The Y’s registered dietitian nutritionists are here to help you live healthier! Jen wrote about how plant-based diets are best for our bodies. She explained that plant-based doesn’t mean eating only plants, but rather, filling the majority of our plates with veggies, fruits, legumes, and grains.

One of the ways Jen suggests to start shifting toward a plant-based diet is to go meatless on Mondays. Lots of folks who are learning to eat healthier find success with this scheduled strategy.

So, for all of you who are striving to diet on plants for one day a week or even all seven, here’s a friendly menu of options to work from. We’ve divided it up by breakfast toasts, lunch bowls, and dinner tacos. Bon appétit!

6 Delectable Dishes for Meatless Monday

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    BREAKFAST TOASTS: Almond Butter Toast with Bananas and Toasted Coconut

    This simple, sweet dish is actually great for any meal, but the ease of putting it together combined with the bananas and honey make it amazing for the morning.

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    BREAKFAST TOASTS: Strawberry Ricotta Breakfast Toast

    Talk about treats for the morning! The versatility of toasts like this make them hard to beat as a healthy, yummy start to your day. Feel free to exchange the strawberries for other fruits and experiment with different (healthy!) breads.

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    LUNCH BOWLS: Sesame Kale Glow Bowl

    Twenty minutes is all you need for a protein-packed meal. Kale and quinoa play starring roles in this Asian-inspired dish that will offer you energy through the afternoon.

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    LUNCH BOWLS: Sweet Potato Black Bean Quinoa Bowl

    Gluten-free, kid-friendly, colors galore—what more could you want from a healthy meal?! Satisfy the cravings of even the pickiest eaters in your family in only 30 minutes with this south-of-the-border bowl.

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    DINNER TACOS: Cilantro-Lime Vegan Tacos

    This fresh dish incorporates hummus for a nice twist. With garlic, chiles, scallions, cilantro AND lime, the flavor combos here are not to miss!

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    DINNER TACOS: Spiced Sweet Potato & Grilled Portobello Tacos

    This grillable, filling dish is high in healthy carbs and low on fats—meaning it will keep bellies full and happy. The sweet potatoes, mushrooms, cashews and more will fuel your body without weighing it down. Perfect for parties or a quiet dinner at home.

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Establish Healthy Habits with the Y

Ready for a healthier eating approach? Get more information on a YMCA membership and our health and fitness programs offered at your YMCA fitness center. Let us partner with you in reaching your healthy living goals!