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10 tasty vegetarian recipes

October 03, 2019 | Heather Shannon
vegetarian woman cooking dinner

So, you're ready to try eating less meat. Perhaps you're considering ditching it altogether and going vegan.

You're in good company. Many people are exploring a more plant-based diet, whether it's for better health or to reduce their carbon footprint.

Sherry Schulman, a registered dietitian and nutritionist at the UCI Health Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, recommends choosing whole foods such as:

  • High-fiber whole grains
  • Vegetables
  • Fruit

They’re easier to digest than processed foods, which is one reason we tend to feel better when eating them. Processed foods also often contain unhealthy oils, sugars, nitrates and other ingredients.

We have your back with a slew of recipes that are either vegetarian, or can adapted to be vegetarian. We think you'll find that despite the lack of meat, it's possible to enjoy a tasty meal, get a variety of nutrients and feel completely satisfied.

feta spinach breakfast tacos

Feta spinach breakfast tacos ›

Whip these up in advance for a healthy breakfast.

quinoa bowl with egg, black beans, avocado

Quinoa bowls with egg and avocado ›

Quinoa, black beans and egg provide a high-protein start to your day.

chickpea salad

Chickpea salad sandwiches ›

Chickpeas are meaty, filling and high in fiber.

stuffed red bell peppers

Stuffed red bell peppers ›

Leave out the ground turkey and you've got a great dinner for Meatless Monday.

chilled lentil salad

Chilled lentil salad ›

The health benefits of lentils include lower cholesterol, lower heart disease risk and stabilized blood sugar.

mediterranean vegetable strata

Mediterranean vegetable strata ›

A Mediterranean diet calls for less red meat and more vegetables.

black bean vegetable chili

Black bean and veggie chili ›

Swap out ground beef for crumbled tofu to make this recipe vegan.

stir-fried bok choy and tofu

Stir-fried bok choy with baked tofu ›

Tofu is one of the best sources of protein for vegetarians, clocking in at 10 grams per half cup.

pumpkin stew vegetarian

Spiced pumpkin stew ›

Swap out chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this warm stew vegetarian.

beet pasta salad

Beet and whole-wheat pasta salad ›

Beets are firm and meaty, making them a satisfying choice for those on a plant-based diet.