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A Spectacular Superfood Salad

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A Spectacular Superfood Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

So what’s a superfood, you might ask? Well, according to the online dictionary, it’s “a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.” That sounds about right. Chances are, your fridge and pantry are stocked with these very ingredients and a salad is a great way to make the most of them—all in one bite. You won’t find meat and dairy labeled as superfoods. Ever. (Okay, some people consider salmon a superfood, but it’s really the omegas they’re after, which are readily found in plant foods). I made a very light dressing to coat the salad, also packed with immune-boosting deliciousness, so dig in and feel super energized, super healthy, and super happy with this spectacular superfood salad!

The super benefits:

Kale: high in fiber, iron, Vitamin K, C, and A; an anti-inflammatory food, supports cardiovascular health and is full of antioxidants.
Spinach: high in Vitamin A, K, D and E; good source of omega-3 fatty acids, loaded with antioxidants (fights cancer & inflammation), rich in calcium and magnesium, as well as carotenoids for eye health.
Pepitas (pumpkin seeds): high in magnesium, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber and anti-inflammatory properties. They’re also high in tryptophan—you know, the “sleep hormone” found in turkey? Sprinkle some pepitas on your next Thanksgiving dish and enjoy the same post-meal nap without the dead bird.
Walnuts: cancer-fighting properties, heart health benefits, extremely high in antioxidants, as well as Vitamin E, folate, melatonin and omega-3 fatty acids.
Red onion: high in quercetin, a bioflavonoid with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, cancer-fighting, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.
Blueberries: said to help with memory decline, reduce heart attack risk, and are full of antioxidants. Also high in Vitamin K, manganese and fiber.
Chia seeds: high in protein, fiber, phosphorus, manganese, calcium and potassium. They also contain healthy antioxidants and are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Garbanzo beans (chickpeas): high in fiber, protein, manganese, and iron. They can also stabilize blood sugar and help lower one’s cholesterol.

A Spectacular Superfood Salad
 
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Recipe type: Salad
Serves: 8-10
Ingredients
  • 2 heads of kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped small
  • 3 C spinach, chopped small
  • 2 C fresh or dried blueberries
  • 1 C red onion, diced small
  • 1 15-oz can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ C pepitas
  • 1 C walnuts, chopped
  • .
  • Dressing
  • .
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs yellow miso
  • 1 Tbs tahini
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 T lemon juice
  • ½ tsp chia seeds
  • ¼ C water
Directions
  1. Toss all of the salad ingredients together in a large bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Let the dressing sit about 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to thicken the dressing just a bit.
  3. Add the dressing to the salad and toss to coat thoroughly. Enjoy!

 

Dreamy, Creamy Pasta Salad

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Dreamy, Creamy Pasta Salad -- Epicurean VeganThis is the perfect picnic pasta salad . . . okay, perfect for any time. Summer is around the corner and chances are, you’ve got some get togethers on the horizon (the Fourth of July will be here before you know it), so this is a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing salad sure to be gone in minutes. Note: One thing I’ve noticed, is that if I make it ahead of time and refrigerate it, the consistency loses some of its creaminess. If you are making this ahead, I suggest refrigerating the sauce separately, then stirring it in before serving. You may find that the sauce may need a tiny bit more liquid, so I suggest adding some almond milk or water first.

INGREDIENTS:
16-oz of pasta
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 C green onion, sliced
2 carrots, shredded
Sauce:
2 cloves of garlic
12.3-oz pkg. Mori-Nu Silken tofu, firm or extra firm
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbs yellow miso
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
1 Tbs apple cider vinegar
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp dill
2 Tbs vegan sour cream

DIRECTIONS:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Meanwhile, chop up the garlic cloves in the food processor, then add the remaining sauce ingredients. Blend until smooth, 1-2 minutes.

Dreamy, Creamy Pasta Salad -- Epicurean VeganAdd the veggies to a large bowl . . .
Dreamy, Creamy Pasta Salad -- Epicurean Vegan. . . add the pasta and then fold in the sauce. (Again, I suggest chilling the sauce separately until ready to serve. See my note above). Combine thoroughly; serve immediately, or chill in the fridge. Enjoy!
Dreamy, Creamy Pasta Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

Dreamy, Creamy Pasta Salad
 
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This is the perfect picnic pasta salad . . . okay, perfect for any time. Summer is around the corner and chances are, you've got some get togethers on the horizon (the Fourth of July will be here before you know it), so this is a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing salad sure to be gone in minutes. Note: One thing I've noticed, is that if I make it ahead of time and refrigerate it, the consistency loses some of its creaminess. If you are making this ahead, I suggest refrigerating the sauce separately, then stirring it in before serving. You may find that the sauce may need a tiny bit more liquid, so I suggest adding some almond milk or water first.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 16-oz of pasta
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 C green onion, sliced
  • 2 carrots, shredded
  • Sauce:
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 12.3-oz pkg. Mori-Nu Silken tofu, firm or extra firm
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbs yellow miso
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 Tbs apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • ½ tsp dill
  • 2 Tbs vegan sour cream
Directions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Meanwhile, chop up the garlic cloves in the food processor, then add the remaining sauce ingredients. Blend until smooth, 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the veggies to a large bowl.
  3. Add the pasta and then fold in the sauce. (Again, I suggest chilling the sauce separately until ready to serve. See my note above). Combine thoroughly; serve immediately, or chill in the fridge. Enjoy!

 

Creamy Kale & Mushroom Pasta

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Creamy Kale and Mushroom Pasta -- Epicurean VeganKale and mushrooms. Two of my favorite veggies. Together with pasta: a new favorite meal! It’s incredibly easy to make and will be ready in no time.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 C onion, minced
3 Tbs flour, divided
1 C vegetable broth
Salt and pepper
1 tsp thyme
1/8 tsp nutmeg
2 Tbs nutritional yeast
3/4 C unsweetened almond milk
1 tsp lemon juice
2 portobello mushroom caps, sliced, then cut in half
2 C kale, torn into bite-sized pieces
1/2 C green onions, sliced
Optional: 1/3 C Dairy-free sour cream
12-14 ounces pasta of your choice (I used rotini)

DIRECTIONS:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat the olive oil and garlic over  medium heat; cook for 3 minutes. Add the onions, and cook another 6-8 minutes, or until the onions are softened. Add two tablespoons of the flour and coat the onions well; cook 1 minute. Little by little, add the broth and whisk until the mixture is thickened. While I prepare the sauce, I had the kale and mushrooms in my steamer pot. They only need about 5-7 minutes to steam, so keep an eye on the pot; I find that kale can get bitter-tasting if it gets over-steamed. Once it turns bright green, it’s perfect—remove from heat.

Stir the nutritional yeast into the sauce, along with the salt, pepper, thyme and nutmeg. In a small cup, whisk together the almond milk with the remaining tablespoon of flour. Again, little by little, whisk it into the sauce until it has thickened. Stir in the lemon juice. Combine the cooked pasta with the green onions and the steamed kale and mushrooms.
Creamy Kale and Mushroom Pasta -- Epicurean VeganPour the sauce over the pasta mixture and combine well. If using, add the sour cream and mix thoroughly. Season with more salt and pepper if you’d like, serve and enjoy!

Creamy Kale & Mushroom Pasta
 
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Kale and mushrooms. Two of my favorite veggies. Together with pasta: a new favorite meal! It's incredibly easy to make and will be ready in no time.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ C onion, minced
  • 3 Tbs flour, divided
  • 1 C vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • ⅛ tsp nutmeg
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ¾ C unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 portobello mushroom caps, sliced, then cut in half
  • 2 C kale, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ C green onions, sliced
  • Optional: ⅓ C Dairy-free sour cream
  • 12-14 ounces pasta of your choice (I used rotini)
Directions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat the olive oil and garlic over medium heat; cook for 3 minutes.
  3. Add the onions, and cook another 6-8 minutes, or until the onions are softened.
  4. Add two tablespoons of the flour and coat the onions well; cook 1 minute.
  5. Little by little, add the broth and whisk until the mixture is thickened.
  6. While I prepare the sauce, I had the kale and mushrooms in my steamer pot. They only need about 5-7 minutes to steam, so keep an eye on the pot; I find that kale can get bitter-tasting if it gets over-steamed. Once it turns bright green, it's perfect---remove from heat.
  7. Stir the nutritional yeast into the sauce, along with the salt, pepper, thyme and nutmeg.
  8. In a small cup, whisk together the almond milk with the remaining tablespoon of flour. Again, little by little, whisk it into the sauce until it has thickened.
  9. Stir in the lemon juice.
  10. Combine the cooked pasta with the green onions and the steamed kale and mushrooms.
  11. Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture and combine well.
  12. If using, add the sour cream and mix thoroughly.
  13. Season with more salt and pepper if you'd like, serve and enjoy!

Empowered Noodle Bowl + A Giveaway of The Oh She Glows Cookbook!

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The Oh She Glows Cookbook -- Epicurean VeganI was thrilled to have an opportunity to post a recipe from Angela Liddon’s The Oh She Glows Cookbook AND be able to give a copy away to one lucky reader! I’ve been glued to this cookbook since I received it because not only is it full of beautiful photographs (about every recipe has a pic), but the recipes look downright delicious. Like Liddon, I had some unhealthy eating (or should I say, not eating) habits before I went vegan. I can truly say that a vegan diet saved my life. This is a great cookbook to have in your collection because it is full of tasty, healthy recipes that use only whole, minimally-processed ingredients. If you’ve been a fan of the Oh She Glows website, you’re going to love this cookbook with 75 brand-spankin’ new recipes, plus 25 updated reader favorites. So if you want to win this beautiful cookbook, leave a comment; it’s that easy! You have until midnight (PST) on Sunday, April 6. I’ll announce the winner on Monday, April 7th. 

Empowered Noodle Bowl -- Epicurean Vegan

You’ll love Liddon’s Empowered Noodle Bowl, two ways: Thai Peanut & Orange-Maple Miso on page 153. I decided to make both dressings and honestly, I can’t tell you which one is my favorite; they’re both delicious. The Thai Peanut is thicker with some garlic kick, whereas the Orange-Maple Miso is a tad thinner and milder. They’re both easy enough to make, so why not do both? This is a fantastic lunch or light dinner, that comes together rather quickly. I like how the veggies take precedence over the noodles—it’s not a heavy pasta dish, but rather, a bowl of fresh veggies with some noodles thrown in and coated with a tasty dressing. A winner for sure.

Serves 4
INGREDIENTS
Thai Peanut Sauce
1 large garlic clove
2 Tbs toasted sesame oil
3 Tbs natural smooth peanut butter
2 tsp grated fresh ginger
3 Tbs fresh lime juice
2 Tbs + 1 tsp low-sodium tamari
1-2 tsp granulated sugar
Orange-Maple Miso Dressing
3 Tbs light miso
2 Tbs rice vinegar
1 Tbs toasted sesame oil
1 Tbs tahini
1/4 C fresh orange juice
1 Tbs water
1 tsp maple syrup
Salad
4 oz gluten-free soba noodles
Extra virgin olive oil, for the noodles
16 oz bag frozen shelled edamame, thawed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 English cucumber, diced
1 carrot, julienned
4 green onions, chopped
1/4 C cilantro, chopped
Sesame seeds, for serving

DIRECTIONS
To make the Thai Peanut sauce, combine all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until completely smooth. Do the same for the Orange-Maple Miso Dressing.

Empowered Noodle Bowl -- Epicurean VeganCook the noodles according to instructions on the package (5-9 minutes). Drain, rinse under cold water and transfer to a large bowl. Drizzle with a little of the olive oil, then toss with the veggies and dressing of your choice. Top individual servings with sesame seeds and enjoy! If you like the looks of this recipe, you’re going to want this cookbook, so leave a comment and you just may get it! Good luck!

Empowered Noodle Bowl -- Epicurean VeganWith the Thai Peanut Sauce
Empowered Noodle Bowl -- Epicurean VeganWith the Orange-Maple Miso Dressing

 Reprinted by arrangement with AVERY, a member of Penguin Group (USA) LLC, A Penguin Random House Company. Copyright © GLO BAKERY CORPORATION, 2014.

Asian-Inspired Risotto

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Asian Inspired Risotto with Bok Choy & Shiitake Mushrooms -- Epicurean VeganYep, I’m still on my risotto kick. This time, however, I gave it an Asian twist by adding bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, and a touch of sesame oil (among other seasonings). This is a unique and delicious change from the usual risotto dish and would be great paired with some veggie crystal rolls. Yum!

INGREDIENTS:
4 C vegetable broth
1 Tbs red miso
1 C water
1-1/2 C Arborio rice
2 heads baby bok choy, chopped
2 C shiitake mushrooms, chopped
3/4 C green onion, sliced thin
1/2 C Sherry cooking wine
2 Tbs Earth Balance
1/3 C nutritional yeast
1/4 tsp Chinese 5-Spice blend
1/4 tsp sesame oil
1 Tbs tamari ( or soy sauce)

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. In a Dutch oven, whisk the 4 cups of broth and 1 tablespoon of miso; stir in the rice. Cover and bake for 45 minutes. Fifteen minutes before the rice is done, begin steaming the bok choy. Steam for 10 minutes, then add the mushrooms and green onion.

Asian Inspired Risotto with Bok Choy & Shiitake Mushrooms -- Epicurean VeganWhen the rice is done (most of the liquid has been absorbed), stir in the one cup of water,sherry and Earth Balance. Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes—it’ll thicken up. Next, add the nutritional yeast, five-spice blend, sesame oil, and tamari. Stir well for at least a minute. Fold in the bok choy mixture and enjoy!

Asian-Inspired Risotto
 
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I gave this risotto dish an Asian twist by adding bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, and a touch of sesame oil (among other seasonings). This is a unique and delicious change from the usual risotto dish and would be great paired with some veggie crystal rolls. Yum!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbs red miso
  • 1 C water
  • 1-1/2 C Arborio rice
  • 2 heads baby bok choy, chopped
  • 2 C shiitake mushrooms, chopped
  • ¾ C green onion, sliced thin
  • ½ C Sherry cooking wine
  • 2 Tbs Earth Balance
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • ¼ tsp Chinese 5-Spice blend
  • ¼ tsp sesame oil
  • 1 Tbs tamari ( or soy sauce)
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. In a Dutch oven, whisk the 4 cups of broth and 1 tablespoon of miso; stir in the rice.
  3. Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
  4. Fifteen minutes before the rice is done, begin steaming the bok choy. Steam for 10 minutes, then add the mushrooms and green onion.
  5. When the rice is done (most of the liquid has been absorbed), stir in the one cup of water,sherry and Earth Balance. Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes---it'll thicken up.
  6. Next, add the nutritional yeast, five-spice blend, sesame oil, and tamari. Stir well for at least a minute.
  7. Fold in the bok choy mixture and enjoy!

 

Easy Baked Risotto

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Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean VeganThis is a lot like the Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto, but this one requires a lot less work, especially when it comes to stirring! I recently purchased a Dutch oven and decided to try making risotto in it. So much less work! Mine is 5-quarts and this recipe only took up about 1/2 of the Dutch oven, so I would think even a 3-quart one is plenty big enough.
Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean VeganRisotto is a very versatile dish, so you can add whatever vegetables to it that you’d like. I stuck with spinach, onion and mushrooms, but feel free to add peas, asparagus, Swiss chard, kale . . . you name it.The great thing about using a Dutch oven, is that if you want to make this a side dish, you’ll have plenty of time to throw together the main entree while this cooks. But served with a salad and bread, this risotto makes an ideal main entree.

INGREDIENTS:
5 C vegetable broth
1-1/2 C Arborio rice
1 Tbs olive oil
1 C onion, chopped
16-oz mushrooms (cremini or white), chopped or sliced
2 C spinach, chopped
1/4 C lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 C white cooking wine
2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
1/4 C nutritional yeast
1-1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. Combine 4 cups of the broth and the rice in the Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 45 minutes. While the rice is baking, prepare your other ingredients. In a bowl, combine the spinach, lemon juice and salt; set aside. Next, heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and a little brown. Add the mushrooms and cook 5 minutes more.

Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean VeganI also combined the nutritional yeast, thyme, pepper, and salt in a small bowl to make it easier to add it all at once, when it comes time to add them.
Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean VeganOnce the rice is done (most of the liquid has been absorbed), add the remaining cup of broth:

Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean VeganNext, stir in the white wine, Earth Balance and seasoning. Stir vigorously for about 3 minutes, or until the risotto is thick and creamy. Stir in the mushrooms mixture, along with the spinach.
Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean VeganSo good! Serve immediately and enjoy!
Easy Baked Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

Easy Baked Risotto
 
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Risotto is a very versatile dish, so you can add whatever vegetables to it that you'd like. I stuck with spinach, onion and mushrooms, but feel free to add peas, asparagus, Swiss chard, kale . . . you name it.The great thing about using a Dutch oven, is that if you want to make this a side dish, you'll have plenty of time to throw together the main entree while this cooks. But served with a salad and bread, this risotto makes an ideal main entree.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 5 C vegetable broth
  • 1-1/2 C Arborio rice
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 C onion, chopped
  • 16-oz mushrooms (cremini or white), chopped or sliced
  • 2 C spinach, chopped
  • ¼ C lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ C white cooking wine
  • 2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • ¼ C nutritional yeast
  • 1-1/2 tsp thyme
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. Combine 4 cups of the broth and the rice in the Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 45 minutes. While the rice is baking, prepare your other ingredients. In a bowl, combine the spinach, lemon juice and salt; set aside.
  3. Next, heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and a little brown. Add the mushrooms and cook 5 minutes more.
  4. I also combined the nutritional yeast, thyme, pepper, and salt in a small bowl to make it easier to add it all at once, when it comes time to add them.
  5. Once the rice is done (most of the liquid has been absorbed), add the remaining cup of broth.
  6. Next, stir in the white wine, Earth Balance and seasoning. Stir vigorously for about 3 minutes, or until the risotto is thick and creamy.
  7. Stir in the mushrooms mixture, along with the spinach.
  8. So good! Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich

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Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

If you want to call this “Egg Salad” or “Tuna Salad,” go right ahead. It certainly has the feel, so to speak. I do put some kelp powder in this salad, so it can have that tuna-ish essence. I made this version somewhat chunky, but I’ve also made it more like a pate. If that’s more your fancy, I suggest using a food processor to mash up the tempeh, then finely cut the onions instead of chopping them. Either way, this is a healthy lunch that will keep in the fridge for a few days. Serve on some toasted bread with lettuce, and if you like, a slice of vegan cheese.

INGREDIENTS:
8-oz tempeh, cut into large chunks
1/3 C onion, chopped (I prefer red onion in this, but I was out)
1/3 C vegan mayo
1-1/2 Tbs yellow miso mixed with 1 Tbs water
1/4 C fresh parsley, minced or chopped
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried dill
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
1 tsp kelp powder
1 Tbs water
The rest…optional ingredients
bread
tomato
lettuce
vegan cheese
cucumber slices

DIRECTIONS:
Steam the tempeh for 15-20 minutes.

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Transfer the tempeh to a bowl (or the food processor) and mash up until your reach the desired consistency.

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Makes about 2-1/2 cups. Enjoy!

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich
 
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If you want to call this "Egg Salad" or "Tuna Salad," go right ahead. It certainly has the feel, so to speak. I do put some kelp powder in this salad, so it can have that tuna-ish essence. I made this version somewhat chunky, but I've also made it more like a pate. If that's more your fancy, I suggest using a food processor to mash up the tempeh, then finely cut the onions instead of chopping them. Either way, this is a healthy lunch that will keep in the fridge for a few days. Serve on some toasted bread with lettuce, and if you like, a slice of vegan cheese.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 8-oz tempeh, cut into large chunks
  • ⅓ C onion, chopped (I prefer red onion in this, but I was out)
  • ⅓ C vegan mayo
  • 1-1/2 Tbs yellow miso mixed with 1 Tbs water
  • ¼ C fresh parsley, minced or chopped
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp kelp powder
  • 1 Tbs water
  • The rest...optional ingredients
  • bread
  • tomato
  • lettuce
  • vegan cheese
  • cucumber slices
Directions
  1. Steam the tempeh for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Transfer the tempeh to a bowl (or the food processor) and mash up until your reach the desired consistency.
  3. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Makes about 2-1/2 cups. Enjoy

Vegan & Gluten-Free Mini Quiches

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Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean VeganI’ve been wanting to figure out how to make vegan mini quiches for a while now, but I wasn’t sure where to start. Do I use tofu? Flour? Wave a magic wand? Well, when I came across this recipe, I knew my search was over. I only made one modification and that was to add the veggies to the batter instead of just topping the batter with them. Doing so, will give you about 4 more quiches (16 instead of 12) unless . . . you have a larger muffin tin like I do—you’ll just get 12 larger quiches. Otherwise, you could add your veggies just to the tops. I was thoroughly impressed with these. They taste like a cross between an actual egg-y quiche and a biscuit. They’re packed with protein and make a great quick breakfast on the go—just zap in the microwave for 20-30 seconds and you’re good to go. (These are especially ideal for a post-workout snack.) Also, think about making these in tart pans, ramekins, or other small dishes for various presentations.

INGREDIENTS:
2-1/2 C garbanzo/chickpea flour (I also had some garbanzo & flava flour mix that worked great, too)
3 C cold, filtered water
3 Tbs olive oil
2 tsp salt
Cooking spray
Veggies/toppings: Use your favorites, but I like to use 1-1/2 to 2 cups of chopped . . . spinach, tomato, mushrooms, green onion, cilantro
Other options: veggie bacon or ham, bell pepper, sauteed garlic, olives, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, basil, Swiss chard, shredded (and squeezed dry) zucchini, peas, . . . the list is endless. (My favorites are mushrooms, onion, and kalamata olives along with some dried rosemary, thyme, and garlic. YUM!)
Note: I used sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) in a batch and I recommend easing up on the oil in the batter by at least a tablespoon.
Also, throw in some chia seeds. Pepitas or sunflower seeds would also be great additions. I also sometimes add some seasonings or herbs such as thyme, basil, or garlic powder for some extra flavor.

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 500 and lightly spray the muffin tins. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, oil, and salt. Be sure to whisk until all the lumps are gone and  you have a smooth batter. You can then pour the batter evenly among 12 muffin cups and just add your veggies to the top, OR (as I would recommend) add the veggies to the batter.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean Vegan

Fill the muffin tins . . . Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean VeganBake for 14 minutes, then crack the oven door slightly, and cook another 11 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes or so, and remove with a knife. Enjoy!

Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean Vegan

Vegan & Gluten-Free Mini Quiches
 
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Author:
Serves: 12-16
Ingredients
  • 2-1/2 C garbanzo/chickpea flour (I also had some garbanzo & flava flour mix that worked great, too)
  • 3 C cold, filtered water
  • 3 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 tsp salt
  • Cooking spray
  • Veggies/toppings: Use your favorites, but I like to use 1-1/2 to 2 cups of chopped . . . spinach, tomato, mushrooms, green onion, cilantro.
  • Other options: veggie bacon or ham, bell pepper, sauteed garlic, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, basil, Swiss chard, shredded (and squeezed dry) zucchini, peas, . . . the list is endless. (My favorites are mushrooms, onion, and kalamata olives along with some dried rosemary, thyme, and garlic. YUM!)
  • Note: I used sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) in a batch and I recommend easing up on the oil in the batter by at least a tablespoon.
  • Also, throw in some chia seeds. Pepitas or sunflower seeds would also be great additions. I also sometimes add some seasonings or herbs such as thyme, basil, or garlic powder for some extra flavor.
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 500 and lightly spray the muffin tins.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, oil, and salt. Be sure to whisk until all the lumps are gone and you have a smooth batter. You can then pour the batter evenly among 12 muffin cups and just add your veggies to the top, OR (as I would recommend) add the veggies to the batter.
  3. Fill the muffin tins.
  4. Bake for 14 minutes, then crack the oven door slightly, and cook another 11 minutes.
  5. Let cool 5 minutes or so, and remove with a knife. Enjoy!

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto

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Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto -- Epicurean VeganWow, has it really been this long since my last post?! I guess the holidays will do that. I hope everyone had a great holiday season and so far a good 2014. I’ve made this risotto several times now, and I swear we love it more each time. Sure, there’s a little prep work involved, as well as some constant stirring, but I promise you, it’s worth it. You can even read a book while you make this. Seriously. Have a book  handy because you  might as well get some reading done as you stir. (A glass of wine wouldn’t hurt either).

INGREDIENTS:
3/4-oz pkg. dried shiitake mushrooms
3/4-oz pkg. dried porcini mushrooms
3 C vegetable broth
3 C fresh spinach, chopped
1/8-1/4 C lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 large onion, chopped small (about 1 C)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbs olive oil, divided
16-oz cremini mushrooms
1-1/2 tsp thyme
1 C Arborio rice
1/2 C white cooking wine
1-1/2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
1/8 C nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp black pepper

DIRECTIONS:
To begin, soak the shiitake and porcini in very hot water for about 30 minutes. Once re-hydrated, drain, wash, and chop the mushrooms up small; set aside. In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, lemon juice and salt; set aside as well. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 Tbs of olive oil and add the garlic. Cook 2 minutes over medium heat, then add the onion. Saute until softened, about 10 minutes. Add the cremini, shiitake, and porcini mushrooms and cook 10-12 minutes, or until they have cooked down. Add the thyme, Arborio rice, and remaining olive oil. Combine the rice well in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes. Stir in the wine and cook 5 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

Add about 1/2 C of the broth and stir constantly until completely absorbed; repeat, adding only a 1/2 C of broth at a time. It will take about 20-30 minutes. (Good time to have a book handy). Next, stir in the spinach mixture and cook 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has cooked down. Stir in the Earth Balance, nutritional yeast, and black pepper. Enjoy! (This is great with some oven-roasted asparagus and garlic toast.)

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

 

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto
 
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I've made this risotto several times now, and I swear we love it more each time. Sure, there's a little prep work involved, as well as some constant stirring, but I promise you, it's worth it. You can even read a book while you make this. Seriously. Have a book handy because you might as well get some reading done as you stir. (A glass of wine wouldn't hurt either).
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • ¾-oz pkg. dried shiitake mushrooms
  • ¾-oz pkg. dried porcini mushrooms
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 3 C fresh spinach, chopped
  • ⅛-1/4 C lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ large onion, chopped small (about 1 C)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbs olive oil, divided
  • 16-oz cremini mushrooms
  • 1-1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1 C Arborio rice
  • ½ C white cooking wine
  • 1-1/2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • ⅛ C nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp black pepper
Directions
  1. To begin, soak the shiitake and porcini in very hot water for about 30 minutes. Once re-hydrated, drain, wash, and chop the mushrooms up small; set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, lemon juice and salt; set aside as well.
  3. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 Tbs of olive oil and add the garlic. Cook 2 minutes over medium heat, then add the onion. Saute until softened, about 10 minutes. Add the cremini, shiitake, and porcini mushrooms and cook 10-12 minutes, or until they have cooked down. Add the thyme, Arborio rice, and remaining olive oil.
  4. Combine the rice well in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in the wine and cook 5 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Add about ½ C of the broth and stir constantly until completely absorbed; repeat, adding only a ½ C of broth at a time. It will take about 20-30 minutes. (Good time to have a book handy). Next, stir in the spinach mixture and cook 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has cooked down.
  7. Stir in the Earth Balance, nutritional yeast, and black pepper. Enjoy! (This is great with some oven-roasted asparagus and garlic toast.)

 

Quinoa & Veggies with a Tahini-Miso Dressing

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Quinoa and Veggies with a Tahini Miso Dressing -- Epicurean VeganQuinoa is such a fantastic lunch option. It’s packed with protein and it can be made so many different ways, that it’s pretty hard to get bored with it. I wanted a light dressing for this and came up with this tangy tahini-miso goodness. I also love adding nuts for a bit of crunch to these types of dishes, so I threw in some toasted almond slivers. Delish!

Alter Eco Rainbow Quinoa, Quinoa and Veggies with a Tahini Miso Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
1 C quinoa (I like this Rainbow Quinoa from Alter Eco)
2 C vegetable broth or water
1-1/2 to 2 C mushrooms, sliced
6 green onions, sliced
1 C cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 C slivered almonds, toasted
Dressing:
1 tsp tahini
1 Tbs yellow miso
1/8 C almond milk
2 Tbs nutritional yeast
1/8 tsp ginger
1/8 tsp garlic powder
pinch of salt

Quinoa and Veggies with a Tahini Miso Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
Rinse the quinoa in fine mesh strainer with cold water. Combine it with the broth (or water) in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until there is just a little bit of water left, about 12-15 minutes. Add the mushrooms and green onions, but don’t combine—cover and let the veggies steam 3-4 minutes. For the dressing, whisk all of the ingredients together until smooth.

Quinoa and Veggies with a Tahini Miso Dressing -- Epicurean VeganOnce the mushrooms have softened, stir them into the quinoa. Add the tomatoes, nuts and dressing. I recommend adding a little dressing at a time in case you don’t want it all. I had a little left over.

Quinoa and Veggies with a Tahini Miso Dressing -- Epicurean VeganGently fold and combine everything. Enjoy!

Quinoa and Veggies with a Tahini Miso Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

Quinoa & Veggies with a Tahini-Miso Dressing
 
Print
Quinoa is such a fantastic lunch option. It's packed with protein and it can be made so many different ways, that it's pretty hard to get bored with it. I wanted a light dressing for this and came up with this tangy tahini-miso goodness. I also love adding nuts for a bit of crunch to these types of dishes, so I threw in some toasted almond slivers. Delish!
Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 C quinoa (I like this Rainbow Quinoa from Alter Eco)
  • 2 C vegetable broth or water
  • 1-1/2 to 2 C mushrooms, sliced
  • 6 green onions, sliced
  • 1 C cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ C slivered almonds, toasted
  • Dressing:
  • 1 tsp tahini
  • 1 Tbs yellow miso
  • ⅛ C almond milk
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ⅛ tsp ginger
  • ⅛ tsp garlic powder
  • pinch of salt
Directions
  1. Rinse the quinoa in fine mesh strainer with cold water. Combine it with the broth (or water) in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until there is just a little bit of water left, about 12-15 minutes.
  2. Add the mushrooms and green onions, but don't combine---cover and let the veggies steam 3-4 minutes.
  3. For the dressing, whisk all of the ingredients together until smooth.
  4. Once the mushrooms have softened, stir them into the quinoa. Add the tomatoes, nuts and dressing. I recommend adding a little dressing at a time in case you don't want it all. I had a little left over.
  5. Gently fold and combine everything. Enjoy!

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