Vegetarian and Vegan Dishes for Your Summer BBQ
Ryan Miller
| 2 min read
There’s nothing like a great barbecue to get people together during the summer.
However, it can be tricky to find dishes to prepare for friends and family members who identify as vegetarian or vegan. With some simple substitutions, there are multiple ways to switch out main ingredients and create a party menu everyone will enjoy.
Check out the delicious and creative options below and start planning your summer celebration today:
Side Dish: Red, White and Blue Quinoa Salad
Finding the perfect side dish to complement your meal is essential for a successful barbecue. Instead of packing on the calories with greasy sides, try out this healthier and delicious side salad with quinoa and berries. With blueberries, strawberries and dragon fruit all in one, this tasty treat is packed with fiber. Plus, the quinoa in the salad provides all nine essential amino acids to provide protein, heart-healthy fats and antioxidants (flavonoids).
Appetizer: Baked Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
A staple appetizer people love to have at barbecues is chicken wings, but due to dietary restrictions, this is one thing vegetarian and vegan eaters cannot enjoy. With this recipe, you’ll substitute chicken for cauliflower with results that are just as mouthwatering. One serving of cauliflower provides 77 percent of the recommended daily vitamin C intake and absorbs all of the flavor you put in this dish. To make it vegan-friendly, switch out the milk, butter and hot sauce to your preference and enjoy!
Main Dish: Chipotle Cheddar (Black Bean) Burgers
Arguably, the most popular dish at any barbecue is the burger – but that doesn’t work so well for vegetarians or vegans. Look no further than our healthier take on the classic beef patty to satisfy big cravings. Sub out the cheese and sour cream for a filling and high-fiber dish for vegans.
Drink: Watermelon Agua Fusion
Watermelon, cucumber, lime and mint make for a refreshing combination to serve on a hot summer day. Watermelons are made up of nearly 92 percent water and cucumbers consist of about 96 percent, so dehydration will be the least of your worries.
Vegetarian Dessert: Berry Oatmeal Muffin Cups
Why save muffins for just breakfast when they can be the perfect addition to any barbecue? This high fiber treat will be the hit of any summer occasion – just substitute out the whole milk for your favorite vegan milk substitute and enjoy.
Like this post? Read these:
Photo credit: A Healthier Michigan
