Food2 is jumping on board with Meatless Monday, an initiative to help reduce meat consumption for personal health and the health of the planet by going vegetarian for one day each week.
If you’re looking to squeeze some more vegetables into your life, try one of these easy, healthy sides featuring the best of winter produce.
Winter Vegetable Medley
Serves 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
8 cippolini onions, peeled
1/2 cup carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 pound rutabaga, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 head of fennel, trimmed and cut into 1/4-inch slices lengthwise
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Toss vegetables with oil, salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd, and roast until tender and caramelized, 45 minutes to one hour.
Asian Mushrooms with Scallions
Serves 4
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons canola oil
1/2 pound oyster mushrooms, halved lengthwise
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 scallions, thinly sliced
Directions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add mushrooms, salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
2. Add soy sauce and scallions, and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat and serve.
Silky Almond Mashed Potatoes
Serves 4-6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
3 large potatoes, washed, peeled and quartered
2 tablespoons olive oil
1-2 tablespoons almond milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup dairy-free cheese (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Place potatoes in a pot, and cover with water by two inches. Bring to a boil, and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Strain potatoes, and transfer to a mixing bowl.
3. Add olive oil and salt, and mash until smooth. Slowly add almond milk and continue mashing to desired consistency.
4. Transfer to a casserole dish and spread dairy-free cheese on top, if using. Bake for 20 minutes, and serve immediately.