Last year I gave up complaining for Lent. As I reflected on the year, I thought that I had developed a pretty cheerful attitude and decided that I wasn't doing much complaining and could give up something else this year. I decided to give up sugar because it saps my energy and makes me less effective in every area of my life. My family was discussing Lent and I shared my decision with them. Their reaction:
My daughter: “Well, giving up sugar is probably easier than giving up complaining”.
My oldest son: “And if it isn't easier, at least you can complain about it”.
Even though I am giving up sugar I will still be posting some dessert recipes as I have a backlog of recipes to post.
Meatless and Seafood Recipes for the Lenten Season
My husband and I grew up with different Lenten traditions. He grew up eating fish or going meatless on Fridays and my Church had Soup Suppers on Wednesdays. Whenever possible I try to incorporate both of our traditions. My ideal compromise would be a meatless soup! I'm not that fond of fish, so during Lent, I would much prefer to go meatless than cook fish. But my husband loves fish, so I try to strike a balance and occasionally serve really flavorful fish dinners.
You don't have to recognize Lent to benefit from the links below! And I should point out, that the links will not necessarily take you to sites where the bloggers participate or even recognize Lent. However, they are still a good resource for recipes that are appropriate for the Lenten season.
Meatless Meals:
Spicy Lentil Soup
Old Country Pie
Baked Zucchini Parmesan
Vegetarian Stew
Minestrone Soup with Quinoa Pasta
Pasta with Chickpeas, Spinach, and Mozzarella
Addictive Sweet Potato Burritos
Swiss Chard and Garbanzo Bean Soup
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Pasta Shells
Sources for More Meatless Recipes:
Wheat Free Meat Free
Gluten-Free SCD and Veggie
Veggie Converter 365
Hobby and More
Meatless Meals for Meat Eaters
My Meatless Mondays at My Sweet and Savory
Seafood Recipes:
Herb Crusted Cod
Baked Salmon with Garlic and Lime
Olive Oil Poached Salmon
White Ruffy in Ginger Teriyaki Sauce
Fried Trout with Parsley Lemon Butter
Finally, Erin of Royal Baloo has co-written a FREE eBook with Lenten activities for young children. You can find out how to download Jesus Loves Me this I Know here.
What are your favorite Lenten recipes and resources?
Rebecca @ Peanut Butter, Passports, and Epinephrine says
February 22, 2012 at 10:39 pmThanks for the mention. It really is my favorite way to cook salmon. I hope your husband really enjoys it!
Kalinda says
February 23, 2012 at 7:47 amThanks for highlighting my site. You picked some delicious sounding recipes. Good luck on your no sugar venture.
April @ The 21st Century Housewife says
February 23, 2012 at 11:25 amThank you for linking to my Vegetarian Stew. This post is a wonderful resource, and I’ve found several recipes I want to try from your list.
Also, I had not decided what to give up for Lent this year (I ‘m rather late I know) and so I have decided to give up complaining as you did last year. (I’m seriously not brave enough to give up sugar!) I have told my husband and son of my decision and I have to confess I am disappointed in their lack of confidence in me, but I am determined. Thank you for the inspiration!
Vicky says
February 23, 2012 at 1:20 pmThanks for the link Alea! Have you given up all sugars or just the refined ones? Anyway you’re going to feel on top of the world by the end of it! Good Luck – you’re very brave!
Alea says
February 23, 2012 at 1:27 pmI am trying to give up all sugars. I do still have some raw, local honey in the house. I also have some coconut sugar and date sugar. I will use them to bake treats for the kids, but I am going to do my best to refrain entirely.