Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or simply looking to add more veggies into your diet and reduce how much meat you eat, you can broaden your culinary horizons and experiment with new foods by incorporating #MeatlessMondays into your weekly food rotation.
Loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, whole grains, fruits and vegetables are among the healthiest foods you can eat – not to mention eating less meat is a healthy break for our bodies and an opportunity to discover new dishes!
If you’re looking for some new ways to fill your #MeatlessMonday, try some of these fresh ideas:
BREAKFAST
It’s one of the most important meals of the day, so start it out the plant-based way with one of these easy, simple choices:
- Oatmeal – One of the easiest meals, oatmeal is packed with protein and whole grains to start your day off right. This is the perfect dish to season however you want – from sweet to savory, and by adding whatever fruits are in season. If you’re looking for a simple, no-cook breakfast, then give this Blueberry Banana Overnight Oats recipe a whirl. And if you love both oatmeal and pancakes, delicious Oatmeal Pancakes are the perfect dish.
- Smoothies – Smoothies are one of the best ways to include a large variety of produce in one meal. They make it oh so easy to eat healthy with fruit, vegetables, immune-boosting yogurt and other nutritious ingredients, many of which provide important protein, vitamins and minerals to keep your day on track. Whatever your taste, and whatever fruits and vegetables are in season, you can create endless flavorful smoothie combos. For an easy way to incorporate some fruit into your AM routine, blend up this Tropical Berry Smoothie from Dannon. You’ll never look at avocados the same after you try this Beet, Pineapple, Avocado and OJ Smoothie recipe from Avocados From Mexico.
LUNCH
From delicious hearty salad recipes that are easy to make and incredibly filling, to soup and heartier entrees, plant-based lunch options are endless. Here are a few of our faves:
- Soup – Nothing says comfort like a bowl of soup! With the arrival of fall and cooler temperatures, soup’s a lovely, nutritious way to warm up. You’ll turn to this classic Pumpkin Soup recipe again and again, but if you’re looking for something a bit heartier, Broccoli Potato Soup is tough to resist.
- Burgers – Still not ready to give up cooking on the barbecue? There’s no need to when the family tries these irresistible Caramelized Onion-Veggie Burgers. This Spicy Garlic Portabella Burger from the Mushroom Council is so hearty and tantalizing, you won’t miss the meat!
DINNER
Breakfast and lunch are usually easy to make vegetarian, but dinner can be a challenge without beef, chicken, turkey, fish or pork. Don’t fret! We have some filling and incredibly hearty and delicious dinner options for you to choose from:
- Veggie Bowl – A customizable recipe with endless variations, this meal makes it easy to pile on the veggies! Kids will also have a blast mixing and matching the ingredients to create the perfect bowl. If you’re looking for a healthier twist on a classic Mexican dish, then this Hearty Bean Burrito Bowl is for you. Looking for a way to brighten up some leftover rice and veggies? This Brown Rice Veggie Bowl with Lemon-Ginger Soy Dressing from Hyatt packs a punch.
- Tofu – Think tofu is bland and boring? Think again. This vegetarian staple is super versatile and full of protein. Try experimenting with different types of tofu, from soft silken tofu for smoothies and desserts to firm or dried tofu for stir fries and other savory dishes. Give it a try with this Grilled Teriyaki Tofu.
