Bacon and eggs for breakfast? You bet. How about a nice turkey and cheese sandwich for lunch? Nothing like it. And then for dinner you belly up to a juicy chicken breast with a side of rice and green beans? My favorite. The majority of our meals throughout the week revolve around meat in some form.

But it’s that time of year again. The season of Lent has begun, which means it’s the season of meatless Fridays. So for all you carnivores who just fell into a fit of hysterics because you can’t have your chicken, sausage and bacon pizza for dinner, listen up.

Here are six satisfying meals for Lenten Friday that will make you forget you ever missed meat in the first place.

Breakfast:

1. Omelets

lenten friday

Photo by Jessica Kelly

Don’t worry, you can still have your eggs. Why not try them in omelet form. When you load it up with cheese and veggies an omelet can be a scrumptious and satisfying breakfast on its own.

If you want something to really swoon over, give this veggie breakfast burrito a whirl.

2. Oatmeal

lenten friday

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Schwabe

Nothing is more comforting than a warm bowl of oatmeal on a chilly winter morning. And the best part is you can add your own personal touch every time. Try it sprinkled with fruit and nuts then drizzle it with some honey. Or try pumpkin spice oatmeal for a new twist.

Lunch:

3. Wraps and Sandwiches

lenten friday

Photo by Alexa Iammatteo

The best thing about wraps and sandwiches is how many choices you have. Even without meat options, you could still enjoy your sliced bread smothered with tuna or egg salad. Or try a veggie wrap with hummus or avocado. Lunchmeat is so yesterday anyway.

 4. Salad

lenten friday

Photo by Caitlin Dougher

Come on, the salad bar won’t bite. Not to mention a salad can make a really satisfying lunch. Top that baby with beans, chickpeas or even eggs, add your favorite dressing and you’ve got yourself a protein-packed salad to power you through the afternoon.

If a plate of leaves isn’t your thing you could always opt for a pasta or quinoa salad. Maybe this apple-citrus quinoa salad will suit your fancy.

 Dinner:

5. Fish

lenten friday

Photo by Jessica Kelly

I know what you’re thinking, “How original.” But there are so many different kinds of fish and even more ways to prepare it. From honey mustard salmon with mango salsa and Ritz crusted tilapia to beer-battered cod to fish tacos, there’s no way you could get bored.

 6. Pasta

lenten friday

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Schwabe

Who doesn’t love this Italian classic? Carb-load up on Friday’s with your favorite bowl of noodles. Pair it with a buttery slice of garlic bread and this meal will be delizioso. Impress your friends and get fancy with it by making this tantalizing recipe.  

And there you have it. A full day of eats without any meat in sight. Now was that so bad?

Ready to jump on the meat-free bandwagon? Check out these links: