Veganism is, in short, a cruelty-free lifestyle. It encompasses a wide range of behaviors and objectives, though the most discernible element to nonvegans is the vegan diet. Vegans eat neither "flesh food" nor other animal products. This prohibits eggs, butter, ice cream, seafood and a long list of other foods common in the American diet. From afar, such a diet can seem grossly limited. Like any new subject, however, a bit of research -- necessary to a healthy vegan lifestyle -- will open the door to an expansive array of new information. With the help of creativity and well-rounded nutritional knowledge, vegan meal and snack options are virtually endless.
Breakfast
Vegans can enjoy breakfast burritos, muffins, French toast, bagel sandwiches or any other regular breakfast foods, provided they are made using vegan products. Vegan breakfast burritos consist of sauteed tofu, vegetables and faux sausage wrapped in tortillas, while the French toast calls for whole-wheat bread dipped in soy milk. Vegan baked goods such as muffins and scones use applesauce, mashed bananas and other nondairy ingredients. Fresh fruit, toast and nondairy yogurt can accompany a vegan breakfast dish.
Lunch/Dinner
Salad is a popular go-to vegan dish, appropriate for either lunch or dinner. Those who prefer heartier meals, however, can relish in the fact that not all vegan food is "rabbit food." On a side note, relish is an acceptable vegan condiment. Examples of filling meals that can be made with vegan ingredients include lasagna and other pastas, veggie burgers, quesadillas, casseroles and soups. Though these recipes exclude meat, ingredients such as soy beans, tofu and almonds provide adequate amounts of protein needed for good nutrition.
Dessert
Though many traditional recipes can be altered to conform to vegan standards, these alterations don't necessarily transform them into "health" foods. Vegan desserts, like any others, should be enjoyed in moderation as small additions to a well-rounded diet. Because most store-bought sweets are no-nos, simple, no-bake dessert recipes are often popular among vegans. For example, you can create a cobbler using cherries, cinnamon and lemon juice topped with shredded coconut and walnuts, or a milkshake composed of avocados, maple syrup, cocoa, vanilla extract and cinnamon.
Eating Out
In the past, dining out and following a vegan diet generally did not merge well together. As veganism has become a more prominent element in American culture, however, restaurants have begun to add vegetarian- and vegan-friendly dishes to their menus. Some dishes, such as salads or baked potatoes -- sans bacon bits -- are options that most restaurants offer. You may also request a simple, vegan version of a regular menu item. For instance, order vegetarian pizza or bean burritos without cheese.
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