A Vegetarian's Shopping Guide

Are you making the lifestyle change over to vegetarian? If so you may have many questions about what to eat and what to avoid. Here are some helpful tips for stocking your pantry and refrigerator.

Your pantry is where the majority of your new food choices will be found. Breads, rolls, rice, and tortilla shells are a beginning. Be sure to think whole grain and whole wheat when purchasing your breads. The next item is beans. There are several varieties out there, each with their own flavor. Pick up quite a few in both dry and canned to try in your meals. When looking at canned goods also add a few cans of soups and broths, as well as canned tomatoes and sauces. These can be quick and tasty additions to your meal planning. Flour, cornmeal, cereals, and boxed mixes such as biscuit mix or couscous can finish off your pantry selections.

Produce will become your next best stop. Stock up on lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Shop local farmer's markets for the best deals on seasonal produce. You can also buy frozen bags of vegetables and fruits for a ready selection at any time. Think beyond the basic foods that you might be used, try new fruits and vegetables to add new flavor and a more well rounded selection to your diet.

Cutting out meat and dairy may have you wondering where you are going to get your protein from now. Plant based sources of protein are just as healthy and fulfilling as animal based sources. Corn, artichokes, peas, avocados, as well as rich whole grains and beans provide plenty of protein in a well balanced diet. However if you are looking for more, there are many meat substitutes available on the market today. Everything from plant based bacon to chicken to burgers can be found in your local frozen food isle. You can also add protein by adding tofu, nuts, and seeds to your meals.

If you are yearning for foods that just do not fit into the vegetarian lifestyle, do not be discouraged. In today's market you can find new and exciting substitutes for everything you could be looking for. From nut butters to soy milk, even coconut milk ice cream. Many companies are specializing in serving the growing vegetarian population, and many of these foods can be found in local shopping centers.

Making the switch to a healthier lifestyle without meat may seem daunting at first, but with a well stocked pantry you will be able to see just how easy and exciting making great tasting meals can be. And chances are you will not have to give up much, but you will gain quite a lot more.