With the recent introduction of so many new meat substitutes at the grocery store and even fast food chains, you’ve probably heard the terms “plant-based” and “plant-based protein” before. Plant-based diets may seem intimidating, but the concept is actually very simple. According to Harvard Medical School, a plant-based diet is an eating pattern that prioritizes fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Unlike a vegetarian or vegan diet, plant-based eating doesn’t necessarily mean you’re cutting out all meat and dairy products, but instead consuming less of those foods. Plus, a plant-based diet can reduce your environmental footprint, all while providing your body with all natural goodness and nutrients. Use our tips and tricks below to add more delicious plants to your daily diet.
Establish Personalized Goals
Whether you’re interested in trying out a few plant-based recipes here and there, or wanting to commit to a fully plant-based lifestyle, it’s important to set goals for yourself to keep track of your progress. Determine some attainable goals for yourself and your family, from eating one plant-based meal per week or even one per day.
Explore New Recipes
Sometimes finding inspiration can quite literally be in the palm of your hand. In the age of social media, it’s easier than ever to find new and exciting recipes, cooking hacks and kitchen tips than ever before. Follow some plant-based or healthy food bloggers on social media, or even scroll through Pinterest to discover new ways to enjoy whole foods. Be sure to visit our recipe page to find some simple, great tasting, wholesome recipes that make beans and vegetables the star of the show.
Make a Plant-Based Grocery List
Before heading to the grocery store or placing your grocery order online, consider adding more grains, legumes and vegetables to your list to enjoy throughout the week. Grains like quinoa, barley, oats, rice and more are great to have on hand for breakfast dishes, lunch and dinner. Green Valley organic kidney beans, pinto beans, garbanzo beans, black beans, whole kernel corn and more can make exploring a plant-based diet even easier. Visit our product page and Amazon storefront to see our full offering of delicious organic beans and vegetables.
Reinvent Snacktime
You would be surprised to find that many easy and delicious plant-based snacks are waiting for you in your own pantry! Beans and vegetables are an awesome source of nutrients and can also be the key ingredient in so many healthy snacks. Try our delicious homemade hummus recipe for a snack packed with plant-based protein, or tasty peanut butter black bean brownies for a healthier dessert option. Our single-serve whole kernel corn, peas and green bean cups are also a tasty, ready-to-eat snack the whole family can enjoy.
Experiment at Dinnertime
Challenge yourself to make one completely plant-based recipe per week. This can be a fun way to shake things up in the kitchen and be creative while also enjoying new recipes and flavors you may not have tried before. There is truly no limit to the amount of delicious recipes you can make with wholesome, organic beans and vegetables. For example Green Valley organic garbanzo beans are perfect in this simple chana masala recipe, Shakshuka recipe, and this Moroccan garbanzo bean stew. The possibilities are endless!
Are you striving to eat more plant-based meals this year? Share your recipes and ideas with us on Facebook and Instagram for a chance to be featured. For more healthy eating inspiration, visit our recipe page.
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