During the longer, warmer days of summer, fire up the barbecue and grill foods like these for a tempting meatless meal.
Grilling season may bring to mind fat steaks and burgers, but for many, the grill is becoming a smart way to cook more meatless choices. There’s little doubt that vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian and Meatless Monday diets are on the rise, thanks to increasing concern for the environment and a growing body of research pointing to the benefits of a plant-based diet. Science is uncovering more and more benefits of plant-based diets, rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, including:
- Reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer
- Increased longevity
- Easier weight management
This doesn’t mean you have to head straight into the vegan camp, though! Opting for a meatless meal just a few times a week is a great way to add nutritious foods to your diet and reap the benefits. During the longer, warmer days of summer, this may mean taking your cooking outside to that grill. Next time you fire up the barbecue, opt for foods like these for a tempting meatless meal:
- Avocado
- Black bean burgers
- Artichoke
- Marinated tofu
- Romaine lettuce
- Cucumbers
- Grapes
- Veggie pizza
Find many of these and more ideas and recipes at Meatless Monday.