Easy World Vegetarian Day Recipes

Yes, there is such a holiday as World Vegetarian Day. The holiday is observed annually on October 1st by vegetarians from all over the world. Worldwide, many people are deciding to eat more vegetarian plant-based meals for health reasons, as well as for environmental and ethical reasons. But deciding to eat vegetarian often means making some changes to old familiar recipes that aren't particularly vegan or vegetarian in composition. Here are 2 original vegetarian recipes for World Vegetarian Day that I use regularly for ease of preparation and because they're both low in fat, low in sodium, and high in nutrient density.

Easy Thermos Steel Cut Oat Porridge

Using a 1-cup thermos, fill the cavity with boiling water and then empty it. Now add ¼ cup steel cut oats, and add boiling water to the point where you can still secure the lid. Screw on the lid and shake a few times. Set it on the counter and come back to it in a minimum of an hour. Two hours is even better. Or if you like, you can prepare it before bed, and it will be ready for you in the morning. Your steel cut oats will be cooked and delicious without much effort.

For a sweetener, you can use date sugar or add chopped dried dates or raisins to the thermos before adding boiling water. Other natural sweeteners may be added to your bowl if you prefer. I also like to add 1 T. ground flaxseed to my porridge, 1/4-cup almond milk, and ¼-cup frozen blueberries. If you like a bit of crunch with your steel cut oat porridge, you might wish to add ¼-cup chopped walnuts to your bowl for more Omega-3.

Fat Free Large Green Salad

To make this large lunch salad, use a large food container with a lid. Add all your salad makings: organic spring mix, onion slices, celery slices, kidney beans or any variety of beans, pumpkin seeds, sliced or chopped carrots, sliced red cabbage, red and green peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and even fresh grated garlic--if you dare.

Then, to keep sodium low and to avoid added-fat dressings, sprinkle on about a half-teaspoon of Mrs. Dash seasoning and top your large green salad with fresh-squeezed lemon or lime juice. A large salad takes a full lemon or lime. Next, with the lid secure, shake the salad to coat all the veggies. Empty the large green salad onto your lunch plate and enjoy.

If you're celebrating World Vegetarian Day this year, consider giving these two easy recipes a try. And why not make them any day of the year? Eating vegetarian is a healthy choice and a delicious one too.