Epicurean Vegan

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Mediterranean Couscous Salad

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Let’s see if I can do this blogging thing again . . . after all, it’s been nearly 2-1/2 years since I’ve posted a recipe. Sorry for the long absence; life got busy, I suppose. To update you, we moved from Colorado to Brooklyn in March of last year, the twenty-one-year-old just finished his junior year of college, and we hit our ten-year vegan (and blog)-versary in January. So now you’re pretty much caught up.

Being stuck at home because of the pandemic, I’ve found myself cooking a lot more recently (I mean, come on, it’s NYC–we were definitely eating out more). I’ve also been trying to master the art of cooking for two, which has proved difficult for me, but I’m learning.

I decided to come out of hiding and share this recipe with you because we have been living off of it. It’s so damn good! It’s great by itself, but even better in a wrap with some hummus. Plus, it’s one of those salads that can be made with all kinds of ingredients, but these are certainly my favorites. It’s the perfect lunch, but also ideal after a workout since it’s packed with a nice mix of protein and carbs. Between The Husband and me, it lasts about four days and then it’s time for another batch. I love having something in the fridge that’s ready-to-go so I can get on with my day–which I guess right now, isn’t much, but it fills me up so I don’t find myself sitting around thinking I’m hungry, when I’m really just bored. Anyway, I think you’ll love it.

Other ingredient options: celery, capers, tomato, cucumber, pepitas, artichokes.
Serve with: tortillas (or pitas), and hummus.

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

A flavorful, carb- and protein-packed salad that is perfect for lunch or as a side dish. It's super versatile, so add your other favorite ingredients such as cucumber, tomato, capers, or celery.
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Prep Time 30 mins
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 C couscous (I like the tri-color variety)
  • 1 C vegetable broth
  • 1/2 C red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 C onion (yellow or red), diced
  • 2 large carrots, shredded
  • 1 15-oz can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 C olives (green or black), diced
  • 1/2 C dried cranberries
  • 1/2 C cashews, chopped
  • 1/3 C parsley, chopped

Dressing

  • 4 Tbs lemon juice
  • 1-1/2 tsp yellow miso
  • 2 Tbs red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 6 Tbs olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Start by cooking the couscous. In a small or medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and add the couscous; stir to combine. Turn off the heat and cover. After about 5 minutes, fluff with a fork so that it doesn’t get too solid.
  • In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients, including the couscous.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and combine thoroughly. 

Tempeh “Chicken” Salad

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Tempeh "Chicken" Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

Okay, I know what you’re thinking . . . It sure looks like the Chickpea Salad Tacos, but I assure you, totally different. (But they are both amazing!) Lunches as a vegan can be a pain to pull together, especially when you want something fast and healthy. I find it super convenient to make something ahead of time that I can enjoy the whole week. If you’re itching for change, you can always accessorize your salad with tomatoes, avocado, cucumber. This salad is easy to throw together and can be served on tortillas (I used soft corn), wraps, bread, lettuce leaves, or just by itself! Tempeh also has all the protein you need to keep you chugging along the rest of the afternoon, so you won’t fall asleep at your desk. This recipe makes about 6 cups, so feel free to halve it for a smaller batch.

INGREDIENTS:
16-oz (2 pkgs) tempeh, cut into cubes
1, 8-oz can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
1 large celery stalk, chopped
1/2 C onion, diced
1-1/2 C purple/red cabbage, chopped
1 C raw and roasted cashews, coarsely chopped
1/2 C vegan mayo
1/4 C vegan sour cream
1 Tbs spicy brown mustard
2 heaping Tbs pickle relish
1 Tbs vegan Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
Optional: diced tomato, diced avocado, diced cucumber

DIRECTIONS:
Start by steaming the tempeh for 10-12 minutes (I used my saucepan/steamer on the stove). Once softened, transfer to a large bowl and mash the tempeh into a desired consistency. I left quite a bit of the large chunks. Let cool (I stuck the bowl in the fridge while I prepared the rest of the salad).

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, mustard, relish, Worcestershire sauce, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and garlic; set aside to let the flavors mingle. In a large bowl, combine the water chestnuts, celery, onion, cabbage, and cashews. Once the tempeh has cooled, mix it in with the vegetables. Add the sauce and coat well. Serve on your choice of bread, wrap, or tortilla, or even crackers. Enjoy!

Tempeh "Chicken" Salad
 
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Okay, I know what you're thinking . . . It sure looks like the Chickpea Salad Tacos, but I assure you, totally different. (But they are both amazing!) Lunches as a vegan can be a pain to pull together, especially something healthy. I find it super convenient to make something ahead of time that I can enjoy the whole week. If you're itching for change, you can always accessorize your salad with tomatoes, avocado, cucumber. This salad is easy to throw together and can be served on tortillas (I used soft corn), wraps, bread, lettuce leaves, or just by itself! Tempeh also has all the protein you need to keep you chugging along the rest of the afternoon, so you won't fall asleep at your desk. This recipe makes about 6 cups, so feel free to halve it for a smaller batch.
Author:
Serves: 6 cups
Ingredients
  • 16-oz (2 pkgs) tempeh, cut into cubes
  • 1 8-oz can water chestnuts, drained and chopped
  • 1 large celery stalk, chopped
  • ½ C onion, diced
  • 1-1/2 C purple/red cabbage, chopped
  • 1 C raw and roasted cashews, coarsely chopped
  • ½ C vegan mayo
  • ¼ C vegan sour cream
  • 1 Tbs spicy brown mustard
  • 2 heaping Tbs pickle relish
  • 1 Tbs vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Optional: diced tomato, diced avocado, diced cucumber
Directions
  1. Start by steaming the tempeh for 10-12 minutes (I used my saucepan/steamer on the stove). Once softened, transfer to a large bowl and mash the tempeh into a desired consistency. I left quite a bit of the large chunks. Let cool (I stuck the bowl in the fridge while I prepared the sauce).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, mustard, relish, Worcestershire sauce, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and garlic; set aside to let the flavors mingle.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the water chestnuts, celery, onion, cabbage, and cashews.
  4. Once the tempeh has cooled, mix it in with the vegetables. Add the sauce and coat well.
  5. Serve on your choice of bread, wrap, or tortilla, or even crackers. Enjoy!

 

Black Rice Salad with Craisins & Shiitakes

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Black Rice Salad with Craisins & Shiitakes -- Epicurean Vegan

Black rice, a.k.a forbidden rice, rarely gets the kudos it deserves. It’s full of antioxidants (that help prevent cardiovascular disease, protect against cancer, detox the body, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function) and anthocyanins phytochemicals that aid in reducing cholesterol. This powerful whole grain also slows down absorption of sugar in the blood to help prevent diabetes, and of course, its a fiber superstar. Now about those shiitake mushrooms . . . like black rice, this special fungi protects the heart, fights cancer, improves brain function, and reduces inflammation, it’s also a powerful immune-booster, so when you’re feeling sluggish and sick this winter, pile on the ‘shrooms! This whole salad is full of tasty awesomeness and is perfect as a side dish or a take-to-the-office lunch.

INGREDIENTS:
1 C black rice
1/2 C wild rice mix (this is for variety, but feel free to just use more black rice)
2-3/4 C vegetable broth
1 Tbs olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 C onion, chopped
3-4 C sliced shiitake and white mushrooms
3 C fresh spinach, chopped
2 Tbs fresh sage, minced
1 Tbs fresh thyme, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 C white wine
1/2 C Craisins
1/2 C pepitas

Black Rice Salad with Craisins and Shiitakes -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the rice and vegetable broth in a large sauce pan; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 35-45 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent. Add the mushrooms and cook another 5-10 minutes, then toss in the spinach and add the white wine. Let the spinach cook down, then add the sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the mushroom mixture to the cooked rice and fold in the Craisins and pepitas. Serve hot, warm, or cold. Enjoy!

Black Rice Salad with Craisins & Shiitakes
 
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Black rice, a.k.a forbidden rice, rarely get the kudos it deserves. It's full of antioxidants (that help prevent cardiovascular disease, protect against cancer, detox the body, and, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function) and anthocyanins phytochemicals that aid in reducing cholesterol. This powerful whole grain also slow down absorption of sugar in the blood to help prevent diabetes, and of course, its a fiber superstar. Now about those shiitake mushrooms . . . like black rice, this special fungi protects the heart, fights cancer, improves brain function, and reduces inflammation, it's also a powerful immune-booster, so when you're feeling sluggish and sick this winter, pile on the 'shrooms! This whole salad is full of tasty awesomeness and is perfect as a side dish or a take-to-the-office lunch.
Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 C black rice
  • ½ C wild rice mix (this is for variety, but feel free to just use more black rice)
  • 2-3/4 C vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 C onion, chopped
  • 3-4 C sliced shiitake and white mushrooms
  • 3 C fresh spinach, chopped
  • 2 Tbs fresh sage, minced
  • 1 Tbs fresh thyme, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ C white wine
  • ½ C Craisins
  • ½ C pepitas

 

Chickpea Salad Tacos

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Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

I find it’s easy to fall into a lunch rut, especially when you don’t have a lot of time to pull something together. The beauty of this salad is that you spend 20 minutes in the kitchen preparing it, but it can last you several days. (I promise you won’t get bored with it!) The chickpeas (or garbanzo beans) are an excellent source of protein, so they’ll keep you going through the afternoon slump. I love crunch in my salads, so there’s plenty of that between the celery, carrots, bell pepper, and pepitas. (I had to stop myself from adding water chestnuts and/or red/purple cabbage–next time!) Lately, I’ve been buying the mini sweet peppers which are ideal for snacking, so while the recipe calls for 1/2 a red bell pepper, I used 2 of the mini peppers:

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

I also went for gluten-free corn tortillas instead of bread, which I think was ideal! However, feel free to enjoy this salad on any bread of your choice.

UPDATE: And for the second batch (because the first batch disappeared fast, I swapped out the carrots with the promised purple cabbage and water chestnuts. Divine)!

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/3 C onion, diced or minced
1/3 C carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4-1/3 C pepitas or chopped almonds
Sauce:
1-1/2 Tbs miso + 1 Tbs water
1/2 C vegan mayo
2 Tbs Dijon mustard
1 (heaping) Tbs dill relish
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
1 tsp kelp powder
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
The rest:
Gluten-free corn tortillas
Lettuce

DIRECTIONS:
Using a fork or pastry blender, mash the chickpeas until chunky. Add the rest of the salad ingredients.

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

In a medium bowl, whisk together the miso and water, then add the rest of the sauce ingredients; combine well.

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the sauce to the chickpea mixture and stir together thoroughly. Top a tortilla with some lettuce and scoop the salad on top. Enjoy!

Chickpea Salad Tacos
 
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Prep time
Total time
 
I find it's easy to fall into a lunch rut, especially when you don't have a lot of time to pull something together. The beauty of this salad is that you spend 20 minutes in the kitchen preparing it, but it can last you several days. (I promise you won't get bored with it!) The chickpeas (or garbanzo beans) are an excellent source of protein, so they'll keep you going through the afternoon slump. I love crunch in my salads, so there's plenty of that between the celery, carrots, bell pepper, and pepitas. (I had to stop myself from adding water chestnuts and/or red/purple cabbage--next time!) Lately, I've been buying the mini sweet peppers which are ideal for snacking, so while the recipe calls for ½ a red bell pepper, I used 2 of the mini peppers. I also went for gluten-free corn tortillas instead of bread, which I think was ideal! However, feel free to enjoy this salad on any bread of your choice.
Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • ⅓ C onion, diced or minced
  • ⅓ C carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • ½ red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼-1/3 C pepitas or chopped almonds
  • Sauce:
  • 1-1/2 Tbs miso + 1 Tbs water
  • ½ C vegan mayo
  • 2 Tbs Dijon mustard
  • 1 (heaping) Tbs dill relish
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp kelp powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • The rest:
  • Gluten-free corn tortillas
  • Lettuce
Directions
  1. Using a fork or pastry blender, mash the chickpeas until chunky. Add the rest of the salad ingredients.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the miso and water, then add the rest of the sauce ingredients; combine well.
  3. Add the sauce to the chickpea mixture and stir together thoroughly. Top a tortilla with some lettuce and scoop the salad on top. Enjoy!

 

Glass Noodles & Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce

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Glass Noodles and Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

I’m learning how to think small. The College Student is well, off to college this fall, and frankly, he’s rarely home for dinner these days between his busy work and social schedules. Thus, thinking small. Or least, smaller. Admittedly, I struggle with figuring out portions, so cooking for two is certainly a challenge. It does help to use small ingredients like this package of Sweet Potato Glass Noodles (3.5-oz) and these wee little carrots from our garden:

Glass Noodles and Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Glass Noodles and Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce -- Epicurean VeganThe joy of cooking for two means saving money at the grocery store and saving time in the kitchen; these bowls are fresh and flavorful in less than 30 minutes. The downside? No leftovers.

INGREDIENTS:
3.5-oz pkg. Sweet Potato Glass Noodles
6-8 small carrots, sliced thin (about 2 cups)
1 bunch of green onion, sliced thick (these have a kick and we love green onion; feel free to use less)
Sesame seeds
Peanut-Sesame Sauce
1-1/2 Tbs creamy peanut butter
4 Tbs soy sauce
2 tsp toasted sesame oil
2 tsp rice vinegar
2 Tbs mirin
1/2 tsp lime juice
1/2 tsp brown sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbs grated ginger root

DIRECTIONS:

Glass Noodles and Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Steam the carrots until softened, about 12-15 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the glass noodles in boiling water for 6 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water and return to the pan with a tiny bit of sesame oil.

Whisk together all of the sauce ingredients.

Combine the carrots, noodles, green onion, and sauce in a pan or bowl. Serve with sesame seeds on top. Enjoy!

Glass Noodles and Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Glass Noodles & Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce
 
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Author:
Serves: 2
Ingredients
  • 3.5-oz pkg. Sweet Potato Glass Noodles
  • 6-8 small carrots, sliced thin (about 2 cups)
  • 1 bunch of green onion, sliced thick (these have a kick and we love green onion; feel free to use less)
  • Sesame seeds
  • Peanut-Sesame Sauce
  • 1-1/2 Tbs creamy peanut butter
  • 4 Tbs soy sauce
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tsp rice vinegar
  • 2 Tbs mirin
  • ½ tsp lime juice
  • ½ tsp brown sugar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 Tbs grated ginger root
Directions
  1. Steam the carrots until softened, about 12-15 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, cook the glass noodles in boiling water for 6 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water and return to the pan with a tiny bit of sesame oil.
  3. Whisk together all of the sauce ingredients.
  4. Combine the carrots, noodles, green onion, and sauce in a pan or bowl. Serve with sesame seeds on top. Enjoy!

 

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream

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Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream -- Epicurean Vegan

I really didn’t mean to take such a long hiatus from posting. Between work and The Eighteen-year-old’s graduation, it’s been a busy spring. Here’s a quick and yummy recipe that is perfect for enjoying out on the deck. I’ve come learn that there are few rules when it comes to nachos, so here’s my delicious and hearty take on a classic.

INGREDIENTS:
2 large sweet potatoes or yams, cut into 1/2″ slices
Olive oil
Garlic salt
Black pepper
5 to 6-oz of a Daiya Jalapeno Havarti Style Block, shredded
1-1/4 C vegan sour cream
1 C fresh cilantro leaves
1 Tbs lime juice
1/4 tsp salt
Toppings
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
Green onion
Black olives
Salsa
Pepitas

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 450. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the sweet potato slices on the sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt and black pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and browned. Sprinkle with the vegan cheese and bake another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese in melted.

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream -- Epicurean Vegan

In the meantime, over low heat, warm the black beans in a saucepan. Combine the sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a food processor and blend well. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or bowl. Once the cheese is melted on the sweet potatoes, immediately top 3-4 on individual plates with black beans, sauce, and other toppings. Enjoy!

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream
 
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Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
I really didn't mean to take such a long hiatus from posting. Between work and The Eighteen-year-old's graduation, it's been a busy spring. Here's a quick and yummy recipe that is perfect for enjoying out on the deck. I've come learn that there are few rules when it comes to nachos, so here's my delicious and hearty take on a classic.
Author:
Serves: 5
Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes or yams, cut into ½" slices
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic salt
  • Black pepper
  • 5 to 6-oz of a Daiya Jalapeno Havarti Style Block, shredded
  • 1-1/4 C vegan sour cream
  • 1 C fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 Tbs lime juice
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Toppings
  • 2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • Green onion
  • Black olives
  • Salsa
  • Pepitas
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 450.
  2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the sweet potato slices on the sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt and black pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and browned.
  3. Sprinkle with the vegan cheese and bake another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese in melted.
  4. In the meantime, over low heat, the warm the black beans in a saucepan.
  5. Combine the sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a food processor and blend well. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or bowl.
  6. Once the cheese is melted on the sweet potatoes, immediately top 3-4 on individual plates with black beans, sauce, and other toppings. Enjoy!

 

Fennel-Infused Beluga Lentils with Pepita-Tahini Dressing

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Fennel-Infused Beluga Lentils with Pepita-Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

Well, I certainly didn’t mean to take such a long break from blogging, but the fall turned out to be quite a busy time for me. I appreciate you sticking with me and I promise to post more regularly in the next few months. So of course, my new recipe would have something to do with lentils! Sorry, I can’t help it. But this recipe actually has lots of different elements than previous lentil recipes. First, I finally got around to trying black lentils, a.k.a. Beluga lentils. I’ve had such a hard time finding this variety of lentils in the past, but came across them in the bulk section of Whole Foods. They are super delicious and retain a firm texture–great for soups, too. Now I get it; people often avoid lentils because of their gassy nature, but there are ways to significantly reduce the gas so you don’t have to miss out on the amazing health benefits of lentils.

Lentils contain raffinose sugars and humans lack the enzyme required to break these sugars down. Because of this, the sugars release carbon dioxide and hydrogen . . . not a fun combo in your intestines. To make eating lentils a more enjoyable experience, you should soak them overnight. If you don’t have time or forget, bring 12 cups of water and 1 cup of lentils to a boil, remove from heat, then cover. Let them sit for 2-3 hours. When you’re ready to cook, drain and rinse the lentils and cook in 3 C of water or broth for 30-40 minutes. Keep in mind, the lentils are not supposed to absorb all the liquid, so taste the lentils for doneness and drain them in a fine mesh strainer.

I used the quick method when I prepared this dish. I also added about 1 Tbs of fennel, which not only added a unique flavor, fennel helps reduce the gas as well.

All right, now that that’s out of the way, are we ready for the recipe?! I assure you, it’s worth the wait!

INGREDIENTS:
1 C black (beluga) lentils
1 Tbs fennel seed
1 Tbs olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium leeks, chopped
1 8-oz can water chestnuts, chopped
4 C fresh spinach, chopped (salad size)
2-3 C white or cremini mushrooms, each cut into 4-6 pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pepitas
Vegan Parmesan (optional)
Pepita-Tahini Dressing
1/3 C pepitas
1/2 C water (more if you’d like to thin the dressing)
2 Tbs tahini
2-1/2 Tbs grapeseed oil
1 Tbs apple cider vinegar
1 Tbs soy sauce or tamari
1 Tbs lime juice
1/4 C fresh cilantro leaves
1 tsp agave
3/4 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
(For a little kick, add some chili powder)

DIRECTIONS:
As mentioned above, pre-soak the lentils with the fennel seeds. When ready to cook, combine 3 cups of water or vegetable broth with the lentils and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness. I like lentils to be tender, but still retain some firmness. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the garlic. Saute for 2 minutes, then add the leeks; cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the water chestnuts and cook another 5-7 minutes.

Fennel-Infused Beluga Lentils with Pepita-Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganNext, add the mushrooms and spinach and saute over medium-low heat until the spinach begins to wilt. I tend to prefer not overcooking mushrooms–usually just enough to soften them a little. Once the lentils are drained, add them to the skillet and combine everything thoroughly.
Fennel-Infused Beluga Lentils with Pepita-Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganTo make the dressing, toss everything in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
Fennel-Infused Beluga Lentils with Pepita-Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

To serve, top individual servings with some pepitas, dressing and vegan Parmesan. Enjoy!

Fennel-Infused Beluga Lentils with Pepita-Tahini Dressing
 
Print
Cook time
Total time
 
Well, I certainly didn't mean to take such a long break from blogging, but the fall turned out to be quite a busy time for me. I appreciate you sticking with me and I promise to post more regularly in the next few months. So of course, my new recipe would have something to do with lentils! Sorry, I can't help it. But this recipe actually has lots of different elements from previous lentil recipes. First, I finally got around to trying black lentils, a.k.a. Beluga lentils. I've had such a hard time finding this variety of lentils in the past, but came across them in the bulk section of Whole Foods. They are super delicious and retain a firm texture--great for soups, too. Now I get it; people often avoid lentils because of their gassy nature, but there are ways to significantly reduce the gas so you don't have to miss out on the amazing health benefits lentils are packed with. Lentils contain raffinose sugars and humans lack the enzyme required to break these sugars down. Because of this, the sugars release carbon dioxide and hydrogen . . . not a fun combo in your intestines. To make eating lentils a more enjoyable experience, you should soak lentils overnight. If you don't have time or forget, bring 12 cups of water and 1 cup of lentils to a boil, remove from heat, then cover. Let them sit for 2-3 hours. When you're ready to cook, drain and rinse the lentils and cook in 3 C of water or broth for 30-40 minutes. Keep in mind, the lentils are not supposed to absorbed all the liquid, so taste the lentils for doneness and drain them in a fine mesh strainer. I used the quick method when I prepared this dish. I also added about 1 Tbs of fennel, which not only added a unique flavor, fennel helps reduce the gas as well. All right, now that that's out of the way, are we ready for the recipe?! I assure you, it's been worth the wait!
Author:
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 C black (beluga) lentils
  • 1 Tbs fennel seed
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium leeks, chopped
  • 1 8-oz can water chestnuts, chopped
  • 4 C fresh spinach, chopped (salad size)
  • 2-3 C white or cremini mushrooms, each cut into 4-6 pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pepitas
  • Vegan Parmesan (optional)
  • Pepita-Tahini Dressing
  • ⅓ C pepitas
  • ½ C water (more if you'd like to thin the dressing)
  • 2 Tbs tahini
  • 2-1/2 Tbs grapeseed oil
  • 1 Tbs apple cider vinegar
  • 1 Tbs soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 Tbs lime juice
  • ¼ C fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 tsp agave
  • ¾ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • (For a little kick, add some chili powder)
Directions
  1. As mentioned above, pre-soak the lentils with the fennel seeds. When ready to cook, combine 3 cups of water or vegetable broth with the lentils and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes. Check for doneness. I like lentils to be tender, but still retain some firmness. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the garlic. Saute for 2 minutes, then add the leeks; cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the water chestnuts and cook another 5-7 minutes.
  2. Next, add the mushrooms and spinach and saute over medium-low heat until the spinach begins to wilt. I tend to prefer not overcooking mushrooms--usually just enough to soften them a little. Once the lentils are drained, add them to the skillet and combine everything thoroughly.
  3. To make the dressing, toss everything in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
  4. To serve, top individual servings with some pepitas, dressing and vegan Parmesan. Enjoy!

 

Vegan Buffalo Chicken Wraps

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Vegan Buffalo Chicken Wraps -- Epicurean Vegan

Yes, these are simple. No, I didn’t stretch my culinary mind too much and that’s all right. Sometimes you just need a veganized classic. Plus, I think it’s important to have recipes for those who are transitioning to a vegan diet where kale and quinoa might still be a little daunting. For the really adventurous, add a couple of thin slices of avocado . . . delicious!

INGREDIENTS:
3 bags Boca Chik’n Veggie Nuggets
3-4 C romaine, chopped
12-oz jarred buffalo sauce of your choice (check ingredients to ensure vegan-ness)
Vegan bleu cheese or ranch dressing (Follow Your Heart is a great brand!)
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced thin (optional)
6 flour tortilla wraps

DIRECTIONS:
Bake the nuggets according to package instructions, then cut each nugget into 6 pieces.

Vegan Buffalo Chicken Wraps -- Epicurean Vegan In a large bowl, combine the nuggets and buffalo sauce. It may seem like a lot of sauce, but don’t be afraid; pour it on! To assemble, spread some dressing on a tortilla, a few slices of avocado (if using), some romaine, then top with nuggets. Wrap, eat, and enjoy!

Vegan Buffalo Chicken Wraps
 
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Yes, these are simple. No, I didn't stretch my culinary mind too much and that's all right. Sometimes you just need a veganized classic. Plus, I think it's important to have recipes for those who are transitioning into a vegan diet where kale and quinoa might still be a little daunting right now. For the really adventurous, add a couple of thin slices of avocado . . . delicious.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 3 bags Boca Chik'n Veggie Nuggets
  • 3-4 C romaine, chopped
  • 12-oz jarred buffalo sauce of your choice (check ingredients to ensure vegan-ness)
  • Vegan bleu cheese or ranch dressing (Follow Your Heart is a great brand!)
  • 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced thin (optional)
  • 6 flour tortilla wraps
Directions
  1. Bake the nuggets according to package instructions, then cut each nugget into 6 pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the nuggets and buffalo sauce. It may seem like a lot of sauce, but don't be afraid; pour it on!
  3. To assemble, spread some dressing on a tortilla, a few slices of avocado (if using), some romaine, then top with nuggets. Wrap, eat, and enjoy!

 

Kale & Zucchini Bowls with Lemon-Cashew Sauce

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Kale and Zucchini Bowls with Lemon-Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Where did the summer go? As much as I love autumn and all the wonderful soups and stews that always accompany this favorite season of mine, I’m not quite ready for it. I’m still stuck on fresh veggie bowls that are perfect for a summer evening on the patio with a glass of wine. I know it might be veggie-bowl overload for some of you, and I promise to get back in the kitchen to drum up some new vegan yumminess, but I assure you, you’ll love this fresh, lemony creation that is not only healthy, but super delicious! So go ahead, have that second glass of wine and enjoy those fresh summer veggies a little longer.

INGREDIENTS:
1 medium zucchini, spiralized
2 C fresh kale, chopped
1 C red cabbage, chopped
3 large green onion, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1 C cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1 C rice blend or quinoa (cooked according to package instructions)
1/2 C pepitas
Lemon-Cashew Sauce
1 C raw cashews
2 garlic cloves
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 C lemon juice
1/3 C water
1/4 C fresh cilantro or parsley

DIRECTIONS:

I had some left over Trader Joe’s Basmati Rice Medley, so I cooked that up–only took about 15 minutes. Feel free to use any grain of your choice.
Trader Joe's Basmati Rice Medley

Meanwhile, toss all of the sauce ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. I then transferred it to a squeeze bottle. Next, combine the kale, cabbage, green onion, and red bell pepper in a large bowl; set aside. After spiralizing the zucchini, I placed them in a steamer basket and steamed it for only about 2 minutes; don’t over do it, otherwise, the zucchini gets too mushy. This step is also optional–I just preferred to soften the zucchini a little.
Kale and Zucchini Bowls with Lemon-Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

To assemble the bowls, start with the rice, some zucchini and then the kale mixture. Top with tomatoes, avocado, pepitas, and sauce. Enjoy!

Kale & Zucchini Bowls with Lemon-Cashew Sauce
 
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Prep time
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Where did the summer go? As much as I love autumn and all the wonderful soups and stews that seem to accompany this favorite season of mine, I'm not quite ready for it. I'm still stuck on fresh veggie bowls that are perfect for a summer evening on the patio with a glass of wine. I know it might be veggie-bowl overload for some of you, and I promise to get back in the kitchen to drum up some new vegan yumminess, but I assure you, you'll love this fresh, lemony creation that is not only healthy, but super delicious! So go ahead, have that second glass of wine and enjoy those fresh summer veggies a little longer.
Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 medium zucchini, spiralized
  • 2 C fresh kale, chopped
  • 1 C red cabbage, chopped
  • 3 large green onion, chopped
  • ½ red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 C cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
  • 1 C rice blend or quinoa (cooked according to package instructions)
  • ½ C pepitas
  • Lemon-Cashew Sauce
  • 1 C raw cashews
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ¼ C lemon juice
  • ⅓ C water
  • ¼ C fresh cilantro or parsley
Directions
  1. I had some left over Trader Joe's Basmati Rice Medley, so I cooked that up--only took about 15 minutes. Feel free to use any grain or your choice.
  2. Meanwhile, make the sauce. Combine all of the sauce ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. I then transfer it to a squeeze bottle. Next, combine the kale, cabbage, green onion, and red bell pepper in a large bowl; set aside. After spiralizing the zucchini, I placed them in a steamer basket and steamed it for only about 2 minutes; don't over do it, otherwise, the zucchini gets too mushy. This step is also optional--I just preferred to soften the zucchini a little.
  3. To assemble the bowls, start with the rice, some zucchini and then the kale mixture. Top with tomatoes, avocado, pepitas, and sauce. Enjoy!

 

Couscous with Leeks & Shiitake Mushrooms

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Couscous with Leeks and Shiitake Mushrooms -- Epicurean Vegan

Our summer has been awfully busy and I haven’t spent a lot of time experimenting in the kitchen, however, not all great dishes have to take a lot of time. This flavorful meal is ready in about 20 minutes but it certainly doesn’t taste rushed. I used Trader Joe’s Harvest Grain Blend that has Israeli-style couscous, quinoa, orzo, and baby garbanzo beans (which I didn’t even know existed). It only takes 10 minutes to cook. Feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or even lentils (I recommend brown or green lentils), just keep in mind, the cooking time may vary. Either way, I think you’ll like this perfect-for-a-busy-summer dish!

Couscous with Leeks and Shiitake Mushrooms -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
16-oz pkg. Harvest Grains Blend, Trader Joe’s (or grain of choice)
3-1/2 C vegetable broth (again, this amount may vary depending on choice of grain)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-2 Tbs olive oil
2 large leeks, chopped
2 C shiitake mushrooms, cut into 1″ pieces
3/4 C soy sauce or tamari
1 tsp arrowroot
1-1/2 Tbs red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1 heaping Tbs Dijon
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Toasted sesame seeds

DIRECTIONS:
Cook the grains according to package instructions. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet; add the garlic. Cook 2 minutes, then add the leeks. Over medium heat, saute the leeks for about 7-8 minutes, or until they soften and begin to brown. Add the mushrooms and cook another 3-4 minutes.

Couscous with Leeks and Shiitake Mushrooms -- Epicurean Vegan

Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, sesame oil, and arrowroot. Once well combined, whisk in the Dijon. Add the sauce mixture to the skillet and combine it well with the leeks and mushrooms. It will thicken immediately. Remove from the heat.

To serve, scoop some of the couscous mixture into a bowl, add some leek-mushroom mixture, and top with sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Couscous with Leeks & Shiitake Mushrooms
 
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Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
Our summer has been awfully busy and I haven't spent a lot of time experimenting in the kitchen, however, not all great dishes have to take a lot of time. This flavorful meal is ready in about 20 minutes but it certainly doesn't taste rushed. I used Trader Joe's Harvest Grain Blend that has Israeli-style couscous, quinoa, orzo, and baby garbanzo beans (which I didn't even know existed). It only takes 10 minutes to cook. Feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or even lentils (I recommend brown or green lentils), just keep in mind, the cooking time may vary. Either way, I think you'll like this perfect-for-a-busy-summer dish!
Author:
Serves: 5-6
Ingredients
  • 16-oz pkg. Harvest Grains Blend, Trader Joe's (or grain of choice)
  • 3-1/2 C vegetable broth (again, this amount may vary depending on choice of grain)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-2 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 large leeks, chopped
  • 2 C shiitake mushrooms, cut into 1" pieces
  • ¾ C soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tsp arrowroot
  • 1-1/2 Tbs red wine vinegar
  • ½ tsp sesame oil
  • 1 heaping Tbs Dijon
  • Salt and pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Toasted sesame seeds
Directions
  1. Cook the grains according to package instructions. If you're using the Harvest Grains Blend, it will cook in ten minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet; add the garlic. Cook 2 minutes, then add the leeks. Over medium heat, saute the leeks for about 7-8 minutes, or until they soften and begin to brown. Add the mushrooms and cook another 3-4 minutes.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, sesame oil, and arrowroot. Once well combined, whisk in the Dijon. Add the sauce mixture to the skillet and combine it well with the leeks and mushrooms. It will thicken immediately. Remove from the heat.
  5. To serve, scoop some of the couscous mixture into a bowl, add some leek-mushroom mixture, and top with sesame seeds. Enjoy!

 

 

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