Plant-Based Picks: Campus edition Kennedy Bustos
As someone who’s followed a plant-based lifestyle for six years, I have experienced the wonders and woes inherent in plant-based eating. I’ve been around for the birth of Beyond Meat, the influx of plant-based milks and the oh-somany products proudly wearing the “vegan” label in order to attract more consumers. Yet, depending on where you live and what you know, eating plant-based at restaurants can be a hassle. French fries and salad — delicious as they may be — aren’t always the answer. Eating plant-based on-campus may seem nearly impossible, but fear not. I am eager to share my favorite plant-based picks at UTSA. I hope you enjoy them on your next study break. Tofu Teriyaki Bowl at Sushic When a plant-based pal asks for advice re: on-campus dining, the Tofu Teriyaki Bowl at Sushic is always my first
recommendation. Loaded with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies and tofu covered in teriyaki sauce, this bowl is sure to fuel your next study session. I highly recommend asking for
de gallo, corn salsa, cilantro, guacamole and creamy jalapeno sauce. Not to be dramatic, but this bowl will change your life … thank me later. Freebirds is located at the Student Union Food Court. Veggie Burger and Curly Fries at Business Building RowdyMart
extra veggies, and snagging some spicy chili sauce for a delicious flavor boost. SushiC is located across from the Smoothie King in the John Peace Library Food Court. Plant-based Chorizo Burrito Bowl at Freebirds World Burrito After hearing UTSA would offer Freebirds in Fall 2021, I may or may not have done a celebratory happy dance. It’s almost embarrassing how much I frequent Freebirds. I highly recommend trying the Plantbased Chorizo Burrito Bowl with cauliflower rice, peppers and onions, pinto beans, pico
If you’re not a fan of curly fries, I’m not a fan of you. Kidding, but seriously … curly fries are amazing, and we should all thank our lucky stars that there’s a place oncampus where curly fries are waiting to be devoured. Pair it with a veggie burger, and you’re all set for an all-American match made in heaven.
Snacks: a treat between meals, and a tool for procrastination for students everywhere. There are many, many plant-basedfriendly snacks available at the Student Union RowdyMart. If you’re wanting something substantial, Clif bars are most definitely the route. If you’re craving something sweet to enjoy with your coffee, Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars are a must. For salty snacks, roasted salted pistachios, pretzels and plain chips are trusty options. (Pssssst: If you have a sweet tooth, Oreos are safe for plantbased folk.) Graphics by Stephanie Cortez and Dalton Hartmann/The Paisano. Page layout by Seva Hester.
Vegan Dark Chocolate Banana Smoothie at Smoothie King When you’re craving something light yet packed with nutrients, I highly recommend the Vegan Dark Chocolate Banana Smoothie from Smoothie King. The smoothie is loaded with bananas, dates, blueberries, cocoa and plantbased protein — perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Smoothie King is located in the JPL Food Court. Snacks at Student Union RowdyMart 21
