Vegetarian Recipes
By: Rose Hirsch

In choosing a vegetarian diet you may be simultaneously helping the environment and improving your health. At present, food systems account for a substantial use of natural resources and contribute considerably to climate change, degradation of land, and water use. Additionally, current dietary patterns, rich in animal products and excessive in calories, are detrimental to both human beings and the planet. In order to resolve the diet-environment-health trilemma, dietary changes are essential. Vegetarian diets are reported to be healthy options. Most plant-sourced foods are less resource-intense and taxing on the environment than the production of animal-derived foods, particularly meat and dairy.

When people think about a vegetarian diet, they typically think about a diet that doesn't include meat, poultry, or fish. But vegetarian diets vary in what foods they include and exclude:

To get the most out of a vegetarian diet, choose a variety of healthy plant-based foods, such as whole fruits and vegetables, legumes and nuts, and whole grains. At the same time, cut back on less healthy choices, such as sugar-sweetened beverages, fruit juices and refined grains. There are several forms of vegetarianism, each of which differs in their restrictions. The most common types include:

  • Lacto-ovo-vegetarian diet: Eliminates meat, fish and poultry but allows eggs and dairy products.

  • Lacto-vegetarian diet: Eliminates meat, fish, poultry, and eggs but allows dairy products.

  • Ovo-vegetarian diet: Eliminates meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products but allows eggs.

  • Pescetarian diet: Eliminates meat and poultry but allows fish and sometimes eggs and dairy products.

  • Vegan diet: Eliminates meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products, as well as other animal-derived products, such as honey.

  • Flexitarian diet: A mostly vegetarian diet that incorporates occasional meat, fish, or poultry.

Vegetarian diets are also associated with several health benefits.  They may enhance weight loss, reduce cancer, stabilize blood sugar, and promote heart health.  A vegetarian diet should include a diverse mix of fruits, vegetables, grains, healthy fats, and proteins.  In order to replace the protein provided by a meat source, include a variety of protein rich plant foods such as nuts, seeds, legumes, tempeh and tofu. 

Here are a few simple recipes provided by Food Network to get you started on your vegetarian journey:

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/kale-and-apple-salad-recipe-2112013

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/cheesy-spinach-baked-penne-recipe-2108892

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/mini-olive-oil-cakes-with-lemon-glaze-recipe-1972667