When considering the vegan lifestyle, I think some people get scared off from it because the vegan “police” may be lurking, ready to tell you that you aren’t doing it right or that you aren’t eating fully plant based or not enough of this or that etc. We have to be more welcoming and accepting of anyone eating a vegan diet, no matter what they are eating, because they are doing it!
They are living a compassionate life. They are saving animals and water and grains that could be feeding starving children, rather than livestock. They are living a greener life. They are doing good for our planet.
Did you know that in order to produce one pound of beef, you need approximately 2,500 gallons of water?? For ONE pound. It takes only 50 gallons of water for a plant-based meal. That is the equivalent in water savings if you didn?t shower for six months. Resource here.
So if some vegans want to eat Oreo’s, so what? It’s not ideal but maybe that’s the only way they will stay vegan, if they allow indulgences like those, which is the whole point – sticking to this lifestyle and sharing their eating habits with others. I fully promote as many plant foods as possible, for our bodies and health and to feel good, but we are only human. What’s so wrong with the occasional pizza made with dairy-free cheese? Pizza tastes good. Who doesn’t love pizza?! If we are more accepting of people living the vegan lifestyle, period, then more people would be drawn to eat this way and pay attention.
When I first went vegan, my transition happened overnight, so cooking took some time getting used to. I was a little lost at first, who wouldn’t be? I would buy the processed vegan cheese products because it was an option. It made the transition less scary, especially while trying to figure out what I could eat that tasted good and reminded me of the foods I once ate.
Which is why I’m sharing a delicious summer-inspired italian Meatless Meatball Skewers recipe, made with Gardein meatless meatballs! Gardein asked me to come up with a recipe and I think it’s amazing that these options are available for newbies or people on the go. Not everyone has time to whip up homemade meatless meatballs and pasta.
While I do prefer homemade to store-bought anything, I believe these Meatless Meatballs are a delicious meatless option, especially for fun recipes like skewers! They make it convenient for more people to try Meatless Mondays! I added red pepper, red onion, mushrooms and tomato to the skewers and used a grill pan on the stove to cook them up and add that char-grilled summer taste. It’s finally grilling season 🙂 Then I added them to whole grain pasta with a spicy arrabbiata sauce. SO delicious!
Gardein makes tasty, convenient and healthier versions of the foods we love. All products are sustainable and plant-based, made with non-GMO soy, wheat, ancient grains and vegetables that provide the taste and texture of meat, but with less fat and cholesterol. Gardein products cook from frozen and are ready in minutes!
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Meatless Meatball Skewers
Ingredients
- 1 package Gardein Classic Meatless Meatballs
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped in squares for skewers
- 2 ripe tomatos, slices
- 4–5 mushrooms, sliced or whole
- 1/3 red onion, sliced in squares
Marinade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon italian herb seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- sea salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- I let the meatballs defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
- In a medium sized bowl, add the red pepper, tomatoes, mushrooms and onion. Mix in all the ingredients for the marinade. Toss.
- Add the veggies and meatballs to skewers (makes about 6 skewers).
- Heat up a grill pan over the stove on medium-high heat and spray with non-stick oil.
- Cook the skewers, turning every 2-3 minutes, until all sides are browned.
- Serve over pasta with your favorite sauce.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
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Oooh, I love the idea of marinating these! It definitely seems like they would soak up the marinade really well.
This is a great idea and I think you make a very important point – we need less Vegan police and more encouragers. I use Gardein products even though we cook frequently. People are busy! Some nights you need a quick go to option. It’s impossible to make everything from scratch all the time. I love Gardein’s fish fillets and use them often for my favorite baja style tacos. I will say I like them more then when I made them with fish – go figure! I also like their chicken fillets for a mean lean Vegan Caesar – another summer meal favorite.
I love the kabob idea with meatballs! Happy grilling!!
Haha thanks Cathi, happy grilling season to you! Love this time of year 🙂