Hi, I’m Michaela Vais – the creator behind ElaVegan
Welcome! I’m a recipe developer, food photographer, and the author of the bestselling cookbook Simple and Delicious Vegan. Here, I share whole-food, plant-based, and mostly gluten-free recipes that are nourishing, allergy-friendly, and easy to make.
Why I do what I do
Before becoming a full-time blogger, I worked as a pharmaceutical technical assistant in a German pharmacy. There, I saw firsthand how many people rely on medication for chronic conditions that, in some cases, may be improved with a healthier lifestyle. This experience inspired my shift to plant-based cooking.
Since going vegan in 2011, I’ve experienced life-changing health improvements. I used to suffer from Hashimoto’s and adult acne in my early 30s. Transitioning to a whole-food plant-based diet—and mostly avoiding gluten—helped me support my skin and thyroid naturally. Today, I live medication-free and feel healthier than ever.
In 2024, at almost 44, I gave birth to a healthy daughter, which I consider one of my greatest personal blessings.
My journey as a content creator
I started posting vegan food content on Instagram in 2015. Since then, my @elavegan account has grown to over 1.2 million followers.
In 2019, I was honored to be nominated for the Influencer Awards Monaco in the Food category—an unforgettable milestone in my career.
In January 2023, I published my first cookbook Simple and Delicious Vegan, which features 100 gluten-free, plant-based recipes designed to be delicious, approachable, and family-friendly.
My work has been featured by…
…and more. Millions of readers visit my blog each month for plant-based recipes they know and trust.
What you’ll find on ElaVegan
- Vegan and gluten-free recipes
- Allergy-friendly options and substitution tips
- Refined sugar-free and often oil-free
- Step-by-step photos
- Simple ingredients, big flavor
I test every recipe multiple times to ensure they’re not only nutritious, but also practical for everyday life. I also share behind-the-scenes content and value direct feedback from readers—many of whom tell me my recipes helped them transition to a plant-based lifestyle with confidence.
You will find vegan desserts such as cakes, brownies, etc. on my page but also main dishes like pizza, curries, casseroles, soups, snacks, etc.
“Eating plants is not a sacrifice, it’s a pleasure and a conscious choice to honor your body, mind and soul” by @elavegan
My mission
I believe that plant-based eating should be joyful, accessible, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re fully vegan, just curious, or managing food intolerances—my goal is to support you with real-life-tested, flavor-packed recipes you’ll love.
*Disclaimer: I’m a certified pharmaceutical technical assistant with a background in pharmacy. However, this content is based on personal experience and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider regarding dietary changes or health conditions.
