At Black Women for Wellness, we believe that the food we serve should be healthy, flavorful, and nourishing. Our meal planning guidelines ensure that every event aligns with our values of wellness, cultural relevance, and environmental consciousness. 

• Vegetarian Only – All meals must be 100% vegetarian, and can include season (no meat, poultry).
• Beverage Choices – We only serve tea, coffee, water, and fresh juices. No sodas or sugary drinks.
• Balanced & Nutrient-Dense Meals – Meals should be rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds to provide nourishment.
• Appealing & Flavorful – Meals should be visually appealing, well-seasoned, and culturally inclusive so our community enjoys every bite.
• Variety & Inclusivity – Ensure a balance of textures, flavors, and dietary options (e.g., gluten-free, nut-free when needed).

Suggested Menu Options by Meal Type

Breakfast Options

Light but energizing options that fuel the morning.

• Savory Options:
  • Scrambled eggs and/or tofu with sautéed spinach and tomatoes, served with whole-grain toast
  • Chickpea flour pancakes with avocado and salsa
  • Sweet potato hash with caramelized onions and bell peppers
• Sweet Options:
  • Overnight oats with almond milk, chia seeds, and fresh berries (chia seeds and berries as optional add-ons)
  • Vegan yogurt parfait with granola and seasonal fruit
  • Whole-grain banana muffins with herbal tea
  • French toast bake
  • Fruit

*Consider having a breakfast bar that includes avocado toast and guests can add toppings like veggies, eggs, sauces etc. A similar concept can be created for oatmeal.

Lunch Options

Balanced meals that are satisfying yet light to keep energy levels steady so we can still be productive during the day..

• Grain Bowls & Salads:
  • Quinoa and roasted vegetable bowl with tahini dressing
  • Black-eyed pea and kale salad with citrus vinaigrette
  • Chickpea and avocado wrap with a side of cucumber-tomato salad
• Warm Comfort Meals:
  • Lentil soup with whole-grain bread and a side of sautéed greens
  • Vegan jambalaya with brown rice and stewed okra
  • Stuffed bell peppers with black beans, corn, and wild rice
  • Pasta dish with an olive oil based dressing 

Dinner Options

Heartier meals for evening gatherings.

• Flavorful Mains:
  • Spiced jackfruit tacos with cabbage slaw and avocado crema
  • Coconut curry with chickpeas, carrots, and jasmine rice
  • Vegan gumbo with mushrooms, okra, and red beans
  • Pasta with a cream based sauce or tomato based sauce
  • Salmon
• Side Pairings:
  • Collard greens sautéed with garlic and smoked paprika
  • Roasted sweet potatoes with cinnamon and pecans
  • Cornbread muffins with coconut butter
  • Garlic noodles, steam vegetables and brown rice

Snack Options

Healthy bites to keep people fueled during events.

• Hummus and veggie platter with whole-wheat pita bread or chips
• Mixed nuts and dried fruit
• Fresh fruit skewers with coconut yogurt dip
• Popcorn with nutritional yeast and sea salt (Trader Joe’s has a great one. Ask Erika)
• Roasted chickpeas with smoked paprika

 Beverage Options

Only tea, coffee, water, and fresh juices—no sodas or sugary drinks!

• Herbal teas (ginger, hibiscus, peppermint, chamomile)
• Coffee
• Infused water with lemon, cucumber, or berries
• Freshly pressed juices (orange-carrot-ginger, green juice, watermelon-mint)

Serving & Sustainability Guidelines

With the support of our EJ department, we are committed to eco-friendly practices and minimizing waste.

• Plates must be compostable (no plastic or styrofoam).
• Cutlery and napkins should be made from biodegradable or sustainable materials.
• Encourage reusable water bottles and cups whenever possible.

Final Notes

• Presentation matters! Meals should look colorful, vibrant, and inviting.
• Cultural relevance is key. Incorporate African, Caribbean, and Southern plant-based traditions when possible.
• Always confirm dietary restrictions and allergies ahead of time via RSVP.
• If ordering catering, ensure the provider follows these guidelines.