cilantro Archives - Epicurean Vegan

Avocado Toast with Cashew-Cilantro Cream

August 6, 2017 by Epicurean Vegan

Yes, I’ve jumped on the avocado toast bandwagon. It was inevitable. I love avocados and I love an easy, delicious breakfast . . . or snack. I don’t love how expensive avocados are here in Colorado, so when I spot them on sale, I go a little avo-crazy. I added some chopped water chestnuts and topped the toasts with pepitas and a flavorful cashew-cilantro sauce that is the perfect accompaniment. Diced red onion would also be an excellent addition!

INGREDIENTS:
2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted and mashed
4-oz (half a can) water chestnuts, diced
4 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Cashew-Cilantro Cream
3/4 C roasted, unsalted cashews
1/2 C nondairy milk (I used an almond-coconut blend. Canned coconut milk would make it even richer and creamier!)
1/2 C fresh cilantro leaves
2 Tbs lime juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
The rest
Pepitas
6-8 small slices of bread, toasted (Love Outside the Breadbox gluten-free bread)

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium bowl, combine the mashed avocado with the water chestnuts, oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. In a food processor, combine all of the cream ingredients and blend for several minutes until smooth. Transfer to a bowl or small pitcher. Top toasts with some avocado mixture, cashew-cilantro cream, and pepitas. Enjoy!

Avocado Toast with Cashew-Cilantro Cream

Prep time

15 mins

Total time

15 mins

Yes, I've jumped on the avocado toast bandwagon. It was inevitable. I love avocados and I love an easy, delicious breakfast . . . or snack. I don't love how expensive avocados are here in Colorado, so when I spot them on sale, I go a little avo-crazy. I added some chopped water chestnuts and topped the toasts with pepitas and a flavorful cashew-cilantro sauce that is the perfect accompaniment. Diced red onion would also be an excellent addition!

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted and mashed
4-oz (half a can) water chestnuts, diced
4 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Cashew-Cilantro Cream
¾ C roasted, unsalted cashews
½ C nondairy milk (I used an almond-coconut blend. Canned coconut milk would make it even richer and creamier!)
½ C fresh cilantro leaves
2 Tbs lime juice
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
The rest
Pepitas
6-8 small slices of bread, toasted

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine the mashed avocado with the water chestnuts, oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
In a food processor, combine all of the cream ingredients and blend for several minutes until smooth. Transfer to a bowl or small pitcher.
Top toasts with some avocado mixture, cashew-cilantro cream, and pepitas. Enjoy!

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream

May 25, 2017 by 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.

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

Prep time

10 mins

Cook time

30 mins

Total time

40 mins

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: Epicurean Vegan

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

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.
In the meantime, over low heat, the 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!

Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce

February 19, 2016 by Epicurean Vegan

I started out thinking I was going to make this King Ranch Casserole, but I had this amazing chipotle paste my mom gave me that she picked up at Sur la table and figured I could liven up this dish.
It gave the sauce a spicy, smoky flavor that was unique and flavorful. I also had some leftover taco ingredients from the other night, so this dish was meant to be. Sure, it’s got your typical Mexican ingredients such as black beans, onions, and bell pepper, but I also threw in some mushrooms and kale. The creamy sauce makes it happen though! Creamy, flavorful and just the right amount of spice.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 large onion, chopped
2 C mushrooms, sliced
1 bunch of kale, torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce
3 tbs vegan margarine
2 C unsweetened almond milk
1 C packed fresh cilantro leaves
2 tsp chipotle paste
4 tbs four
3 Tbs nutritional yeast
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
The rest
24 6″ corn tortillas
1 large tomato, chopped
1 small can sliced black olives
3/4 C sliced green onion
1-2 C vegan shredded cheese
Optional toppings: vegan sour cream, salsa, diced avocado or guacamole

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the oil and garlic over medium heat. Cook 1-2 minutes, then add the bell pepper and onion. Saute 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Add the kale and mushrooms and cook over medium-low heat until they begin to wilt and soften. I don’t like to cook mushrooms down too much–I want them to still have a “meaty” texture. Gently fold in the black beans then remove from the heat.
Combine the flour and nutritional yeast in a small bowl; set aside. To make the sauce, combine the almond milk, cilantro, and chipotle paste in the food processor; transfer to a measuring cup or something with a pour spout. Next, over medium-low heat, melt the margarine in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour-nutritional yeast mixture; you’ll end up with a paste-like sauce. Whisk in about a 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the milk and let thicken before adding a little more. Repeat process until you’ve added all the milk. Season with salt and pepper.

To assemble the casserole, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan. Lay 6 tortillas on the bottom.
Spread 1/3 of the bean-veggie mixture on top of the tortillas. Drizzle on some sauce and sprinkle with a little vegan cheese.
Do this two more times, however, don’t drizzle the sauce a third time; save it for the very top. Layer the last six tortillas on top, then spread the sauce on them. Top with green onion, black olives, tomatoes, and more cheese.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Top individual servings with any optional toppings and enjoy!

Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce

I started out thinking I was going to make this King Ranch Casserole, but I had this amazing chipotle paste my mom gave me that she picked up at Sur la table and figured I could liven up this dish.It gave the sauce a spicy, smoky flavor that was unique and flavorful. I also had some leftover taco ingredients from the other night, so this dish was meant to be. Sure, it's got your typical Mexican ingredients such as black beans, onions, and bell pepper, but I also threw in some mushrooms and kale. The creamy sauce makes it happen though! Creamy, flavorful and just the right amount of spice.

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Ingredients

1 Tbs olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
½ large onion, chopped
2 C mushrooms, sliced
1 bunch of kale, torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce
3 tbs vegan margarine
2 C unsweetened almond milk
1 C packed fresh cilantro leaves
2 tsp chipotle paste
4 tbs four
3 Tbs nutritional yeast
¾ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
The rest
24 6" corn tortillas
1 large tomato, chopped
1 small can sliced black olives
¾ C sliced green onion
1-2 C vegan shredded cheese
Optional toppings: vegan sour cream, salsa, diced avocado or guacamole

Directions

Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the oil and garlic over medium heat. Cook 1-2 minutes, then add the bell pepper and onion. Saute 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Add the kale and mushrooms and cook over medium-low heat until they begin to wilt and soften. I don't like to cook mushrooms down too much--I want them to still have a "meaty" texture. Gently fold in the black beans then remove from the heat.
Combine the flour and nutritional yeast in a small bowl; set aside. To make the sauce, combine the almond milk, cilantro, and chipotle paste in the food processor; transfer to a measuring cup or something with a pour spout. Next, over medium-low heat, melt the margarine in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour-nutritional yeast mixture; you'll end up with a paste-like sauce. Whisk in about a ¼ to ½ cup of the milk and let thicken before adding a little more. Repeat process until you've added all the milk. Season with salt and pepper.
To assemble the casserole, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking pan. Lay 6 tortillas on the bottom.
Spread ⅓ of the bean-veggie mixture on top of the tortillas. Drizzle on some sauce and sprinkle with a little vegan cheese.
Do this two more times, however, don't drizzle the sauce a third time; save it for the very top. Layer the last six tortillas on top, then spread the sauce on them. Top with green onion, black olives, tomatoes, and more cheese.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Top individual servings with any optional toppings and enjoy!

Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta

January 3, 2016 by Epicurean Vegan

Talk about a tasty international combination! And why not? Two cuisines, Mexican and Italian come together beautifully for this amazing dish that will wow any meat eater. Oh, and it’s gluten-free! Voila! I mean . . . ole! Hmmm…okay, how about yum!

INGREDIENTS:
Enchilada sauce
28-oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes
1/2 C vegetable broth
2-1/2 tsp Ancho chili powder
1-1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp sugar
3 jarred roasted red peppers
3 cloves of garlic
Cilantro Ricotta
14-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
2-1/2 C fresh cilantro
1/3 C nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cumin
2 Tbs lime juice
The rest
1 Tbs olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped or diced
1 C corn kernels
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
4 C fresh baby spinach
18 5-inch corn tortillas
Optional toppings
Guacamole
Pepita seeds
Green onion, sliced
Vegan sour cream
Salsa
Lettuce, chopped

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375. Begin making the sauce by combining the diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and sugar in a medium sauce pan. Simmer for 15 minutes. Toss the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers, and half of the sauce into a food processor. Process until smooth, then return to the pan with the rest of the sauce. Simmer on low.

To make the cilantro ricotta, place all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the onion and green pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. Add the corn and black beans and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour about half of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Place 6 tortilla shells on the bottom of pan, letting them overlap each other.
Spread a third of the ricotta on top of the tortillas:
Next, add a third of the spinach leaves, then a third of the bean mixture:
Repeat layering two more times then top with remaining sauce:
Cover and bake for 40-45 minutes. Top individual servings with the (optional) toppings and enjoy!

Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta

Talk about a tasty international combination! And why not? Two cuisines, Mexican and Italian come together beautifully for this amazing dish that will wow any meat eater. Oh, and it's gluten-free! Voila! I mean . . . ole! Hmmm...okay, how about yum!

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Ingredients

Enchilada sauce
28-oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes
½ C vegetable broth
2-1/2 tsp Ancho chili powder
1-1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp sugar
3 jarred roasted red peppers
3 cloves of garlic
Cilantro Ricotta
14-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
2-1/2 C fresh cilantro
⅓ C nutritional yeast
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cumin
2 Tbs lime juice
The rest
1 Tbs olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped or diced
1 C corn kernels
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
4 C fresh baby spinach
18 5-inch corn tortillas
Optional toppings
Guacamole
Pepita seeds
Green onion, sliced
Vegan sour cream
Salsa
Lettuce, chopped

Directions

Preheat oven to 375.
Begin making the sauce by combining the diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and sugar in a medium sauce pan. Simmer for 15 minutes. Toss the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers, and half of the sauce into a food processor. Process until smooth, then return to the pan with the rest of the sauce. Simmer on low.
To make the cilantro ricotta, place all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the onion and green pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. Add the corn and black beans and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour about half of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan. Place 6 tortilla shells on the bottom of pan, letting them overlap each other.
Spread a third of the ricotta on top of the tortillas.
Next, add a third of the spinach leaves, then a third of the bean mixture.
Repeat layering two more times then top with remaining sauce.
Cover and bake for 40-45 minutes. Top individual servings with the (optional) toppings and enjoy!

Bean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce

May 27, 2015 by Epicurean Vegan

Summer is around the corner, which means fresher, lighter meals make a resurgence. Frankly, these are good any time. They come together in a snap, too. I paired these with the Avocado Bruschetta that’s always a hit.
I made these pretty mild, but feel free to chop up a jalapeno or add some hot sauce to the cashew sauce. Some iceberg lettuce would also add some nice crunch. Either way, I think you’ll enjoy these tasty, gluten-free tacos for lunch or dinner.

INGREDIENTS:
1 15-oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 large onion (any variety), diced
2 Tbs red wine vinegar
2 Tbs ground cumin
1 tsp oregano
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 Tbs lime juice
Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce
1 C raw, unsalted cashews
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 to 3/4 C cold water
3 Tbs lime juice
1 C fresh cilantro leaves
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
The rest
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced
6-8 soft corn tortillas

DIRECTIONS:
When it comes to making a dish with a cashew sauce, I’ll usually start by pouring boiling water over the cashews and let them soak for at least two hours. Meanwhile, prepare the other ingredients. Combine the beans, bell pepper, and onion in a large bowl. In a small dish, combine the cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently fold into the bean mixture along with the red wine vinegar and lime juice. Set aside.
To make the sauce, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor along with all of the ingredients. Go easy on the water at first and add more as you go in order to reach a desired sauce consistency. I use a funnel to transfer the sauce to a squeeze bottle.
If you’d like, warm the tortillas, or keep them room temperature. I squeezed on some sauce, spooned some filling inside, added an avocado slice, then topped with more sauce. Enjoy!
With leftovers, we changed it up a little by warming up the filling and using corn shells and adding lettuce and tomato. So good!

FBean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

1 15-oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ large onion (any variety), diced
2 Tbs red wine vinegar
2 Tbs ground cumin
1 tsp oregano
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 Tbs lime juice
Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce
1 C raw, unsalted cashews
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
½ tsp salt
½ to ¾ C cold water
3 Tbs lime juice
1 C fresh cilantro leaves
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
The rest
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced
6-8 soft corn tortillas

Directions

When it comes to making a dish with a cashew sauce, I'll usually start by pouring boiling water over the cashews and let them soak for at least two hours. Meanwhile, prepare the other ingredients.
Combine the beans, bell pepper, and onion in a large bowl. In a small dish, combine the cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently fold into the bean mixture along with the red wine vinegar and lime juice. Set aside.
To make the sauce, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor along with all of the ingredients. Go easy on the water at first and add more as you go in order to reach a desired sauce consistency. I use a funnel to transfer the sauce to a squeeze bottle.
If you'd like, warm the tortillas, or keep them room temperature. I squeezed on some sauce, spooned some filling inside, added an avocado slice, then topped with more sauce. Enjoy!

Loaded Baked Potatoes

January 20, 2015 by Epicurean Vegan

These loaded baked potatoes are new favorite at our house. They’re so easy to make and you can play with the toppings to change them up. I went pretty unconventional by topping these with kale chips and a delicious cilantro cashew cream that is to die for. I also topped them with a “Parmesan” from Oh She Glows, which is ideal for salads or pasta dishes, too. You can’t see them in the picture, but there’s diced tomato, green onion, and avocado on these as well. These make a great weekday meal when you don’t have a ton of time, although, they might become a weekend favorite, too!

INGREDIENTS:
6 large russet potatoes
1-2 large avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1-2 large tomato, diced
1 C green onion, sliced
Tofutti sour cream (optional)
5 C kale, torn into pieces
Olive oil
Salt
Cilantro-Cashew Cream
1 C unsalted cashews
3/4 C cold water
1 garlic clove
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 C fresh cilantro
3/4 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Nut and Seed Parmesan (from Oh She Glows)
1/4 cup raw cashews
1 tablespoon raw sesame seeds
2 tablespoons hulled hemp seeds
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
fine grain sea salt, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425. I prepared everything and then nuked the potatoes because it just seemed easiest that way. First, place the cashews in a bowl and pour boiling water over them; set aside. (You’ll prepare the rest of the sauce last). To make the Parmesan, place all of the ingredients in a food processor and grind to a fine crumble. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Next, to prepare the kale chips, place the kale in a medium bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Using your hands, massage the oil onto the kale leaves. Transfer to a baking dish and set aside.
I then microwaved the potatoes. Stick each one several times with a fork first, then nuke. (I used the potato setting), so about 5 minutes, then turn and another 5 minutes. During the first five minutes, prepare the cashew sauce: Drain the cashews and place in a food processor along with all of the other ingredients; puree 2-3 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl a few times.
Using a funnel, I poured the sauce into a squeeze bottle.
During the last five minutes of potato cooking, place the kale chips in the preheated oven. Keep an eye on them so they don’t turn black—they’ll shrivel up, but still have bright green spots. Let them bake 4-5 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt.

To assemble, cut each potato in half and top with sour cream (if using), tomato, avocado, green onion, cilantro-cashew cream, crumbled kale chips, and finally, the nut and seed Parmesan mixture. So good! Enjoy!

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Prep time

20 mins

Cook time

10 mins

Total time

30 mins

These loaded baked potatoes are new favorite at our house. They're so easy to make and you can play with the toppings to change them up. I went pretty unconventional by topping these with kale chips and a delicious cilantro cashew cream that is to die for. I also topped them with a "Parmesan" from Oh She Glows, which is ideal for salads or pasta dishes, too. You can't see them in the picture, but there's diced tomato, green onion, and avocado on these as well. These make a great weekday meal when you don't have a ton of time, although, they might become a weekend favorite, too!

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

6 large russet potatoes
1-2 large avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1-2 large tomato, diced
1 C green onion, sliced
Tofutti sour cream (optional)
5 C kale, torn into pieces
Olive oil
Salt
.
Cilantro-Cashew Cream
.
1 C unsalted cashews
¾ C cold water
1 garlic clove
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
½ tsp salt
½ C fresh cilantro
¾ tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
.
Nut and Seed Parmesan (from Oh She Glows)1/4 cup raw cashews
.
1 tablespoon raw sesame seeds
2 tablespoons hulled hemp seeds
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
fine grain sea salt, to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 425. I prepared everything and then nuked the potatoes because it just seemed easiest that way. First, place the cashews in a bowl and pour boiling water over them; set aside. (You'll prepare the rest of the sauce last).
To make the Parmesan, place all of the ingredients in a food processor and grind to a fine crumble. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Next, to prepare the kale chips, place the kale in a medium bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Using your hands, massage the oil onto the kale leaves. Transfer to a baking dish and set aside.
I then microwaved the potatoes. Stick each one several times with a fork first, then nuke. (I used the potato setting), so about 5 minutes, then turn and another 5 minutes.
During the first five minutes, prepare the cashew sauce: Drain the cashews and place in a food processor with the garlic. Puree for 30 seconds. Add all of the other ingredients and puree 2-3 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl a few times.Using a funnel, I poured the sauce into a squeeze bottle.
During the last five minutes of potato cooking, place the kale chips in the preheated oven. Keep an eye on them so they don't turn black---they'll shrivel up, but still have bright green spots. Let them bake 4-5 minutes, remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt.
To assemble, cut each potato in half and top with sour cream (if using), tomato, avocado, green onion, cilantro-cashew cream, crumbled kale chips, and finally, the nut and seed Parmesan mixture. So good! Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup

August 15, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

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.

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.
Add everything, including the Field Roast mixture into the slow cooker and combine well. Cook on low for about 5-6 hours.
Top individual servings with avocado, cilantro, sour cream and tortilla strips. Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup

Prep time

10 mins

Cook time

5 hours

Total time

5 hours 10 mins

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: Epicurean Vegan

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

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

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce

May 7, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

It’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

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.

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.
Once the tofu is done, transfer to a cutting board and cut each slab into 3 long pieces, then again in half.
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.
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!

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce

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: Epicurean Vegan

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

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
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.
Once the tofu is done, transfer to a cutting board and cut each slab into 3 long pieces, then again in half.
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.
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!

Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Rice

April 5, 2013 by epicureanvegan

This is my new favorite versatile meal. I saw this recipe for the avocado rice, where they also suggested making burrito bowls using it. Obviously, I wasn’t keen on their meat and dairy version, so I made my own, healthier ones. I also made some changes to the rice recipe by using this awesome rice from Lundberg. The guys tend to be white rice kind of men, but there were no complaints! It’s a blend of sweet brown rice, short grain brown rice, long grain brown rice, whole grain Wehani (brand) rice, whole grain black Japonica (brand) rice.

And I have to mention the quite ingenious Velcro re-closeable bag!

This is such a fresh, simple, and healthy meal where everyone in the family can create their own with their favorite fresh ingredients. Now, my new favorite ingredient . . . is this tri-bean blend. Organic and on sale for $1 a can! Love these. Packed with protein and fiber.

So, on to the recipe!

INGREDIENTS: (Makes 6 bowls)
Rice:
3-1/2 C water
2 C Lundberg Jubilee rice
2 avocados, mashed
1/2 C cilantro, chopped
zest and juice from one lime
The beans:
3 cans tri-bean blend (black bean, pinto, and kidney)
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp Ancho Chili pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/3 C water
The rest (toppings):
Green onion, sliced
Tomato, diced
Daiya cheese
Sour cream
Lettuce, chopped
Salsa
Corn tortilla crunchies/chips

DIRECTIONS:
The rice will take 35-40 minutes, so you’ll want to get that started first. Bring the 3-1/2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, stir, cover, and reduce heat to low. Check after 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small to medium saucepan, add the beans, seasonings, and water. Heat on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

When the rice is done, stir in the mashed avocados, cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice.

Fill a bowl with about 1 to 1-1/2 cups of the avocado rice . . .

. . . layer on some beans and toppings and enjoy!

Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Rice

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Serves: 3

Ingredients

Rice:
3-1/2 C water
2 C Lundberg Jubilee rice
2 avocados, mashed
½ C cilantro, chopped
zest and juice from one lime
The beans:
3 cans tri-bean blend (black bean, pinto, and kidney)
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp Ancho Chili pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
⅓ C water
The rest (toppings):
Green onion, sliced
Tomato, diced
Daiya cheese
Sour cream
Lettuce, chopped
Salsa
Corn tortilla crunchies/chips

Directions

The rice will take 35-40 minutes, so you'll want to get that started first. Bring the 3-1/2 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, stir, cover, and reduce heat to low. Check after 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small to medium saucepan, add the beans, seasonings, and water. Heat on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
When the rice is done, stir in the mashed avocados, cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice.
Fill a bowl with about 1 to 1-1/2 cups of the avocado rice and layer on some beans and toppings and enjoy!

Quinoa with Dried Apricots and Black Beans

January 22, 2013 by epicureanvegan

The next time someone asks you, “Where do you get your protein?” you can (politely) point out this dish as one of numerous options. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all 9 amino acids essential to human health. It offers up roughly 8 grams of protein per cup and also passes along calcium, iron, folate, manganese, and other vitamins. Black beans also carry nearly 15 grams of protein per cup, so add some veggies and you have healthy lunch!

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 C red quinoa, rinsed and drained
1/2 C regular quinoa, rinsed and drained
1 tsp Better than Bouillon paste
1-1/2 C water
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
1 C green onions, sliced
1 C dried apricots, chopped
1/3 C pepitas (toasted pumpkin seeds)
1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp lime juice
2 Tbs red wine vinegar
2 Tbs olive oil

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium sauce pan, whisk together the bouillon and water; bring to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, cover and cook on low for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the cilantro, green onion, apricots, pepita seeds, salt, lime juice, red wine vinegar, and olive oil.

Once the quinoa is finished, add it, along with the black beans to the bowl.

Combine well and enjoy! (You can also chill it in a covered dish and serve cold.)

Quinoa with Dried Apricots and Black Beans

The next time someone asks you, "Where do you get your protein?" you can (politely) point out this dish as one of numerous options. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all 9 amino acids essential to human health. It offers up roughly 8 grams of protein per cup and also passes along calcium, iron, folate, manganese, and other vitamins. Black beans also carry nearly 15 grams of protein per cup, so add some veggies and you have healthy lunch!

Author: Epicurean Vegan

Ingredients

½ C red quinoa, rinsed and drained
½ C regular quinoa, rinsed and drained
1 tsp Better than Bouillon paste
1-1/2 C water
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
1 C green onions, sliced
1 C dried apricots, chopped
⅓ C pepitas (toasted pumpkin seeds)
1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp lime juice
2 Tbs red wine vinegar
2 Tbs olive oil

Directions

In a medium sauce pan, whisk together the bouillon and water; bring to a boil. Stir in the quinoa, cover and cook on low for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the cilantro, green onion, apricots, pepita seeds, salt, lime juice, red wine vinegar, and olive oil.
Once the quinoa is finished, add it, along with the black beans to the bowl.
Combine well and enjoy! (You can also chill it in a covered dish and serve cold.)

Avocado Toast with Cashew-Cilantro Cream

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream

Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce

Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta

Bean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce

Loaded Baked Potatoes

Slow Cooker Tortilla Soup

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce

Gluten-Free Burrito Bowls with Avocado-Lime Rice

Quinoa with Dried Apricots and Black Beans

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