World Vegetarian Day 2016: Recipes And Tips For Making Most Of Meatless Celebration

Saturday marks World Vegetation Day. This is the day where attention is brought to the environmental and health benefits of vegetarianism and encourages even the most dedicated carnivore to consider giving the plant based diet a try for the day. Not only does Oct. 1 celebrate World Vegetarian Day but it kicks off the beginning of World Vegetarian Awareness Month. This is just the start of potlucks, food tastings, parties and more festivities that help to broaden perspectives on what it is like to be a vegetarian.

In celebration of the special day, there are plenty of fun things to do but we suggest making sure your day is about delicious and healthy foods. Whether you are a vegetarian or not, try out some of these easy recipes below.

Roasted Tomato and Avocado Crostini

If you are entertaining on this special day, you may want to keep you guests busy by letting them snack on this appetizer. With ingredients like fresh grape tomatoes, avocado and basil, anyone is sure to enjoy this healthy dish.

Veggie Riggies: A Rigatoni Saute #SundaySupper

If you are looking for the ultimate comfort meal then a rigatoni is the way to go. This spicy, creamy pasta is a hearty dish that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Black Bean Sliders with Cilantro-Lime Cream

This can be an appetizer or a main dish, either way you serve it, this will certainly be a stomach pleaser.

Spinach-Artichoke Deep-Dish Pizza

In the case of pizza for vegetarians, pepperoni is never an option but throw in some fresh spinach and ricotta and you have a meal.

Mom’s Vegetarian Pot Pie

This delicious pot pie will warm your soul with ingredients like Yukon potatoes, vegetable broth and Sauvignon Blanc.

Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Those in search of a cheesy meal will find satisfaction when eating this tasty casserole. Be sure to place the casserole under the broiler for the last three minutes of cooking time for a toasted finish.

Slow Cooker Spinach and Ricotta Manicotti

This dish is great if you happen to have errands to run on this delicious holiday. After making preparations, place your pasta in the slow cooker and go, just make sure you are back in three hours.

BBQ Cauliflower and Chickpea Tacos with a Creamy Slaw

World Vegetation Day may not fall on taco Tuesday this year but these tacos will make you forget what day it is after one bite.

Bread Burfi

In the mood for something sweet? Try this popular Indian dish that has a fudge-like consistency and requires simple ingredients like white bread, butter and walnuts.

Rainbow Vegetarian Pad Thai with Peanuts and Basil

Instead of ordering Saturday night takeout, whip up some pad Thai in your own kitchen. Grab some vegetable broth, chili paste and fresh herbs and get ready to enjoy this delicious homemade dish.

Homemade Roasted Garlic Baba Ganoush

It looks like hummus but it’s definitely not, however, you can still take your favorite chips or vegetables and dunk them in this creamy dip.

Baked Brie with Sweet Hot Pepper Jelly and Pear

Serve it as an appetizer or as a dessert, this unique dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Vegan Jalapeno Pesto Sandwich Recipe

If you are in the sandwich type of mood enjoy this delectable dish stuffed with vegetables that just so happens to be vegan-friendly.

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Loaded with pesto, black olives, grape tomatoes, parmesan cheese and more, having quinoa as a main dish has never been so exciting.

Eggplant Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella

This delicious dish can be prepared ahead of time. The sauce can be made three days in advance and the eggplants can be cooked the day before. Serve with a side of your favorite pasta to complete the meal.