About
From meat to veg once a week
Welcome to No Meat Monday — my personal push to stay motivated, stay curious, and stay just a little bit weird in the kitchen.
Hi, I’m Paul Rawlinson, I’m 62, and yes — I eat meat.
But I’ve also reached a point where I want to be more mindful about what I eat and the impact it has on my health, the planet, and the animals we share it with. That’s why I started the No Meat Monday Challenge.
I was a vegetarian for 11 years until 2004. These days, I’m not here to preach — I’m here to play. This blog is for anyone who’s ever thought, “Maybe I’ll try something different this week.” Whether you’re a full-time plant muncher or a curious carnivore, you’re welcome at the table.
Every Monday, I serve up:
New recipes — seasonal, Spanish, and budget-friendly
Tips & tricks — from what went well to what didn’t
Challenges — playful prompts to shake up your routine
It’s all about health, sustainability, creativity, and fun — with a generous sprinkle of humour. Think of it as your weekly nudge to cook something unexpected, laugh at your lentils, and maybe even surprise yourself.
I live in Spain, so you’ll spot local ingredients and Andalusian influences in the mix. But the real flavour comes from the stories, the experiments, and the joy of trying.
So go ahead: Subscribe. Share. Cook. Join a challenge. And let’s make Mondays meatless — and marvelous.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I stop eating meat one day a week?
Cutting out meat just one day a week can significantly reduce your environmental footprint, improve your health, and encourage more balanced eating habits. It’s a simple step that supports sustainability without requiring a full lifestyle change.
2. Does one day really make a difference?
Yes! If everyone skipped meat one day a week, the collective impact would be huge — reducing global greenhouse gas emissions, saving water, and cutting deforestation related to livestock farming.
3. Will I get enough protein without meat?
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4. What can I eat instead of meat?
There are endless options — veggie curries, pasta dishes, bean burgers, lentil stews, roasted vegetable trays, and hearty soups. Many cuisines (like Mediterranean, Indian, and Mexican) naturally include delicious vegetarian meals.
5. Is it expensive to go meat-free for a day?
Not at all. In fact, plant-based ingredients like beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables are usually cheaper than meat. You might even save money over time.
6. Can my family get enough nutrients without meat?
Yes — as long as meals are balanced. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds. You’ll get plenty of vitamins, minerals, and fiber — often more than in a typical meat-heavy diet.
7. Will I feel hungry without meat?
Not if your meals are satisfying and balanced. Include protein-rich foods (like beans or tofu) and healthy fats (like olive oil, avocado, or nuts) to stay full longer.
8. How can I make the change easier?
Plan ahead! Choose a theme (like “Pasta Night” or “Curry Monday”), try easy swaps (like lentil bolognese instead of mince), and experiment with new recipes. Keep it fun — not restrictive.
9. Do I have to do it on Monday?
Not necessarily! “No Meat Monday” is just a catchy idea. You can pick any day that fits your routine — it’s the consistency that matters most.
10. What are the biggest benefits people notice?
Many report feeling lighter, having better digestion, and discovering new foods. Plus, knowing you’re helping the planet gives a nice mental boost!