It’s National Eat Your Vegetables Day, woohoo! I know, I know, vegetables don’t seem all that appealing when all you are craving is potato chips and ice cream during this time of self-isolation, BUT it’s no secret that vegetables are a perfect choice for a healthy pick-me-up. Whether you’re a picky eater looking to expand your palate or a pro-veggie eater extraordinaire, we’ve got 4 fun ways you can celebrate National Eat Your Vegetables Day at home or in the community that supports local businesses, a healthy lifestyle and food creativity, no matter your relationship with veggies! Who knows, you might even incorporate some of these ideas into your everyday routine!

1.Visit a farmer's market and get some locally grown produce

Visiting a farmer’s market is an awesome opportunity to both support local business and buy freshly picked produce. Luckily, we have Green’s Plants and Produce right here in Arlington! Not only are fresh vegetables the best, but there is also something empowering about knowing exactly where your food comes from.

2. Prepare your favorite veggies for all your meals

Once you have all those farm-fresh vegetables back home, challenge yourself to adding your favorites to all your meals throughout the day. If you normally make a cheese omelet for breakfast, maybe throw in some chopped onions and jalapeños to spice it up. If you love chickpeas, make some homemade hummus to eat with your sandwich at lunch. And to end the day, roast that asparagus you’ve been craving to eat with dinner and pair with a nice glass of wine. Whatever your favorite vegetables are, make it a goal to enjoy them all day today! 

If you need to buy vegetables, but are still weary of going to the grocery store, check out the DFW based produce delivery service Orchard at the Office.

3. Try a plant-based meal at a local restaurant

If you’re not in the mood to cook, use today as an excuse to order that meatless meal you’ve been thinking about at a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try! These restaurants offer diverse meals jam-packed with plant-based and veggie goodness right here in Arlington that are totally worth celebrating.

Loving Hut (All vegan everything)

4519 Matlock Rd #123, Arlington, TX 76018

(817) 472-0550

Olives Mediterranean Grill (Vegan and vegetarian options)

1714 W Randol Mill Rd, Arlington, TX 76012

(817) 795-1958

Indian Bistro 14 (Dedicated vegan menu and vegetarian options)

4519 Matlock Rd #135, Arlington, TX 76018

817-962-0050

4. Treat yourself to dessert made with veggies

With plant-based lifestyles on the rise, options for vegan and vegetarian desserts are popping up all over the place. Take time today to bake a classic dessert that sneaks in vegetables like zucchini bread or try a cookie recipe that incorporates sweet potatoes. If baking isn’t your thing, pick up a pint of dairy-free avocado ice cream (this one is my fav) from the grocery store.

However you decide to celebrate today, the options are endless. Just be sure to eat your veggies!