When I first started dating my 6-foot-5-inch cowboy husband, I distinctly remember him telling me he only had two relationship dealbreakers: vegetarians and cat lovers. Well, I’m definitely a dog person, so that was an easy one. And at this time, 8 years ago, I ate meat just as much as the average person does. After we got married and then pregnant, I could no longer stand the sight, smell, texture and even presence of meat. Like, if I saw a raw chicken breast I would instantaneously vomit. TMI? Anyway, I thought it would pass when I gave birth like all my other weird hormonal food preferences, but it didn’t. But still I tried to stick it out and cook meat for my husband while trying not to gag. So I still wasn’t eating meat, but cooking it almost daily.
The final straw for me was when I read Ashlee Piper’s book, Give A Sh*t, last year. After reading about the effects meat production and consumption has on our environment, I made the official switch to vegetarian, and stopped cooking meat for my husband, as well. I mean, at this point, we’ve been together for 8 years, gotten married, had a baby and two dogs…I don’t think those silly dealbreakers still apply 😉. But my husband is not one to eat a salad every night and feel satisfied. He’s a big dude. He needs protein and sustenance. So here are a few of our favorite vegetarian recipes that even my meat-loving carnivore loves.
One Pot Cheesy Mexican Lentils, Black Beans + Rice
This one is probably my husband’s favorite. I love it because it’s full of fiber and protein, plus I love any recipe that doesn’t require a ton of dirty dishes. It’s also a great meal if you’re trying to stay on a budget because the ingredients are healthy, yet cheap, and one pot makes enough to last for two to three nights.
Don’t knock tofu tacos until you try them. These are crispy and spicy and the scallion-cilantro sauce gives them a giant burst of flavor.
Fake meat products are often loaded with sodium, so we try to stay away from them. But when my hubby has a real hankering for meat, these vegetarian meatballs do the trick. Even our 3-year-old loves them!
Smashed White Bean Salad Tartines with Herbs and Watermelon Radish
This is one of my favorite recipes to make on a hot summer night when I can’t stand the thought of turning on the stove or oven. It’s so flavorful and deceptively satisfying.
We love a good Buddha bowl in our house. The crispy chickpeas and salty kalamata olives make the dish, so don’t skimp on those.
I love how simple and quick this dinner is. It’s a great Saturday “kitchen sink” dinner when you want to use up your produce. It’s ready to go in no time at all and always gets devoured.
Veggie Fajita Quinoa Casserole
This is a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters. It’s cheesy and delicious and the leftovers are even better for lunch the next day.
If you need a quick, no-heat summer dinner, you have to try this. Save the leftovers, and the next morning. add a poached egg on top. *chef’s kiss*
Garden Veggie Chickpea Salad Sandwich
I eat this sandwich EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. for lunch and I’m not ashamed. It’s just that good. I make a big batch on Sunday night and then I’m set for lunch Monday-Thursday.
You might also enjoy reading: Please Stop Asking Me About Protein, 5 Healthy Smoothie Recipes To Start Your Mornings With This Summer and Fresh Summer Salad Combos You’d Never Think Of
