One of the biggest obstacles to being the only vegetarian at the table is TIME. If, like me, you are cooking for a crowd of non-vegetarians, it’s easy to skimp on yourself, as you are likely doing more cooking for the omnivores in your life. On more than one occasion, I’ve been known to eat “just the sides” for this reason. Disappointing!
There are no easy answers to this, but here are two products to make mealtime preparation a little more convenient.
The first is from the company called Gardein. This is your answer to an easy entree and a good source of protein! While the concept of a prepacked vegetarian entree is nothing new, the ones I’ve tried have disappeared from my grocery aisles (O Seasoned Baked Tofu, wherefore art thou?) or have a lot to be desired in the taste department.
Gardein produces products in categories similar to chicken, beef, and fish. Some are gluten-free, and others are created to help you through holiday traditions! I enjoy the variety that is available, but also the fact that SAUCE PACKETS that come with each entree. Let’s face it– processed vegetarian food is often dry, so these packets add a lot of welcome flavor.
Adding to the ease of this product is the fact that it is available (at least here) in my regular grocery store as well as Target. No need to make a trip to a specialty store!
Target has introduced a similar product in its Simply Balanced line, but based on the one type I tried, I prefer the Gardein variety. (Ha, ha!)
The other product is from Live Gourmet. It’s called Living Lettuce. The lettuce is still ALIVE.
How does this make life easier? Well, if you’re like me, the fewer trips to the grocery store, the better! But, when you want fresh produce, it’s necessary. Living Lettuce bridges the gap between those days when you just can’t make it. It is also less wasteful because it won’t go bad quickly.
What products do you find make your life easier?
The Only Vegetarian at the Table 