Which menu provides the best source of protein and iron for a vegetarian client?

The choice of baked beans and corn bread provides an excellent source of both protein and iron for a vegetarian client. Baked beans are rich in protein due to their high legume content, making them a significant protein source in vegetarian diets. They also contain iron, which is crucial for preventing anemia and promoting overall health, particularly in individuals who do not consume meat.

Corn bread complements the beans by adding additional carbohydrates and some level of protein, as it is made with cornmeal, which contributes to a balanced meal. The combination of baked beans and corn bread also enhances the bioavailability of iron, particularly when paired with vitamin C-rich foods, further supporting iron absorption.

This menu option stands out among the other choices, as while cheese sandwiches and pasta salads may contain protein, they generally lack sufficient iron when evaluating in the context of a vegetarian diet that depends on plant sources. Specifically, many plant-based proteins are not as high in iron as legumes, which positions baked beans and corn bread as the best combination for meeting both protein and iron needs effectively for a vegetarian client.