Delicious Plant-Based Protein the Whole Family Will Enjoy from Gardein

Disclosure: We received Gardein samples to facilitate our post. All opinions are our own.

A longtime vegetarian, I’m no stranger to the questions: “What do you eat?” and “From where do you get protein?” Another favorite is “Don’t you get bored with your food?”

I am lucky to live outside of New York City – an area that welcomes people of all dietary preferences and restrictions with open arms – and with increasing frequency, find it much easier nationwide to identify a wide variety of foods that fulfill my nutritional needs. Gardein, a company that creates vegetarian proteins that are both healthful and delicious, makes this very easy for me. Available in a variety of textures and tastes, Gardein leaves no room for boredom at the dinner table!

Gardein satisfies both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, as their offerings prove as close to their meat counterparts as possible. I served Gardein to meat-eating friends who expressed being impressed with both the taste and the quality of the food. With Gardein, you don’t have to polarize family or friends who have different dietary restrictions, as their yummy products taste great to everyone!
The Ultimate Beefless Burger quickly became a favorite of mine, despite there existing plenty of veggie burgers on the market. I grilled the patty on my grill pan on a rainy October day, and the aroma of the burger made me feel like I was at the perfect summer barbecue. I loved the tip shared on the website about serving the patty with a grilled pineapple and teriyaki, but I brushed mine with a home-made marinade of red curry paste, olive oil, and oregano for my own perfect “kick” to the taste.

I loved sautéing the Chick’n Scallopini. It comes perfectly seasoned, and perfect to serve on a bed of warm veggies, or alongside a pasta dish.

Kids and moms alike will love the healthier breading option of the Seven Grain Crispy Tenders, which can be enjoyed on top of a salad or as the base of a savory sandwich.
Enjoy a delicious, quick meal with Gardein’s BBQ Pulled Pork Pockets with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad. The sweet and savory barbecue taste will make your mouth water! I love how the tender and tangy porkless shreds are encased in a tasty bun.

If you’re looking for meal inspiration ideas, Gardein offers a recipe selection on its website, featuring ideas for appetizers, entrees, quick meals, and chef-inspired dishes.

I love how I can find Gardein products both in my grocer’s freezer, in addition to across restaurant menus throughout the country. I’m always excited to dine at a Yard House, which offers an entire Gardein menu, with Gardein proteins available on pizzas, salads, sandwiches and much more.

Whether you want to try out Gardein products on an upcoming Meatless Monday, or any day of the week, keep an eye out for them in your grocer’s freezer!

Photo Credit: Gardein 

Lorianne Lacey