Plant-Based Diet Swaps You Can Make for the New Year
By Sarah Kim
Whether you exclusively eat plants or have resolved to include more in your diet, here are some plant-based foods you can try in 2021.
In 2021, many are predicting a continued boom for plant-based products. Even the biggest meat-lovers have to be impressed with the growing variety and innovation of these plant-based alternatives. Eating more plant-based foods is also a great way to be more environmentally friendly. Whether you already stick to a plant-based diet, are exploring a flexitarian lifestyle, or are just feeling experimental, there are so many products out there for you. Here are some plant-based alternatives you can try in 2021.
Instead of Whole Milk, Try Pea Milk
SPROUD Pea Protein Milk – Barista, pack of 6 ($30.00)
Looking to cut back on dairy? Try pea milk! It’s one of the more sustainable and eco-friendly milks, as it demands less water usage than cow’s milk and less land usage other alternative milks. This one by SPROUD was formulated with the help of baristas to create the perfect creamy texture. SPROUD Pea Milk also was formulated to have a 365 day shelf life in addition to eco-friendly packaging that helps eliminate unnecessary wastage and reduces carbon footprint by a third.
Instead of Half and Half, Try Coconut Cream & Almond Milk Creamer
Califia Farms Unsweetened Better Half Coffee Creamer ($23.98)
If you’re not ready to take the full plunge into alternative milk, try replacing just your coffee creamer first. This one from Califia Farms is made with coconut cream and almond milk and is a great, creamy option that’s also keto-friendly.
Instead of Parmesan Cheese, Try Cashew Parmesan
PIMP MY SALAD Cashew Parmesan Cheese ($6.99)
This vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free parmesan cheese alternative is made with cashews and is rich in plant based protein, vitamins and minerals. Add some cashew parm on your salads, pizzas, pastas, avocado toast and more, for effortless plant based eating!
Instead of Mac and Cheese, Try Plant-Based Chickpea Mac and Cheese
Banza Plant-Based Chickpea Mac & Cheese, pack of 6 ($22.49)
Eat more plants without sacrificing the ultimate comfort food. The pasta is made with chickpeas, while the cheese sauce is made with sweet potatoes, nutritional yeast, pumpkin powder, and more. Great for those with dairy and gluten sensitivities.
Instead of Pancake Mix, Try Plant Protein Pancake & Waffle Mix
Birch Benders Plant Protein Pancake & Waffle Mix ($14.94)
This pancake mix has ingredients like organic coconut sugar, pea protein, and brown rice flour and are packed with proteins and whole grains for a hearty meal. A great vegan version of pancake mix.
Instead of Potato Chips, Try Broad Bean Snacks
Bada Bean Bada Boom Plant-Based Broad (Fava) Bean Snacks ($19.50)
A healthier alternative to chips, these broad bean (also known as fava bean) snacks are pack with protein and fiber to up your snacking game. This crunchy and delicious snack comes in bold flavors like Sweet Sriracha, Sea Salt, and Mesquite BBQ.
Instead of Hot Cheetos, Try PeaTos
PeaTos Crunchy Rings Snacks, Fiery Onion ($19.99)
If you’re a serial snacker and junk food aficionado, you can also have that “junk food” flavor without the junk. These “onion rings” are actually made with peas for more protein and fiber than other snacks.
Instead of Beef Jerky, Try Mushroom Jerky
Savory Wild Vegan Portabella Mushroom Jerky ($7.65)
Jerky doesn’t have to be made with meat! Try this portabella mushroom jerky in Sesame, Ginger & Korean Chili flavor. A great meaty, meatless snack to satisfy your cravings.
Instead of Meat Patties, Try Black Bean Patties with Mushrooms
The Live Green Co Bean Burger Mix with Mushrooms ($14.99)
Adhere to a plant-based diet and enjoy a burger with this meatless mix! The plant-based burgers are made with black beans, pea protein, lentils, mushrooms, and other natural ingredients and are wrapped in low-waste, eco-friendly vegetable plastic sachets.
Instead of Taco Mix, Try Veggie Meatless Mix
Urban Accents Plant Based Chipotle Taco Meatless Mix ($14.98)
You can try plant-based without giving up Taco Tuesday. This taco mix replaces a pound of ground meat and is ready in just 15 minutes. Packed with bold flavors like fire-roasted chipotle peppers, garlic, coriander and cumin, this soy-based meatless mix can prepared on stovetop or microwave.
Instead of Jambalaya, Try This Ancient Grain Medley
RightRice Medley – Cajun Spice ($14.99)
With Mardi Gras in a month, create the tastes of New Orleans with this cajun rice medley. A blend of vegetables, protein-packed RightRice, and ancient grains, this RightRice medley provides a quick and nutritious meal.
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