Meatless Dishes provide us with infinite options to explore a variety of vegetables, nuts, and legumes. There are so many wonderful ways to create colorful and delicious meals without animal protein, if that is a viable option for you. If nothing else, vegetables in and of themselves, are a crucial and necessary part of any individual's balanced diet.
Eat at least six servings per day of seasonal vegetables and fruits. Local and organic sources would be preferable. At the very least, it’s prudent to be aware of which vegetables and fruits are at highest risk for pesticide content. There is a list compiled by the Environment Working Group, of the top 12 fruits and vegetables recommended to buy organic. Of the 49 fruits and vegetables studied, the highest residue of pesticides were found on: celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, cherries, kale and collard greens, potatoes, and imported grapes.
A person may choose to avoid purchasing these or wash some of the pesticides off before eating them. Two easy ways to wash off harmful bacteria and/or pathogens would be: use a solution of white vinegar and water, or a paste of baking soda. For the vinegar solution (three parts water/one part vinegar), it is recommended to spray the surface of produce for approximately two minutes before rinsing in cold water. If using baking soda, sprinkle liberally on the surface of the fruits and/or vegetables and leave for approximately two minutes before rinsing with cold water.
Legumes and beans are low in fat, and when combined together form a complementary source of protein as well as a good source of fiber. The phytosterols in legumes and whole grains can also lower total cholesterol, LDL.
Here's just a sampling of my favourite recipes; you can find more of them listed in the directory above. I hope you will enjoy a few of them.