This post is sponsored by Gardein. As always, all opinions are 100% my own!
It’s November, which means the holiday season is quickly descending on us. This time of year means holiday parties, entertaining and get togethers with friends. It also means lots of good food. Last week when I attended the Celebrate InStyle Event, I got to taste some amazing appetizers prepared by Gardein. The best part about these appetizers were that they were completely meatless and made only from plant-base protein. I have to say that at first I was a little wary of a product attempting to be a meat substitute but after tasting them I can honestly say I didn’t miss the meat at all!
While I definitely don’t have anything against meat, there are definite benefits to eating vegetarian or even vegan on occasion. It’s not just a fad promoted by celebrities! Did you know that incorporating more plant-base protein into your diet is beneficial to your health because it has less fat and cholesterol and can lower your risk of diseases like cancer, obesity and diabetes? Or that it helps preserve our environment by decreasing the depletion of water and livestock and increasing sustainability? Or that cutting back on meat can reduce your carbon footprint by reducing air and water pollution?
The good people at Gardein were happy to share their recipes with me so I actually have them all here for you today. Gardein products are available at 22,000 retailers nationwide so you can definitely find these near you, just check here!
Try these recipes at your next holiday gathering and I promise they will be a big hit. Both your meatloving and non-meatloving guests will be impressed!
Readers, what’s your favorite holiday appetizer? Have you ever tried plant-based protein before? Do you have a lot of holiday parties this season?
Jessica
November 7, 2014I always like dates and goat cheese as an app. I tried to be vegetarian when I was a poor grad student for economic reasons, but my body really rejected it – it just wasn’t healthy for me (though I acknowledge it can be someone else’s optimal healthy diet). That said, I still enjoy trying vegetarian / meatless dishes.
FitBritt
November 9, 2014Mmm dates and goat cheese are so good! My husband likes dates with blue cheese wrapped in bacon. Not super healthy but occasionally I indulge him. 🙂
Nicole @ Foodie Loves Fitness
November 7, 2014I love Gardein and buy their products all the time! We’re a big fan of their crispy tenders in my house.
FitBritt
November 9, 2014I thought about you when I was trying these products out because I know you use vegetarian substitutes for meat sometimes! I really liked these products!
Allie
November 7, 2014This is SO interesting, I’ve never heard of this company before but, since one of my SIL’s eats all gluten-free (and I’m hosting Christmas Eve) I’m always looking for things she can eat! She’s going to LOVE those Chicken Skewers! Thanks Brittany 🙂
FitBritt
November 9, 2014Oh these products will definitely be good if she is gluten-free. Also the Healthy Maven and Iowa Girl Eats (her recipes from 2014 only) have some good gluten-free recipes.
Holly
November 7, 2014I would like to find these products and have some luscious appetizers when entertaining. It appears that there are nice choices available Gardein.
FitBritt
November 9, 2014I think you can probably find them at Stop & Shop!
Kim
November 8, 2014I just checked and both of the grocery stores I go to the most carry this product. I think I will get some and try one of these recipes to see if the boys can tell a difference – it should be a fun game!!!
FitBritt
November 9, 2014I honestly thought they were really good and I didn’t miss the meat at all! Let me know if your family can tell. 🙂
Caralyn @ glutenfreehappytummy
November 8, 2014those skewers look so elegant!
FitBritt
November 9, 2014They tasted great too!
Melanie @ Happy Being Healthy
November 9, 2014Wow, those products look pretty cool and I love all of the recipes! Those “chicken” tender things look delish!
FitBritt
November 9, 2014They tasted really good! Just like real chicken!
Nellie @ Brooklyn Active Mama
November 9, 2014I was hesitant to try the gardein food at the event…I was…until the girls convinced me that it was good, and holy moly those tacos were AMAZING! I can’t wait to grab some and make some at home, my hubby is going to LOVE it!!
FitBritt
November 9, 2014I know! The first product I tried was the fishless filets and I was not sure I would like them but I really really did. I spent some time camped out by their table! 🙂