Menu Plan Monday

I just watched "Forks Over Knives."  This documentary explores the studies that a diet rich in red meat and dairy products can increase a person's risk for cancer, diabetes and heart disease.  Forks Over Knives focuses on a plant-based diet.  It is a fascinating video.  I also love "Food Inc.," , having watched it last year.

Although I love both of these documentaries and supporting books (Fast Food Nation, Food Rules, The Omnivore's Dilemma) it is sometimes hard for me to not whip through McDonalds and get a box of nuggets or those delicious little chicken McPops or whatever they are called.  I know.  I know.  I've seen the pink slime.  It's the convenience.  I did recently tell my 8 year old how I read that ammonia is used to "clean" the meat, so that has helped fight the fight. 

Overall, I do feel like we eat pretty healthy.  But, I would like to decrease our fast food stops.  I'd also like to use less red meat.  If you read my Monday posts, you will have noticed that not too long ago, I posted that my husband  wanted more red meat!  So, good luck to me.

How am I going to make everyone happy? 

Check out our menu for the week.  I used the vegetarian section of All Recipe, and I used one recipe from a book that my husband checked out from the library.  I am hoping that these new meals will be so incredibly delicious that they will satisfy his meat craving.  Who's an optimist today?  They are not too involved and look pretty tasty.  Don't be fooled by the fancy names....I checked out the ingredients and directions and they are doable.  I will still buy some stir fry meat for my husband for a lunch or two.  And, as I mentioned, I just want to use less red meat, not eliminate it.

Wish me luck!

Homemade Black Bean Veggie Burgers with vegetables and hummus

Penne Alla Vodka (from Carmine's Family-Style Cookbook) with bread and salad

Keep It Light Tilapia with peas and carrots

Addictive Sweet Potato Burritos with black beans

African Peanut Soup with grilled cheese

Make sure you check out Organizing Junkie for her Menu Plan Monday post, where there are hundreds of other weekly menus!