by Shelly Mcrae

Created on: April 19, 2010

The vegetarian cuisine includes a wide variety of foods such as pastas, cheeses and breads along with fruits and vegetables. At the cost of meats and fish in the contemporary economy, eating vegetarian meals may prove less costly than those focused on animal products.

Meatless lasagna served with a simple vegetable soup and crusty bread makes for a cheap and easy vegetarian dinner. Make the lasagna just as you normally would, except skip the meat. Substitute spinach for added color and flavor or tofu for added texture.

Chickpeas are loaded with nutrients and protein. Use them to create a curry or add them to chili, substituting the chickpeas for ground meat or steak.

Canned chickpeas are available or prepare them yourself using dry chickpeas. Chili isn't the only dish in which these nutritious beans provide extra texture and flavor. Try them in vegetable stews or bean soups. Serve with side dishes of bread and cheese for a well balanced meal.

Create a meal by focusing on one or two vegetables such as eggplant and zucchini. Both can be sliced into serving sized pieces, seasoned, grilled and topped with goat cheese and tomatoes. Served with a side of baked potatoes and grilled pineapple, it's a summer meal that leaves you feeling content. Include a side dish of baked beans or navy beans soup on those cooler, early autumn days.

For a quick and easy vegetarian meal, make a stir fry dish with noodles and sautéed vegetables. Snap peas, broccoli and red pepper with a splash of soy sauce served on a bed of noodles makes for a nutritious and delicious dinner.

Edamame with quinoa served with fresh pineapple slices is a light supper that leaves plenty of room for dessert. Add sautéed zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

Shredded spaghetti squash turned in the skillet with diced tomatoes and topped with parmesan cheese works well with scalloped potatoes and sliced apples.

Tacos and quesadillas both work well without meat, as do enchiladas.  Refried beans served with any of these main dishes bring a healthy portion of protein to the meal. Add rice for a bit of starch and the meal is complete.

Pasta primavera is a classic Italian dinner that celebrates the bounty of the garden. Cooked pasta topped with grilled or sautéed vegetables and sprinkled with parmesan cheese is certain to please. Serve with crusty bread and for dessert, have strawberries and whipped cream.

Vegetarian meals needn't be limited to tofu burgers and lettuce salads. A host of meat-centric meals can be turned into vegetarian friendly foods. Whatever cuisine you may enjoy, be it Tex-mex, Indian, Asian or American, you can create a vegetarian menu certain to please.

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