In case you aren't already on board with Meatless Monday, allow us to make our case: Reducing your meat intake is great for the environment -- just one meal without meat can save more than 1,000 gallons of water and cut down on fossil fuel -- and it can be great for your health too (depending on your individual health needs, of course). Read all about the benefits of observing Meatless Monday here.
Going animal-free does not need to be tough! There are so many delicious vegetarian dishes that will leave you completely full and satisfied. Here are some of our favorite vegetarian-friendly dinners that you can whip up pretty quickly on a busy weeknight. And since November is Vegan Month, they are all completely vegan too! Enjoy!
1. Chipotle-Inspired Vegan Burrito Bowl
Make your own version of Chipotle's classic without leaving the house! And if you want to recreate the burrito chain's infamous guac, here's how.
2. Butternut Squash Chipotle Chili with Avocado
If you're looking for a satisfying dish that will keep you warm during these cold November days, you can't do much better than serving yourself a heaping bowl of this flavorful, hearty chili.
3. Curried Coconut Quinoa and Greens with Roasted Cauliflower
Quinoa and cauliflower absolutely do not have to be bland or boring, especially when you ditch the water and cook the quinoa with rich, creamy coconut milk and curry spices, and toss the whole thing with roasted, slightly charred cauliflower. Even veggie haters will love this one.
4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Empanadas
The dough might take you a few extra minutes for prep and cleanup, but the awesome thing about this recipe (besides it being amazingly filling and delicious, of course) is that you can make a truckload of these at once, throw them in the freezer, and then just reheat as many as you want for the ultimate fast lunch or dinner. It goes without saying that if you want to make a big batch of these, you can totally switch up the fillings for a variety pack that suits your fancy; we love sauteed zucchini and potatoes in these.
5. West African Peanut Soup
If you want something spicy, creamy and comforting, don't hesitate to make this easy, healthy soup. The combination of peanut butter, tomatoes and collard greens might sound a little wacky if you've never tried it before, but we can assure you that this is one risk that will really pay off.
6. Fries Supreme
Who said eating vegan has to mean being healthy all the time? There is no reason why you can't splurge every now and then, and dump all of your favorite toppings onto a big pile of French fries -- and enjoy the heck out of it.