• Include organically grown produce in vegetarian menus.Andrew Dernie/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  At its simplest, vegetarianism refers to people who do not eat meat. However, vegetarians range from those who do not eat animal meat to those who do not eat any animal products at all, including dairy and eggs. For many vegetarians, this also means eating foods that are grown organically. The key to a healthy vegetarian diet is to include sufficient varieties of foods that contain protein and essential vitamins and minerals.
  
  

Breakfast

• Fresh fruits supply essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy vegetarian diet.fruit image by Daughterson from Fotolia.com
  
  For a vegetarian breakfast include juices, such as orange juice, along with whole grain breads and granola or muesli. Fresh fruits, such as berries and bananas, provide vitamin C and potassium. Soy milk, nuts and peanut butter supply some of the needed protein.
  
  

Soups and Stews

• Vegetarian chili incorporates several types of beans for flavor and protein.Bowl of vegetarian chili with pepper and cilantro garnish. image by William Berry from Fotolia.com
  
  Soups and stews made with vegetable stock are hearty and filling, and provide protein and fiber. Replace ground beef with vegetarian burger crumbles and add extra beans to make vegetarian chili. North African vegetable stew made with tomatoes, chickpeas and fresh seasonal vegetables along with aromatic spices is filled with fiber and protein. Vegetable curries provide a similar option like stews -- thick and spicy with fresh vegetables.
  
  

Salads

• Salads are a colorful addition to the vegetarian menu.fresh green salad image by Janet Wall from Fotolia.com
  
  Green salads are an easy vegetarian dish. Toss fresh greens with fruits, nuts and sliced veggies, and a freshly prepared vinaigrette. If the vegetarian eats dairy products, add cheeses, such as goat cheese or shaved Parmesan, for extra calcium and protein. Salads made from beans and grains also make excellent vegetarian sides.
  
  

Casseroles, Gratins and Pastas

• Eggplant and portobello mushrooms are good substitutes for meat.eggplant image by askthegeek from Fotolia.com
  
  Casseroles, gratins and pasta dishes lend themselves well to meatless variations. Eliminate the meat altogether, or substitute with vegetarian crumbles or tofu. Incorporating eggplant and portobello mushrooms into pastas and risottos create well-balanced and satisfying entrees without meat. Toss pasta with seasonal vegetables, nuts and legumes, or try a vegetable lasagna layered with eggplant, summer squash or spinach.
  
  

Grilled Vegetables

• Toss grilled vegetables with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette.Healthy Fresh Grilled Variety of Summer Vegetables image by nextrecord from Fotolia.com
  
  Grilled vegetables are used in a variety of ways on a vegetarian menu. They are healthy and flavorful when served alone. Try grilled vegetables in sandwiches, using a spicy spread and whole grain bread. They work well layered in casseroles or tossed into wild rice salads. Grilled vegetables are versatile and provide essential minerals and vitamins for a healthy diet.
  
  

Desserts

• Fresh apple pie is a tasty dessert for a vegetarian.Baking apple pie image by Susanne Karlsson from Fotolia.com
  
  Fresh fruits are the foundation for many vegetarian desserts. Try fresh grilled peaches served with a side of raspberry sauce. Seasonal fruit and berry crisps and pies work well throughout the year. Zucchini bread, pumpkin bread and banana bread make delicious desserts and breakfast items for vegetarians who eat eggs and dairy products.