Go Plant-Strong!™
Tour The Site Meet The Team Get The Book
Join us on Facebook! Follow us on Twitter! Follow us on Pinterest!
The Daily Beet: Tips, Advice and Stories
The Engine 2 Diet / The Daily Beet / The Daily Beet / Guest post by Lindsay Nixon: Simplifying meals. Plus! Win a copy of Every Day Happy Herbivore!
Search The E2 Blog

Guest post by Lindsay Nixon: Simplifying meals. Plus! Win a copy of Every Day Happy Herbivore!

by February 07, 2012

Lindsay Nixon, from Happy Herbivore is back, talking about simplicity. One of the reasons why we love Lindsay is that in both of her books, Happy Herbivore and Every Day Happy Herbivore she has lots of easy to make, simple meals.

Simplify Your Meals

When I was at HTLA (Healthy Taste of LA) , I had the good fortune of being seated next to Dr. T. Colin Campbell, whom I talked to for most of the day. One question I was dying to ask him was, “What’s your favorite meal?”

Knowing his wife is a fantastic cook, I couldn’t wait to hear his answer. When he said “potatoes and kale” I nearly fell out of my seat. I mean, yes, I like potatoes and kale too, but… that’s it? That’s it.

Colin is right, there is something beautiful about simplicity. I love a good, elaborate meal now and again, and even a slightly more complex meal pretty regularly, but I also like simpler fare. For the past few days I’ve been crazy for refried beans and salsa, mixed together and slapped into lettuce wraps. The week before that I was all about Rip’s fat-free hummus with various vegetables.

Anytime someone is new to a plant-based diet, and feeling overwhelmed about dinner time, I remind them that meals don’t have to be complex. Beans and salsa in a tortilla is a perfectly acceptable meal. Add in some smashed sweet potato, corn and greens – even better. Steamed vegetables over brown rice with a dab of soy sauce or miso is terrific, too. Then, of course, there is always potatoes and kale!! (I kid, I kid).

Seriously though – don’t be afraid to simplify your meals. I once had a bowl of kale, sweet potatoes and black beans and let me tell you, I felt amazing after eating it. In fact, that probably pinpoints a lot of our meals: greens, a grain (i.e. brown rice or quinoa) or starchy vegetable (i.e. sweet potato) and a protein (beans, lentils or tofu) and if I must, I tie it together with a flavorful sauce or gravy (if you own either of my cookbooks, you know what a glutton I am for sauces and gravies).

Have fun with simple meals – they can be surprisingly delicious!

Thank you Lindsay!

Do you have simple meal ideas? Share them with us in the comments and we’ll pick someone at random to win a copy of “Every Day Happy Herbivore“!

About the author

Lindsay Nixon
Lindsay S. Nixon is a rising star in the culinary world, praised for her ability to use everyday ingredients to create healthy, low fat recipes that taste just as delicious as they are nutritious. She is the author of two bestselling cookbooks, The Happy Herbivore Cookbook and Everyday Happy Herbivore. Her third book, Happy Herbivore Abroad, will be released in December 2012. Learn more about Nixon and try some of her recipes at happyherbivore.com.
, ,
  • http://sarahjanebeautifuldawn.blogspot.com/ Sarah

    I used to think about what meat I’d serve. Now I think about what veggie(s) and then think about the grain and bean or other protein source. I’m slowly making the shift while trying to keep the littles happy!

  • Pam Westfall

    For any meal of the day I love a whole grain tortilla slathered with refried beans, some diced onion and any type of salsa. (Mango peach salsa is my current favorite.) Put the tortilla in a pan on medium heat until it gets crispy. Flip it half over half and enjoy!

  • Stephanie

    My favorite meal lately has been baked Kale with lemon juice, a little garlic mixed with broiled tofu cubes with Braggs Liquid Amino sprayed on. SO yummy!

    • Michelle Sealey

      Oh my that sounds lovely!

  • Terri

    Cabbage, potatoes, green beans, onion & garlic cooked in some veggie broth with a little pepper. Mmmmm…..

  • Cynthia McKenna

    Bowl of black beans, brown rice + any veggie from the fridge – cooked or raw. It always satisfies!

  • http://katesgreatkitchen.blogspot.com Kate

    This is really funny. I just posted about our last night’s dinner of potatoes, cabbage, and apples. Simply fed is better than unfed or even worse SADly fed.

  • http://www.twitter.com/@lovinmybulls Jenny

    Since starting the E2 diet 2 weeks ago I have found that I love veggies more than ever! I have tried so many new things but can honestly say, one of my faves is roasted acorn squash stuffed with swiss chard and a side of lemony quinoa! Actually LoL thats what I had for dinner yesterday! I also LOVE hummus and make my own with no salt added chickpeas, lemon juice and no sodium homemade veggie stock. I slather some hummus on a flax and whole wheat pita with some cucumber and sliced or diced tomato, add a lil bit of red wine vinegar and DIVINE!

    I have truly embraced my plant strong lifestyle and I’m loving EVERY minute of it!

    P.S. Not to mention, I love going on Happy Herbivore site for recipes! Have made quite a few things and they have all been very tasty!

  • Jason

    One of my favorite meals that my wife makes is baked cubed sweet potatoes and brussel sprouts, seasoned with pepper and oregano, on top of brown rice. It’s simple but oh so good.

  • Rachael

    What could be more simple than doubling up on a recipe and freezing half for next week? As a working single mom, that plan is a dinner-saver!

  • Al Anderson

    Brown Rice, Wilted spinach, Red Beans and grilled Tofu.

  • Susan Eagan

    My husband and I have been vegan since the week after Thanksgiving. I am still testing out new ideas. Each week we try a new fruit and vegetable. We are finding that we love kale and brown rice with vegetables and beans tossed in and some Braggs Liquid. Since dinner is easier to prepare, we have more time together in the evenings! I would be very excited to have some new recipes to try. Thank you, for the opportunity to win Happy Herbivore’s cookbook!

  • Lucy

    My husband is not a very picky eater. He just wants to make sure that he is getting all the nutrients that he can in one meal. I use to try to make these elaborate “plant-strong” meals every night that would take forever and leave my kitchen a huge a mess. Now I stick to heathly easy meals. My favorite is throw everything we have (beans, quinoa, veggies, spices, veggie broth, etc.) in my crock pot before I leave for work in the morning and it’s a different surprise every time I do this!

  • http://iammai7990.blogspot.com Mai

    I have brown rice, sauteed spinach & mushrooms, with grilled tofu for a lot of dinners because it’s quick and easy, especially if you cook a lot of the rice beforehand and freeze/refrigerate.

  • Aaron!

    I definitely plan around the protein. At home, I am not a fan of tofu or processed meat substitutes; different story at a restaurant. My new quest has been to try every bean and pea possible. I use the protein (bean or pea) as my inspiration then add color with the sides. Simplest, always have lentils and brown rice ready!

  • Angie E

    I love roasted veggies (peppers, onions, potatoes, brussels sprouts, etc.) served over quinoa. That’s all I need. Yum!

  • Gretchen Shapiro

    Tostadas made with canned fat-free refried beans, baked corn tortillas, and topped with the veggies of your choice and some salsa. Easy to make and delicious!

  • Grace

    Stuffed grape leaves with brown rice and chickpeas. We keep them on hand for a quick snack or can make it a meal with a big green salad and a sweet potato. I find if I can keep things like that on hand, it’s easier to keep us all on track!

  • Sue

    I toss cooked quinoa, brown rice with veggies and baked tofu – add a little soy sauce and sesame oil, garlic and onion powder and voila -

  • Donna

    I love to steam some broccoli and cauliflower and eat them without anything added – organic is so tasty!

  • Jacq

    I love refried beans on brown rice topped with salsa. Quick and easy because I usually cook a pot of brown rice to use through the week.

  • Dalores

    I like bean burritos using tortillas, beans, onions, lettuce and tomatoes.

  • Nikki

    Ezekiel bread smothered in garlic hummus and whole grain mustard with avocado, sprouts, roasted red peppers, tomatoes and mushrooms. YUM. I need to go make one now :)

    • http://www.behealtybehappywellness.com Pam@behealthybehappywellness

      This sounds close to my go to lunch – I’ll definitely try this variation! When in doubt, I’ll mush up a nice ripe avocado and slather it over a piece of sourdough or sprouted bread, sprinkle on some sprouts and some sliced radishes. Serve with fresh orange slices on the side. I never get tired of this!

  • Stephanie

    I love mushrooms, tofu, and greens stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. So yummy with brown rice or whatever other random cooked grain I have on hand.

  • Shireen P

    Wraps are my go-to meal. I always keep sprouted tortillas in the house and it’s so easy to make up a batch of oil-free hummus, guacamole, or cashew cheese and throw it in with some brown rice or other grain and some veggies. And there are so many different ways to mix it up, so I never get bored.

  • Alan Ward

    Still learning new and healthy meals. My latest favorite is a chalupa with homemade black bean dip on baked corn tortillas with lettuce tomato and homemade salsa.

  • http://www.Medusadrums.com Helen

    I love a baked potato with roasted onions and kale on top of it!!

  • Parker

    As a native Texan from the southern part of the state, I’ve always loved slightly mashed pinto beans on big ole slightly warmed corn tortillas with raw jalapenos stirred into the beans sprinkled with green onion, diced tomato and lettuce…pure perfection. Learned this great and easy dish from some friends across the border.

  • Brad

    one of my goto simple meals is brown rice with sauteed spinach and mushrooms and a side of kale chips.

  • Mary Faron

    Baked yukon gold potatoes, black beans, tomatillo salsa and gobs of cilantro–yum!

  • http://carlyskitchen.blogspot.com Carly

    Our recent family meal came about when I thought I had nothing in my house for dinner. But I simply baked some potatoes, heated up a can of kidney beans with taco seasoning, threw in a bunch of kale, swiss chard, and spinach with the beans. Put the bean mixture on top of the baked potato, along with corn and blanched brocoli. So simple and so delicious!

  • Kim Hayes

    My favorite simple comfort food is Toasted Ezekiel bread with chunky natural peanut butter.and a cup of tea.

  • Tiffany

    Ooh, I’ve been dying to get the HH cookbook! One simple lunch I love is brown rice mixed with mango salsa and chickpeas! Or, if I’m feeling really lazy, peanut butter toast! :)

  • BKB

    Being from south Texas, I could eat beans and tortillas every day, and I pretty much do, but during the “cooler” times of the year, I make a potato soup. I use onions, celery, green peppers and carrots diced and sauted in veggie broth. I add diced potatoes, some mushrooms and more veggie broth. I season with a no salt seasoning. When I serve it up, I put srirachi sauce in the bottom on the bowl, ladle the soup in and give it a good mix. I serve it with warm tortillas or (in my husband’s case) oyster crackers! Delicious!!!

  • Quinta Peterson

    I love to use a base of either brown rice or red quinoa with cut up grilled tofu and then add whatever raw vegetables I have on hand…chopped carrots, celery, sugar snap peas, tomatoes, mushrooms, kale…..and mix with a little Bragg’s Amino Acids and either balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar. It’s quick and easy and always hits the spot:)

  • Kurt

    My go to is the portobello fajitas in the E2 book! I like to roast poblanos and jalapeños to sub in for the bell peppers! My wife is trying these meals as well. Really getting into it!

  • http://thedailydish.us Christy

    My family and I prefer simpler meals and our favorite is what we call “snacky dinner.” Snacky dinner consists of whatever’s on hand at the time, typically a bowl of grapes, a plate of slice fruit, low-sodium whole grain crackers, hummus, carrot and celery sticks, a bowl of mushrooms, olives for my husband, sometimes pickles, and (if my daughters are extra lucky) some vegan snack cake for dessert. Simple truly is best.

  • Margie Whitling

    My son and I are waiting on our books to come so we can start being healthy together even though he lives 2 hours away. We are going to support each other as we try and share different recipes. I have found a few recipes but when things are low in the cupboards, like last night, I took a tortilla, put salsa on it with lettuce, some beans and it was fast and easy, very tasty too.

  • Devon

    I buy a contanier of mixed greens and spinach from Costco. Then I add whaever veggies have on hand. For sweetness, I’ll top it with some fruit or raisins. My dressing is usually a basic vinegarette. Then my lunch is covered, as well as a side salad for dinner. Delish!!

  • Rachel S.

    Yes! This is all so true. I only have a fridge and microwave at work, so I often pack a Pyrex dish with black beans, brown rice, and a green vegetable–with garlic powder, onion powder and cumin sprinkled on top. Easily my favorite lunch, and it’s so so simple!
    Would love to win the book! :-)

  • Tiana Duart

    My fav simple meal is a baked potatoe with a simple chili and salsa on top. Soooo good!!!

  • http://journalthroughlens.blogpsot.com wen

    I love salad and with salsa dressing…

  • Lisa

    My favourite meal changes with the more plant based foods I try. Right now it is the Sweet Potato Oat Curry burger that Curtis gave us the recipe to in his class at the WF Tampa. It is delicious and very easy to make!

  • Lucinda

    I love a huge salad. With everything you can think of. Spinach, butter lettuce, apples, carrots, water chesnuts, cucumber, olives, romaine, Romas, nutritional yeast, kelp seeds, onions, garlic, avocados, pine nuts and more. Make a huge batch so you can eat off of it for a few days.

  • Jean D.

    Lots of people ask me about my eating habits. I tell them that now, I have a big sweet potato, or a delicious acorn squash, on the plate where the meat used to be.

    Thanks for a great giveaway!

  • John

    I love Kale sandwiches with lemon thanks to Mrs. Ann Esselstyn!! I’d also love a chance to win the book, looks great!

  • http://wheatgrassandsassafras.wordpress.com/ Debbie

    I love a burrito bowl with brown rice, salsa, and black beans. It only takes a few moments to toss together and tastes so great!

  • Joyce Fast

    I throw some potatoes in the oven to bake. White or Sweet either one. I throw the colander in the sink, (not literally), empty lettuce and any raw veggies that are available and wash totally thoroughly, and when drained – placde in salad bowls. While potatoes are baking I set the table, provide low sodioum soy sauce and any kind of vinegar my husband and I want on our salads. I slice some beets and put a few slices on top of the salad for beauty and flavor. I find my face isn’t always the most beautiful – but sometimes it is. The beets take care of that. While potaotoes are finishing I clean up in the kitchen and run (not literally) in and fix my face and hair or if I am angry with my husband I leave it alone. Then we sit down and enjoy our delicious nutritious lunch or dinner.

    • Suenell

      lolz – if you’re mad at your husband… when are we not fed up with something they do? *chortles*

  • Terry B

    I’ve been on E-2 diet since October and I’ve been amazed by several aspects of it. I’ve lost 10 lbs, even though I wasn’t overweight at all. I usually gain that much in the winter months and feel miserable by Spring. I’ve had more energy throughout the day, with no more midafternoon “I need a nap” feeling. I’ve also been an eat-whatever-I-want person and have never thought much about the potential health risks associated with that kind of mindset. I’m thankful to have been “awakened” by the many benefits the E-2 diet has bestowed upon myself, my family, and a couple of converted friends. With that being said, I’m currently enjoying some carrot and celery sticks dipped in homemade hummus my wife made, using garbanzo beans, jalapenos, garlic, sesame seed paste,and veggie broth blended in a food processor. Turned out pretty good for a first time batch!

  • Fonnetta S

    One of mine & hubby’s favorties is kale, garlic & buckwheat noodles. I pour some veg. stock into a pan and warm it up with about 7 cloves of galic (minced), then once that is hot and smells like garlic, I add in the chopped up kale. Toss it around and watch it wilt up and get this beautiul deep green color (it takes about 5 minutes and you may need to add a little more veg. stock). Then, we pile it on with some noodles and a dash of soy sauce. DELISH! You may want to eat it with your chop sticks…we do!

    • http://www.thefoodway.blogspot.com Tracy Minton

      Hi Fonneta,

      We just had bukwheat noodles with a little soupy broth made with veggies and miso last night along with the rest of our dinner. For breakfast this morning, we had the leftover noodles re-heated quickly in a little broth with just some tamari and Thai red chili paste, and braising greens on the side. We love those bucwheat noodles, soft and comforting to eat, and they cook fast. I love to read that others enjoy similar foods in simple combinations. ~Tracy

  • http://outinthemsticks.blogspot.com rebecca @outinthemsticks

    My favorite fast fix is:

    1 can corn, 1 can black beans, 1 can green chiles, a couple tomatoes chopped, toss together with dash of cumin, onion and garlic powder. serve on greens, rice, or whatever you want. :)

  • gin

    My favorite go to food for anytime snack is “smashed” potatoes with barbq sauce…nuke small red or yukon golds in the micro, do not pierce, then smash them into a nonstick skillet with the bottom of a bowl and crisp on both sides…makes a nice base for mushroom gravy or vegetable gravy….for a complete meal

  • Stephanie Serer

    I love your website and I am constantly on it looking for recipes!!! If I don’t win the book, I will definitely be purchasing it soon. My favorite dish at the moment is Spinach enchiladas verde, I also like to make them with refried beans, corn, and red sauce. I love the spinach artichoke dip recipe,and the chilaquiles in your recipes online. Thanks for making it easy to eat a plant based diet!

  • CARLA

    Chop up a huge bowl of mixed veggies and eat from that for days in a row…adding in my beans or grains.

  • http://www.advocareimpact.us Avery Quinn

    I don’t have a recipe to share because we’re still learning but doing our best to stick to plant based!

    We could use the book!! :) We’ve been eye balling it since we watched Forks over Knives!

  • Denise Norris

    I keep it pretty simple most of the days during the week with soups, salads and stir fry veggies over brown rice. My weekends are for trying new recipes and freezing meals ahead of time.

  • Landree

    A baked potato with refried beans on top and salsa. Yum.

  • Amy

    My favorite dish right now:

    Lemony Quinoa with butternut squash
    http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2009/10/lemony-quinoa-with-butternut-squash.html

  • http://www.dawsonfordgarbee.com Michelle Talley

    As a “NEWBIE” it’s super exciting to know that this stuff is simple AND tasteful AND fulfilling! I don’t ever feel hungry but I never feel full either…just satisfied :)

  • Michelle Davis

    I would love a copy of the book. I don’t have a recipe to share because I’m just getting started with the whole herbivore/vegan way of eating. The book would really help me tackle this overwhelming change of doing things.

  • Suzanne

    We used to only eat brussels sprouts at Christmas/Thanksgiving and despite their windy properties – roasted in veg stock – just delish! Just had some in a pita for lunch with home-made hummus. Yum!

  • Jeanne Endsley

    My simple meal is start with beans and the veggies on hand..then I decide what seasoning I’m in the mood for and there you go. Over rice or quinoa and its so fast and yummy .

  • Rob

    I’m not fully plant strong yet, but I was able to fill up on plant based food at my conference. I am kosher, so all the pork, poultry, and beef options were off limits.

  • Kim W

    I like to have quinoa cooked and at the ready to throw in salads or soups for that extra protein!

  • Diana

    I recently returned from India with some amazing spices. I love to do kale, diced sweet potatoes & some type of bean spiced up with a dash of this or that from my Indian spice collection. Fast, simple, and tasty!

  • http://facebook.com/VeganEats Susan Sharpe

    My favorite thing to make and eat is quinoa, black beans, pumpkin seeds and avacado!!

  • Katie

    spaghetti squash is one of my favorite quick meals, a small one cooks in the microwave in less than 10 mins, add veggies and tomato sauce or anything else that you want and have a healthy delicious meal in less than 20 mins

  • http://beastlife.wordpress.com Kimberly Louis-Jean

    I have been making a big batch of sweet potato and cauliflower soup every Sunday and it lasts me all week for dinner. I keep making it because it is so simple and tasty. All it is, is 3 chopped up sweet potatoes, a head of cauliflower, chopped up carrot and water. I then add whatever seasonings to flavor, but sometimes it’s not even necessary. Once it’s cooked long enough, I mash it up.

  • Marsha

    I love Moroccan Whole Chickpea Hummus. Guy Fieri from Diner’s, Drive-Ins and Dives came to our town and highlighted this dish from a local restaurant. I reproduced the recipe from the video as closely as possible (without the oil of course). I eat it almost every day! I’ll share the recipe if you like. AND let me say that because of you and Rip I have lost 20 pounds since going plant strong!

  • Michele P

    Tabouleh Salad:
    Parsley, green onions, tomato, cucumber
    Add bulgur, salt & pepper, fresh lemon juice and olive oil.

    Delish!

  • Nelson

    When someone just deciding to try out plant-based eating asked me about where to find certain ingredients and is this way going to cost more, I ended my reply by saying “I eat a lot of rice and beans.” There are so many simple foods that I haven’t made a lot of complicated recipes.

  • Dena Swinson

    We love “finger foods” at our house. We just take out whatever good for us stuff we have in our house that you can eat with your fingers. Baby carrots, olives, sliced apples, broccoli and cauliflower florets, whole grain crackers, etc. Even the kids love this simple meal! Would love to win this cookbook! I have lots of cookbooks, but not lots of healthy ones!

  • http://www.modernmommymagic.blogspot.com Ashley

    I am new to this way of eating and have been doing so for about a month. I find myself pretty much living on salads and really need to start cooking once again. I’d love to win this book and get some great new ideas!

  • Anita

    Fat-free hummus on whole wheat bread. Also, tomatoes, spinach, and Dijon mustard on whole wheat bread.

  • Helene

    Simplicity in our home begins with a 3 crockpot server with 3 different kinds of beans cooking at the same time and then 1/2 frozen and 1/2 placed in the fridge. Multiple bags of organic kale and spinach are bought at the same time and run thru the food processor to cut just right. Part is frozen to place in green smoothies/sauces etc. and the other portion is placed in the fridge. Now, we’re ready for salads, burritos etc. in a nano second.

  • Chris

    When I’m either unmotivated, low on supplies at home, or don’t have much time, my go-to dish is a black bean and quinoa number that also includes onion, garlic, cumin, corn and cilantro. Quick, easy, and very good.

    I’d love a copy of the book!

  • Hannah

    I just made quinoa with carrots and celery. It was so good. Really want more ideas on plant based food.

  • April L

    Blackbeans, quinoa and cilantro

  • Joanna Donovan

    The longer I eat a strong plant based diet the more I crave a simple bowl of steamed veggies, the usual fare includes cabbage, carrots, onions and broccoli. It is so easy I almost feel like I am cheating when I serve it up to the family. My current favorite which actual involves cooking is a roasted sweet potato and arugula sandwich with a side of steamed carrots! An almost everyday favorite easy dessert is fruit salad.

  • Kim

    Potatoes and kale is one of my hubby’s faves too…he even requested it for his birthday!

  • MK

    Loving the California Quioa from Whole Foods these days. Even had success making it on my own!

  • Colleen

    Hooray for simple! I love to be creative and make complex flavor stories etc. but that has to be on a weekend (usually a long weekend) or holiday. Day to day there is. no. time. And it’s got to be good, fast and healthy. I’m transitioning into veganism currently and welcome all the healthy , tasteful simplicity I can get!

  • Dana Morino

    I loved it as a kid and love it as an adult: celery stuffed with a nut butter. Only difference is as a kid I used gobs of Jif and now I use a more realistic amount of almond butter.

  • http://aliciasjourneyof1000miles.blogspot.com/ Alicia Leeman

    Sweet potatoe with warm black bean salad – bake a sweet potato While it’s baking (or microwaving) saute a can of diced tomatoes + a can of black beans + some frozen corn + cumin and fresh cilantro if you have it. Top the sweet potato with warm black bean salad and enjoy.

    One of my all time favorite meals ready in 15 minutes (if you microwave the potato) with pantry items.

  • http://none Theresa Halpin

    I have been big into combining flavors I would not otherwise try. My latest is adding baked, sweet potato to my multi-grain oatmeal in the morning.

  • ali

    Can’t go wrong with beans, rice & whatever veggies you have in the fridge with a little Braggs. :)

  • Lauren Culp

    My quickest easiest meal is a leftover baked potato topped with canned (rinsed) black beans and salsa. Always yum! Always quick and easy!

  • Christina Escobar

    I’ve just discovered HH and love it! I’ve been vegetarian for almost 3 years now and I still had difficulty cooking at home with out processed foods. Her dishes are so simple and easy! I especially love the black bean burgers. Very versatile and YUMMY. =)

  • Jenn

    We love simple meals!!! I love Lindsey’s carribean chickpeas over brown rice! Also we enjoy Rip’s Big Bowl often. And a great fall back meal is potato gnocchi with fresh tomatoes and basil….man, I could go on and on…

  • Wendy

    My recent favorite dinner – portabellos, red, yellow and green pepers, onions, garlic, and spinach with fresh herbs and braggs aminos over quinoa or brown rice! So delicious!

  • Bruce

    Pick me pick me! Being a 3time heart attack survivor I have decided its time to take the step to plant strong! Need all the info I can get! GodSpeed!

    • Iceskater1

      GodSpeed with many blessings and showers of fruits, veggies and whole grains deliciously tossed with love to you and your precious heart.

  • thatcrazyvegan

    I love beans and greens, any combination.

  • Beth

    Lately – I love to stir fry portabella mushrooms, red bell peppers and sweet onions with some cumin and chili powder and then wrap it all up in a taco shell or wrap with some hummus and salsa. You can even add some beans in there too. This is so easy to make and my whole family loves it!

  • Aja

    Ive never been one for making sauces, graveys, or curries but now I find myself exploring these recipes to make my dinners really come together. It’s opened me up to a whole world of different cuisine!

  • Joanne

    I love just beans and rice. It’s my easy fallback meal when I’m short on time.

  • http://muskegonvegan@blogspot.com Christy Willea

    I just visited my folks. They enjoyed all the vegan dishes that I cooked while visiting. Many from HH.

  • Heather

    There have been a lot of dinner ideas mentioned but I’m on a real oat kick in the morning. Hot, cold, with almond milk, with fruit, coconut whatever I have that is quick to grab and throw in before I head to work.
    Yummy and fast!

  • Shelly

    Usually, the simple meals I make are the most satisfying. Limited time invested with big nutritional rewards! One of my husband’s (and my) favorites are simple citrus & cilantro black beans with salsa in lettuce wraps!

  • Sandy

    Every morning I have a smoothie made in my vitamix, it consists of 2 fruits, usually and orange and banana, 4or5dates, a carrot, a chunk of organic beet, handful of spinach, Salba seed, red star nutritional yeast, frozen strawberries and pineapple. My son and I share, I always feel good after drinking!! I am not hungry again for several hours……

  • Kelly

    Quinoa with black beans, cumin, cayenne pepper and some salsa = yummy!

  • Rachelle Lozano

    Easy simple idea- garbanzo bean salad:
    drain, rinse garbanzo beans mash with vegenaise, mustard, salt & pepper to taste.
    Yummy. simple, inexpensive sandwich

  • Elizabeth

    I recently found a snack/meal idea in The Kind Diet that I’m addicted to:
    Toast, avocado and sauerkraut.
    Yum!

  • Deb

    quinoa with sweet potatoes, mushrooms, kale, and onions!!

  • veggie365

    I love oatmeal – in a pinch it can be savory or sweet! Berries in the morning – vegetables and some Bragg’s for lunch! Delicious!

  • Amy

    One of the things I missed at dinner time in my transition to a vegan lifestyle was the assortment of foods on my dinner plate. In order to combat those feelings of withdrawal I make a veggie side dish to eat alongside my plant based entree, similar to the old meat and potatoes concept. I found it was the assortment of flavors I was missing. I greatly aporeciate low fat plant strong, flavorful meals, and I have definitely found those in the Happy Herbivore cookbook that I truly use daily.

  • Peggy

    3 weeks into eating plant strong and I cannot believe how much I LOVE veggies. I have never eaten so many colors and flavors. And you are right. Keep it simple. My favorite way to eat anthing now is roasted. I think all the veggies taste so much richer and fuller this way.

    Thanks so much for all you do to help keep me going strong!!

  • http://nourishthefamily.blogspot.com Sunni Zuniga

    My favorite simple meal is quinoa + steamed broccoli + chickpeas + sriracha. Delicious and easy

  • Mary Kate

    my favorite simple meal is a peanut butter and apple sandwich on toasted cinnamon raisin bread, so simple but SO good

  • Christen

    I’ve been on an oatmeal kick on the weekends. Steel cut oats topped with flaxmeal, bananas, berries, raisins, nuts, molasses – whatever sounds good that day!

  • http://mac-aroni-n-cheese.blogspot.com/ Jacqueline Smith

    My go-to lunch is always a wrap made with a whole wheat tortilla, Engine 2 Hummus, olives and either arugula or spinach, then toasted in my iron skillet. It’s the best thing ever, and I have it two or three times per week.

  • Paige

    Breakfast for dinner is always a favorite around here. Whole grain pancakes, crepes or waffles with a homemade fruit compote are the kids favorite. Another is whole wheat pasta with kale, chickpeas and garlic. I almost always have organic canned beans on hand and a box of pasta!

  • Katie Wilson

    My favorite simple comfort food is a baked organic Russet potato with a huge pile of steamed broccoli on top. Of course, a little Earth Balance is needed on the potato. My husband and I eat this at least once a week. Sometimes we swap the Russet for a sweet potato. It’s perfect on a winter day.

  • Abigail

    I microwave a sweet potato, mash it on a dinner plate, then throw on top whatever veggies I have around (steamed brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, etc.) and pour a couple of spoons of whatever dressing I happen to have made that week.

  • Mandy

    I find that keeping track of what I eat helps simplify my dinner options because I have a goal of how many cals, plus I like to adhere to my proper servings of fruit, veg, and so on. So by the end of the day it is oh I could use another serving of grain, I haven’t had this (add type of protein here) in a while…..This usually adds up to a tasty, unique dish…Probably helps I keep many options of different food groups so that the creations seem to reach the stars lol

  • http://www.omnivorerunner.com Rachel

    When I don’t have any leftovers to take to work for lunch, I whip up a quick lunch of rice (if I have it), beans, mixed frozen veggies, and salsa! I may grab some corn tortillas, or some WWbread to take as well.
    Super quick prep!

  • Joan

    Rice beans guacamole for my toddler, but always wondering what might keep him eating better and more!

  • Melody

    Quinoa with Herbamare! Sometimes I add some veggies too.

  • Andrea

    Your yellow lentil dal on a bed a millet with a side of salty dog salad, delish! I just eent herby about a month ago. My husband is not quite on board, but he likes your vegan taco meet and now we both love kale! And we’ve only had it two differenways–steamed or the salty dog! Simple, yet delicious! And ob! so nufritious!

  • Jennifer

    My favorite combination is Quinoa, sauteed kale, roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, avocado and a dash of hot sauce in a big bowl.

  • Amber

    Roasting is my new favorite veggie fix. Almost all veggies taste great simply tossed in olive oil and roasted. Plus, they actually stay good if refrigerated as leftovers, so I can roast a bunch of veggies and have them to eat over a few days. Yum!

  • Melissa

    I like to roast a big batch of veggies (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower) and serve it over a salad. I make a large quantity so I can eat it for lunch for a few days.

  • Nancy

    Great post! Every week I make a pound of brown rice, a pound of pintos and a pound of black beans. Throughout the week we make burritos, tacos and bowls with veggies, cilantro (lots!), salsa, etc. So yummy and convenient. We also make kale and avocado salad to go with many meals, it’s so quick, easy and delicious!! I’ve also just discovered young green jackfruit to make great ‘carne asada’ or ‘carnitas’ tacos or burritos…DELICIOUS! My whole carny family loves them!!

  • Lisa

    For super quick meal – black beans, cilantro, chopped spinach, salsa, wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla. If I’ve got a little more time but still need something fast, quinoa, sauteed pre-sliced mushrooms and onions, microwaved broccoli and carrots.

  • http://Www.beansnotbambi.wordpress.com Christin Bummer

    My new favorite breakfast is Ezekiel cinnamon raisin English muffins with homemade cinnamon spread – 1c chickpeas in a food processor with 1/2 Tsp maple syrup, 1 tsp cinnamon, , 1 tsp vanilla and 3 Tsp melted brown sugar.

    It rivals the cinnamon icing I used to get on soft pretzels but it’s way more beneficial!!

  • Debra Curry

    Just starting out getting into more plant based foods and would love a copy of Lindsay’s cookbook. I love her simple meal ideas on her Facebook Page!

  • Marsha Fischer

    This was my first plant strong Super Bowl party. While I did have a few things for the carnivores, all the dips were plant strong and my guests did try the other plant strong options that I thought I would be the only one eating. Now I have so much yummy food. Feel so good being plant strong

  • Debra Curry

    A good plant based meal that I have tried recently is romaine salad, sweet potatoes cooked and chopped, pecans, blueberries with a maple dijon dressing made by just mixing the maple syrup and dijon mustard together and sprinkling just a little on and tossing.

  • Jennifer milne

    Black beans, quinoa, onion garlic, spiced up with some cumin. Throw in whatever greens you have in the fridge. Easy, fast, yummy!

  • Matthew W

    There are always containers of a bean and quinoa or brown rice for my wife and I to scoop and go for a quick work lunch. Homemade salsa on top makes co workers jealous when heated up in the microwave, and they are floored when they see what it is. ;-)

  • Jen

    Right now my favorite is a tomato based sauce, whole grain pasta, and whatever vegetable I have mixed in. I always feel full after that!

  • Sarah B

    I love avocados, so my go-to lunch is an avocado and tomato sandwich – YUM! Add a little spinach and maybe even some sprouts and I’m in heaven!

  • Michelle

    Soooo…what is the recipe for potatoes and kale?? Boiled? Broiled? Sauted? Any other ingredients? I would like to try it!

  • Julie Fabozzi

    Love Kale chips and have just discovered the joy of Roasting Cauliflower. Both are simple and delicious! I definitely strive for simplicity in a mad dash for a work lunch and have found nothing is easier or satisfies better than a simple baby spinach salad with strawberry, almond, with orange segments and squeezed orange juice! Simply delicious! Love HH and Engine 2 Diet! Glad to see you together!

  • http://www.betterwithveggies.com Heather @ Better With Veggies

    One of my favorites is a Kale Salad, served with Quinoa or Millet & either beans or baked tofu. Nothing crazy, just delicious!

  • danielle

    I love the idea of simplifying!

  • Stephanie

    One of my absolute most favorite meals right now is cabbage, red and green bell pepper, lightly coated with olive oil, sea salt and black pepper. Then briefly roasted for about 4 minutes at 450….SO DELICIOUS! My favorite is the cabbage which completely surprised me! Served with a small side of rice/quinoa it’s perfect!!

  • Deb

    tacos made without meat

  • Rachel

    I love simple meals too and would really, really love EHH!. Last night I sauted a whole heap of kale in veggie broth with garlic and added some balsalmic vinegar at the end – yum!

  • Shay Cody

    PB&j rocks!!

  • Chris

    One of our favorite simple meals is a big salad with mixed greens, brown rice, baked tofu, steamed broccoli, & chickpeas, AKA a “Wings of Life Salad” to locals here in Ithaca, NY. It was a creation of Julie Jordan of the Cabbagetown Cafe, now served made-to-order at our local Wegmans grocery store, or we make it a home. (Some add cheese, olives, seeds and nuts, but we skip them.) (It’s in the Cabbagetown Cafe Cookbook too.)

  • http://channelingricksteves.blogspot.com Becky F

    I love to have a good sandwich for lunch: whole wheat bread, peanut butter, and fresh berries. Yum!

  • Tracy Catartus

    I have a hard time with meal planning, which is why I need a copy of Everyday Happy Herbivore!

  • Lynnette

    Cook a large batch of quinoa or brown rice to have available. Do the same with beans, or used low salt canned ones. Mix together in any combination with spices, salsa or sauces. Add in chopped veggies, or have a salad or additional veggies on the side. HH recipes are TASTY and QUICK. A baked potato with beans & salsa can be just amazing also.

  • Kathryn

    I love ume plum vinegar on steamed greens. It is salty, but not too salty and it makes me feel fancy even though it is just vinegar!

  • Brittany D

    I put kale in everything. Whole wheat pasta with cherry tomatoes, garlic, kale, and garbonzo beans! Yum!

  • http://www.thefoodway.blogspot.com Tracy Minton

    I just love this post, and all of the comments I read. Everyone’s favorite go-to simple meals all sound simply wonderful! Many are among my own standbys as well. But something about kale…steamed and with little on it. Maybe a drizzle of Bragg’s or tamari and rice vinegar, or just a squeeze of lemon and pepper. Another great flavor is vinegar made from the umeboshi plum. It’s affordable and uniquely flavored. Great tomake a kale salad with the kale greens steamed until a beautiful bright green, than toss in a bowl with julienned red cabbage, and croutons made from steamed and then crisped tempeh or tofu, and a drizzle of ume vinegar. Pretty great salad to bring to potlucks as well!

    I also love beans, greens, and grain. I have a blog (newbie still), and I post pictures and recipes. I did a post this Sat. on eating breakfast in a pinch. My husband and I didn’t want to miss the Sat farmers markets where we buy our greens picked fresh from Blue Sky Farms. We walked there and back, which left little time to eat before leaving for the day for our clinic. We had a wonderful unsweetened whole wheat bread fresh from the market as well, and enjoyed a couple of slices with leftover split pea soup. We almost always have greens or veggies for breakfast, so without much time, we made sandwiches with a little sunflower butter and the greens from some Easter egg radishes we bought. Then we munched on the radishes. What a pleasant surprise! The spicy, hearty radish greens go great with the richness of the sunflower butter. For dessert we had chocolate mousse (a tiny dab made from cocoa powder, vanilla, avocado, and a little brown rice syrup) on thin orange slices. Talk about a creative breakfast for being on the fly! I guess it all depends on what you have on hand.

    But for a real simple meal that we bring to work, we sometimes go for quick prep. One of our standbys is Trader Joes vegetarian chili in a can on top of baked sweet potatoes (or with brown rice), and a salad or steamed….you guessed…kale! Throw in a multi-grain or corn tortilla, and we’re set!

    I’m glad I checked in and found you guys. I feel like I’ve found my home. I’m devouring as many of the books as I can from the great doctors who are thank God putting all this information out there. I’m currently loving Rip’s book, and have found all the books from Drs Esselstyn, Barnard, McDougall et al to be wonderful, each unique, all with great recipes. Next is The China Study, and hopefully his certification program. TY to all of you for your contributions, and to Lindsay as well! My blog is The Food Way to Health, Happiness, & Enlightenment at blogspot (www.thefoodway.blogspot.com)

  • Jeff Bellis

    Ice Cream Substitute: cut up and freeze 1-2 bananas. Put frozen bananas and frozen strawberries in blender and mix until smooth. Delicious!!!

  • Kelly

    I have been plant strong since October and am loving every minute. My favorite thing is this amazingly positive community that we have entered into! Everyone seems to want to help others to be healthier. As a future nurse I am super appreciative of that environment. We have a super busy schedule. Both my husband and I work and go to school, I am in the nursing program. And we have a 3 year old. I like easy fixes and experiment on my off times! BTW please pick Bruce. A three time heart attack survivor would benefit a lot from the book! Have a happy veggie filled day everyone!

  • Cindy Buteyn

    Kale and pinto beans over brown rice. I sauté some onions and garlic, add a big bag of kale, then cook it down with a big can of pintos. So simple. Serve it up with tamari and sriracha.

  • lindsay

    we’re newbie vegans too but we’re currently obsessed with sauteed mushrooms and garlic with spicy wilted kale over quinoa. so yummy! there’s this awesome vegan food truck/vendor at the farmer’s market near us whose empanada’s inspired this creation and it is de-licious!!

  • Janet

    I love making soups and bean dishes, but for really simple…a big plate of salad with some rinsed beans on top and salsa. Fills me right up.

  • Rebecca

    My favorite simple meal is a dip (either hummus or black bean) and homemade bread.

  • Happygreengirl

    I have been to the Farmer’s Market for the last three weekends. I love having local, living food in my fridge. I recently started the E2 challenge and was overwhelmed at first because I am not comfortable in the kitchen and as usual was over thinking it; but it is becoming easier and easier. Right now salads are my favorite meal. Thank you HH and E2 for helping me (and many others) live longer, healthier, happier lives!

  • Mike Joiner

    We enjoy the fb page, book, movie and all the great recipes

  • http://www.theveggiequeen.com Jill, The Veggie Queen

    For me, the basis for a great meal is having things already there. My two staple food groups which I augment are grains and beans. If I have a pot of rice and one of beans already made, all I need to do is add some vegetables which I have on hand.

    Last week, I had some cooked red beans and quinoa. The red beans were combined with an odd (to me and never before done) combination of crimini mushrooms, onions and broccoli and served over the quinoa. It was simple and oh so tasty.

    Another favorite is a bowl of rice, some beans, a drizzle of tahini and a quarter cup of sauerkraut (the naturally fermented kind) topped with chopped herbs.

    I love simplicity. And I would agree with Dr. Campbell, I love potatoes and kale but I’d still have a bowl of grains with them or add some white beans. Thanks for this post.

  • Heather Borders

    Black beans, pineapple, mango, red onion, green/red bell pepper, jalepeno, with some lime juice, cayenne pepper, mayb some mrs. dash no salt lime seasoning! Quick, super easy black bean & fruit salsa!

  • Katie L.

    I love the idea of keeping it simple! For me, the best part of shifting to a plant-based diet is watching my toddler son enjoy new, simpler foods. Now instead of fruit snacks, he will happily eat a handful of black beans – and ask for ‘mo pease’!

  • Stephanie H

    My go to quick meal, even before I gave up animal products, has been whole grain pasta with garlic sautéed veggies (usually zucchini, yellow squash, and sun dried tomatoes, sometimes with carrots thrown in as well), with roasted pine nuts and fresh basil. Quick and easy! Now that I’m plant based quinoa is my go to quite often as well. I throw in whatever veggies and greens on hand, a handful of sun dried tomatoes, and whatever fresh or dried herbs I have on hand. Most recently was some fresh cilantro I needed to use up. I had that with a baked sweet potato. Yummy!!

  • John

    I believe Rip said find a few things you like and eat those things. That’s what I do.

  • Debs

    My new favorite is black beans and corn, with cumin and chili powder and all the veggies that I would have normally put on my tacos….lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and lots of cilantro. I make baked corn tortilla chips (recipe is in the Happy Herbivore cookbook!) and my boys love to use the chips to scoop up the beans/corn mixture. Healthy Tex-Mex!

  • Laura

    Just moving into the plant based world and very excited about it. The challenge is creating the right balance of each nutritional area while still making it fun, easy and yummy. My 17 year old daughter is also on board which makes it much easier but her 17 year old twin brother still believes man must live on meat alone. Our hope is to win him over with lots of good meals.

  • Denise Welsh

    I don’t worry about what is for supper. I throw whatever veggies are in the fridge into a cast iron pan, saute them (NO OIL) and then put them over a whole wheat grain & some choice of the night beans. Done. It is easy, plain and simple.

    Yummy! Now off to cook supper :)

  • Marie Seery

    Love the new ideas that vegetarians are sharing on the web. It gives me new ideas.
    Thanks, Everyone.

  • Stephanie

    My fave right now, SO simple is oatmeal with old fashioned, ,steel cut oats. Either raw by letting it sit in 1/2c water, 1/2c coconut milk and mixing with stevia in the morning OR cooking it with almond milk, organic peanut/almond butter and stevia. Oh man, delicious :)

  • Kay Williams Yount

    Almost every day, I eat banana, oatmeal, and raisins topped with apple juice and zapped in the microwave. Usually it is breakfast, but sometimes . . . supper. Yum!

  • http://n/a Marsha Koepp

    The veggies roast in the oven (mushrooms, colorful peppers, garlic, onion, tomatoes, basil, spinich, oregano, squash – whatever is available) while the pasta cooks. This is our favorite simple meal, topped with nutritional yeast and chile petins.

  • Alethea G.

    We are just starting this wonderful adventure, but right now our go to easy meal is whole grain wheat pasta with cherry tomatoes, wilted spinach, and green chiles with mashed avacado. We serve that with a big spinach and kale salad with tangerine juice and pepper for a dressing. My little kids ( ages 17 months, 7, and 11) love this meal. We also like quinoa and black beans with mango salsa.

  • Lisa

    one of my favorite simple means is pasta and a quick peanut sauce. maybe not the least fattening choice but it’s quick, easy, and delicious! :-D

  • Sadie

    With little kids about, tofu and veggies “stir frys” on brown rice or soba noodles is a quick and easy 4yo approved meal. Black bean and kale “quesadillas” are also quick and delicious!

  • Darcey Sanders

    black bean hummus and bakes corn tortila chips

  • Lesa Brocksmith

    Thanks E2! You totally saved my superbowl! The 2 alarm chili was so so good, my husband is on board eating all of your great recipies! Hope you post a Valentines Dinner menu soon!!!

  • Heather

    I’ve always thought that homemade chips and pico de gallo was a perfectly acceptable meal!!

  • http://rosemaryevergreen.blogspot.com Rosemary Evergreen

    Simple is indeed best!
    Breakfast, roasted sweet potato with cinnamon and a few walnuts.
    Lunch, salad. Reliably delicious.
    Dinner, Stir fry, or tacos, or soup, or roasted veggies. All variations on the same thing really, just cooked a little differently and with different seasonings.

  • Michelle Sealey

    Oven roasted veggies: red potatoes, colorful bell peppers, corn, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, summer squash, zucchini … all tossed over a nice bed of romaine lettuce topped with nutritional yeast and light basalmic vinegarette. Roast lots of veggies ahead and enjoy it all week. It’s even lovely cold!

  • Lisa Hall

    A simple meal in my house is sauteed veg (any will do) over a bowl of oatmeal. It is so satisfying. You can easily change the taste with a spoonful of salsa, or a dash of Braggs.

  • http://thevalleyvegan.com Lisa F. “The Valley Vegan”

    Every day, I eat one meal in particular: rice with broccoli! Actually, it’s a rice blend from the bulk section at Whole Foods called “Black Pearl Barley” which is brown rice, black pearl barley, and daikon seeds. To it, I add red quinoa for extra protein. I then quickly saute broccoli & peas with a little bit of soy sauce and sometimes a bit of peanut butter. Voila! Instant comfort food!!

  • Karen Harris

    My favorite simple meal is to open a can of black eyed peas and add in chopped red pepper and onion and celery and a vinaigrette. It is best if it marinates for a while before eating. ~ Karen H

  • nadine

    Nut butter banana burrito. Spread your favorite nut butter on whole grain tortilla. Put in banana. Roll it cut it in half. Enjoy with a fresh juice made in my vitamix.

  • April

    I keep a container of black beans, corn and tomatoes mixed with lime juice in the fridge. It’s perfect to make a lettuce wrap with avocado and hot sauce. I’ve actually had it for breakfast everyday this week!

  • http://Kimmekayo@blogspot.com Kimberly

    I would love.love.love this book!

  • Nicole

    One of my favorite easy meals is a wrap. I like it with some hummus, black beans, greens and whatever other veggies are in the fridge.

  • http://sinlesslydelicious.blogspot.com/ Heather Trupia

    Mock Tuna Salad Sandwich.. make ahead of time and eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Who would think mashed chickpeas with just a few ingredients would taste so good! Another yummy favorite is take a zucchini and slice it thin using a veggie slicer, cut a container of grape tomatoes into halves. Saute in a little water with garlic, basil and Italian Seasoning.. takes like 5 minutes, and through over pasta!

  • http://avironjewelry.coml Karen Bush

    eating a kale smoothie right now!!! Would love to check out the recipes in Everyday Happy Herbivore. Kale smoothie includes apple, oranges, carrots, banana, kale, parsley, and almonds …. yummmmm

  • CJL

    My favorite simple meal is a salad made with baby spinach leaves and/or romaine lettuce, black beans, and salsa – sometimes with a few baked tortilla chips crumbled over the top. I could eat it every day!

  • Laura

    Whole grain bread, hummus, diced veggies – smushed in a Foreman Grill = delicious panini & a way to still use the grill!

  • Mary C

    Enchiladas with lots of fillings like squash, beans, greens….and a quick roasted tomatillo or green chile sauce

  • Diane

    A veggie stir fry over quinoa. Quick, simple, and delicious.

  • Tara

    I am enjoying trying several of the recipes here and want to get a copy of your book ordered soon. I need to get down to my local book store and see if they have it in stock. I love making homemade granola and switched out the oil for applesauce on the batch I made last week. I think it turned out just fine!

  • Marianne

    Roasted veggies…sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, onions, mushrooms, asparagus, whatever looks freshest at the market over wild rice cooked in vegetable broth. simple yet so yummy!!

  • http://ican.iownmylife.net Chrys Sills

    Find meals that you love, memorize them and repeat. Don’t be afraid to like a good healthy meal and make it more than one time.

  • http://thecopycatvegan.blogspot.com Winnona

    We LOVE cooking the raw tortillas from Costco, smearing on fat-free refried beans, and toppijg with organic spinach and salsa. 10 minute meal and delicious!

  • Angie Chesney

    Strawberries, blueberries, coconut water, kale and a banana. :-)

  • denise

    mashed potatoes with steemed veggies on top sprinkled with braggs.

  • Molly

    A quick meal for us is tofu scramble. A little Bragg’s, some nutritional yeast flakes and whatever veggie is in the fridge. Great for tacos or just next to some black beans. Always filling and easy.

  • Amy

    Greens with lots of veggies, olives and cranberry pear balsamic (sometimes in a wrap).

  • Hilary

    I like wilted Swiss chard with finely sliced red onion and garlic, crushed red pepper and chick peas with wholewheat pasta ( Nutritional yeast is a good Parmesan substitute)

  • Pam

    One of my fav’s is… saute a variety of mushrooms, add chopped fresh kale and a tsp of that Kirkland organic herb mix. Saute until the kale is a nice bright green color and pour that over quinoa. Totally yum and quick to make.

  • http://wholesomemom.me mary

    Tofu! Anyway, anytime. But my favorite is browned and rolled in a tortilla with lettuce and salsa and maybe some black beans!

  • http://www.coachshellie.com Shellie Wingate

    I keep several types of frozen vegetables on hand which helps me when I’m short on time. For a quick meal, I’ll put some frozen chopped bell peppers, frozen chopped onion, frozen corn, drained and rinsed black beans, sliced mushrooms, sliced black olives in a pan with a little vegetable broth and stir fry until tender. Then wrap the mixture on a whole wheat wrap. Sometimes I’ll add some jalepenos for a little kick and/or some avocado slives for a creamier texture.

  • Cheryl Gallion

    My quick go to meal is small yukon gold new potatoes with kale and mushrooms. Takes 15 minutes tops.

  • allie

    kale with avocado and lemon juice with quinoa!

  • Shawn Wagner

    I absolutely love black beans and quinoa along with half of an avocado. I also love eating whole wheat squares and old fashion oats with lots of fresh fruit. I use unsweetened almond milk and a little cinnamon. I eat this twice a day sometimes. My 3 year old daughter loves it too, but she has major issues with gluten products. We use gluten free for her and it is amazing how it has changed her moods. Cheers!

  • Amanda

    I love to cook anything with kale. My husband and I use it in everything we can! I make a of vegetarian stews ans chilis. My crock pot is my best friend. Easy, healthy, and yummy meals.

  • april

    I wrap marinated baked tofu slice leftovers in a brown rice tortilla, top with hummus, a BIG handful of sprouts then add thin fresh cucumbers. I can hardly wait till lunch time!

  • jan bonnivier

    Simple and easy is what I try and pass on to my skeptics!

  • http://lifeinflow.blogspot.com/ Becky

    Kale with garlic, raisins, cinnamon and pine nuts, served with baked sweet potatoes and maybe some rice. Or tostados — crispy tortilla topped with refried black beans, lettuce, avocado, tomatoes, salsa, etc. Tastes good and feels good!

  • http://veggieteach.wordpress.com Jude

    Baked potato, brocoli, faux sausage and faux chessey queso on top.

    Pintos and rice topped with lettuce, tomato, onion and salsa.

    Roasted vegetables with chickpeas on quinoa.

    Big pot of white bean, kale and veggie soup

  • Nancy Mitchell

    I make a pot of beans (black or pinto) and brown rice every Sunday. I take them to work and heat in the microwave adding kale and other veggies along with nutritional yeast and salsa. I keep corn tortillas all the time and add the bean/rice mixture along with lettuce, tomatoes, green onions and a tiny big of avocado to make a burrito. I eat on this all week but change it up enough that it doesn’t see like I’m having the same thing over and over. I sometimes add the mixture (heated) on top of a salad or make into soup toward the end of the week adding canned tomatoes and other veggies. Sometimes I top a baked potato with the mixture. The combinations are endless!

  • Stephanie

    Black beans and rice bowl with some spices and some salsa. yum!

  • http://www.myspace.com/barefoot_73 Suenell Burlingame

    Since last spring when I had a heart attack along with a stroke & was opened up to add to my bypasses making them a total of NINE. I had to change my diet! Now I eat to live, not the other way around. So anyhow, main meals, I’m still learning & collecting. I love HH for her dedication & follow her on FB & Twitter!

    Here’s a sweet little candy-type recipe that my mother used to make as a child & I’ve adapted it a bit for a quick fix when I have grand kids over & they’d like something sweet NOW. Measurements are approximate. In a small bowl put about 1 c. of rolled oats, 1/4 c. agave nectar (she used Karo), 1/2 c. natural peanut butter. Stir well & adjust ingredients as needed until the mixture pulls away from the bowl. Divide between 2 very small bowls & serve with pretty little snack forks to enjoy with a cold glass of soy milk!

  • Michelle Careins

    I have been on a plant strong diet since the beginning of the year. It is hard finding stuff to cook that my husband enjoys. He is tough one to crack but I think he’ll get there. Thanks for all the great recipes, it always fun trying new things.

  • http://pinterest.com/jeffhicks/ Jeffrey Hicks

    Beans, Rice, Salsa

  • Tracy E.

    I like just a simple pita sandwich. I’ll take the Food for life Ezekiel pockets stuffed with hummus, sprouts, spinach, cucumber, and thick slices of crunchy red onions. Of course I mix it up with whatever veggies I have in the fridge, but there is something about holding a little pocket with veggies spilling out of it that is comforting!

  • Tracy

    Anything is better in a tortilla! So whenever I’m short on time, I grab a whole wheat tortilla, throw in any kind of beans, some chopped green onions (YUM!), a little lettuce and plenty of hot sauce.

  • Rebecca Hassell

    I love kale or any other green lightly stirfried in a little ginger paste over brown rice. I also like any veggies stir fried with my favorite curry powder, peanut butter (or not), a little chili sauce, & a little coconut or nut milk. Easy, but yummy. I like spicy, can you tell?

  • April

    OOHhh!!! I would be so excited to win the book. I watched Forks Over Knives a few days ago and have started the journey to a healthy life. My teenage daughter has wanted to cut out meat for a while, but I have needed some time to consider it. I was afraid it would be too expensive and worried about the “need meat for protein” myth. After watching the movie and doing the research, I now see how important it is and that it is possible to do, even on a single mom’s teacher salary budget. Today was the trip to the grocery store to see what can be found in our small town. I did find a few things I didn’t even know we had, like quinoa. Who knew? And so now I have some great ingredients, but no idea how to turn them into something we will actually eat. Looking forward to trying out some Happy Herbivore and Engine2 recipes. Thanks so much for the inspiration!

  • Jill Mayes

    That’s the beauty of going vegan … so many quick and easy meals! A big salad, baked potato bar, roasted veg etc. All fast, healthy and delishes!

  • Jennifer

    black beans & quinoa with taco seasoning -put in a food processor and make into patties. Yummy black bean burgers!

  • Liz

    I just started the E2d and I’m realizing that simpler IS better. I was so used to creating huge meals but now that I’m paying more attention to my hunger and how my body feels that even just a few bites of something simply made has been better than things that took me hours to cook. Loving this so far! :)

  • Lori Bell

    I love my rice cooker… I put 6 cups of water, 1 1/2 cups of lentils, 1 1/2 cups of brown rice, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp onion powder, pinch of cayanne and let it cook. Then I serve it either room temperature or warm in a crispy romaine leaf with home-made E2 hummus. :o )

  • http://hungryvegantraveler.blogspot.com Amanda @ Hungry Vegan Traveler

    Almost anything can go with rice or quinoa: any veggies, any beans, any sauce. I always have hummus in the fridge, which goes great with raw veggies, crackers, or on a sandwich/green wrap.

  • http://Facebook Lesa Bartlett

    All of these wonderful, simple meal ideas have made my night!! My simple meal idea is a green leafy veggie, a type of bean cooked in homemade veggie broth, and baked potato or rice. All of which can be made ahead of time! Love, love, love simple meals!!

  • Shelley

    my favorite quick-fix dinner is our version of Taco Salad.
    big plate of fresh lettuce and greens topped with any leftovers from the fridge! brown rice, black beans, diced bell peppers, corn, avocado, “baked” corn tortilla chips (crushed), and fresh lime juice as a dressing. keep all the toppings in separate bowls and treat it like a salad bar. super easy and none of your guests will know you were just trying to clean out the fridge! :)

  • http://kyoodled.blogspot.com Annie Bakaleinikoff

    I am a mashed potato lover. I learned from an Irishman to simply mash them with some of the starchy water they are cooked in with a bit of salt and pepper. All you taste is the lovely potato; they are simple, and the texture is wonderful. Some beets – I cook a couple bunches once a week and keep them sliced or chunked in the fridge. Some greens and tomatoes with a little balsamic vinegar. Perfect. Or if I am really in a hurry, some hummus or white bean spread on a corn tortilla with whatever veggies are leftover.

  • Paula Irvine

    I have just embarked on this healthy journey and I must say that the simpler the better. I find the simplest and always delicious is hummus in a pita loaded with veggies or quinoa with veggies and black beans.

  • Kim

    Hoping I win! :)
    Here are my quick and simple ideas–
    Lunch: Hummus, tomatoes, and baby spinach on Ezekiel bread.
    Snack: Banana with nut butter.
    Dinner: Baked yellow squash, zucchini, and sweet potato slices.

  • Brandi Ward

    My favorite breakfast right now is soy yogurt mixed with old fashioned oats.

  • Ashley

    My favorite “simple” meal is a toasted Avocado & Tomato sandwich. Yum-o!

  • Chokyi Dawa

    My favorite dinner: A big salad topped with 2 overlapping zucchini pancakes topped with chopped tomatoes, onions, corn and a slice of mango or pineapple. Easy pancake recipe: whole wheat flour, baking powder, water or soy milk, and grated zucchini. Make a batch for lunch or snacks later in the week.

  • Laurie

    One of my favorite ways to keep breakfast simple is to put various whole grains and water (about a 1 to 3 1/2 ratio) into the crockpot overnight with a few shakes of salt. In the morning I put out a spread of toppings for the kiddos to choose from and they have their “three bear porridge” which they all love (ages range from 8-14, but started this a few years ago and its still a favorite. Toppings range from sweet (raisins, dried cranberries, maple syrup) to crunchy nuts or sprouts. Yum! Grains can be oats (steel cut for a creamier texture), or really any grain, preferably a mixture. Makes for a much easier morning.

  • Terri

    My simple, yet excellent tasting meal, is brown rice with stewed tomatoes. Saute and onion in water, add your favorite canned tomato. Break up the tomatoes and cook until onions are tender and tomatoes are warmed through. Season to your liking. You can add some chopped spinach if you like. Pour on top of brown rice (I use the frozen bag so nothing to fuss with). Simple and yummy! Enjoy.

  • Carol

    One week new to E2 and feeling stronger already! My husband was working at my Sister & Brother in law’s house the other day & they were ordering Subway sandwiches for lunch for the guys that were helping. He called and asked if I could throw some thing in a pita wrap and bring it over.I had tofu marinating in salsa verde, so I threw it on the griddle with some peppers and onions. Put it all together in a wrap with spinach & cilantro, added some hot sauce and he said it was so much better than any sandwich he could have ordered, with or withut meat! That’s big complement just a week before it would have been a lsandwich piled with meat a some veggies!

  • Kerry

    I’m loving this chickpee salad I’ve concocted:

    2 cans rinsed cooked chickpees
    2 cloves minced garlic
    1 red/green pepper chopped
    pint of cherry tomatoes
    1 red onion chopped
    1 carrot finely chopped
    handful fresh basil finely chopped

    Combine ingredients in a bowl.
    Add following dressing:
    3 TBS olive oil
    1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
    freshly squeezed lemon juice

    Combine and let sit overnight. Delish!

  • Krystal

    I have the FOK book with the recipes. I just ordered the Happy Herbivore & Everyday Happy Herbivore…can’t wait to get them! If by chance, I win this one, I will definitely bless someone’s life with it….cause this is a message that needs to be heard! Hope to see you Rip in Houston!

  • Corene

    I’m 3 weeks into the 28-Day challenge and loving it! I have no plans to stop. I’ve tried a new recipe nearly every day this month and I have several that I like. One of our family favorites is simply black beans and rice with lots of vegetables.

  • Lori

    I just throw whatever I have on hand into a skillet and make a stir fry. I then serve with rice or quinoa, etc.

  • Greg

    As a bachelor, I’m all about simple. Often times I just have mashed potatoes as my entire meal. No gravy, just potatoes and a bit of salt and pepper.

  • dana curry

    I had never even tried kale until I started my switch to a plant-based diet. I fell in love!!!! what a delicious leafy green! Its a lot of fun learning how to cook without meat. Dr. Esselstyn’s book “how to prevent and reverse heart disease”, along with “the engine 2 diet” and “forks over knives” have helped me so much. I scored Lindsay’s first book on my Kindle a short while aog and am working on saving money for the everyday happy herbie book! so grateful you guys are out there making the switch easier!

  • Crystal Gable

    I love to make a quesadilla with black beans, avacado, green onions, and salsa between two tortillas. I brown it in a pan and then cut into fourths with a pizza cutter. It is wonderful and SO quick!

  • Jean

    I love an avocado massaged kale salad with tomatoes,red onions,cucumbersasnd what ever else looks good in the garden.

  • martha

    oatmeal- so easy! and garbanzo mock tuna salad sandwiches!

  • Nancy

    A veggie taco is my favorite quick go to meal. I warm the corn tortilla in the microwave for a few seconds, then spread on some vegetarian refried beans, and top with lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, and lots of salsa. At times I also add squash, peppers, etc.

  • http://www.christyellis.blogspot.com Christy

    Black beans and rice. It doesn’t get much simpler than that!

  • Newsletter Signup
Copyright © 2013 The Engine 2 Diet

This information is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have.