For some, Easter Sunday involves a little more preparation than simply hiding Easter eggs and picking out an Easter ham recipe. In the 40 days leading up to Easter, many Christians celebrate Lent, which is a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, and reflection. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, and though Lent is observed in a number of ways, it typically involves two traditions: giving up a luxury for a period of 40 days and focusing on an abstinence from meat. Whether you're going meatless for Lent or just abstaining on Fridays, the best Lent recipes will ensure that you aren't missing your steaks and sausages at all.
The reason many Christians (particularly Roman Catholics) choose not to eat meat on Fridays during Lent is because Jesus died on a Friday, and abstaining from meat reminds them of that sacrifice. Likewise, those looking to give something up for Lent may choose meat as their luxury, either on Fridays or throughout all 40 days of Lent. If you're going meatless this year and in need of some good vegetarian meals and seafood dishes, then these meatless recipes for Lent will keep even the biggest meat lovers feeling full and satisfied until Easter.
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1
Caponata Flatbread
This meat-free flatbread makes use of veggies like eggplants, tomatoes, and red peppers, which taste like heaven when scattered on a layer of ricotta cheese.
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2
Clams, Chile, and Lemon Spaghetti
This gluten-free recipe swaps traditional pasta for quinoa spaghetti, though you can also make it with traditional spaghetti if you prefer.
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3
Potsticker Stir-Fry
Since this recipe makes use of frozen supermarket veggies, you can whip it together in no time at all.
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4
Roasted Salmon with Crispy Potatoes and Broccoli
Tender, juicy salmon is simply irresistible when paired with oven-roasted potatoes, broccoli, and onions.
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5
Corn and Zucchini Fritters
These corn-and-zucchini-based fritters are delicious and surprisingly easy to make.
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6
Coconut-Lime-Marinated Vegetable Noodles and Shrimp
The combination of coconut cream, veggies, and jumbo shrimp make for a pasta bowl that's anything but basic.
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7
Cod in Parchment with Orange-and-Leek Couscous
Fun fact: Cooking with parchment paper steams your food, which means it's much lower in fat compared to cooking with oil.
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8
Butternut Squash Stew
The perfect slow-cooker meal for Lent, this Mediterranean-inspired butternut squash stew is positively bursting with flavor.
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9
Shrimp Puttanesca
Looking for something light and refreshing? This tomato and shrimp pasta is sure to hit the spot.
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10
Quick Chickpea and Kale Stew
Chickpeas are rich in carbohydrates, which makes them the perfect creamy base for a blended stew like this one.
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11
Soba with Miso-Glazed Eggplant
Try using Japanese eggplants in this easy-to-make soba noodle dish, as they're slightly sweeter than regular ones.
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12
Thai-Spiced Salmon and Coconut Noodles
Sweet-and-spicy noodles with coconut broth and salmon are sure to be a hit any day of the week.
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13
Cauliflower Fried Rice
This lower-carb fried "rice" recipe will be ready faster than any takeout — and yes, it'll taste just as amazing.
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14
Spinach and Cheese Pita Pizzas with Tomato Salad
Use thick-cut, toasted pita as the base for these yummy spinach and cheese pizzas.
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15
Enchiladas with Pumpkin Seed Salsa
Want to enjoy pumpkin all year round? These meatless enchiladas are proof that you can.
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16
Lentil Broccoli Falafel Bowls with Jalapeño-Herb Tahini
A twist on a classic Mediterranean dish, this protein-rich bowl features a flavorful sauce that you'll want to put on just about everything.
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17
Beer Battered Cod and Roasted Potato Salad
Fish and chips are a Lent classic, and you'll love this beer-battered option paired with zesty potato wedges.
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18
Stewed Black Beans and Collard Greens
Want to make sure you're getting your daily nutrient fix? Beans and greens are one of the best ways to do it, and this recipe utilizes them both.
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19
Chickpea, Spinach, and Quinoa Patties
These chickpea and quinoa patties have as much flavor (if not more!) than a traditional burger patty, and they're also packed with more nutrients, keeping you fuller for longer.
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20
White Bean and Tuna Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Canned tuna fish is a great source of heart-healthy protein, and it makes a quick and easy addition to this tasty white bean salad.
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