How to Make Semi-Homemade Vegetarian Meal

Vegetarians need convenient and nutritious dinners just as much as meat-eaters do, but can have a harder time finding yummy options. Here are some ideas that will even please a carnivore' s palate!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Prepared, pre-packaged and frozen vegetarian convenience foods
• Vegetarian cookbooks

1. Start by perusing vegetarian cookbooks for ideas for fast and nutritious meal ideas. Some popular ones include "The Compassionate Cook" by PETA and "The Vegetarian Cook's Bible" by Pat Crocker.

2. Check out http://vegweb.com/ for some great vegetarian recipes, and to discuss cooking ideas with other vegetarians and vegans.

3. Buy pre-packaged and frozen vegetarian foods and add to them to make a healthy and homemade meal. Add green peppers to cans of vegetarian chilli, and serve over noodles. Buy frozen Morningstar Farms Buffalo Wings (meatless) and add them to a salad.

4. For vegetarians on a budget, buy store brands whenever possible. Whole Foods' 365 brand offers many convenient meatless and organic options.

5. Take traditional convenience food recipes and make them meatless by substituting soy products or vegetables. You can make tacos by using ground soy, and a quick and simple stir-fry using a prepared sauce, frozen vegetables and tofu.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when choosing your ingredients - meatless and organic doesn't always mean healthy and low fat.
• Since pre-packaged and frozen convenience foods can be high in fat and calories, balance your meal by adding fresh and healthy ingredients.