So July 4th is a BBQ day, right? Do you think hot dogs, hamburgers, and horrible warm pasta salad made with mayonnaise?
The Standard American Diet — SAD for short, and in no such coincidence — is never more pronounced than during the summer BBQ extravaganza.
But it doesn’t have to be like this! I will attend two days worth of these types of meals. For both, I will arm myself with some wonderful dishes to bring along.
I do this for several reasons.
- I want to be able to eat.
- I want my family to have good choices.
- I want a conversation to start about how someone could make these dishes.
I am a veggie ambassador. I bring forth good food, and I hope it will influence someone’s life. If nothing more, I want to share a few new recipes that aren’t made with animal-based foods.
I also look for food to engage conversation. I hope you can feel comfortable explaining why you choose to eat plants and the power it has on your life. We need more veggie ambassadors! Stand up and bring a dish to pass.
Need some plant-based recipes?
Here are 3 great summer party dishes for you to make or take:
- Baked Beans: This meat-free recipe makes an awesome take-along dish, and who doesn’t like baked beans? My version contains no oil and no refined sugars. Plus, they’re perfect for people with allergies.Beans are an important part of most plant-based diets. They’re packed with plant-based protein, fiber, magnesium, iron, and potassium. It’s best to consume the daily to boost heart health, lower LDL cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar.
- Veggie Burgers: Here are two varieties: I have one sweet potato burger and also one with a cauliflower base.These are great meat-free additions for people who want burgers. Both of these recipes are high in fiber and flavor and are great sources of protein. Fiber is good for regulating blood sugar, digestive health, reducing cancer risk, and increasing satiety.
You might also like my oil-free red cabbage slaw.
Will you join me and be a veggie ambassador this 4th of July? What will you make?