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Lifestyle

21 Vegetarian Meals Anyone Can Make

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at JHU chapter.

Before you know it, the weekend is over and it’s the dreaded Monday again. However, Monday can also be a reset button where you recommit to healthy behaviors, including diet and exercise. Enter Meatless Monday.

It takes 47 times more water to produce a single pound of beef compared to a pound of vegetables. It also takes 11 times more energy from fossil fuels to produce 1 kcal of animal protein compared to 1 kcal of grain.

Going meat-free just one day a week can benefit the environment, your health, and even challenge you to try new foods. So, next Monday, try a new recipe and you may discover that vegetarian options can be just as delicious and filling.

Sweet Potato, Kale, and Chickpea Bowl

meatless meals monday

Photo by Megan Prendergast

This healthy, colorful bowl is chock full of nutritious and flavorful ingredients that are guaranteed to keep you full.

Zucchini Meatballs

meatless meals monday

Photo by Rebecca Siminov

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be incorporated into many dishes – including meatballs. You can make these in under an hour. Watch the video here.

Mushroom Garlic Risotto

meatless meals monday

Photo by Emily Hu

There is nothing more comforting than creamy, hot risotto. Add a variety of mushrooms in such as porcini, white mushrooms, and portabello.

Eggplant Parmesan

meatless meals monday

Photo by Helena Lin

Got a case of the Mondays? Cozy up to a big pot of eggplant parm with a side of crusty bread.

Black Bean Burger with Sriracha Aioli

meatless meals monday

Photo by Parisa Soraya

Black beans are full of protein and fiber, so this vegetarian alternative will leave you just as satisfied. Slap on some sriracha aioli, veggies and avocado and you’re good to go.

Cheesy Quinoa Fritters

meatless meals monday

Photo by Leandra Caprini-Rosica

If you’re craving mac and cheese, try this healthier, protein-rich alternative. Cheesy-licious.

Baked Cauliflower with Parmesan

meatless meals monday

Photo by Kai Huang

Roast some garlicky, Parmesan cauliflower to serve as an appetizer or side dish.

Fresh Farro Salad

meatless meals monday

Photo by Nathalie Kent

Farro, a healthy whole grain with a nutty taste, is full of fiber and minerals. Try it in risottos, soups, or in a salad like this recipe this one.

Shakshuka

meatless meals monday

Photo by Ashley Manning

Shakshuka is typically eaten as a breakfast dish in Israel, however it can also be a filling and tasty lunch or dinner. Serve with crusty bread or pita to soak up all that tomato-egg goodness.

Tomato, Onion & Basil One-Pan Pasta

meatless meals monday

Photo by Abigail Wang

Did someone say one pan? That’s right, this pasta only takes one pan to make. Buh bye dishwater gloves.

French Onion Soup Grilled Cheese

meatless meals monday

Photo by Max Faucher

Grilled cheese and French onion soup are two comfort foods that you can always rely on. Why not combine them together? Check out this video recipe.

Deconstructed Vegan Sushi Bowl

meatless meals monday

Photo by Catherine Baker

The savory flavors of sushi don’t have to be enjoyed in roll form. Make a deconstructed sushi bowl so you can get your sushi fix while also sneaking in more vegetables. Find the recipe here.

Roasted Carrots with Carrot Top Pesto

meatless meals monday

Photo by Becky Hughes

Not only is this a delicious veggie combo, but it also uses vegetable scraps to help reduce food waste. #doublewin

Black Bean and Butternut Squash Tacos

meatless meals monday

Photo by Katherine Baker

Taco Tuesday or not, you enjoy some delicious veggie tacos. You only need a few ingredients but feel free to add more if you wanna get fancy shmancy.

Sweet and Spicy Chickpea Curry

meatless meals monday

Photo by Kevin B. Kiefer

Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein. Try this sweet, savory, and creamy curry recipe that will have you screaming for more.

Zucchini Noodles

meatless meals monday

Photo by Emily Hu

If you haven’t tried zoodles yet, now is the time. You can simply use a vegetable peeler to make the zoodles. Add some pesto and tomatoes for a light, delicious meal.

Roasted Carrot Soup & Caramelized Onion and Hummus Sandwich

meatless meals monday

Photo by Megan Prendergast

If you can’t decide between two foods, why not make both? Whip up this scrumptious soup and sandwich combo for a Panera-esque “you pick two” meal.

Butternut Squash and Caramelized Onion Flatbread

meatless meals monday

Photo by Emily Hu

Butternut squash, a fall favorite, has an abundance of fiber and carotenoids that are good for you. Roast them on a flatbread and your taste buds will thank you.

Burrata Caprese Crostini

meatless meals monday

Photo by Max Bartick

It’s almost too pretty to eat. Almost. Serve as an appetizer or a light snack. After all, it only takes 10 minutes.

Sofritas Bowl

meatless meals monday

Photo by Katherine Baker

Craving Chipotle? Make your own sofritas bowl at home with this recipe. Your wallet will thank you.

Warm Beet Salad with Beet Greens & Stems

meatless meals monday

Photo by Becky Hughes

For all you beet lovers out there, this one’s for you.