If you've considered a meatless way of life but aren't sure how to start, today you're in luck: As vegetarianism in the U.S. has grown -- estimates set the total at 12.4 million Americans -- so has the proliferation of prepared vegetarian foods. That means you don't have to learn a new way to cook to begin going veggie.
Some of the tastiest meatless products on the market now are mainstream items, such as vegetarian pizza, lasagna and burgers. One of the most popular meatless burgers is the Gardenburger®, a delicious grain, mushroom and mozzarella cheese-based patty that can be found in the freezer section of your local natural foods store or supermarket.
Whether toasted or grilled, the Gardenburger, produced by Wholesome and Hearty Foods, Inc. of Portland, Oregon, is a satisfying and delicious alternative to meat. Each patty comes fully cooked and ready to use. You can serve the veggie burger just as you would a hamburger -- with "the works" -- safe in the knowledge that this burger will be lower in cholesterol and saturated fat, and higher in fiber than its meat counterparts.
GARDENBURGER WITH THE WORKS
1 Gardenburger patty
1 whole grain bun
1 tablespoon lowfat mayonnaise
1 teaspoon prepared mustard, optional
1/4 cup alfalfa sprouts
1 thin slice red onion
2 slices medium tomato
Carrot curls
Heat Gardenburger according to your favorite method. Spread cut sides of whole grain bun with mayonnaise and mustard. Cover cut side of bottom half of bun with sprouts. Top with onion, heated Gardenburger, tomato and top half of bun. Garnish dish with carrot curls. Makes 1 serving.
Nutritonal Analysis Per Serving: 300 Cal., 12.5 g pro., 7.2 g fat (19% Cal. from fat), 45.8 g carb., 7 mg chol., 6.8 g fiber and 534 mg sodium. (NAPSI)
