Meatless Mondays Matter: 10 Recipes To Get You Started

While you may be a little skeptical about Meatless Monday because of unsatisfying vegetarian dishes you've tried in the past, the recipes we've found may change your mind. They're full of hearty vegetables, grains, and beans that will help you stay fuller longer than most meat-free options. Not only are meatless meals lower in fat, they're also full of vitamins and won't weigh you down. Make the most of all the fresh vegetables at your local farmers market and try a few healthy and delicious recipes.

Even though this stew is vegetarian, it's as hearty and satisfying as anything with meat. Light on calories but not light on flavor, it's packed with chickpeas, spinach, tomatoes, and cilantro to keep you going.

For the Chickpea and Spinach Stew recipe, click here.

This easy taco recipe appeals to the vegetarians of the group. Lentils are cooked with bell pepper, carrot, and celery to give them an extra-meaty texture. — Valerie Rice

For the Lentil Tacos recipe, click here.

This is a raw, vegetarian version of a "satay" that comes together with a quickly-made peanut sauce. The tofu gets so much flavor from the green tea marinade that you don't need to cook it. Substitute the vegetables for whatever floats your boat. — Valaer Murray

For the Marinated Tofu Satay recipe, click here.

This Asian-style eggplant is packed with flavor and works well as a side dish, salad topper, or main course for the nights when vegetables deserve center stage. Enjoy hot from the oven, or at room temperature. — Geri Salmon

For the Miso-Baked Eggplant recipe, click here.

Crunchy, flavorful, and served with a sweet onion relish, this elegant main course also happens to be vegan. It's perfect for Thanksgiving, the holidays, or just a weeknight dinner any other time of the year. To save time, start the tofu while the sweet onion relish is simmering on the stove. — Vicky Cohen

For the Pretzel and Cashew Crusted Tofu recipe, click here.

Quinoa is spiced with shallots and red pepper, then cooked with portobello mushrooms and shredded zucchini. If zucchini is out of season, try incorporating shredded carrots or bell peppers for a different take on these innovative burgers. — Meatless Monday

For the Quinoa Zucchini Burgers recipe, click here.

Grilling and barbecuing doesn't have to be all about burgers, steaks, and hot dogs; vegetarian burgers are simple to make and easily customizable. They can be made using virtually any mix of beans and vegetables; whatever you have on hand will work.  This recipe uses chickpeas, onions, and cumin; after it's grilled it's super smoky and flavorful. — Kristie Collado

For the Vegetarian Chickpea Burger recipe, click here.

Beans are an ideal source of clean protein, and even those who aren't vegetarian love this "meaty" meatless chili recipe. Even without beef, you won't lose out on hearty flavor. Use leftovers in a wrap for lunch the next day. — Tosca Reno

For the Vegetarian Chili recipe, click here.

Let's face it: You can put literally anything in enchiladas and they'll still be delicious. Meat, vegetables, beans, who cares? As long as it's smothered in tasty enchilada sauce and melty cheese, it'll taste good. This enchilada recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but good enough to please anyone. — Jane Bruce

For the Vegetarian Enchiladas recipe, click here.

This vegetarian version of a stuffed eggplant uses tofu and Asian flavors to create a hearty meal that satisfies even the biggest carnivores. Serve with aromatic jasmine rice for a healthy, no-fuss dinner. — Valaer Murray

For the Vegetarian Stuffed Eggplant recipe, click here.