I have been enjoying a vegan diet for about 6 weeks now and I have to tell you I feel better than ever! Plus, I know I am not adding animal fat, cholesterol, and unhealthy animal protein into my body and that makes me feel so good! I can tell it is naturally lowering my estrogen levels, because I am feeling so much calmer and I had less pms symptoms last month! Yeah!

Just thought I would share some things I have tried and love...even if you are not eating vegan, these are super healthy dishes that your family will enjoy! We will be having these things this weekend.

Mayan Black Beans

2-3 cans of black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup or so of your favorite salsa
1/2 a bag of frozen sweet corn
some chopped green onion
chopped cilantro

Heat this for about 15 minutes on medium heat, until warmed through and corn is done.

This can be served over brown rice or baked polenta. It is also good in whole wheat tortillas as a burrito!

McDougall's Bean Soup

2 cups dried Great Northern Beans
8 cups of water
2 onions, chopped
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp rubbed sage
1/2 tsp oregano
2 TBSP soy sauce
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced

Put beans in a large pot, bring to a boil, turn off heat and let rest covered for an hour. Add onions, celery, and all the seasonings and let simmer for about 2 1/2 hours, covered. Then add carrots and cook about 30 more minutes.

Fresh Spinach Salad

Lots of organic baby spinach
sliced strawberries
slivered almonds
Low fat or fat free raspberry vinaigrette (I Like Annie's Naturals)

Here is a simple and tasty lunch...I am having it today!

1 can of Eden Organic Cajun small red beans and brown rice. I buy these at the Whole Foods Market. For a canned item, they are really good! Heat and wrap in a whole wheat tortilla. I like to add just a little salsa. I will also have some steamed broccoli on the side and fresh fruit.(strawberries, bananas, and blueberries)

Eating healthy is delicious!