July is National Picnic Month, a time for enjoying nature and sharing a meal with friends and family. Be adventurous this summer by incorporating more plant-based dishes onto your personal menu. Check out some of these fresh and sizzling meatless summer meals to add to your Latina inspired picnic basket!
The summer months are often associated with BBQ-ing and outdoor fiestas or family picnics in the park. In fact, July is also recognized as National Grilling Month and National Picnic Month. It’s hard for some to think of summer without grilling and meat-filled dishes, especially for Latinos who pride themselves on their asados. However, incorporating more plant-based dishes into our diets has many health benefits.
Statistically, Latinos are more likely to suffer from heart disease. On average, Hispanic women are likely to develop heart disease 10 years earlier than non-Hispanics, according to data from Go Red for Women. While there are many factors that contribute to developing these issues, such as genetics, diet also plays a big part. Hispanic diets are often rich in fat from dairy and meats. By reducing one’s consumption of meat and dairy, it can help lower the risk of developing heart disease and other health issues.
Summer is also the perfect time to be adventurous! Embrace your inner adventurer and experiment with food this season. You don’t have to commit to an all plant-based lifestyle, simply introducing a meatless day of the week can make a difference. One of my personal favorite food-stagram accounts is “Meatless Mondays.” The account offers a variety of fun and fresh meatless meals to try and encourages people to swap out meat at least one day a week.
If you’re ready for the adventure, then check out some of our favorite fresh and sizzling Latina inspired meatless meals below!
Latina inspired meatless meals to try on your next picnic
These meals will make the perfect addition to your next family picnic or outdoor gathering, especially this during Latino Conservation Week. What better way to celebrate nature conservation than by getting outdoors with friends and family and enjoying some delicious food together!
Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas
View this post on Instagram
Fiery and Fresh Plant-based Tacos
View this post on Instagram
Grilled Stuffed Peppers
View this post on Instagram
Pasta Primavera
View this post on Instagram
Chipotle Cauliflower Tacos with Garlic Aioli
View this post on Instagram
Shop summer beverage dispensers for your next party!
And don’t forget to include some refreshing salads and beverages in your Latina inspired picnic basket! If you’re looking for more Latina inspired picnic ideas, we’ve got you covered.