Try These Meatless Meals This Fall

If you’re looking to boost your health, eat whole-food plant-based meals as often as possible.

If you’re a sworn carnivore, you may not be able to imagine a world in which meatless meals are satisfying. But if you give it a try, you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised. Meatless meals, which consist of plant-based foods instead of animal products, can be extremely delicious, while also being full of good-for-you nutrients. That is, as long as you’re replacing the meat in your meals with whole plant-based foods and not processed junk food. 

Plant-based meals are full of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. This can reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic health conditions. The best way to make the most of plant-based meals is to eat an assortment of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. And when it comes to filling your plate, the more colorful, the better, since different colored whole foods deliver different healthy nutrients.

Fiber is a big reason why plant-based meals are so healthy. Fiber helps manage blood sugar levels because it slows the release and absorption of sugar in the blood steam. This can be especially beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes. Soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol by binding to fatty acids and cholesterol so they exit the digestive tract unabsorbed. Insoluble fiber helps prevent constipation and keeps you regular. The fiber from plant-based foods also adds bulk to meatless meals, helping you feel full without consuming a lot of calories. 

But what about protein, you may ask? Don’t think that just because you give up meat, you won’t get enough protein in your diet. The fact is that many plant-based foods contain protein so you’ll still be able to meet your daily quota of protein even when eating meatless meals.

Here are some protein-rich plant foods to include in your meatless meals (and delicious recipes to make with them):

Embrace the rich flavors and health benefits of meatless meals this fall by exploring new and exciting recipes. For more inspiration, don't miss our blogs on heart-healthy fall vegetables, healthy salad recipes, and the best heart-healthy foods.