Good Friday 2024: Vegetarian Dishes For The Holy Friday Lunch
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Good Friday is a Christian holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary. It is observed during Holy Week as part of the Paschal Triduum on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday. Many Christians fast on Good Friday, while others abstain from meat and eat vegetarian food, undertake pilgrimages and visit church services to pray and reflect on Jesus' crucifixion.  

Beet, Mushroom and Avocado Salad  

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This tasty salad is packed with good-for-you antioxidants, vegetables full of fibre, and healthy fats. Enjoy this vibrant salad with tender roasted portobello mushrooms, earthy beets, crisp kale, and creamy avocado—all topped with crunchy matzo for extra texture. Simply roast mushroom caps until tender, then whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, shallots, and seasonings for a zesty dressing. Toss the dressing with kale, beets, and sliced avocado. Top with the roasted mushrooms and broken matzo pieces for a fresh, satisfying salad.  

Bright Radish Salad  

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Put a spring in your step with this fresh and easy radish salad! Just whisk together some zesty lemon juice, sweet honey, spicy mustard, and fragrant olive oil for a tangy vinaigrette. Thinly slice an array of colourful radishes and drizzle on the dressing. Top with chopped mint for a pop of fresh flavour.   

Tomato-Eggplant Tartines  

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Ripe tomatoes add a tangy taste. The bread is crusty and delicious. And the smoky eggplant makes every bite better. The flavours come together for an irresistible dish. Start by toasting slices of bread on the grill until golden brown. Rub the toasted bread with a garlic clove and drizzle with olive oil. Grill eggplant slices until tender, then top with melted mozzarella cheese. Layer the cheesy eggplant and sliced tomatoes on the garlic-rubbed toast. Finish it off with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of basil, and enjoy your tasty dish!   

Vegan Black Bean Soup  

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Vegetables are the true star of this hearty, healthy soup recipe, making it a perfect option for your vegan friends. Warm up your cooker and sauté carrots, celery, and onion in olive oil. Add spices like cumin and paprika, then stir in tomato paste and garlic. Transfer to the slow cooker along with the black beans, corn, and broth. Cook for 4-6 hours on high or low. Top with fresh avocado and cilantro for a super tasty and healthy meal.  

Glazed Roasted Cauliflower  

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Roasting a whole cauliflower makes an awesome meat-free main course. For a delightful roasted veggie dish, toss cauliflower, tomatoes, onion wedges, and green beans with olive oil and salt on a baking sheet. Whisk balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a saucepan until thickened, then brush over the veggies. Roast at 400°F for 1 1/2 hours, basting periodically with the glaze. The caramelised veggies are irresistibly tender with a tangy-sweet glaze. Garnish with parsley for a pop of freshness.  

Mushroom Curry  

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Enjoy hearty mushrooms in a tasty tomato and garlic sauce. To start, melt some butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms until browned and set aside. In the same pan, fry the cumin and fennel seeds and add the chopped onion. Turn down the heat a bit and throw in the garlic, and then mix in the ginger, turmeric, chilli powder and garam masala. Pour in the canned tomatoes and a teaspoon of sugar. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Spoon some yoghurt into a bowl and stir this yoghurt into the pan. Add hot water and simmer until the curry has a creamy consistency. Finish with some chopped cilantro. Serve over rice or with naan bread. Enjoy your flavourful mushroom curry!