Savory Protein Swaps for Lent: Convenient yet delicious meatless meals

(Family Features) Abstaining from eating meat during Lent is common practice for many, but it doesn’t mean you have to deprive yourself and loved ones from delicious meals. Whether you observe Lent or are simply looking for new ways to replace traditional proteins for a meal or two each week, there are countless mouthwatering recipes you can turn to.

Consider Chamomile-Infused Jasmine Rice with Salmon, for example, with floral jasmine notes pairing nicely with earthy chamomile for an easy yet elegant feast that’s ready in just half an hour. With its mild flavor, salmon offers a pleasing starting point for those easing their way into incorporating more seafood into their diets.

Although originally cultivated for the Kingdom of Thailand, you don’t need to be royalty to enjoy premium Boil-in-Bag Jasmine Rice from Success Rice. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy this sweetly aromatic solution that cooks up soft and fluffy every time for a unique flavor that complements seafood and more. It’s also naturally gluten free, Non-GMO Project Verified and free of MSG and preservatives.

Another option for swapping out traditional protein is with plant-powered meals. Even picky eaters can find plenty to love in this savory Crunchy Thai Peanut and Quinoa Salad. Quick to prep, it’s a perfect answer for busy weeknights that calls on the power of peanuts and quinoa to replace protein from your usual favorites.

This convenient, crunchy dish calls for light, nutty Success Tri-Color Boil-in-Bag Quinoa that’s packed with protein, all nine essential amino acids and fiber, making it perfect for Lenten meals from salads and bowls to veggie-forward casseroles and even muffins.

Find more Lent recipe inspiration and meatless meal ideas by visiting SuccessRice.com.

Chamomile-Infused Jasmine Rice with Salmon

Prep time: 10 minutes

• 1          bag Success Jasmine Rice
• 4          bags chamomile tea, divided
• 4          tablespoons butter, divided
• 4          tablespoons lemon juice, divided
• 2          tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped, divided
• 1 1/2    teaspoons salt, divided
• 1          teaspoon pepper, divided
• 4          skin-on salmon filets (5 ounces each)
• 1          bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed

1. Preheat broiler. Prepare rice according to package directions, adding three tea bags to simmering water with rice to infuse with tea flavor.
2. Transfer rice to large bowl. Tear remaining tea bag; mix half with 2 tablespoons butter and melt in microwave to infuse butter.
3. Mix infused butter, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chives, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; fold into rice and set aside.
4. Arrange salmon and asparagus on foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle remaining butter over salmon and asparagus. Season with remaining salt and pepper. Broil 9-11 minutes, or until salmon begins to flake and asparagus is tender.
5. Serve salmon and asparagus with rice. Drizzle salmon with remaining lemon juice and garnish with remaining chives.

Crunchy Thai Peanut and Quinoa Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          bag Success Tri-Color Quinoa
• 1 1/2    cups shredded cabbage mix
• 1/2       cup cilantro, roughly chopped
• 2          tablespoons fresh mint, roughly chopped
• 1/2       cup English cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2       cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2       cup red bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1          tablespoon soy sauce
• 1          teaspoon fish sauce
• 1          teaspoon sesame oil
• 1          teaspoon honey
• 1          teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4       cup peanuts, roughly chopped

1. Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Cool.
2. Mix cooled quinoa with cabbage, cilantro, mint, cucumber, carrots and bell peppers.
3. In small bowl, whisk soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, honey and vinegar.
4. Add dressing to quinoa and toss to combine. Top with peanuts.