If you’re looking for ways to add more cheese to your plant-based diet, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we will discuss 9 different ways that you can enjoy cheese while sticking to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. From grilled cheese sandwiches to mac and cheese, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. So get ready to indulge in some cheesy goodness!
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
One of the most popular ways to enjoy cheese on a plant-based diet is with grilled cheese sandwiches. Simply butter two pieces of bread, top each piece with a slice or two of your favorite vegan cheese, and then pop the sandwiches into a hot skillet until they are nice and golden brown. This classic comfort food never gets old!
2. Mac and Cheese
Who doesn’t love a good bowl of creamy mac and cheese? Luckily, there are plenty of delicious vegan versions available. Some popular brands include Daiya, Tofutti, and Follow Your Heart. With all these options to choose from, you can easily enjoy a bowl or two of this creamy, cheesy goodness whenever you crave it! For example, make your own creamy vegan mac and cheese:
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Ingredients:
1 lb penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
2 cups unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk of choice
½ cup flour (you may need more depending on how wet the sauce is)
4 tbsp coconut oil (or canola oil, or dairy-free margarine)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
Salt and pepper to taste (I used about ½ tsp of each)
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Instructions:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the almond milk and flour, whisking until smooth. Add the remaining ingredients and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture boils and thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste. Combine cooked pasta with sauce in a large bowl of your choice: it can be enjoyed as-is, or poured into a baking dish and topped with breadcrumbs (if desired) before baking at 350 degrees for about 25-30 minutes until it has firmed up and browned on top. Enjoy!
3. Garlic pasta with vegan parmesan
Another popular way to enjoy cheese on a plant-based diet is with garlic pasta. Simply sauté some fresh garlic and onions in olive oil, then add cooked pasta and vegan parmesan for a simple and satisfying meal that everyone will love. You can enjoy this with a side salad or other veggies for a complete meal. This way you will be able to satisfy your cravings for cheesy dishes without any animal products!
4. Vegan cheese sauce
If you’re looking for a way to add some creamy and cheesy flavor to your meals, look no further than a vegan cheese sauce. You can use this versatile sauce in all sorts of different recipes, including soups, salads, and more. Some popular brands include Go Veggie and Follow Your Heart, which both offer a wide variety of delicious cheese substitutes.
5. Pizza
Another great way to enjoy cheese on your plant-based diet is with pizza! Whether you choose to make your own vegan pizza crust or buy premade ones from the store, there are plenty of topping options available. You can enjoy your pizza with traditional mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce, or opt for more adventurous toppings like vegan chorizo, artichokes, or even mac and cheese! This meal will definitely satisfy your cravings for cheesy foods and help you enjoy pizza even when you are vegan!
6. Fondue
If you’re looking for an indulgent way to enjoy cheese on a plant-based diet, fondue is the perfect option. Simply melt some vegan cheese over a double boiler, then dip chunks of bread or veggies into the sauce until they are nice and coated. This is a fun and easy way to enjoy your favorite foods while on a plant-based diet!
7. Vegan cheese platter
For an elegant twist on enjoying cheese on your plant-based diet, create a vegan cheese platter with your favorite cheeses and other toppings like pickled vegetables or olives. This is a wonderful appetizer or snack that you can make for special occasions, parties, or just to enjoy on a lazy weekend afternoon. You can also add some fruits like apples or grapes to your platter, which pair perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of the cheese. And don’t forget about honey and marmalade which are amazing dips for your cheese!
8. Homemade vegan gouda
If you’re looking for a more complex and flavorful option, try whipping up some homemade vegan Gouda cheese. This recipe calls for ingredients like nutritional yeast, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar to create the perfect meltable and savory vegan cheese. Once you try this recipe, you will never go back to plain old dairy-based cheese again! This will also be a great addition to your cheese platter.
9. Vegan nachos
If you’re craving something cheesy, spicy, and savory all at once, look no further than vegan nachos! Simply top a plate of tortilla chips with beans and your favorite vegan cheese (there are plenty of great brands to choose from), then drizzle with salsa or guacamole for an indulgent and satisfying meal. Whether you are looking for a quick snack, light lunch, or easy appetizer to share with friends, vegan nachos are a perfect choice! For instance, you can use the following recipe and ingredients:
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Ingredients:
Tortilla chips
Black beans
Vegan cheese, shredded
Salsa or guacamole, to taste
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Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Lay a single layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
- Top the chips with a single layer of black beans, then sprinkle with vegan cheese.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese has melted, about 5-10 minutes.
- Drizzle with salsa or guacamole and serve immediately while hot and cheesy. Enjoy!
No matter what your favorite cheesy dish is, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it on a plant-based diet. From vegan cheese sauces to pizza, fondue, and beyond, there are endless possibilities for delicious and satisfying meals. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and flavors – you may be surprised at how amazing vegan cheese can taste!