Mention vegetarian cooking to many people and they immediately picture tables full of tofu, brown rice and broccoli. While those are certainly foods eaten by some vegetarians, a vegetarian diet also contains many of the same foods that are commonly consumed by those in the mainstream. It is easy to try a few vegetarian meals without investing in a whole new way of eating or dramatically changing your diet. In fact, you may realize you have been eating quite a few vegetarian foods already!
Cheese, glorious cheese
While some vegetarians do not consume cheese, most vegetarians consider cheese to be a staple of their diet. Strict vegetarians look for cheese with vegetable rennet in the ingredients, instead of the animal-based alternatives. There are also tofu-based cheeses on the market.
Many entrees can be made using cheese. Try Mexican dishes such as cheese quesadillas and enchiladas for easy vegetarian dinners. Pasta meals with cheese are also easy to cook and serve including macaroni and cheese, pasta tossed with vegetables and cheese, filled shells, ravioli or manicotti. You can always try plain pasta topped with vegetarian marinara sauce and a little grated cheese.
For simpler fixings, try grilled cheese sandwiches or cream cheese spread on toast with jam. Cottage cheese makes a great snack and can also be used in cooking and baking to increase the protein of other ingredients.
Other dairy
Cheese is not the only vegetarian dairy offering. Many vegetarians consume a lot of milk and yogurt. These are not only great foods to eat or drink alone; they are ingredients that can be used to create many delicious meals. Try using yogurts in sauces and even desserts.
Beans and legumes
Many dishes that use beans and legumes work well in a vegetarian diet. These foods are especially common in soups and stews. A hearty bean chili or lentil soup is a perfect meal on a cold evening and can be paired with a loaf of bread and a salad for a complete and well-balanced meal. A large pot of rice and beans is a South American staple (leave out the ham or bacon) and makes great leftovers.
Grains
Since grains are by their very nature vegetable, they are a healthy part of a balanced vegetarian diet. Look for whole grain foods and grains that have high amounts of protein in order to best use them as part of your vegetarian-eating plan. Look for different rices and pastas than you usually eat; experiment with baking with flours made from grains other than wheat.
Meat substitutes
While nothing else tastes like a steak, several of the food manufacturers have developed meat substitutes that can be used in seasoned recipes. These meat substitutes are usually used to replace ground beef in things like tacos and spaghetti sauces.
There are also several very tasty frozen "burgers" made entirely of vegetarian ingredients. Try the different brands to see which most suits your taste. While they can be heated in the microwave or on the stovetop, just like other burgers they are even better grilled.
