crispy, fresh veggies provide a light yet fulfilling experience.
Main Courses
Irresist-A-Bowls: Southwest Bowl
Modifying the Southwest Chicken Bowl by substituting chicken with an Impossible patty makes for a wholesome meal. The mixture of fresh greens, cilantro rice, house-made pico de gallo, black bean corn salsa, and guacamole topped with chimichurri and tortilla strips is a delightful fusion of flavors.
Burger: Impossible Cheeseburger
The Impossible Cheeseburger without the cheese is a savory choice for a hearty meal. The fact that the brioche bun is vegan too makes this burger a guilt-free indulgence.
Pasta: Pasta Noodles with Marinara
A comforting bowl of pasta noodles topped with marinara sauce is a simplistic yet satisfying vegan option. The rich tomato sauce over perfectly cooked noodles provides a homely comfort, a dish I find myself going back to time and again.
Sides
Baked Potato
A baked potato without butter or sour cream, but with a dollop of guacamole and/or chipotle lime salsa or a side of black bean corn salsa, makes for a warm, comforting side. It’s a versatile choice that pairs well with many main dishes.
Steamed Broccoli
Opting for steamed broccoli without butter is a healthy and light side option. Its freshness complements the other hearty dishes nicely.
Conclusion
Reflecting on these vegan options at Applebee’s reiterates the convenience and variety the restaurant offers to vegan patrons. I find the flexibility in modifying standard menu items to cater to vegan dietary preferences commendable, and I wholeheartedly encourage others to explore these delicious vegan options on their next visit to Applebee’s.
Helpful Resources
Did you find this guide useful? Here are a couple of my other guides on how to eat vegan at other restaurants:
