Chef

By Andi Champion, Marketing Manager, CHEF

There are many benefits to a plant-based lifestyle including lower levels of obesity, lower blood pressure, and a reduced risk of heart disease. If you’re thinking about making the switch or even just practicing Meatless Mondays, check out some of our favorite healthy plant-based recipes.

Greek Nachos: These are nacho average snack! Enjoy the tastes of the Mediterranean in a new way. This recipe is full of colorful, nutrient-rich produce and flavorful dried herbs. The addition of Greek yogurt and feta cheese gives the dish extra protein to help keep you full. If you’re vegan, skip the yogurt and cheese. Instead, you can use hummus and a dairy free cheese or nutritional yeast to give it a cheesy flavor.

Curry in a Hurry: A healthy dinner doesn’t have to take all night to cook! Our Curry in a Hurry recipe is perfect for families on-the-go. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein, this tasty dish is a triple threat! Serve it on a bed of fresh cooked brown rice or with warm whole wheat pita bread for a filling, yet light, dinner.

Roasted Root Vegetables: You can’t go wrong with Roasted Root Vegetables. This classic dish uses a simple cooking technique to help caramelize the vegetables and bring out even more flavor. Stick with our recipe or mix things up with different spices depending on the type of cuisine you are cooking. For example, if you’re serving these as a side for an Italian dinner, use dried oregano, dried basil, and dried rosemary. If you’re enjoying these with Mexican food (these would make a great filling for plant-based tacos!), toss them in cumin, chili powder, and garnish with cilantro.

Green Pea Pesto: Did you know that peas contain a surprisingly high amount of protein? This makes our Green Pea Pesto a great snack option! Enjoy it with whole grain pita chips, toasted whole grain bread, or with freshly chopped vegetables. This versatile recipe would also be tasty tossed with pasta or as a spread on a sandwich or wrap. For a vegan version, skip the parmesan cheese.

Baked Oatmeal: We often hear that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It helps fuel our body and mind for the day, improves energy levels, and allows us to perform better in school or at work. Our Baked Oatmeal is a wholesome breakfast option the entire family will enjoy. The combination of spices, extracts, and fruit creates a naturally sweet treat!

Tostadas Deliciosas: Our tostadas are a classic CHEF recipe for a reason! They’re simple to make, kid-friendly, and are easily customizable based off your family’s taste preferences. It’s also a great way to show your child how they can use MyPlate to build a healthy, wholesome recipe. Encourage your children to see how many different colors of fruits and vegetables they can add to their plate as they build their tostada.

Strawberry Spinach Salad: Did you know that adding heart-healthy fats to your salads such as olive oil, avocado, or nuts, helps you better absorb the nutrients found in dark leafy greens? Get more out of your greens and try our simple, delicious Strawberry Spinach Salad. For extra protein, top with grilled tofu, cannellini beans, or chickpeas.  

Three Bean Chili: This simple dish packs tons of flavor. Make this recipe your own by using whatever kinds of beans you have in your pantry and any vegetables you have at home. You can even use frozen or canned if you don’t have fresh! Top it with cheese and whole grain tortilla chips or keep it vegan by adding heart-healthy avocado instead.

Broccoli, Quinoa, and Avocado: Boost the greens in your diet with our Broccoli, Quinoa, and Avocado Salad. This plant-based dish can be enjoyed as a flavorful side or main dish. The quinoa is full or protein to help keep you full, the broccoli gives you a boost of fiber and the avocado and pumpkin seeds have heart healthy fats.

Vegetarian Pizza: Just because you’re going plant-based, doesn’t mean you have to miss out on pizza night! Our Vegetarian Pizza can be topped with any of your favorite vegetables and herbs to create a filling, healthy dinner. If you’re vegan, swap the mozzarella cheese for a dairy free version or skip it all together!