March 20th, 2026

Great American Meatout

Veggie lovers, unite! The Great American Meatout is all about exploring a world of delicious, plant-based foods and reducing our meat consumption. It’s a day to experiment with new recipes, try that trendy vegan restaurant, or host a meat-free meal with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned herbivore or just curious, it’s an opportunity to discover tasty alternatives and consider the environmental benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. So grab your favorite veggies, whip up something scrumptious, and celebrate the power of plants!

Health Awareness Food Vegetarian
Environmental Sustainable Eco-Friendly Wellness Healthy Living Nutrition Charitable Events
Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson - (updated: March 19th, 2025 at 9:35AM)

The Great American Meatout is an intriguing celebration that beckons individuals to put aside meat for a day and indulge in the vibrant world of plant-based cuisine. This special occasion invites everyone to experiment with vegetarian and vegan recipes, peruse local farmers' markets, and connect with a community of individuals who share similar values and aspirations.GreatAmericanMeatout

What's the Purpose of the Great American Meatout?

This holiday serves as a beacon for promoting healthier eating habits, minimizing environmental impact, and demonstrating compassion towards animals. By opting for plant-based choices, individuals can significantly influence their health, contribute positively to the planet, and improve the lives of countless animals. The Great American Meatout seeks to enlighten people about the myriad benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, encouraging them to embrace positive changes in their everyday routines.

How to Celebrate the Great American Meatout

Celebrating the Great American Meatout is an enjoyable and straightforward endeavor! Here are a few engaging ways to participate:

Why the Great American Meatout Matters

The Great American Meatout transcends the realm of mere celebration—it's an opportunity to enact meaningful change in terms of health, environmental stewardship, and animal welfare. By choosing plant-based options, we can:

Join the Movement

The Great American Meatout is more than just a celebration—it's a call to action that inspires individuals to make impactful changes in their daily lives. By embodying the essence of this holiday, we can cultivate a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and sustainability. So, mark your calendars and become part of this movement—your health, the planet, and the animals will thank you!

Perhaps, as you stand amidst the bustling energy of a local farmers' market, or savor the rich flavors of a newly discovered vegan dish, you'll find yourself woven into a tapestry of change—one that promotes a healthier, more compassionate world. The Great American Meatout offers a moment to reflect on choices and make strides towards a future that values life in all its forms.

Recipe for Great American Meatout

Celebrate the Great American Meatout with this delicious and healthy Roasted Vegetable Tart recipe! This savory tart is packed with a variety of colorful vegetables, herbs, and spices, all nestled in a flaky whole wheat crust. It's the perfect dish to showcase the flavors and textures of plant-based cuisine.



Nutrition Facts
Calories250 calories
Total Fat10g
Total Carbohydrate35g
Protein5g

Cook Time: 1 hour

Cooking Method: Roasting

Category: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 servings

Suitable For Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

EatBrusselsSproutsDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer the dough to a tart pan and trim the edges.
  4. In a separate bowl, toss the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
  5. In the tart crust, arrange the roasted vegetables in a pattern of your choice. Sprinkle with chopped thyme and shredded vegan mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake the tart for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
  7. Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Timeline
1983
Meatout Founded
Heather Moore, a pioneering advocate, founded Meatout to promote meatless diets for environmental and health benefits.
1985
First Observance
The first Great American Meatout was observed, encouraging people to skip meat for a day and try plant-based options.
1990
Growing Popularity
Meatout gained momentum, with thousands participating and exploring vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
2000
National Recognition
Great American Meatout received official recognition, solidifying its place in promoting sustainable eating habits.
2010
Online Presence
Meatout launched its website, providing resources and recipes to a wider audience, further expanding its reach.
Great American Meatout

Great American Meatout Quiz

What is the main purpose of the Great American Meatout?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Great American Meatout?
The Great American Meatout is a national awareness campaign that encourages people to skip meat for one day and try plant-based options instead, highlighting the health and environmental benefits of a meat-free diet.
Why is reducing meat consumption important for the environment?
Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution, so reducing meat consumption can help mitigate these environmental issues.
What are some delicious plant-based alternatives to meat?
Some tasty plant-based alternatives to meat include veggie burgers, lentil or mushroom-based meatballs, and portobello mushroom burgers, among others.
Can I still participate in the Great American Meatout if Im not a vegan?
Absolutely! The Great American Meatout is about raising awareness and encouraging people to try plant-based options, regardless of their dietary preferences.
How can I get involved with the Great American Meatout movement?
You can get involved by spreading the word on social media, hosting a meatout event, or simply trying plant-based options for a day and sharing your experiences with friends and family.
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