Most people are used to eating vegetables as a side dish. When one becomes vegan and start to follow a plant-based lifestyle, it is easy to feel as though they are always eating “side dishes” without a main course. I can’t begin to tell you how often I have gone out to fancy restaurants and gotten served 3-4 vegan-friendly vegetable sides. Most times, they are simply steamed and barely seasoned.
Whether you’re out eating or cooking at home, my number one suggestion is to ALWAYS take the time to season your vegetables as you would your “meats.” For example, when I make a mock “chicken” dish out of mushrooms, I season the mushrooms in poultry seasoning. Poultry seasoning is usually vegan. It consists of herbs and spices deemed suitable for poultry. After all, I highly doubt that carnivores will enjoy eating any sort of meat that has not been seasoned. People generally tend to look for taste and flavor within the meal they are eating. Therefore, when I am making mock chicken out of mushrooms, I make sure I season it with lots of love and attention! Otherwise, it’s plain ol’ mushrooms!
While visiting a restaurant, call ahead and ask if the Chef can make you pasta, rice, quinoa or some sort of grain with well-seasoned vegetables. That way, you won’t feel like you are missing a main course and/or always eating side dishes. And while you’re at it, you can order a side dish to compliment your vegan main course as well! 
