I went vegetarian a couple years ago. Since I stopped eating pork about 25 years ago, it’s been a goal of mine. When I started having more health problems, I decided something had to change.
Technically, I’m Pescatarian; meaning I’ll eat seafood from time to time. It’s pretty rare, since its hard to get good, fresh seafood in Arizona.
And, I’ll be honest – it’s easier to say vegetarian walking into a restaurant, than explain what I can and can’t eat.
I made the mistake of doing it (pardon the pun) “cold turkey”, too. I took a huge blow to my system and would have been better off having weaned a meat out, every month or so, rather than just cutting myself completely off.
My husband is not vegetarian in any way, shape or form. I will cook him anything he wants and never deny him a burger or supreme pizza if that’s what he desires. Granted, he rarely eats any meat, out of support for my choice.
But, here’s the thing…
It’s MY choice.
I made the decision for me, and it’s not my place to make it, or push it, on anyone else.
I dislike self-righteous vegetarian and vegan folks as much as you carnivorous types.
However, studies do show that reducing your meat intake, by even one day a week, can vastly improve health.
Hence, Meatless Monday was born.
I can’t take credit for its creation, only perpetuate it.
I love to cook and enjoy discovering new recipes to experiment with. I’m one of those, “I have X, Y and Z, so let’s see what happens” types, too.
I know it’s Labor Day, and the last “official” cook-out of the summer, but don’t forget your meatless friends when you “fire up the barbie” today!
Now, a few do include bacon or the like, but it’s easy enough to substitute with a meat-like product (soy or Portobello mushroom, for example), or omit it all together.
Don’t fret if this isn’t the Monday for you to give it a try! I’m sure you’ll see this post, re-posted, often.
I have also broken this down into categories: Appetizers and Snacks, Main Meals, Side Dishes and Desserts – take that as you will. You may find an appetizer to be enough for a meal, or a side is more of an appetizer.
Your kitchen, your call.
Also, some recipes are vegan, but most are not. I do consume dairy, honey and eggs (where vegans consume no animal products whatsoever), so use your discretion on what’s right for you.
APPETIZERS AND SNACKS:
Buffalo Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
Eggplant Chips With Tahini Pesto
Fried Pickles And Dipping Sauce
Herb Dip And Vegetable Crudite
Goat Cheese Poppers With Honey
Jalepeno Popper Stuffed Mushrooms
MAIN DISHES:
Tomato, Spinach And Goat Cheese Pasta
Corn, Zucchini And Black Bean Enchiladas
Butternut Squash Enchilada Casserole
SIDE DISHES:
Slow Cooker Corn With Flavored Butters
New Potatoes With Garlic And Herbs
Balsamic Grilled Summer Squash
Roasted Vegetable Salad With Cilantro Cashew Cream
DESSERTS:
Raspberry Peanut Butter Truffles
Lavender Cupcakes With Honey Frosting
Pineapple Vodka Ice Pops With Berries And Cilantro
There you have it! More than 50 meatless recipes for Monday, or any day! If you’re concerned about protein, these ten veggies are protein rich, as are these ten, plant based sources.
