I have been a vegetarian since January and have lost 12 pounds. The first 7 came off within a matter of 3 months, the last 5 since I started road cycling. I feel GREAT!

I didn't read through everyones suggestions, but quinoa is a great source of protein for vegetarians. It contains the B vitamins and amino acids that can usually only be found in animal protein. You can make it sweet, like an oatmeal, or as a savory dish. It is a superfood and tastes great!

WARM GARBANZO AND QUINOA SALAD

1 1/2 t. chopped garlic
1 small zucchini, quartered and sliced
2 carrots grated
1/2 c. chopped red bell pepper
2 c. canned garbanzo beans rinsed and drained (I'd probably use less next time around)
1/2 c. (packed) chopped scallions
2T. extra-virgin olive oil
3T. white-wine vinegar
1/4t. salt
1c. quinoa (cooked with vegetable broth as per package directions (can substitute couscous)
4c. baby spinach leaves

1. Coat a saute pan with cooking spray and heat to medium high. Add garlic, zucchini, carrots, and pepper. Saute until softened (around 5 min). Add beans and heat through.
2. In a food processor, puree scallions, gradually adding oil, vinegar, salt and pepper (to taste) Process to a thick consistency.
3. Add scallion mixture and quinoa to saute pan; heat through.
4. To serve, arrange spinach on plate with quinoa/bean mixture on top