A barbecue, steak or chicken parmigiana – meat is a staple of many Aussie diets.
In fact, the average Australian consumes 92.5 kilograms of meat per year, according to the Organisation of Economic Development and Cooperation – among the highest amounts globally, and well over recommended intakes.
However, only seven per cent of us eat the recommended amount of vegetables.
While this eating pattern may suit our tastebuds, it certainly doesn't do our bodies justice.
Excess meat consumption is linked with chronic conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease and cancer, while vegetable consumption helps to prevent these problems.
Clearly, we need to switch our habits if we're to live long and healthy lives.
Introducing, Meat-Free Monday. The idea is simple – going vegetarian one day each week (not necessarily a Monday) to improve our overall health.
Short-term, removing meat from our plates can reduce the salt and saturated fat contents of our meals, while making more space for nutrient-dense vegetables and wholegrains.
Long-term, research shows reducing meat intake can dramatically improve overall health. In fact, a 2010 study from Oxford University found that eating meat no more than three times a week could prevent 45,000 deaths each year in the UK alone.
And, if you need any more motivation to give it a go, remember, meat production is one of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions, meaning that forgoing your steak just one night a week is helping to save the environment.
Among the initiative's key supporters are British celebrities Paul and Stella McCartney and fellow countryman, chef Jamie Oliver, who said: "Meat-Free Monday is the most brilliant excuse to focus on the incredible variety of veggies out there – the flavours, textures and wonderful dishes you can create are beyond belief. So here's to Meat-Free Monday and frankly, Meat-Free Wednesdays too."
Embracing meat-free meals may seem challenging for the carnivorous among us, but like Mr Oliver said, there are so many delicious ways to take part in this weekly challenge.
Consider some of these tasty recipes for inspiration: