Summary: Even eating no meat one day a week can have a noticeable environmental impact. Try these delicious dinner recipes for meat-free Mondays.

You probably know that many vegetarians choose not to eat Meat because of health reasons, personal reasons or moral reasons. However, did you know there’s a whole movement about the environmental impact of eating meat?

Created by Paul, Mary and Stella McCartney in 2009, Meat Free Monday is a non-profit campaign that raises awareness about the detrimental environmental impact of eating meat. On their website, they share that meat production produces a significant amount of greenhouse gases, reduces biodiversity, and uses up a great deal of plant foods that could be used to alleviate hunger. In addition, consuming less meat and more vegetables is better for one’s wallet and health.

The reason their organization and this new trend is called “Meat Free Monday” is that they’re not asking everyone to suddenly become a vegetarian. They’re asking people to just eat less meat and to do so by starting off one day a week without eating meat. It seems simple, right? But for many who are used to basing their meals around meat, it can be difficult, which is why we’re sharing some meals you can make if you want to try out Meat Free Monday for yourself.

Whether you want to eat more vegetarian meals for your health, for social and environmental reasons, or to simply mix things up, here are sixteen vegetarian Dinner Recipes for you to try.

Easy Vegan Pumpkin Soup from The Movement Menu

Butternut Squash Quinoa Casserole from Trial and Eater

Red Coconut Curry Stir Fry from The Muffin Myth

Oven Roasted Veggie Fajitas from Delish Knowledge

Vegan Ramen Bowls with Edamame and Mushrooms from Peas and Crayons

Vegan Zucchini and Lentil Tacos from Delish Knowledge

Ricotta and Spinach Calzones from Kitschen Cat

Creamy Skillet Tortellini with Sweet Potato and Spinach from Kitchnn

Eggplant Parmesan from Table for Two

Chunky Portabella Veggie Burgers from The Kitchen Whisperer

Quick and Easy Lemon Orzo with Parmesan and Peas from Oh Sweet Basil

Baked Black Bean and Sweet Potato Flautas from Peas and Crayons

Butternut Squash Risotto from Chef de Home

Baked Sweet and Sour Cauliflower from Creme de la Crumb

Twice Baked Broccoli and Three Cheese Potatoes from Sarcastic Kitchen

Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry from The Endless Meal