Not only is the 4th July Independence Day for our U.S cousins but it's also Independence from Meat Day! So, if you're a vegetarian or you're simply trying to do the whole #MeatfreeMonday thing then these dishes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen this summer.

1. All out comfort food

I love a risotto! As a meat eater myself it's definitely a dish that I think doesn't need it to be awesome. Risottos are super creamy and comforting and this mushroom, spinach and quinoa recipe is perfect for a summer evening. Topped with a poached egg this is all out indulgence. This dish is packed with garlic and finished off with cheese so it's a definite winner in my books.

2. Load 'em up!

Loaded potato skins have to be one of the easiest dinners for how great they taste! The ratio of effort vs reward is just too good to be true. These Deliciously Ella loaded Mexican style skins are packed with veggie chilli and topped off with cashew cream and loads of guacamole. If you're not feeling going totally vegan with this meal then you can always swap in some sour cream for the cashew cream because that, my friends, does look like effort.

3. Brunch goals

Brunch can be limited to eggs and pancakes if you're vegetarian and not a fan of fake meat but this dish is about to change the game. These sweet potato rosti are super easy because they're oven baked. You won't have to worry about them falling apart in the frying pan! This dish is topped with black bean salsa and avocado as well as the classic poached egg but just still with two eggs if you're not feeling the faff.

4. Burger time

No list of vegetarian treats is complete without a burger. I love a good veggie burger and this sundried tomato chickpea burger has delicious written all over it. I love a falafel so the chickpea element of this drew me in straight away! These burgers are actually gluten free and vegan which is fantastic. Plus, they're oven baked as well so you can kick back and watch Come Dine With Me whilst these babies cook away!

5. Wagamama who?

We all know that the kings of katsu curry are Wagamama but we'd rather it didn't come with the hefty calorie count. This vegan katsu curry by the Lazy Cat Kitchen is made up of aubergine, sweet potato and chickpeas! The curry sauce is simply carrots, apples, ginger, curry power and miso paste amongst other ingredients but it looks pretty simples.

6. The cheesy mess

We saved the best for last here. What do you think happens when you combine vegetarian chilli with our all time pasta fave, mac n cheese? Vegetarian chilli mac, that's what! This dreamy dish is everything you've ever hoped for and more.

Check out our Nom Central! board on Pinterest for even more foodie inspo.