Veganism might feel a little austere for those who grew up dutifully eating their “meat and two veg” at dinner. Sadly, people have developed a significant dependence on meat due to conditioning that tells them animal products are the only source of protein or iron that’s available to them. However, this isn’t true. Plant-based options are available in plentiful supply at large grocery stores like Kroger, Walmart, ShopRite, and even Amazon Fresh. As always, health-conscious retailers like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods stock tasty, responsible options.
Another perception has been that plant-based and vegan food is somehow lacking in flavor or that a meat-eater will finish their meal only to discover they’ve been enjoying Soylent Green. There are no conspiracies to fear with plant-based foods. Vegan cuisine is clean, healthy, and cruelty-free. So how does one make a lifelong meat-eater veg out? The trick is to find near-perfect substitutes for popular dishes so they don’t feel like they’re missing out or giving up their favorites.
Take the most popular items on everyone’s list: pizza, burgers, fish and chips, wings, and tacos. For pizza, there are countless vegan and gluten-free dough recipes online. Pair your favorite with toppings like Treeline plant-based mozzarella cheese shreds and an array of summer vegetables like fresh basil, tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives. Add slices of Gardein plant-based Italian sausage for a supreme pizza fix. Substitute chicken wings for cauliflower wings. The texture and spice make this a hit with even the most finicky eaters. Drizzle with Hidden Valley Plant-Powered Dairy-Free Ranch Topping and Dressing to complete the switch.