Whether you're vegetarian or trying to cut back on your meat consumption, these hearty recipes won't disappoint your taste buds. Dive right into these 10 delicious vegetarian versions of typical meat dishes that even meat lovers can enjoy!
1. TLT (Tempeh, Lettuce, & Tomato)
This vegetarian twist on the BLT uses tempeh to give it its unique flavor. Tempeh is a great source of protein and contains probiotics to keep your gut healthy. This mouthwatering meatless sandwich also uses avocado and roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
2. Lentil Loaf
Lentils are a great source of protein, containing a whopping 18 grams per cup. This rich take on a dinner classic also includes healthy ingredients such as flax seed and olive oil. You can add extra flavor by topping off the loaf with ketchup or barbecue sauce.
2. Chickpea "Tuna" Salad
Craving tuna salad? This veggie version might be just what you're looking for. Chickpeas, celery salt and nori, are some of the tasty and healthy ingredients that give this dish its rich flavor. Allow it to sit in the fridge for 20 minutes before serving, then enjoy a fishy and flavorful snack.
3. Lentil Vegan Sloppy Joe
If you love comfort food you'll love this meatless version of a sloppy joe. Not only is this recipe easy to make, it's packed with protein and fiber. This recipes uses ingredients such as tomatoes and coconut sugar to create a smoky and savory dish.
4. Vegan Bolognese Sauce
If you're a big fan of spaghetti and meat sauce this recipe should be a winner. The key to this recipe is its use of three healthy meat substitutes: lentils, tempeh and mushrooms. Make this meal the next time you're craving Italian food.
5. Vegan Gutbuster Sandwich
This delicious sandwich recipe teaches you how to make your very own homemade Italian veggie sausage using beans and fennel seeds. It then teaches you how to assemble all of the ingredients into a mouthwatering sandwich smothered with peppers, onions and tomato sauce. Can you say yum?
6. Coconut Bacon
Who doesn't love bacon? This vegetarian version uses coconut flakes for that crispy texture and ingredients such as maple syrup and liquid smoke for that signature bacony taste. This flavorful favorite can be added to salads, sandwiches, soups or even be eaten by the handful!
7. Mushroom Spinach Calzone
This Italian dinner dish uses mushrooms to get create that chewy and hearty texture. The inside of the crust is stuffed full of mozzarella cheese, spinach, tomato sauce and mushroom "meat". You can't go wrong with this recipe.
8. Southern Chicken Fried Tofu
This juicy take on the classic southern fried chicken is sure to make your mouth water. If you're craving KFC but want a healthier meatless version, this is the recipe for you. It also includes instructions on how to create fixings and even includes a gluten free option!
9. Vegetarian Chili
A warm chili is perfect for the colder months. This recipe is so rich and textured you almost won't notice any meat is missing! This recipe is vegan and gluten free and can be made with basic pantry ingredients.
10. Bean Burger with Avocado Basil Cream
This protein packed patty is sure to satisfy your burger cravings. Who knew beans and eggs could taste so meaty and delicious? But that's not all, this recipe also comes paired with an avocado basil cream recipe that you'll want to smother on just about anything you eat, It's that good!