With millions of vegetarians across the United States, it’s likely you’re going to have a chance to date one at some point. Just because you’re a guy who loves chowing down on a thick hamburger or juicy steak, it doesn’t mean dating a vegetarian is going to be a problem. Not all are going to try to put a kibosh to your meat loving ways, however, they expect the same courtesy in return when it comes to their eating habits. With eating such a big part of our every day lives, it can seem almost impossible to mesh such different styles together. If you’ve met a woman who happens to be a vegetarian, there are several tips to consider to help make things between the two of you more harmonious in the kitchen.
Don’t expect a change of eating habits
I don’t eat red meat. I only eat chicken, fish and occasionally turkey, and one of the most annoying things a guy can do it try to get me to eat a hamburger or some other meat product. If I wanted to eat it, I would have done so within the past fifteen years I haven’t eaten red meat. Don’t expect the woman to eat meat just because you do and if you want her to stay in your life, don’t try to force your eating habits on her.
Talk to her about the eating habits she’s comfortable with
I’ve cooked meat for guys I’ve dated in the past and I personally don’t care if a guy chomps down on a burger in front of me. Many other semi- or full vegetarians feel the same way. However, there are some who can’t tolerate anything of the sort. Talk to her about what she prefers so there’s no problems when the two of you sit down to eat.
A relative tried to once sneak meat into my food by grinding up beef in her pasta sauce knowing full well I don’t eat it. Don’t try to pull this on the woman you’re dating. Not only is it disrespectful but it could also make her sick. After not eating meat for a long period of time, the body may not react well to it.
Don’t throw meat in her face
Eating meat in front of me is one thing, but when you’re over-exaggerating just to get under my skin because I don’t eat it, it’s just downright obnoxious. Almost every semi- or full vegetarian has been through this at least once and it never gets any more attractive. Skip waving bacon slices around along with various other antics or you’re likely not going to get another date.
Let your family know she doesn’t eat meat
Although I eat fish, I don’t eat it if it’s still intact. Something about it makes me physically ill even if I try to ignore it. I explained this to a date once before we went to his parents house, but he neglected to tell them. When his mother put the plate in front of me, there was the fish with the eyes, skin and bones still intact. Not only was I incredibly embarrassed because of the situation, but his mother felt horrible and ended up whipping up a pasta dish for me after she smacked her son upside the head. Before you’re to have dinner with your parents, make sure to talk to your date about what she does and doesn’t eat so you can pass the message along to your family and avoid any uncomfortable situations.
Most hardcore carnivores are actually surprised by how good a lot of vegetarian dishes actually taste and yes this includes veggie dogs and vegetarian chili. With all of the improved different products on the market, it’s sometimes difficult to even taste that there’s no meat included. Give them a shot before you completely dismiss them. You never know, you may end up really liking them.
Review the menu before you pick a place
Having exactly one or two dishes to choose from at a restaurant isn’t particularly exciting. If you’re picking the restaurant for your date, just make sure that there’s at least a handful of dishes she can eat according to her dietary restrictions. She’ll appreciate you made the extra effort so both of you can enjoy the food.
When it comes down to it, it’s not that big of a deal to date a vegetarian. It takes a bit of getting used to, but as long as both of you have respect for each other’s eating preferences, there won’t be a problem. Compromise also goes a very long way. Before long, it will all just be habit and you won’t think twice when sitting down at a table together to enjoy a meal.
