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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Louisville chapter.

Better late than ever!

I think it’s about time that Earth Day gets the recognition it deserves! The theme for this year’s Earth Day is climate action! What better way to make a difference than cutting livestock products out of your diet? The meat industry is a huge contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, so taking a step back will not only decrease your risk of several health issues, but also help work towards a sustainable future. Take action this Earth Day by learning how to make a fun, light, and fresh vegan cookout to celebrate 50th ANNIVERSARY of Earth Day!!! 

Italian Pasta Salad 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 box of bowtie pasta 
  • ½ cup of cherry tomatoes cut in half 
  • 1 small can of halved black olives 
  • 1 chopped green bell pepper 
  • ½ sliced red onion 
  • ½ cup of chopped fresh parsley 
  • ½ teaspoon of oregano 
  • 1 tablespoon of garlic powder 
  • 1 tablespoon of onion powder 
  • ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes 
  • ½  cup of olive oil 
  • ½ cup of zesty Italian dressing 

Instructions: 

  1. Cook pasta according to directions on the box 
  2. Once drained, run cold water over the pasta 
  3. Combine spices, olive oil, and zesty Italian dressing 
  4. Combine pasta and vegetables together in a bowl  
  5. Add the dressing into the bowl and toss 
  6. Add salt and pepper to taste and enjoy! 

Now something to throw on the grill: A Veggie Medley 

Ingredients: 

  • Eggplant 
  • Squash 
  • Onions 
  • Peppers 
  • Brussel sprouts 
  • Radishes 

Instructions: 

  1. Slice vegetables 
  2. Toss in olive oil with salt and pepper 
  3. Heat grill to 350 degrees, place vegetables in grill skillet, and toss every 5 minutes 
  4. Take off in 15 minutes and enjoy! 

Kale Salad: 

Ingredients: 

  • Kale 
  • Cabbage 
  • Carrots 
  • Lemon poppy seed dressing 
  • Cranberries 
  • Chopped pecans 
  • Sliced almonds 

Instructions: 

  1. This one is too easy! Just chop the kale and slice the cabbage and carrots. 
  2. Combine everything in a big bowl and dig in! 

Be sure to soak in the sun and appreciate the nature around you!

I am a senior at the University of Louisville majoring in Public Health with a Sociology minor. I am passionate about dismantling the systemic inequity within our healthcare system and preventing adverse mental and physical health conditions. I enjoy hiking, kayaking, cooking, reading/researching, and playing bass and trumpet.
Campus Correspondent at the University of Louisville I am an International Affairs and Communication major and minoring in French and marketing at the University of Louisville. If I am not studying, I am at the UofL Student Rec Center where I teach cycling/spin classes!