Vegan dining a delicious, healthy way to kickstart 2012.

[FYI. For Your Interest.]

Vegan dining a delicious, healthy way to kickstart 2012.

A new year, a new you. Turning over a new leaf. Wipe the slate clean. We’re bombarded with inspiring adages — and a treadmill-riddled onslaught of commercials — this time of year. Frankly, it’s depressing.

Is there such a thing as new beginnings? Successful dieting? Of course. But, during an already desolate seasonal stretch, self-deprivation feels extra-dreadful. At the same time, there’s something appealing about eliminating some post-holiday pudge.

Prevailing thought tells you meat substitutes are the answer. Ask any true food enthusiast, though, and you’ll likely get another answer: plain-good, meat-free meals.