Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, and today we’re diving into a topic close to my heart: living a more sustainable life. Now, you might be wondering what this has to do with arts and crafts. Well, for me, it’s all about using our hands to create, nurture, and make conscious choices that benefit both ourselves and the environment.
So, let’s talk about food! Just like choosing eco-friendly art supplies, selecting what we put on our plates can be a powerful way to reduce our environmental footprint. I’ve been on a mission to minimize plastic waste, and one challenge I’ve embraced is Plastic Free July. It’s amazing how much plastic sneaks into our lives, especially in the form of food packaging!
I remember back in 2011 when my daughter, MK, and I embarked on our first plastic-free meal adventure. We were so proud of ourselves, but we soon learned that even a stray cheese wrapper could sabotage our best efforts. It’s all about progress, not perfection, right?
Let me share a glimpse into my daily menu for some microplastic-free, vegan inspiration:
Breakfast – A Nourishing Start
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Steel-Cut Oats: I love starting my day with a warm bowl of steel-cut oats. Buying them in bulk eliminates packaging waste, and a little overnight soaking saves time and energy in the morning. Top it with your favorite goodies – I go for nuts, dried fruit, and a dollop of homemade yogurt (made with milk from returnable glass bottles, of course!).
food stored in jars reduces food waste because you can see what you have on hand -
Fresh Fruit: Nothing beats the taste of fresh, seasonal fruit. Farmers’ markets are my go-to for plastic-free produce.
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Tea Time: Did you know that many tea bags contain plastic? Opt for loose-leaf tea instead, and savor every sip knowing you’re avoiding those pesky microplastics.
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Lunch – Fresh and Flavorful
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Vibrant Salad: Salads are a fantastic way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand. A drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of salt are all you need for a refreshing and satisfying lunch.
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Hearty Sandwich: Homemade bread is a game-changer! If baking feels intimidating, start with a simple recipe like Charlotte’s Easy Whole-Wheat Sandwich Bread (trust me, it’s delicious!). Fill it with your favorite toppings – I like pesto (made with fresh, seasonal basil!), sliced tomatoes, avocado, and sprouts.
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Fermented Delights: Fermented foods are a cornerstone of my diet. Not only do they add a tangy twist to my meals, but they’re also incredibly beneficial for gut health. Sauerkraut is a personal favorite and so easy to make at home!
Dinner – Simple and Satisfying
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Not-Too-Spicy Black Beans: Dried beans are a pantry staple – affordable, versatile, and plastic-free when bought in bulk. Soaking them overnight makes cooking a breeze. Serve them with fluffy rice and a side of fermented hot peppers for a flavor-packed meal.
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Corn on the Cob: Summer calls for fresh corn on the cob! Pro tip: save the cobs, silks, and husks to make a flavorful broth for later.
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Another Helping of Salad: Yes, I love my veggies!
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Sweet Treat: For a touch of sweetness, I enjoy a couple of limoncello mixed-nut biscotti with a cup of decaf tea. Making a big batch and storing them in the freezer helps me resist the temptation to devour them all at once (they’re that good!).
biscotti that use up food scraps
Shopping and Prepping for Success
Planning is key to a smooth and enjoyable plastic-free journey! Here’s how I make it work:
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Inventory Check: Before heading to the store, take a peek inside your pantry and fridge to see what you already have. You might be surprised by how many ingredients you already have on hand!
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Reusable Bag Roundup: Gather your trusty reusable bags – produce bags, glass jars, and maybe even a cloth bread bag – to carry all your goodies.
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Batch Cooking is Your Friend: Save time and energy by cooking larger portions of staples like beans, rice, or soup. You’ll have delicious homemade meals ready to go throughout the week.
Embrace the Journey
Remember, transitioning to a microplastic-free lifestyle is a process, and every little step counts. Don’t be afraid to experiment in the kitchen, try new recipes, and discover the joy of creating delicious and sustainable meals.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What are your favorite plastic-free recipes or tips? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. And be sure to check out Robert Kline Art for more creative inspiration and unique handcrafted gifts. Let’s keep those artistic passions burning bright!