Meatless lent meal ideas
A seafood basket inspired for Lenten season; mussels,
shrimp and scallops go into this dish. ©davewallis
Lent is not known as a time for haute cuisine. It seems that there are
as many different faiths that observe Lent as there are rules for foods allowed
during the observance period, making it especially hard to answer the question,
“What’s for dinner?” at this time of
year.
Tuna casserole, fish sticks, and mac and cheese—these are the
standard Lent recipes of many Catholic households. But foodies and fast food
chains think this is a time to create an intentional game plan for meatless battles
that don’t have to mean bland food.
Since the 4th century, eating meatless and in some cases, eschewing
of other animal products has been one way for millions of Christians to respect
their religious heritage. Even when the restrictions are limited to Wednesdays
or Fridays of each week, finding that family meal planning is essential.
You might say that those who observe the Lenten fast are the
original flexitarians. But that
doesn’t mean one has to end up with a lot less of something good. Again, people don’t like eating the same tuna
casseroles.
Lent is not just a matter of self-denial. Fasting comes with feasting also, and that
those things are not at odds with each other. To help keep abstinence rewarding
during the season, Focus Weekly rounded up 10 recipe ideas that cater to all
the different dietary needs—whether you’re simply omitting red meat, avoiding
dairy or striving for a strict vegetarian diet. From tasty Tilapia Fish Tacos
to appetizing Pasta and Marina, we’re sure these will keep your Lenten days and
nights full of flavor.
- Salmon with mongo beans. This heart-healthy dish is loaded with protein, and what fat it does have, is the good kind, from fresh salmon and olive oil. The mongo beans round out the dish, providing nutty taste and firm texture.
- Stir-fried tofu with vegetables. Here is a great way to show what a super meat substitute firm tofu is. If you wish, vary the vegetables. Small broccoli flowerets or zucchini strips can stand in for the carrots and mushrooms.
- Pasta with Mahimahi. Similar to grouper, mahimahi boasts a firm texture and light, sweetly moist meat. Paired with multigrain pasta, this extra lean fish dish is a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of heart-healthy seafood.
- Roasted bangus with coconut-ginger sauce. This protein-packed recipe is full of zesty flavor, with Caribbean jerk seasoning, coconut milk, garlic, and ginger adding depth to a medley of vegetables that are spread atop baked red snapper fillets.
- Osyter and asparagus stir-fry. Tossing this dish with chopped basil just before serving adds a touch of fresh flavor. With steamed rice, you have a complete meal!
- Jerk tuna fillet with sweet potato sides. Tuna, a firm-fleshed fish, is often sold as fillets, but it's one of the few fish thick enough to be cut into steaks — which are usually a better buy.
- Flatbread salad pizza. Try this salad "pizza" as an alternative to the usual tomato-and-cheese kind. It's especially good because it starts with a crusty grilled flatbread that gives it a unique look and imparts a rustic flavor. Serve the bread simply with herb-infused olive oil and fresh herbs, or top with our chopped salad or spice blend.
- Vegetable Stew. A hearty vegetable stew makes an incredible vegetarian entrée—savory and satisfying with plenty of spices and seasoning to keep your palate interested. For a variation, try stirring toasted, chopped almonds and scallions into the couscous before serving.
- Fisherman's Stew. This simple seafood stew is laden with fresh shrimp and cod, and features a savory tomato broth spiced up with herb seasoning.
- Baked cabbage. Cabbage wedges are microwaved, then topped with a sweet-and-sour tomato sauce—a simplified version of the classic stuffed cabbage! Delicious served over quick-cooking brown rice.
P.S. For fries patrons out there, Mcdo’s new innovation addition called BFF Fries is the Lenten bomb. It’s big enough to be shared with a friend or two. - Louie dela Vega (FOCUS)
