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A Vegetarian’s Guide to Game Day

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Cincinnati chapter.

Tailgating season is often filled with brats, burgers, wings, and plenty of other meaty dishes; but for vegetarians, this is can be a challenge.  If you’re like me, food is the best part of any football game, and it’s a real bummer when you’re unable to eat any of the main dishes.  Coming from an experienced vegetarian tailgater, I have found (on Pinterest, of course) delicious vegetarian substitutes for many game day favorites that your meat-eating friends will enjoy all too much.  

1. Portobello Veggie Burger Sliders

These grab and go sliders are the perfect substitute for the typical game day hamburger.  Made with black beans, broccoli, and Portobello mushrooms, they’ll become a classic in no time.

2. Buffalo Chickpea Tortilla Pinwheels

Buffalo sauce is a must for any tailgate, and these pinwheels certainly pack a punch.  Made primarily with chickpeas and crumbled gorgonzola cheese, this finger food may give Buffalo Wild Wings a run for their money.

 

3. Cheesy Spinach Taquitos

These tasty cheese-filled tortilla shells are packed with veggies, and better yet, they are simple to make.  Meat-eaters and vegetarians alike will come running to grab them before they are gone.  I mean, who doesn’t love cheese?    

 

4. Loaded (Veggie) Nachos

Nachos are a game day classic, and they are best when covered in melted cheese, guacamole, refried beans, and jalapeños.  With the tangy combination of different cheese and veggies, your friends won’t be wondering where’s the meat.

 

5. Quinoa Chili

Whether you eat it with a veggie dog or by itself, quinoa chili is a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy.  Made with different kinds of beans, corn, and quinoa, all your friends will be asking for the recipe.   

Lauren Higginbotham is a third year studying English at the University of Cincinnati. She is passionate about Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, the Bearcats, and Toppers Pizza. Her passion for writing stems from her love of poetry and childhood obsession with Junie B. Jones. Lauren's dream job is to work for the Foreign Services Office as a Public Diplomacy Officer.
Maddie Huggins is a fourth year student at the University of Cincinnati. Originally from Columbus, she quickly learned to swap out the OSU scarlet and grey for UC red and black. Maddie has loved writing since she was a little girl and is always down for a good time. She prides herself in being the world's best hugger.