With Labor Day coming up, I want to give you some tips (& recipes) on how to be a vegan at cookouts.

Here are a few more tips:

• Don't feel like you have to bring up the fact that your dish is vegan. Just put your food with the rest of the dishes.

• Eat after you leave - I'm the queen of hitting up Chipotle on the way home from any social event. You can also stash nuts, fruit, and seeds in your car to hold you over until you get home.

• Don't preach! Just chat with those who want to know more (and people will) in the most loving way possible. Try not to get defensive when someone has a sly comment. It happens! *sigh*

Check out these recipes you can bring to the cookout:

Pasta Salad

Quinoa Salad with Black Beans, Corn & Avocado

Spinach Artichoke Dip

You can also take pre-made vegan hotdogs & hamburger patties with you to throw on the grill. Field Roast & Beyond Meat are brands with great options.

Also, I love this homemade vegan burger that's perfect for the grill.

I hope this is helpful!