There is a common misconception that veganism is a hard lifestyle to live, and that vegan dishes do not taste as good as recipes made with animal byproducts. I have always been health-conscious and loved meals comprised of fruits and vegetables, so becoming a vegan came with ease to me. On top of that, I am a huge animal rights activist, so I had no choice but to get creative in the kitchen. Cooking is a passion of mine, and I have come to realize how easily our favorite dishes can be made vegan.
Omelettes – Instead of using beaten eggs, this breakfast staple can be made with chickpea flour. The flour provides a savory taste and texture similar to the fluffy eggs that make up your favorite omelette. Add in the usual toppings like tomatoes, spinach, and peppers to customize it to your liking.
French Toast – For those who prefer a sweet start to their morning, french toast is a quick and easy meal that can easily be made vegan with just a few ingredients. Chia seeds act as a thickening agent in place of the eggs, while also providing essential nutrients to your diet, like protein and fiber. Top with your favorite fruits for an added touch.
Caesar Salad – Normally comprised of anchovies, cheese, and egg yolks, this popular salad seems impossible to make vegan – but it is actually quite easy. Substitute Kalamata olives for the anchovies, blended cashews for the egg yolks, and ditch the cheese. You’d be surprised how ‘creamy’ this salad is without any byproducts.
Chicken Salad Sandwich – This smooth and crunchy classic can be made vegan by substituting just a few simple ingredients. Switch out the chicken for some chickpeas instead, and mix them with hummus or tahini. Throw some celery into the mix as an ode to the classic and you have a cool and filling sandwich for lunch.
Tacos – A great option for lunch or dinner, tacos are already packed full of hearty vegetables from the lettuce, tomato, guacamole, and beans lining the corn tortilla. Instead of ground beef or chicken being the star of the shell, try some roasted butternut squash for texture and taste.
Stuffed Shells – Another dish where diary steals the show, it seems hard to believe that this can be made vegan. Blending together tofu with spinach to make the ‘cheese filling’ is not only vegan but it is also a healthier alternative for this meal. The filling provides iron while the tomato sauce provides lycopene and other nutrients.
With veganism becoming a more popular lifestyle change, more animal byproduct ingredients in traditional dishes are being substituted. Not only does making your meals vegan protect many species of animals, more often than not the alternatives are overall healthier as well.
