Adding more plant-based foods into your diet could do more than you think.

Plant-based foods are a powerful weapon against inflammation and are high in fiber, both of which are beneficial for people with diabetes.

Whether you eat a vegan diet or not, here are five recipes that everyone can get on board with. They are full of flavor, plant-based protein, and health promoting benefits.

#1. Vegan Black Bean Dip

Serves: 10

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Enjoy with sliced veggies.

 

#2. Veggie Wrap

Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• 1 gluten free wrap
• ¼ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 Tbsp. chopped onion
• 2 Tbsp. chopped avocado
• 2 Tbsp. tahini
• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Assemble the wrap by adding the black beans, onion, and avocado to the center of the wrap. Drizzle with tahini. Season with salt and pepper. Roll into a wrap.

 

#3. Strawberry Coconut Smoothie

Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup frozen strawberries
• 1 Tbsp. shredded coconut
• 1 Tbsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth.

(Suggested Serving)

#4. Spinach and Pear Salad

Serves: 1

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 pear, sliced
• 1 Tbsp. dried cranberries
• 1 Tbsp. walnuts
• 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar

Directions:

1. Add the spinach to the base of a serving plate and top with the sliced pear. Garnish with the dried cranberries, walnuts, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.

 

#5. Black Bean Brownies

Serves: 12

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup raw unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil
• 1 tsp. stevia

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Greasing a baking dish with coconut oil. Set aside.
3. Add all the ingredients to a mixing bowl. Whisk to combine until no clumps remain.
4. Pour the brownie batter into the baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

(Suggested Serving)

Try to include at least one plant-based meal into each day. Your health will benefit from the added antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fiber.

Eating plant-based doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite foods. Give these recipes a try, and I promise you won’t regret it!