Vegetables are integral to good health and skin. Being a great source of vital nutrients like vitamins (A, B, C, D , E and K), fibers and minerals, a diet rich in veggies can reduce the risk of stroke, cancer, heart disease and even diabetes. Veggies also reduce inflammation in our bodies and contribute to healthy skin. There’s no doubt – you need your veggies.
That said, I’ve been a vegetarian all my life and I absolutely hate salads. The number of deliciously cooked vegetable options has been on the rise. Yet growing up, it was scarce and I was often served a cold bowl of lettuce and tomato on airplanes as the “vegetarian” meal. I cannot count the number of times I wanted to say that being a vegetarian does not make me want to chew raw leaves like a cow.
So, I’ve curated some vegetable options that are healthy, yet mouth-watering alternatives to salads. And there are some fruits in there too for snacks and desserts of course!
Breakfast
Quinoa cereal with berries and almonds
For a tasty gluten free breakfast, try this quinoa with berries and almonds option.
Shakshuka
This is an egg and veggie combo from the Middle East that makes a wonderful breakfast with protein and vitamins to give you a stable energy burn for those long stressful days.
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Baked egg avocado
Filled with the healthy monosaturated fat, oleic acid – aside from vitamins B, C, E and K, avocados reduce cholesterol and even keep skin supple. If the classic avocado on toast seems too boring, try this avocado with baked egg to kick start your day.
image via nu.spoonuniversity.com
Lunch and Dinner
Avocado and Tofu bowl
If you want to include this healthy fruit in a meal for dinner then try this tofu and avocado bowl to spice up your evening.
Cauliflower with Parmesan
Cauliflowers are one of the healthiest veggies with vitamin C, B and vitamin K. This easy-to-make cauliflower with parmesan dish is not just healthy but delish!
image via nu.spoonuniversity.com
Coriander-Roasted Carrots
I’m generally not a fan of carrots but this yummy coriander-roasted carrot recipe has me enjoying my beta-carotene for healthy skin and hair.
image via cal.spoonuniversity.com
Quinoa Stuffed Bell Pepper
A tasty Spanish recipe for those with gluten intolerance. Get your veggies along with some healthy grains in this easy-to-bake recipe that will surely become a regular in your home.
image via: minimalistbaker.com
Mushroom, Onion and Goat Cheese Crostini
Amp up your toast with this yummy topping. It makes a great lunch or quick dinner.
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Mushroom Trio Quesadilla
Craving Mexican? This baked mushroom quesadilla is one healthy option to allow you to give in to your cravings while feeling good about the calories.
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Butternut Squash Mac ‘n’ Cheese
If you can’t wait for the fall to get your fill of butternut squash soups then how about adding it to mac ‘n’ cheese for a fun alternative?
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Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Risotto
Get your greens without compromising on taste with this nourishing spinach and mushroom risotto.
image via: spoonuniversity.com
Snacks and Dessert
Goji Green Smoothie
Smoothies make wonderful snacks and meal replacements. The “green” smoothie is all the rave. Make it work for you with this apple and berry filled smoothie with all the benefits of kale – one of the best sources of vitamin K that improves calcium absorption and helps prevent osteoporosis.
Apricot, Goat Cheese and Almond Bites
Long day ahead? If you think you might be looking for cookies or chips, take this healthy replacement snack with apricot with you and your body will thank you.
image via: bu.spoonuniversity.com
Chocolate, Pomegranate and Ginger Bark
Give in to your chocolate craving without guilt when you make this simply sumptuous dessert that includes pomegranate and ginger in dark chocolate.
Healthy Candy Apple Wedges (with Chocolate and Walnut)
An apple a day keeps the doctor away. These wedges do more than that – they get your taste buds tingling with pleasure as you savor these chocolate dipped treats.
image via: anediblemosaic.com
Featured photo credit: Dana from http://minimalistbaker.com/ via minimalistbaker.com
