Ad. These healthy vegetarian recipes were created for the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board. All opinions are my own. #ArkansasSoy #ArkansasSoybeans

You would think that using the words healthy vegetarian recipes would be redundant. I mean… vegetarian IS healthy, right? Well… not always. If you think about it, it is the same principle of gluten-free foods. This is why we are so vigilant when reading labels so we can weigh the ingredients with the carbs, calories, and micro-nutrients.

Even though “healthy” is a somewhat generic word; my definition of healthy is to have a balance approach towards foods. I try to buy organic whenever and wherever possible… yet I also know that at the end of the day, it’s about eating as wholesome as possible. And sometimes that means a variety of foods. I applaud those who are vegetarians because I know they have to really work the math – so to speak – to make sure they are getting the most wholesome balance of foods in order to ensure they are getting the balanced intake of nutrients, proteins, amino acids and vitamins. So, I thought we would take advantage of National Soy Foods Month and I would provide ten healthy vegetarian recipesthat just about anyone would want to chow down on. Whether or not you are vegetarian!

Why should we celebrate soy foods?

Great question! Soy often gets a bad rap and that is unfortunate. There is a reason why it is called “the miracle bean.” According to the Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board, soy foods are nutrient rich with no cholesterol, packed with protein, low in saturated fat and contain all essential amino acids to keep your body running properly. And – according to the Heart Association – consuming 2 to 3 servings of soy foods on a daily basis can reduce your risk of heart disease, help you manage your weight or diabetes, prevent certain cancers and more. Nice!

So whether you eat soybean-specific foods such as vegetable oil, edamame or tofu or soybean-supported foods such as dairy and meat (the animals often eat diet rich in soybean meal!), the end result is the same: delicious foods that help us all accomplish our health-conscious goals.

Here is a short video that highlights our hard-working Arkansas soybean farms and ten healthy vegetarian recipesthat highlight soy foods.

1. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Spicy Black Soybean Soup.

This recipe is also low carb since black soybeans have only a fraction of carbs compared to regular black beans. Delicious, too!

2. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Crispy and Crunchy Zucchini Noodle Salad.

This recipe is a showstopper and quite filling on its own. Crispy, crunchy and satisfying!

3. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Mapo Dofu.

This recipe classic was created by ThreeFolds Noodle in Little Rock and delicious even if you aren’t into tofu. Seriously, try it. 

4. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Seared Tuna and Edamame Poke Bowl.

This recipe is perfect for those times when you want something light yet comforting. And so Instagrammable.

5. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Crispy Soybean Succotash.

This recipe is delicious on its own or as a side dish. Obviously, exclude the cold cuts if you are making this vegetarian.  

6. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Edamame Toast.

This recipe tells avocado toast to take a hike. Plus, the added benefits that you can make this with frozen edamame. So it’s always ready to make!

7. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Green and White Edamame Vegetable Salad.

This recipe would be a beautiful salad to serve at a garden party… or when pretending that you are someone who goes to garden parties.

8. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Easy Salad Dressing.

Bookmark this recipe. If you’re like me, you know that every time you buy that salad dressing at the store you’re thinking, “I could sooooo make this.” This recipe will help! 

9. Healthy vegetarian recipe for Fried Rice and Eggs.

This recipe for fried rice and eggs isn’t limited to a Japanese steakhouse… it’s a complete meal that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Go on, try it.

10. Healthy vegetarian recipe for White Chocolate Macadamia Cookie Dough Cheesecake.

This recipe is a mouthful… and literally, it IS a satisfyingly delicious mouthful that is surprisingly easy to make.

Do any of these recipes sound intriguing? Do you have any questions about soy foods or about consuming a vegetarian diet? Hit me up!

Happy Soy Foods Month!

Eat well, my friends.  

Lyndi