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Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili

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Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili -- Epicurean VeganSome nights call for a warm, hearty meal. This one is also packed with healthy ingredients such as quinoa, beans, and avocado. I love regular ol’ chili with beans, tomatoes, and ground veggie sausage or crumbles, but sometimes, you just need a change! Between the quinoa and beans, you’ll get a healthy dose of protein, too. Quick, easy, and perfect for a chilly night.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 large onion, chopped
1 C tri-color quinoa
3 C vegetable broth, divided
2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes, with juice
1 6-oz can tomato paste
2 14-oz cans tri-bean blend
2 tsp Ancho chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
16-oz jar roasted red peppers, chopped
1 C frozen corn kernals
Juice from one lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
Tofutti sour cream (optional)

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the onion. Saute the onion over medium heat for 8 minutes, until softened and just slightly browned. Add the quinoa and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.

Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili -- Epicurean VeganNext, stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 cups of the broth, beans, and seasonings. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered with a lid, for about 20-25 minutes. Taste test to make sure the quinoa isn’t crunchy and that you have the right amount of seasoning. Add the remaining cup of broth, chopped roasted red peppers, corn, and lime juice. Cook another 10 minutes. Serve with sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. Enjoy!

Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili
 
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Some nights call for a warm, hearty meal. This one is also packed with healthy ingredients such as quinoa, beans, and avocado. I love regular ol' chili with beans, tomatoes, and ground veggie sausage or crumbles, but sometimes, you just need a change! Between the quinoa and beans, you'll get a healthy dose of protein, too. Quick, easy, and perfect for a chilly night.
Author:
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 C tri-color quinoa
  • 3 C vegetable broth, divided
  • 2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 1 6-oz can tomato paste
  • 2 14-oz cans tri-bean blend
  • 2 tsp Ancho chili powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 16-oz jar roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1 C frozen corn kernals
  • Juice from one lime
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the onion. Saute the onion over medium heat for 8 minutes, until softened and just slightly browned.
  2. Add the quinoa and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Next, stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 cups of the broth, beans, and seasonings. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered with a lid, for about 20-25 minutes.
  4. Taste test to make sure the quinoa isn't crunchy and that you have the right amount of seasoning. Add the remaining cup of broth, chopped roasted red peppers, corn, and lime juice.
  5. Cook another 10 minutes. Serve with sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. Enjoy!

 

Creamy Avocado Pasta

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Creamy Avocado Pasta -- Epicurean VeganAvocados are incredibly versatile. They work in desserts such as mousses and cupcakes, in salads, dips, and spreads. Heck, you can make a facial out of it! Well, they also make the ideal pasta sauce. They’re very healthy too. Did you know they have more potassium than bananas? Yep, that’s 14% compared 10% in bananas. Another bonus is that they’re loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, as well as fiber. This meal came together in less than 30 minutes and feel free to add other veggies such as cherry tomatoes and zucchini.

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 C cashews
2 cloves of garlic
2 avocados, peeled and pitted
1 Tbs lime juice
2 Tbs white wine
2 heaping Tbs nutritional yeast
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/8 C almond milk
1 tsp olive oil
3 C mushrooms, sliced
3/4 C green onion, sliced
16-oz fettuccine or other pasta of your choice

DIRECTIONS:
Soak the cashews in hot water for about an hour. While the pasta is cooking, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor with the garlic. Puree for a minute, scraping the bowl halfway through. Add the avocados, lime juice, white wine, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper.
Creamy Avocado Pasta -- Epicurean VeganTransfer to a small saucepan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring often. Stir in the almond milk if it’s a little too thick. In a small skillet, saute the mushrooms in the olive oil for just a couple of minutes—enough to just soften them. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, combine the pasta and sauce. Top servings with mushrooms and green onions. Enjoy!

Creamy Avocado Pasta
 
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Avocados are incredibly versatile. They work in desserts such as mousses and cupcakes, in salads, dips, and spreads. Heck, you can make a facial out of it! Well, they also make the ideal pasta sauce. They're very healthy too. Did you know they have more potassium than bananas? Yep, that's 14% compared 10% in bananas. Another bonus is that they're loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids, as well as fiber. This meal came together in less than 30 minutes and feel free to add other veggies such as cherry tomatoes and zucchini.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • ½ C cashews
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 avocados, peeled and pitted
  • 1 Tbs lime juice
  • 2 Tbs white wine
  • 2 heaping Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ C almond milk
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 3 C mushrooms, sliced
  • ¾ C green onion, sliced
  • 16-oz fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
Directions
  1. Soak the cashews in hot water for about an hour.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor with the garlic. Puree for a minute, scraping the bowl halfway through.
  3. Add the avocados, lime juice, white wine, nutritional yeast, salt and pepper.
  4. Transfer to a small saucepan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring often. Stir in the almond milk if it's a little too thick.
  5. In a small skillet, saute the mushrooms in the olive oil for just a couple of minutes---enough to just soften them.
  6. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, combine the pasta and sauce. Top servings with mushrooms and green onions. Enjoy!

 

 

 

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa & Black Beans

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Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa and Black Beans -- Epicurean VeganThis has been a favorite at our house for some time now. I found the original recipe on Pinterest, but have just tweaked it a little here and there. I also double the recipe because it makes great leftovers. I like to serve this with some tortilla chips, cilantro, avocado and vegan sour cream, but we’ve also been known to scoop it into a warm flour or corn tortilla with all fixins’ like tomato, cilantro, avocado, etc. It’s so easy to make; just toss in a slow cooker and it’s ready in about 3 hours. (And it’s gluten-free!) You can sub in any other kind of bean, such as kidney or chili beans, but I also think some lentils would be perfect too. And why not throw in a diced red bell pepper? The possibilities are endless!

INGREDIENTS:
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
3 C vegetable broth
1-1/2 C tri-color quinoa
1 C salsa
2 bay leaves
3 tsp cumin
2 tsp salt
1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
Black pepper, to taste
Zest and juice from 1 lime
1-2 avocados, peeled, pitted and cubed
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
Vegan sour cream
Corn tortilla chips
Optional: flour tortillas or corn taco shells

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the beans, broth, quinoa, salsa, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3-1/2 hours. If you can, stir it around once or twice. Once done, stir in the lime zest and juice. Season individual servings with pepper and top with avocado, cilantro and sour cream. Enjoy with tortilla chips.

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa & Black Beans
 
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This has been a favorite at our house for some time now. I found the original recipe on Pinterest, but have just tweaked it a little here and there. I also double the recipe because it makes great leftovers. I like to serve this with some tortilla chips, cilantro, avocado and vegan sour cream, but we've also been known to scoop it into a warm flour or corn tortilla with all fixins' like tomato, cilantro, avocado, etc. It's so easy to make; just toss in a slow cooker and it's ready in about 3 hours. (And it's gluten-free!) You can sub in any other kind of bean, such as kidney or chili beans, but I also think some lentils would be perfect too. And why not throw in a diced red bell pepper? The possibilities are endless!
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 1-1/2 C tri-color quinoa
  • 1 C salsa
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Zest and juice from 1 lime
  • 1-2 avocados, peeled, pitted and cubed
  • 1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Vegan sour cream
  • Corn tortilla chips
  • Optional: flour tortillas or corn taco shells
Directions
  1. Combine the beans, broth, quinoa, salsa, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3-1/2 hours. If you can, stir it around once or twice.
  2. Once done, stir in the lime zest and juice.
  3. Season individual servings with pepper and top with avocado, cilantro and sour cream. Enjoy with tortilla chips.

 

 

Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich

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Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich -- Epicurean VeganThis sandwich certainly isn’t for the dainty. Grab some napkins and don’t be afraid to let things get messy, but you probably won’t care, because the flavor is amazing. Sauerkraut, avocado and tempeh is a delicious combination, especially with the tangy dressing and toasted rye bread. This is also a quick meal; perfect when you don’t have a lot of time.

INGREDIENTS:
1 8-oz pkg. tempeh, cut into slices
1/2 C tamari
1 tsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
Dressing
1/2 C vegan mayo
1/4 C ketchup
2 Tbs relish
1/8 tsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbs nutritional yeast (I like to sneak this into sauces & dressings for some added B vitamins)
3/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
The rest
1 avocado
2-3 C jarred or canned sauerkraut
8 rye bread slices, toasted

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the tamari, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt and pepper in a medium zip bag. Add the tempeh, coat well and marinate for 1-3 hours in the refrigerator. To make the sauce, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, relish, Dijon, nutritional yeast, onion powder and garlic powder.

Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich -- Epicurean VeganIn a large skillet, over medium-low heat, add the marinade and tempeh. The marinade will burn if you cook it over too high of heat, so try to keep it between medium-low and cook the tempeh, turning once or twice, until the sides are crispy.
Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich -- Epicurean VeganTo assemble the sandwiches, I spread some dressing on one bread slice, placed a few pieces of tempeh on top, then some sauerkraut, avocado slices and some more dressing.
Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich -- Epicurean VeganCut in half and enjoy!
Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Tempeh-Avocado Reuben Sandwich
 
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This sandwich certainly isn't for the dainty. Grab some napkins and don't be afraid to let things get messy, but you probably won't care, because the flavor is amazing. Sauerkraut, avocado and tempeh is a delicious combination, especially with the tangy dressing and toasted rye bread. This is also a quick meal; perfect when you don't have a lot of time.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 8-oz pkg. tempeh, cut into slices
  • ½ C tamari
  • 1 tsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
  • Dressing
  • ½ C vegan mayo
  • ¼ C ketchup
  • 2 Tbs relish
  • ⅛ tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast (I like to sneak this into sauces & dressings for some added B vitamins)
  • ¾ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • The rest
  • 1 avocado
  • 2-3 C jarred or canned sauerkraut
  • 8 rye bread slices, toasted
Directions
  1. Combine the tamari, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt and pepper in a medium zip bag. Add the tempeh, coat well and marinate for 1-3 hours in the refrigerator. To make the sauce, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, relish, Dijon, nutritional yeast, onion powder and garlic powder.
  2. In a large skillet, over medium-low heat, add the marinade and tempeh. The marinade will burn if you cook it over too high of heat, so try to keep it between medium-low and cook the tempeh, turning once or twice, until the sides are crispy.
  3. To assemble the sandwiches, I spread some dressing on one bread slice, placed a few pieces of tempeh on top, then some sauerkraut, avocado slices and some more dressing.
  4. Cut in half and enjoy!

 

Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup

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Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup -- Epicurean VeganYep, it’s still August. And yes, I know using a slow cooker in the summer isn’t necessarily the norm, but I’ve got my reasons. First, our summer here in Colorado has been interesting; lots of cloudy days and rain. Second, the guys were coming back from a three-night backpacking/camping trip and would be arriving home around dinnertime. I didn’t have time in the afternoon to cook, so I threw together this soup in the slow cooker and voila, dinner was made. Sure, they were glad to see me when they got home, but I also think the savory aroma of the soup lured them inside. You certainly don’t need to use a slow cooker for this recipe,  a regular soup pot would do. I chose this method based on the time I had and the fact that it could just simmer away until the backpackers arrived home—whenever that was going to be. The soft avocado and crunchy tortilla strips are great toppers for this soup—the best of both worlds (texture-wise). The Field Roast has all the seasoning, so there’s no need for a long list of spices, however, if you choose to sub in another meat alternative, I suggest adding chili powder and oregano in addition to the cumin. The cilantro and dollop of sour cream completed this spicy, savory soup.

INGREDIENTS:
1 large onion, chopped
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 Field Roast sausage links, Chipotle flavor
2 14-oz cans (or 1 28-oz can) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 6-oz can tomato paste
1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
2-3 jarred roasted red peppers, chopped
4 C vegetable broth
2 Tbs lime juice
1 Tbs agave
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings: chopped avocado, fresh cilantro, vegan sour cream, tortilla strips

DIRECTIONS:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion and Field Roast. Saute until browned.
Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup -- Epicurean VeganAdd everything, including the Field Roast mixture into the slow cooker and combine well. Cook on low for about 5-6 hours.
Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup -- Epicurean VeganTop individual servings with avocado, cilantro, sour cream and tortilla strips. Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup
 
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Yep, it's still August. And yes, I know using a slow cooker in the summer isn't necessarily the norm, but I've got my reasons. First, our summer here in Colorado has been interesting; lots of cloudy days and rain. Second, the guys were coming back from a three-night backpacking/camping trip and would be arriving home around dinnertime. I didn't have time in the afternoon to cook, so I threw together this soup in the slow cooker and voila, dinner was made. Sure, they were glad to see me when they got home, but I also think the savory aroma of the soup lured them inside.You certainly don't need to use a slow cooker for this recipe, a regular soup pot would do. I chose this method based on the time I had and the fact that it could just simmer away until the backpackers arrived home---whenever that was going to be. The soft avocado and crunchy tortilla strips are great toppers for this soup---the best of both worlds (texture-wise). The Field Roast has all the seasoning, so there's no need for a long list of spices, however, if you choose to sub in another meat alternative, I suggest adding chili powder and oregano in addition to the cumin. The cilantro and dollop of sour cream completed this spicy, savory soup.
Author:
Recipe type: Soup
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Field Roast sausage links, Chipotle flavor
  • 2 14-oz cans (or 1 28-oz can) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 6-oz can tomato paste
  • 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2-3 jarred roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • 2 Tbs lime juice
  • 1 Tbs agave
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Toppings: chopped avocado, fresh cilantro, vegan sour cream, tortilla strips
Directions
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion and Field Roast. Saute until browned.
  2. Add everything, including the Field Roast mixture into the slow cooker and combine well. Cook on low for about 5-6 hours.
  3. Top individual servings with avocado, cilantro, sour cream and tortilla strips. Enjoy!

 

Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado

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Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganWhen the Husband says, “Good God, woman, these are amazing,” I can’t help but grin smugly. As I’m sure you’ve gathered by now, I like Field Roast. I like their products because 1.) they taste delicious. And 2.) They aren’t made with strange ingredients. See for yourself. They really do make a healthy meat alternative that even my meat-eating friends and family like. The gyros I make using the Field Roast Celebration Roast are pretty damn good, so I decided to try my hand at another sandwich using the roast. I also made a cashew-horseradish spread that goes perfectly with the sandwiches and the avocado and sauteed onion make it all come together nicely. (And this makes plenty of sandwiches for the week)!

INGREDIENTS:
1 Field Roast Celebration Roast, cut into about 11 slices
1 onion, cut into large pieces
1 avocado, peeled, pitted & sliced thin
Sandwich rolls
Marinade
1 C tamari
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 Tbs red miso
1 Tbs brown sugar
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
Cashew-Horseradish Sauce
3/4 C raw, unsalted cashews, soaked for an hour or two
1/4 C water
1 clove garlic
2 tsp prepared horseradish sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:
To prepare the marinade, whisk together the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. Place the Field Roast and onions in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade inside. Seal and coat the contents thoroughly. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, turning once halfway through.

Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado -- Epicurean Vegan To prepare the Cashew-Horseradish Sauce, place the garlic clove, salt and black pepper in the food processor and process until the garlic is minced well. Add the cashews, water, horseradish and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado -- Epicurean Vegan

Spray a grill pan or regular skillet with oil. Over medium heat, saute the onions. (Using tongs, I just removed the Field Roast from the bag and set aside on a plate). Saute until softened and browned. Remove from the pan and add the Field Roast slices; discard the excess marinade. Cook over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganOnce you’ve turn them, return the onions to the pan to reheat them. To assemble, spread some Cashew Sauce on the buns, add a slice of Field Roast, some onion (and maybe even another Field Roast slice), some avocado and some more Cashew Sauce. Enjoy!
Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado --Epicurean Vegan

Marinated Field Roast Sandwiches with Cashew-Horseradish Sauce and Avocado
 
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When the Husband says, "Good God, woman, these are amazing," I can't help but grin smugly. As I'm sure you've gathered by now, I like Field Roast. I like their products because 1.) they taste delicious. And 2.) They aren't made with strange ingredients. See for yourself. They really do make a healthy meat alternative that even my meat-eating friends and family like. The gyros I make using the Field Roast Celebration Roast are pretty damn good, so I decided to try my hand at another sandwich using the roast. I also made a cashew-horseradish spread that goes perfectly with the sandwiches and the avocado and sauteed onion make it all come together nicely. (And this makes plenty of sandwiches for the week)!
Author:
Serves: 5-10
Ingredients
  • 1 Field Roast Celebration Roast, cut into about 11 slices
  • 1 onion, cut into large pieces
  • 1 avocado, peeled, pitted & sliced thin
  • Sandwich rolls
  • .
  • Marinade
  • .
  • 1 C tamari
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs red miso
  • 1 Tbs brown sugar
  • ½ tsp lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • .
  • Cashew-Horseradish Sauce
  • .
  • ¾ C raw, unsalted cashews, soaked for an hour or two
  • ¼ C water
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tsp prepared horseradish sauce
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp lemon juice
Directions
  1. To prepare the marinade, whisk together the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. Place the Field Roast and onions in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade inside. Seal and coat the contents thoroughly. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, turning once halfway through.
  2. To prepare the Cashew-Horseradish Sauce, place the garlic clove, salt and black pepper in the food processor and process until the garlic is minced well. Add the cashews, water, horseradish and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  3. Spray a grill pan or regular skillet with oil. Over medium heat, saute the onions. (Using tongs, I just removed the Field Roast from the bag and set aside on a plate). Saute until softened and browned. Remove from the pan and add the Field Roast slices; discard the excess marinade. Cook over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.
  4. Once you've turn them, return the onions to the pan to reheat them. To assemble, spread some Cashew Sauce on the buns, add a slice of Field Roast, some onion (and maybe even another Field Roast slice), some avocado and maybe some more Cashew Sauce. Enjoy!

 

 

BBQ Cauliflower Salad

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BBQ Cauliflower Salad -- Epicurean VeganI never used to like cauliflower, mostly because I never really knew a tasty way to prepare it. Then, I discovered it makes great “chicken wings.” So why not “chicken wing” salad? This is salad is no joke. It’s also easier than you might think to make. The cauliflower takes very little time to prepare and the rest is chop-chop.

BBQ Cauliflower Salad -- Epicurean VeganI used OrganicVille BBQ sauce and Follow Your Heart Vegan Ranch Dressing
CondimentsPre-roasted cauliflower . . .

BBQ Cauliflower Salad -- Epicurean Vegan

BBQ Cauliflower Salad
 
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Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 head of cauliflower florets
  • 6-7 oz BBQ sauce (I used half of a 13.5 oz bottle)
  • 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • 6 C lettuce, chopped
  • 1 C red onion, diced
  • 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 C green onion, sliced
  • Vegan ranch dressing
  • Optional ingredients: cilantro, vegan cheese, corn
Directions
  1. To prepare the cauliflower, preheat oven to 350.
  2. Line a large baking sheet with foil. Place the cauliflower florets on the baking sheet. I tried to keep the cauliflower pieces around the same size so that they cook evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
  3. Pour the BBQ sauce over the cauliflower and stir well to coat. Bake another 10 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the black beans with the garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, cumin and lime juice.
  5. To assemble, start with a bed of lettuce, then add the beans. Top with the rest of the veggies and drizzle on some vegan ranch dressing. Enjoy!




 

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce

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Tofu Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganIt’s been a busy spring, but I hope to get back to posting more regularly very, very soon. I’m excited to bring you this new recipe that is a “smorgasbord of flavors,” as The Husband called it. (That’s a good thing, I found out). This weekend, we went to WaterCourse Foods in Denver where I thoroughly enjoyed their Street Tacos that had a cilantro cream sauce. I have no idea how they made theirs, but it inspired me to make my own. Then came the veggies, rice and tofu and an incredible meal was born! (Sorry, a little dramatic). But I think you’ll really love this easy to make meal (no judgment here if you lick the bowl).

INGREDIENTS:
Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce:
1 C raw, unsalted cashews, soaked for at least an hour in hot water
1 Tbs white or yellow miso
1/3 C packed cilantro leaves
2 Tbs lime juice
1 large clove of garlic, minced
1 Tbs fresh ginger
1 tsp salt
1/4 C water
1/4 C unsweetened, unflavored almond milk
The rest:
1-3/4 C vegetable broth
1 C wild rice (I used Lundberg Jubilee variety)
14-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed, cut into 6-7 slabs
1-1/2 C snowpeas, ends trimmed and cut in half
3/4 C green onion, sliced
2 carrots, grated
Shallot salt (or regular salt)
1-2 avocados, sliced
Cooking spray

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DIRECTIONS:
Start with preparing the rice. Combine the broth and rice in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover for 40 minutes. Meanwhile, to make the amazing sauce, drain the cashews and transfer them to the food processor. Add the other ingredients and puree. Scrape the bowl a few times and process until completely smooth.

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganSpray a large skillet with cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Place the tofu slabs in the skillet, season with shallot salt. Turn the tofu once one side is browned. Season once again with shallot salt.
Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganOnce the tofu is done, transfer to a cutting board and cut each slab into 3 long pieces, then again in half.
Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganAdd the snowpeas and green onion to the same skillet. Over medium heat, saute the veggies for just a few minutes; enough to soften them a little. If need be, spray the skillet again with cooking spray. Stir in the carrot and cook another few minutes. Season with a little shallot salt, if you’d like.
Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganTo assemble, start with rice, top with the vegetable mixture, then add the tofu and avocado. Drizzle, drop or dump some sauce on top. Then . . . mix it all together and enjoy!
Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce
 
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I'm excited to bring you this new recipe that is a "smorgasbord of flavors," as The Husband called it. (That's a good thing, I found out). This weekend, we went to WaterCourse Foods in Denver where I thoroughly enjoyed their Street Tacos that had a cilantro cream sauce. I have no idea how they made theirs, but it inspired me to make my own. Then came the veggies, rice and tofu and an incredible meal was born! (Sorry, a little dramatic). But I think you'll really love this easy to make meal (no judgment here if you lick the bowl).
Author:
Ingredients
  • Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce:
  • 1 C raw, unsalted cashews, soaked for at least an hour in hot water
  • 1 Tbs white or yellow miso
  • ⅓ C packed cilantro leaves
  • 2 Tbs lime juice
  • 1 large clove of garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ C water
  • ¼ C unsweetened, unflavored almond milk
  • The rest:
  • 1-3/4 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C wild rice (I used Lundberg Jubilee variety)
  • 14-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed, cut into 6-7 slabs
  • 1-1/2 C snowpeas, ends trimmed and cut in half
  • ¾ C green onion, sliced
  • 2 carrots, grated
  • Shallot salt (or regular salt)
  • 1-2 avocados, sliced
  • Cooking spray
Directions
  1. Start with preparing the rice. Combine the broth and rice in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover for 40 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, to make the amazing sauce, drain the cashews and transfer them to the food processor. Add the other ingredients and puree. Scrape the bowl a few times and process until completely smooth
  3. Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Place the tofu slabs in the skillet, season with shallot salt. Turn the tofu once one side is browned. Season once again with shallot salt.
  4. Once the tofu is done, transfer to a cutting board and cut each slab into 3 long pieces, then again in half.
  5. Add the snowpeas and green onion to the same skillet. Over medium heat, saute the veggies for just a few minutes; enough to soften them a little. If need be, spray the skillet again with cooking spray. Stir in the carrot and cook another few minutes. Season with a little shallot salt, if you'd like.
  6. To assemble, start with rice, top with the vegetable mixture, then add the tofu and avocado. Drizzle, drop or dump some sauce on top. Then . . . mix it all together and enjoy!

 

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus & Avocado

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Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganAll right. I have two confessions. First, these aren’t technically grilled, nor do they have avocado on them. *GASP* I know, I’m sorry. But let me explain. So, it’s very early spring here in Colorado and the outdoor grill, much like my legs, are still winterized. But, I do have the spray tan of grills . . .
 Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganNow, about that avocado. I’ve had 4 avocados sitting in a paper bag on my counter for about 5 days and they are still rock solid. I made the mistake of trying to cut into one and it was like stabbing a butternut squash. And if that wasn’t enough, I tried a second avocado and ended up with the same results. In fact, I couldn’t even get the halves apart! I was all ready to place the beautiful slices of avocado next to the fresh basil . . .

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganIn spite of these culinary catastrophes, I assure you, the “grilling” process worked beautifully, and the avocado would be a grand addition to these sandwiches.

INGREDIENTS:
Marinade
1/2 C balsamic vinegar
1/2 C red wine
1/4 C olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
The rest
2 small zucchini, sliced length-wise
1 red bell pepper, cut into wide strips
1 eggplant, sliced length-wise, then again length-wise
1/2 large onion, cut into wide strips
1 avocado (preferably real and not imaginary), sliced
1 C fresh basil leaves
1/2 C hummus, homemade (easy) or store bought (even easier)
6 French rolls, or other sandwich bread

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the marinade ingredients in a large zip bag. Add the veggies and let them marinate in the fridge for about an hour. Turn the bag over halfway through. Spray the grill pan with a small amount of cooking spray and heat pan over medium heat. Using tongs, place the veggies in the pan. I recommend putting as many slices of bell pepper on as you can because they’ll take the longest to cook. I also suggest flattening them out a little so that you can turn them over to cook both sides. The zucchini and eggplant will take about 3-4 minutes per side.

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganI continued cooking all of the zucchini and eggplant, transferring the cooked slices to a large sheet of foil and sealing it up while everything else cooked. Everything stayed nice and hot. I then added the onions while the peppers continued to cook.
Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus and Avocado -- Epicurean VeganOnce the vegetables are cooked, start assembling your sandwiches! (You can toast the bread first, if you’d like). Spread on some hummus, add the veggies, basil and of course, a few beautiful slices of avocado. Enjoy!

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus & Avocado
 
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Author:
Ingredients
  • Marinade
  • ½ C balsamic vinegar
  • ½ C red wine
  • ¼ C olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • The rest
  • 2 small zucchini, sliced length-wise
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into wide strips
  • 1 eggplant, sliced length-wise, then again length-wise
  • ½ large onion, cut into wide strips
  • 1 avocado (preferably real and not imaginary), sliced
  • 1 C fresh basil leaves
  • ½ C hummus, homemade (easy) or store bought (even easier)
  • 6 French rolls, or other sandwich bread
Directions
  1. Combine the marinade ingredients in a large zip bag. Add the veggies and let them marinate in the fridge for about an hour. Turn the bag over halfway through.
  2. Spray the grill pan with a small amount of cooking spray and heat pan over medium heat. Using tongs, place the veggies in the pan. I recommend putting as many slices of bell pepper on as you can because they'll take the longest to cook. I also suggest flattening them out a little so that you can turn them over to cook both sides. The zucchini and eggplant will take about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. I continued cooking all of the zucchini and eggplant, transferring the cooked slices to a large sheet of foil and sealing it up while everything else cooked. Everything stayed nice and hot. I then added the onions while the peppers continued to cook.
  4. Once the vegetables are cooked, start assembling your sandwiches! (You can toast the bread first, if you'd like). Spread on some hummus, add the veggies, basil and of course, a few beautiful slices of avocado. Enjoy!

 

Ultimate Green Protein Smoothie

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Ultimate Green Smoothie -- Epicurean VeganA friend gave me this recipe over the weekend and I’ve made 3 of these so far! I added a tablespoon of chia seeds because of their amazing health benefits, but you can leave them out if you’d like. Please note, you don’t have to use peanut butter AND protein powder, but if you omit the protein powder, I suggest using vanilla almond milk or a vanilla flavoring for taste. Bottoms up!

INGREDIENTS: (1-16 oz smoothie)
1-1/2 C unsweetened almond milk
1 handful of fresh spinach
1/2 a ripe avocado
1 Tbs peanut butter
1 scoop vegan vanilla protein powder
1 Tbs chia seeds
2-3 ice cubes

DIRECTIONS:
Blend 2-3 minutes in a blender until smooth. Enjoy!

Ultimate Green Protein Smoothie
 
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Prep time
Total time
 
Author:
Serves: 1
Ingredients
  • 1-1/2 C unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 handful of fresh spinach
  • ½ a ripe avocado
  • 1 Tbs peanut butter
  • 1 scoop vegan vanilla protein powder
  • 1 Tbs chia seeds
  • 2-3 ice cubes
Directions
  1. Blend 2-3 minutes in a blender until smooth. Enjoy!

 

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