There are many paths to success when it comes to transitioning to more plant-based meals.Check out this printable infographic all about making the switch!Option #1: Try CopycatsThere are many products on the market today that offer a plant-based alternative to popular meat dishes. Try a few and compare how they stack up in terms of taste, cost, nutrient quality, and ease of preparation. For example, consider...

• Soy Dogs
• Veggie Burgers
• "Better Than Chicken"

Option #2:  Consider a New InventionCombine a few elements and invent a whole new food!

• Think: cronuts
• Sushi donuts?
• Unicorn rice burger?
• Bruffins?

Option #3: Consider the Other Elements of a MealIs it possible that it's the "fixings" that surround a meat-based meal that actually pack the most appeal?

• Mashed Potatoes
• Steak Fries
• Fried Coating
• Onions

Option #4: Go for a Grander ScalePresentation matters -- make your plant-based meal pretty!

• Use a variety of colorful plant foods
• Salad Bar
• Poke-Style
• Bowls

Option #5: Use the PlantsThis one may be my favorite -- seek out plant-based meals that stand on their own.

• Ethnic Foods (many of these have delicious stand-alone vegetarian options)
  • Mexican
  • Asian
  • Middle-Eastern
  • Indian
• Soups
• Chilis
• Nuts and Nut Butters

By Judy Doherty, BS, PCII