Some of the best sources of plant-based protein are also some of the most versatile when it comes to cooking delicious, healthy food. If you’re looking to move more toward a plant-based diet, nuts, seeds and legumes will surely be your friends….and for good reason! They’re less expensive than meat, highly nutritious (low in fat, no cholesterol, and high in fiber, folate, potassium, iron and magnesium), and can actually  be very “meaty” in texture.   Note: most dried beans and legumes need to be soaked prior to cooking. Here’s how.

Dips and Spreads
Vegan 7-Layer Mexican Dip (PERFECT FOR SUPER BOWL!)
Homemade Almond Butter
Mark Bittman’s Best Homemade Hummus

Soups and Salads
Moroccan Spiced Millet & Lentil Salad
Chickpea Soup
Shredded Collard Green Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Cashews

Entrees
Beet Linguini with Cashew Ricotta
Brazilian Black Bean Stew
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

Desserts
Vegan Lemon Poppy Cake
Overnight Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
No-Bake Brownies with Hemp Seeds
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies with Flax, Chia & Hemp Seeds