Choosing a vegetarian lifestyle means adopting a diet that excludes meat, poultry and fish. To non-vegetarians, this may seem like a less than satisfying way to eat, but vegetarians aren't limited to just fruits and vegetables. Vegetarian meals can incorporate many of the same ingredients as traditional foods, including pasta, rice, beans, lentils, whole grains, cheeses and nuts. According to the Vegetarian Resource Group, some of the most common vegetarian meals are meatless versions of everyday foods.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant parmesan is a classic vegetarian dish. The basic ingredients include fresh eggplant, bread crumbs, tomato sauce and mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. The Veggie Table recommends lightly battering and frying the eggplant slices or broiling them in olive oil for a lighter dish. Arrange the eggplant slices in a dish, cover them with tomato sauce and cheese and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees or until cheese is melted.
Veggie Burgers
Being a vegetarian doesn't mean you have to give up burgers. According to Country Living, you can make your own veggie burgers at home using canned pinto beans, bread crumbs and a little salt and pepper. You can also add mushrooms, peppers, carrots, onions, edamame and a little cilantro for added flavor. Simply mix the ingredients together and form into patties. Using a skillet, fry them in vegetable oil until golden brown on both sides. Serve on your choice of bread with your favorite toppings.
Vegetable Lasagna
Vegetable lasagna is a great dish for large gatherings. You can use your choice of vegetables, including spinach, squash, eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers or onions. Country Living recommends using ricotta, romano and mozzarella cheeses. You can make your own tomato sauce or use a store-bought meatless sauce. Layer your noodles, cheese, vegetables and sauce accordingly. Cover with foil and bake for one hour at 350 degrees or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Stir Fry
Stir fry is a quick and easy dish to prepare that can be served with fried rice or lo mein noodles. The Veggie Table suggests using any combination of bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, corn, green beans, onions, potatoes, snow peas, water chestnuts, zucchini, fennel, scallions, tofu, sprouts, almonds, cashes or peanuts. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a wok or large skillet and add the vegetables along with 1 to 3 tbsp. of soy sauce. Cook the vegetables over medium heat, stirring constantly until they become tender.
Veggie Pizza
Veggie pizza is an easy and convenient meal to prepare. You can use a prepackaged pizza crust or make your own. Savvy Vegetarian recommends brushing the crust with 1 tbsp. of olive oil and heating it at 400 degrees until it begins to brown. Top the crust with tomato sauce, your choice of vegetables and cheeses. Bake at 400 degrees until the cheese is thoroughly melted.
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