Taking the first step to making a change in your life can be difficult. You’ll need time to adjust to that change in order to fully embrace the new journey you’ve decided to take. At first, you’ll find yourself second guessing your decision, asking if you could really go through with whatever it is you want to change. And at some point, you try and make up excuses as to why you shouldn’t make that change. I’ve been there, done that, and got over it because that great change I made in my life was deciding to become a vegetarian.
I wish I can say that it was easy from the beginning, but that would be a huge lie. I struggled. A lot. Which was to be expected, but I can now say that I’ve never been more proud of myself for sticking to a lifestyle that many simply cannot do. I had to learn how to nourish my body in a completely different way and find creative ways to cook meals that gave me all my nutrition without eating any meat. I’m here to share a few of my favorite plant-based dishes that contain a good source of protein along with protein substitutes that I find easy to cook and affordable.
- Spaghetti and meatballs is my go-to meal that I love to cook and eat. It’s quick to whip up after a long day at school (or work) and the best thing is that you’ll have yummy leftovers for the next day. The great thing about becoming a vegetarian or vegan nowadays is that there are various plant-based frozen products sold almost anywhere. You can buy any frozen plant-based meatballs from the grocery store and simmer them into your preferred pasta sauce. It probably takes between 40 to 50 minutes to prepare. Add some garlic bread on the side and you’re set.
- You can’t beat a good burrito bowel. Overall, this probably takes less than 30 minutes to make. Just cook up your favorite kind of rice and beans, I like using white rice and pinto beans, and mix in your toppings. I usually add sour cream, salsa, tomatoes, avocado, corn, and lime juice.
- If you love hummus, then you’re going to love this next recipe. I’ve discovered that there’s not many sandwiches that cater to vegetarians when you go out to eat, but I’ve learned that you can just make a bomb one at home. A hummus sandwich is the perfect quick lunch to throw together. All you need is bread, your favorite hummus, and veggies you love and you got yourself a healthy meal. Don’t forget to add your choice of chips on the side!
- Stir fry is great for when you’re craving Chinese food. It’s extremely easy to make. All you need to do is add some olive oil to a cooking pan and stir in some vegetables. I also like including cubed tofu into the mix, that way I can have protein. Most stores sell sweet and sour sauce, or my fav, General Tso.
- And last, but certainly not least, at least according to Pinterest, there’s the loaded baked sweet potato (or a regular potato if you prefer). This recipe has a longer cook time than the others since it takes over an hour to prepare, but trust me, it’s worth it in the end. I wasn’t much of a fan of sweet potatoes growing up, but as I got older and less picky, I realized how good they can be. After the sweet potato comes out the oven, I like to add a few toppings to it, which includes: butter, sour cream, guacamole, and pinto beans. I know that may seem odd, but don’t knock it til’ you try it.