Hello Dear Friends,
Here are some wonderful tips that work for “all eaters”. 🙂
Enjoy!!
k xoxo
7 Healthy-Eating Lessons to Steal from Vegetarians
Reap the benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle without giving up meat altogether.
By Samantha B. Cassetty, M.S., R.D. and Ann Lokuta
Adding meatless marinara to noodles and calling it dinner every night is an easy trap to fall into. Processed grains, such as whitepasta, crackers, and bread are not the most nutritious meat substitute. Besides, carb-loading on a plate of pasta isn’t going to do your waistline any favors. Bust out of your pasta rut with our Vegetarian Tacos.
When veggies take center stage on your dinner plate, they warrant more attention than when they’re shoved to the side like an afterthought. Seek out seasonings and spices to play up your produce. This savory Spinach and Raisin Sauté is a 10-minute meal that proves how simple it is to whip up truly tasty vegetarian fare. Or, try our delectable Grilled Eggplant Parmesan.
With meat out of the picture, many vegetarians struggle to hit their daily protein requirements. Think outside the box and experiment with high-protein grains, like quinoa, as well as other protein-packed foods like beans, nuts, and seeds. Even if you’re not kicking all animal products to the curb, substituting plant-based protein for meat even a few days a week is good habit. Lowering the amount of unhealthy animal fats in your diet can improve your health, save you money, and help the environment. One way to do it: Add ½ cup of edamame to our Warm Quinoa Salad with Toasted Almonds for a satiating meal.
Because pasta gets old (and it’s not a healthy option for nightly dinners anyway) add whole grains to your grocery list. Whole grains, such as quinoa, brown rice, and rolled oats, are a flavorful way to sneak nutrients into your meals. Trade your spaghetti for our veggie-loaded Brown Rice Salad.
You’ll find the least processed, freshest – and healthiest – foods in your grocer’s outer aisles. The inner aisles are reserved for processed, packaged foods, so shop these sparingly. Next time you’re at the market, roam freely through the produce department. Grab your usual staples and throw in a few colorful veggies and fruits you’ve never tried. Leave yourself a bit of time to hit the aisles stocked with whole grains, canned beans, nuts, and other healthful packaged goodies. Don’t forget to make a list (and stick to it) for your non-produce items — this will make it easier to ignore those chocolate chip cookies (which are, admittedly, vegetarian!) calling your name.
A smart vegetarian tries her best not to plow through a bowl of potato chips because it’s the only non-meat choice at the party. Instead, she’ll always have a bag of nuts, piece of fruit, or chopped veggies readily available to snack on until she can get her hands on a real meal. In a moment of hunger, even meat eaters might be tempted to gorge on junk food if it’s handy. Arm yourself against unhealthy binges by stashing nutritious goodies in your purse or car. This way, you’ll be less tempted to stop for fast food on your way home from work. These high-fiber, protein-packed Spiced Munchies will get you through any snack emergencies.




