How to Survive Your Next Barbecue as a Vegan

If you’re new to vegan eating, summer grilling season can seem stressful. But with a little preparation, eating vegan at a barbecue can be super delicious, and it’s a fun opportunity to share plant-based foods with friends and family. Here are six tips for surviving your next barbecue without meat:

1. Bring Something Delicious

While most hosts will be happy to provide a tasty veggie dish for you, it’s probably a good idea to bring something for the grill. Try the Beyond Burger, Field Roast frankfurters, or any of the other great plant-based meats on the market. Also consider bringing a side dish to share. Think potato salad, grilled veggie kabobs, or fresh fruit.

2. Never Feel Ashamed

You may get asked a lot of questions and it’s OK if you don’t have all the answers. Be honest and speak from experience. Don’t let anyone make you feel ashamed about your choice to ditch cruel animal products. Remember that you’re creating a better world at every meal.

3. Enjoy the Sides

While letting the host know you’re vegan is a good idea, if you’re a low-key vegan, you can always chow down on the side dishes that everyone is having—things like grilled veggies, rice and beans, and fruit salad. You can also keep some snacks in your bag if you need something quick, like granola bars or nuts.

4. Avoid Tricky Conversations

During a meal is probably the worst time to explain why you’re vegan. If someone asks you a question about your diet, offer to speak to him or her afterward. Remember that most people are opposed to animal cruelty, so keep the focus of your conversation on what you have in common.

Remember that most of us grew up eating meat, and many people have no idea what happens to animals before they reach our plates. Really try to understand where people are coming from and let them ask most of the questions. Nobody likes to be judged, pressured, nagged, or told what to do. Give them the benefit of the doubt and be mindful not to alienate or accuse.

5. Lead by Example

Strive to be a happy, healthy, positive, and compassionate person. This will not only be great for you and animals but make you a wonderful advertisement for veg eating. Friends and family are much more likely to take veganism seriously when they see that you’re having a great time and enjoying delicious food.

6. Consider Hosting

Hosting your own vegan barbecue can be a bit more work, but it guarantees you’ll have plenty to eat! It’s also an amazing opportunity to show friends and family that you don’t need to eat animals to have a delicious barbecue! If you ask guests to bring a dish to share, make sure they understand what is and isn’t vegan. Or better yet, share this list of mouthwatering vegan grilling recipes!

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Want more? Click here for our favorite grill-worthy vegan meats.