Although many enjoy a carnivorous feast, it’s always a nice change of pace to allow yourself to go vegan!

Generally, great substitutes for meat and other animal products include: beans, lentils, and tempeh. Mushrooms, like portobella, are also a great alternative to meat because they actually mimic the texture, and sometimes taste, of meat. Pasta is also great for vegans, but often topped with heavy cream sauces, which is no good for vegans! Check out this simple, delicious vegan tomato cream sauce:

1 Large, ripe tomato (2 cups roughly chopped)

1/2 Cup Raw Cashews

1 Tbs Tomato Paste

¼ Cup Water

2 Tbs Olive Oil

2-4 Cloves Garlic, minced, optional

1 Large Handful Fresh Basil Leaves, chopped

Core the tomato, then roughly chop it. Add it to your blender, seeds, skin and all. Add cashews, tomato paste, and water. Blend until very smooth. Pour sauce from the blender into a saute pan and bring to a simmer. Add basil and let simmer for 4-5 minutes and enjoy!

What are some of your favorite vegan choices?