Dinner

The relationship that Americans have with meat is tight-knit and longer standing than a few generations of Weber grills.

It’s a particular way of eating; a recognizable, familiar, predictable and sought-after shared experience that is not only cultivated but greatly celebrated. From the first buck of hunting season to top-market Spencer steaks, gathering around the grill is not simply a pastime, it’s a quintessential tradition for many.

And I can honestly say, I love to celebrate it too.

There is something to be said for the gathering of people to cultivate good food in the spirit of togetherness. Italians have this down pat. Interestingly, community is one of the key shared factors among centenarians (the oldest living folks) in Italy and other Blue Zones around the world.

Another factor is enjoying a pesca-vegan or pesca-vegetarian lifestyle! Don’t be afraid of the higher fat content in the Mediterranean diet – just aim for healthier plant-based fats and mix in unsaturated fatty acids from wild fish.

Yes – less meat is actually better for living a healthful long life.

You’ve probably heard it called the “Mediterranean” diet, but it really is a whole lifestyle – the diet plus regular activity integrated into daily life, a life-long commitment to investing in community and occasionally some good wine.

For the sake of all of our health and longevity, I’ve created a few easy, delicious, dollar savvy and dare I say – “toddler approved” – meatless mains to get you through at least 2 dinners a week.