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You’ve probably heard that eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day brings good luck. But did you know there are actually quite a few traditional New Year’s Day meals and foods from around the world? And many of them are already vegan, or can easily be made so!

A few of the most popular foods include: black-eyed peas, greens, lentils, noodles, cornbread, and pomegranate. Learn more about each of these traditional foods below, plus get some great vegan recipes!


Not only are these traditional New Year’s foods a fun way to kick off a happy, healthy and prosperous new year…they also make great choices throughout the year. Chock full of plant-based protein, heart-healthy whole grains, and plenty of greens…these foods should be year-round nutritional staples!

The Foods

Black-Eyed Peas: Black-eyed peas are a common “good luck food” in the southeastern United States. They are thought to bring prosperity, especially when served with cooked greens.

Greens: In Germany, Ireland, and some parts of the United States, greens are thought to bring good fortune, since the leaves resemble money.


Cornbread: Cornbread is often eaten with black-eyed peas and greens in traditional southern meals, and is thought to symbolize gold.

Lentils: Due to their coin-like appearance, lentils are traditionally eaten throughout Italy to bring good luck in the New Year.


Noodles: Long noodles are eaten on New Year’s Day in many Asian countries to symbolize a long life. For extra luck, try not to break the noodle before it gets to your mouth!

Pomegranate: Pomegranates are often eaten in Mediterranean countries to bring fertility and abundance in the New Year.


Which traditional foods will you be eating this New Year’s Day? Share your favorites in the comments section below!