Celebrate the Harvest with a Vegetarian Meal

It’s harvest time in much of the country. Consider taking advantage of the abundance of vegetables and celebrate Vegetarian Day on October 1st.

Going meatless even one day a week can have an impact on your health. Research found eating more plant-based protein, fruits and vegetables, and less meat may reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Even the meat lovers in my family will opt for ratatouille. And even though I am not known for my culinary skills, I look like a pro when I use my fresh garden produce to create this dish.

And for those grill masters in the family, consider grilling a meal of vegetables. Try cauliflower steaks on the grill or roasted in the oven. Marinate and skewer your favorite vegetables for your main course and pineapple, watermelon, apples, pears or other seasonal fruit for dessert.

A bit more information: In 2018, a research study found 5% of US Citizens reported themselves vegetarian and 3% vegan. Psychology Today reported results of a recent study on the psychological variables including values, beliefs, and well-being.