Friday Meals Without Meat (That Taste Amazing)

 

Real Food for Catholic Living – Delicious, Satisfying, and Meat-Free

If you're Catholic, you probably know the rule: no meat on Fridays during Lent—and for many, it's a year-round spiritual practice. But let’s be honest: meatless meals can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Another cheese pizza. Another grilled cheese. Another sad salad.

You don’t have to settle. Friday abstinence isn’t meant to be dreary—it’s an invitation to simplicity, reflection, and yes, even joy at the table. Here are some real food recipes that bring flavor, comfort, and richness to your Friday meals without a scrap of meat.

These aren’t just meatless. They’re delicious on purpose.

1. Crispy White Beans with Rosemary and Garlic

Tastes like: Crispy, buttery magic with herby depth
Use it for: A protein-rich main or side dish

Ingredients:

• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, smashed
• 1/2 tsp rosemary (fresh or dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add garlic and rosemary, cook 30 seconds.
• Add beans in a single layer. Let them crisp undisturbed for 3–5 minutes.
• Stir gently and cook until golden and crispy.

Pair with: Steamed greens, roasted veggies, or a fried egg on top.

2. Lenten Spaghetti with Olive Oil, Lemon, and Anchovies

Tastes like: Briny, bright, and savory in a good way
Use it for: A fast pantry meal with built-in protein

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 4 anchovy fillets
• Zest + juice of 1 lemon
• Chili flakes and parsley (optional)

Instructions:

• Cook pasta. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
• In a pan, heat oil, garlic, and anchovies until fragrant and dissolved.
• Add lemon zest, juice, and pasta water.
• Toss with pasta and finish with herbs or chili.

Anchovy haters: Trust us. This sauce just tastes “deep” and salty—not fishy.

3. Creamy Chickpea Salad with Dill & Lemon

Tastes like: Light, tangy, and satisfying
Use it for: A quick lunch, wrap filling, or snack plate

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, lightly mashed
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayo
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped dill
• Salt & pepper to taste

Serve in lettuce wraps, on toast, or with crackers and cut veggies.4. Smoky Lentil and Tomato Stew

Tastes like: Cozy, earthy, and full of depth
Use it for: A one-bowl dinner that satisfies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry lentils (brown or green)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups water or broth
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

• Sauté onion and garlic in oil.
• Add paprika, lentils, tomatoes, and liquid.
• Simmer 30–40 minutes until lentils are tender. Adjust seasoning.

Serve with rustic bread or over rice.

5. Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Veggies & Pesto

Tastes like: Roasted comfort with a herby punch
Use it for: A lazy Friday dinner that looks impressive

Ingredients:

• 1 package shelf-stable gnocchi (uncooked)
• 2 cups chopped veggies (zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper
• 2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 425°F.
• Toss gnocchi and veggies with oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread on a baking sheet. Roast 20–25 minutes.
• Toss with pesto and serve.

Pro tip: The gnocchi gets crispy and golden with zero boiling required.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to dread Fridays. With a little planning (and a lot of flavor), meatless meals can become a highlight of your week. Whether you're observing Lent or embracing year-round Friday abstinence, these recipes help you honor the practice without sacrificing joy.

Want to keep these recipes on hand? Download the full printable version at Ko-Fi and check out our sister blog full of healthy and delicious recipes: Good Food, Real Life!