I was craving something hearty, warm, filling, and tasty. And, in an attempt to cut out meat once a week during Meatless Monday I made a bowl of broccoli barley soup.

Barley Broccoli Soup

Having vegetable stock, 10-minute barley, and frozen broccoli florets on hand made this meal come together in 15 minutes. When I have time I like to use fresh ingredients but, using prepared food made this a little more convenient. You can make a bowl of this soup with your eyes closed its that easy.

Barley

All you have to do is let the water boil, add barley, cook for 12-15 minutes, drain and it’s ready. Then, add it to the (already heated) broccoli & broth. It’s so satisfying and the best part is you can play around with this recipe. Use different vegetables, add shredded chicken, use beef/chicken broth, etc. I like a little heat so I added some red chili pepper flakes.

Broccoli Barley Soup

Broccoli Barley Soup

I wish I could go back to my vegetarian days but I’m afraid I love chicken and beef too much. I used to be a vegetarian for many reasons one being the risk factors of consuming red meat. According to Meatless Monday cutting meat out once a week is a way to “limit cancer risk, reduce heart disease, fight diabetes, curb obesity, live longer, and improve your diet.” Participating in this weekly event also helps the environment!

My favorite Meatless Monday product? Morning Star Farms Original Sausage Patties. You can’t even tell they’re vegetable/soy based that’s how good they are!

MorningStar Farms Original Sausage Patties

I love eating them along eggs in the morning or as an afternoon snack with some ketchup, since I’m a ketchupaholic. Two patties have 160 calories and 20 grams of protein–TWENTY!!!

MorningStar Farms Original Sausage Patties

Do you already participate in Meatless Monday?

What is your favorite vegetarian dish?