Memorial Day is as American a day as any, and is usually synonymous with hot dogs, hamburgers, potato salad and the like. This year, make it a Meatless Memorial Day. In fact, why not go totally vegan? As we honor all of the men and women who have lost their lives in war, let's do so with life-affirming foods, healthy fare that feeds the soul and nourishes our bellies with respect for this great land we get to call home. 

This ain't your mama's potato salad! In fact, this is likely a salad like none your Memorial Day pack has had the pleasure of tasting. Give the Broccoli Salad with Sprouted Wild Rice and Citrusy Avocado & Basil Dressing from the folks over at The First Mess the side-dish spot at your picnic spread. Everyone will be glad you did. 

It's time to go from BLT to TLT! At cHow Divine, the makeover is official: A Tempeh Lettuce Tomato Sandwich is the perfect hearty fare to quench BIG appetites. 

Sticking to sandwiches, but Tempeh isn't your thing? Opt instead for the Torta Ahogada (Spicy vegan "beef" sandwich) from Made Just Right, an Earth Balance blog. 

Pizza is another all-American favorite. It's time to ditch the pepperoni and throngs of processed cheese. Instead, cultivate your inner foodie with this recipe from Keepin' It Kind for a Kumquat & Rainbow Chard Stem Pizza with Cashew Hemp Cheese Sauce.

Image: The First Mess