October is national vegetarian month, and what time of year could possibly be more perfect for trying out a vegetarian lifestyle than the Fall?
Abundant produce, enticing aromas and dishes just as flavorful as they are colorful are copious this time of year. With a plethora of fresh fruits and vegetables available this season, you and your family are sure to be inspired by some of these festive Fall favorites.
Anyone Can Be a Vegetarian
Going green is not just for the most exuberant of environmentalists, it can be just as fun as it is healthy for everyday families and people of all ages. Going green is a great opportunity to discover added health benefits and help the environment.
God created a beautiful world with bountiful food sources for us to enjoy. This October, get your whole family excited to go green (even if it is only for the month.)
And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything. —Genesis 9:3, KJV
Family-friendly Vegetarian Recipes for Fall
Gone are the days when asking a child to eat their vegetables was sure to result in a frown and protest. Creative, delicious, fall inspired vegetarian dishes like those listed below are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Check out these delicious vegetarian recipes, perfect for fall:
- Apple Cranberry Crisp
- Barley Vegetable Soup
- Four Veggie Pizza
- Risotto with Squash and Pistachios
- Cheese Enchiladas
- Portobello Philly “Cheesesteak” Sandwich
If you are looking for an even healthier alternative to some of these recipes, you can make them vegan by substituting non-dairy items like almond milk, vegan cheese, and ghee for butter and milk based ingredients.
Benefits of Going Green
A vegetarian lifestyle of course has many health benefits including lower risk of diabetes, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and certain types of cancers. This is not where the benefits stop, however. Experimenting with vegetarianism this fall could lead to a whole new series of family bonding experiences.
Bonding Time in the Garden
Having a home garden and allowing children to help with planting and tending is a great way to educate children on the growth cycle of plants and help them to see exactly where our food comes from. This is the perfect way to help them understand how God provides for our needs in the form of food sources.
Support Local Farmer’s Markets
If planting and gardening is not for you, visit local Farmer’s Markets and produce stands. These are abundant in the Fall and offer some of the freshest produce you can find.
Many farms also host fall festivals which include fun activities for the family in addition to an opportunity to purchase fresh produce. Picking apples at local orchards is another great way to form lasting family memories this Fall and incorporate a favorite fruit into new recipes. Try your hand at homemade apple sauce, apple butter or apple pie!
Going completely vegetarian may not be right for you and your family, but offering vegetarian options just one day a week can have significant health benefits for your family and open up doors for exciting new culinary adventures. Meatless Monday is increasing in popularity and could be a great way to introduce the vegetarian concept in your household.
Hungry for more? Check out some of these articles for more information and ideas about National Vegetarian Month.