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Lentil Bowls with Avocado & Tomato

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Lentil Bowls with Avocado and Tomato -- Epicurean Vegan

This makes a great side dish or main meal. It’s also ready in about 30 minutes. Lentils are so easy to make and are incredibly healthy. They’re full of fiber (perfect for lowering cholesterol), a fabulous source of folate and magnesium which contribute to heart health, and good for the digestive system. They also contain the third highest level of protein, lots of iron, and are low in calories, and virtually no fat. Dig in!

INGREDIENTS:
3 C vegetable broth
1 C green lentils
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
2 Tbs lime juice
4 green onion, sliced
1 tomato, diced
1/4 C pepitas
3 Tbs nutritional yeast
1/2 C fresh cilantro, chopped
Avocado slices

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the broth and lentils in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir, reduce heat, and cover for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, stir and season with cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste the lentils and if they’re soft, with a little firmness, they’re about done. Drain any excess liquid off.
Lentils with Avocado and Tomato -- Epicurean VeganGently fold in the green onion, tomato, pepitas, nutritional yeast, and lime juice. Top individual servings with 2-3 slices of avocado and some cilantro. Enjoy!

Lentil Bowls with Avocado & Tomato
 
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This makes a great side dish or main meal. It's also ready in about 30 minutes. Lentils are so easy to make and are incredibly healthy. They're full of fiber (perfect for lowering cholesterol), a fabulous source of folate and magnesium which contribute to heart health, and good for the digestive system. They also contain the third highest level of protein, lots of iron, and are low in calories, and virtually no fat. Dig in!
Author:
Serves: 2
Ingredients
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C green lentils
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 2 Tbs lime juice
  • 4 green onion, sliced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • ¼ C pepitas
  • 3 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ½ C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Avocado slices
Directions
  1. Combine the broth and lentils in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir, reduce heat, and cover for 20-25 minutes.
  2. Halfway through the cooking process, stir and season with cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. After the 20-25 minutes, taste the lentils and if they're soft, with a little firmness, they're about done. Drain any excess liquid off.
  4. Gently fold in the green onion, tomato, pepitas, nutritional yeast, and lime juice.
  5. Top individual servings with 2-3 slices of avocado and some cilantro. Enjoy!

 

Bean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce

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Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganSummer 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.
Avocado Bruschetta -- Epicurean VeganI 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.
Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew SauceTo 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.
Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew SauceIf 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!
Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew SauceWith leftovers, we changed it up a little by warming up the filling and using corn shells and adding lettuce and tomato. So good!

Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

 

FBean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce
 
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Author:
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
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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!

 

 

Raw Walnut Tacos {The 22-Day Revolution}

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Raw Walnut Tacos, The 22-Day Revolution -- Epicurean VeganEarlier this month, I brought you my review of The 22-Day Revolution, a new plant-based cookbook by Marco Borges. I promised to post the Raw Walnut Tacos recipe, so here it is. Everyone here loved these; great flavor and ready in 10 minutes. The only thing I added was some cilantro. This makes a fabulous lunch option, or a light dinner.

INGREDIENTS:
Taco meat:
2 C walnuts
1-1/2 Tbs cumin
1 Tbs coriander
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
1 Tbs coconut aminos
dash paprika
dash garlic powder
dash black pepper
Garnish:
2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
1/2 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 Tbs parsley flakes
pinch of black pepper
pinch sea salt
1 lime
The rest:
2 heads of romaine lettuce

DIRECTIONS:
Separate and wash the romaine leaves and set aside. Combine all of the taco meat ingredients in a food processor and pulse a few times, careful not to grind them too small.
Raw Walnut Tacos, The 22-Day Revolution -- Epicurean VeganSpread the walnut meat on the romaine leaves and garnish with cilantro (if using), avocado slices, tomato, parsley, pepper, salt, and lime juice.
Raw Walnut Tacos, The 22-Day Revolution -- Epicurean Vegan

Enjoy!

Raw Walnut Tacos {22-Day Revolution}
 
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Author:
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • Taco meat:
  • 2 C walnuts
  • 1-1/2 Tbs cumin
  • 1 Tbs coriander
  • 2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
  • 1 Tbs coconut aminos
  • dash paprika
  • dash garlic powder
  • dash black pepper
  • Garnish:
  • 2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and sliced
  • ½ pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ Tbs parsley flakes
  • pinch of black pepper
  • pinch sea salt
  • 1 lime
  • The rest:
  • 2 heads of romaine lettuce
Directions
  1. Separate and wash the romaine leaves and set aside.
  2. Combine all of the taco meat ingredients in a food processor and pulse a few times, careful not to grind them too small.
  3. Spread the walnut meat on the romaine leaves and garnish with cilantro (if using), avocado slices, tomato, parsley, pepper, salt, and lime juice.
  4. Enjoy!

 

 

Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy

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Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

We’re not messing around here over at EV headquarters. No, this may not be your typical springtime dish, but does that matter? It’s vegan; it’s savory; it’s divine. You won’t be disappointed. I’ll be clear: these won’t taste like mashed potatoes, but who said mashed cauliflower isn’t fan-freakin-tastic? Lumpy, smooth; you decide. And if you’re feeling sassy, you can even add some vegan sour cream. What are you waiting for?

INGREDIENTS:
Gravy
Half a medium onion, chopped
2-3 garlic cloves
2 Tbs vegan margarine
2 Tbs arrowroot or flour
1/2 tsp rosemary
1/2 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 C white wine
2 C vegetable broth
1 Tbs tamari
2 C sliced mushrooms
The rest
Florets from one large head of cauliflower
1/4 C nutritional yeast
1/8-1/4 C unsweetened almond milk
1 Tbs vegan margarine
1/3 C chives, chopped
Salt and pepper
A scoop or two of sour cream (optional)

DIRECTIONS:
Place the cauliflower in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and lower heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is softened. (You can be making the gravy during this time, but I’ll give you direction to make the mashed cauliflower, then the gravy.) Drain and return to the pan. Add the margarine and almond milk and using a hand blender, puree the cauliflower to a desired consistency. I happen to like lumps in my mashed potatoes, so I went with the same for the cauliflower.
Mashed Cauliflower -- Epicurean Vegan

Stir in the nutritional yeast and chives (and sour cream, if using).
Mashed Cauliflower -- Epicurean VeganCover and keep warm over low heat; stir occasionally.
Mashed Cauliflower with Chives -- Epicurean VeganNow, onto the gravy. Add the onion and garlic cloves to a food processor, and mince.
Mashed Cauliflower and Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean VeganTransfer to a medium saucepan along with the margarine. Saute over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add the arrowroot, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Stir in the white wine and cook 1 minute.

Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Next, add the broth, but only about a 1/4 cup at a time; stir with a whisk until it thickens, then add more broth. Add the mushrooms and let simmer for 5 minutes or so, or until the mushrooms cook down a little.
Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean VeganBoom, baby! You are ready to scoop and ladle. Enjoy!
Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy -- Epicurean Vegan

Mashed Cauliflower with Mushroom Gravy
 
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We're not messing around here over at EV headquarters. No, this may not be your typical springtime dish, but does that matter? It's vegan; it's savory; it's divine. You won't be disappointed. I'll be clear: these won't taste like mashed potatoes, but who said mashed cauliflower isn't fan-freakin-tastic? Lumpy, smooth; you decide. And if you're feeling sassy, you can even add some vegan sour cream. What are you waiting for?
Author:
Serves: 3-4
Ingredients
  • Gravy
  • Half a medium onion, chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves
  • 2 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 2 Tbs arrowroot or flour
  • ½ tsp rosemary
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ C white wine
  • 2 C vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbs tamari
  • 2 C sliced mushrooms
  • The rest
  • Florets from one large head of cauliflower
  • ¼ C nutritional yeast
  • ⅛-1/4 C unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 Tbs vegan margarine
  • ⅓ C chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper
  • A scoop or two of sour cream (optional)
Directions
  1. Place the cauliflower in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and lower heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is softened. (You can be making the gravy during this time, but I'll give you direction to make the mashed cauliflower, then the gravy.)
  2. Drain and return to the pan. Add the margarine and almond milk and using a hand blender, puree the cauliflower to a desired consistency. I happen to like lumps in my mashed potatoes, so I went with the same for the cauliflower.Stir in the nutritional yeast and chives.Cover and keep warm over low heat; stir occasionally.
  3. For the gravy, add the onion and garlic cloves to a food processor, and mince.
  4. Transfer to a medium saucepan along with the margarine. Saute over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add the arrowroot, rosemary, thyme, and black pepper. Stir in the white wine and cook 1 minute.
  5. Next, add the broth, but only about a ¼ cup at a time; stir with a whisk until it thickens, then add more broth. Add the mushrooms and let simmer for 5 minutes or so, or until the mushrooms cook down a little.
  6. Boom, baby! You are ready to scoop and ladle. Enjoy!

 

Simple and Delicious: Cooked Edamame

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Cooked Edamame -- Epicurean Vegan

Sometimes it’s the little things. We typically order these as an appetizer when we eat out at Asian restaurants and figured it was high-time we started eating them at home, too. It’s so easy and they make a great side dish or starter. You can also change up the seasoning and you have a whole new dish. Not only do they taste amazing, they’re ready in 10-15 minutes. Edamame is full of fiber, protein, vitamins C and A, as well as iron, so dig in!

INGREDIENTS:
12-oz bag frozen edamame in the shell
1 tsp salt
Seasoning of choice: salt; pepper; tamari/soy sauce; orange zest + ginger; lemon + garlic; 5-spice; cayenne . . . endless possibilities!

Edamame -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
Bring a medium saucepan of water (plus the teaspoon of salt) to a boil. Add the edamame and cook for 7-8 minutes. Drain and toss with a generous amount of seasonings.

Enjoy!

 

Quinoa Stir-fry with Avocado

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Quinoa Stir-Fry with Avocado -- Epicurean VeganWell, let’s see if I can still do this; it’s been a while. Sorry for the absence, but I think I’m getting back into the swing of things. Our kitchen counter tops are supposed to arrive today . . . just when I was getting used to the plywood stand-in! I bring you this easy and delicious, gluten-free meal that’s ready in no time. Speaking of stand-ins, quinoa is a great alternative to rice. It’s a nice change, plus it’s an excellent source of protein. The avocado is also a nice touch, contrasting well with the crunchy cashews.

INGREDIENTS:
1 C tri-colored quinoa
1-1/2 C vegetable broth
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 small zucchini, sliced
2 C mushrooms, quartered
1/3 C tamari or soy sauce
1/8 C lime juice
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and grated
1 C unsalted cashews
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and cut into chunks

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium saucepan, combine the broth and quinoa and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and garlic over medium heat for 1 minute. Add the bell pepper, onion, and celery; cook 8-10 minutes, or until softened.

Quinoa Stir-Fry with Avocado -- Epicurean VeganNext, add the zucchini and cook for 4-5 minutes, then add the mushrooms. Cook for 3-5 minutes.
Quinoa Stir-fry with AvocadoIn a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the tamari, lime juice, sesame oil, and ginger; set aside. Once the quinoa is cooked, add it to the cooked veggies, along with the cashews. Reduce heat to low and stir in the tamari mixture, combining everything thoroughly.
Quinoa Stir-fry with Avocado -- Epicurean Vegan

Top individual servings with avocado and enjoy!

Quinoa Stir-fry with Avocado
 
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I bring you this easy and delicious, gluten-free meal that's ready in no time. Speaking of stand-ins, quinoa is a great alternative to rice. It's a nice change, plus it's an excellent source of protein. The avocado is also a nice touch, contrasting well with the crunchy cashews.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 C tri-colored quinoa
  • ½ C vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 2 small zucchini, sliced
  • 2 C mushrooms, quartered
  • ⅓ C tamari or soy sauce
  • ⅛ C lime juice
  • ½ tsp sesame oil
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and grated
  • 1 C unsalted cashews
  • 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and cut into chunks
Directions
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the broth and quinoa and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and garlic over medium heat for 1 minute. Add the bell pepper, onion, and celery; cook 8-10 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Next, add the zucchini and cook for 4-5 minutes, then add the mushrooms. Cook for 3-5 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the tamari, lime juice, sesame oil, and ginger; set aside.
  5. Once the quinoa is cooked, add it to the cooked veggies, along with the cashews. Reduce heat to low and stir in the tamari mixture, combining everything thoroughly.
  6. Top individual servings with avocado and enjoy!

 

Loaded Baked Potatoes

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Loaded Baked Potatoes -- Epicurean VeganThese 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.
Nut and Seed ParmesanNext, 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.
Kale ChipsI 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.
Loaded Baked Potatoes, Cilantro-Cashew Cream -- Epicurean VeganUsing 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
 
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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:
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
  1. 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).
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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!

 

 

 

 

 

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!

 

Lentil Burritos with Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce

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Lentil Burritos with Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganI’ve made similar burritos, but changed these up a little. You might be amazed at how easy these are to make, and in just over 30 minutes. I love the curry-garlic-coconutty-cashew flavor of the sauce which is perfectly matched with the lentils and veggies tucked inside a warm tortilla. They’re a great meal when you want something fast, healthy, and satisfying.

INGREDIENTS:
1 C red lentils
2-3/4 C vegetable broth
1 Tbs olive oil
2 medium red potatoes, peeled and diced small
1 C onion, chopped
1 medium zucchini, sliced, then cut in half
Salt and pepper, to taste
Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce
3/4 C cashews
3 garlic cloves
3/4 C canned coconut milk
1/2 tsp cumin
1-1/2 tsp yellow curry powder
3/4 tsp salt
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
The rest
1 C cilantro, chopped
1 tomato, chopped
6 flour tortillas, warmed

DIRECTIONS:
Place the cashews in a small bowl and pour in enough hot water to cover them; set aside. In a medium sauce pan, combine the vegetable broth and lentils. Bring to a boil, stir, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 20-25 minutes, or until water is absorbed. If the lentils are soft, but there is still liquid left, drain them in a fine mesh strainer. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the potatoes. Saute over medium heat until soft, but still a little firm, about 15-20 minutes.

http://epicureanvegan.com/2014/09/08/potato-bean-lentil-burritos-cashew-curry-sauce/Add the onion and cook another 5 minutes, then add the zucchini and cook 5-7 minutes.
Lentil Burritos with Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganOnce the lentil are done, add them to the skillet and combine thoroughly.
Lentil Burritos with Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganTo make the sauce, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor along with the garlic. Puree 30 seconds, then slowly add the coconut milk while the machine is running. Stop and scrape the sides of the food processor bowl and add the rest of the sauce ingredients. Puree 2-3 minutes until completely smooth.

To assemble, scoop some lentil filling into a warm tortilla, roll and top with cilantro, tomatoes, and drizzle with sauce. Enjoy!

Lentil Burritos with Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce
 
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Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 C red lentils
  • 2-3/4 C vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 medium red potatoes, peeled and diced small
  • 1 C onion, chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced, then cut in half
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • .
  • Coconut-Garlic Cashew Sauce
  • .
  • ¾ C cashews
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • ¾ C canned coconut milk
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 1-1/2 tsp yellow curry powder
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • .
  • The rest
  • .
  • 1 C cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 6 flour tortillas, warmed
Directions
  1. Place the cashews in a small bowl and pour in enough hot water to cover them; set aside. In a medium sauce pan, combine the vegetable broth and lentils. Bring to a boil, stir, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 20-25 minutes, or until water is absorbed. If the lentils are soft, but there is still liquid left, drain them over a fine mesh strainer.
  2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the potatoes. Saute over medium heat until soft, but still a little firm, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Add the onion and cook another 5 minutes, then add the zucchini and cook 5-7 minutes.
  4. Once the lentil are done, add them to the skillet and combine thoroughly.
  5. To make the sauce, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor along with the garlic. Puree 30 seconds, then slowly add the coconut milk while the machine is running. Stop and scrape the sides of the food processor bowl and add the rest of the sauce ingredients. Puree 2-3 minutes until completely smooth.
  6. To assemble, scoop some lentil filling into a warm tortilla, roll and top with cilantro, tomatoes, and drizzle with sauce. Enjoy!

 

 

Stuffed Dates

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Stuffed Dates -- Epicurean VeganHappy holidays! The last couple of days have consisted of family and friend get-togethers, which means lots of great food. Christmas Eve was an appetizer night, so I brought the amazing Fiesta Taco Potato Crisps from The Oh She Glows Cookbook, and my spinach dip. For Christmas breakfast, we feasted on our favorite Hash Brown Casserole and the Easy, Vegan Cinnamon Rolls. We had a wonderful dinner at our neighbor’s last night with a variety of vegan soups and the Festive Kale Salad from The Oh She Glows Cookbook. I brought the famous Party Cheese Ball, Pesto Potato Bread, Bourbon Balls, and these incredible Stuffed Dates. Talk about a food festivus! I always thought I didn’t like dates, but I think that’s because I’ve only had them pureed in something, and I’m not a fan of the mushy date. These, however, were an absolute winner. Everyone at the dinner last night wanted the recipe. Plus, they were so easy to make. I couldn’t find pitted dates and I feared it was going to be date carnage all over the kitchen when it came time to de-pit them, but I have to say, it was so easy and took no time at all. Just slice open on one side and remove pit—it’s that easy.

Stuffed Dates -- Epicurean VeganI had made two batches of cashew cream (one for the potato crisps; one for these) and divided the batches into these handy, dandy squeeze bottles. I finally got smart and picked up a couple. They made the process for the potato crisps and these stuffed dates sooooo much easier—and faster!
Stuffed Dates -- Epicurean Vegan

These dates are stuffed with cashew cream, an almond or pecan, and topped with orange zest. You can’t go wrong. You can easily change them up; imagine the possibilities!

INGREDIENTS:
40-45 dates, pitted or not
1 to 1-1/2 C roasted almonds and pecans
Zest from one large orange
1 C cashews
1/2 C water
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:
To make the cashew cream, soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours, or if you’re short on time, pour boiling water over them in a bowl and let soak an hour. Drain them and transfer to a food processor. Puree with the water, then add the apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and salt. Transfer to a squeeze bottle. You can also use a pastry bag, but I find that to be messier and more difficult to store leftovers. If you use dates with a pit, simply take a sharp knife and slice open one side of the date and remove the pit.

Squeeze about 1/2 a teaspoon of cashew cream inside the date, add an almond or pecan, pipe in a bit more cashew cream, and top with orange zest. Voila! Repeat until you’ve filled all of the dates. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Stuffed Dates
 
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I always thought I didn't like dates, but I think that's because I've only had them pureed in something, and I'm not a fan of the mushy date. These, however, were an absolute winner. Everyone at the dinner last night wanted the recipe. Plus, they were so easy to make. I couldn't find pitted dates and I feared it was going to be date carnage all over the kitchen when it came time to de-pit them, but I have to say, it was so easy and took no time at all. Just slice open on one side and remove pit---it's that easy.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 40-45 dates, pitted or not
  • 1 to 1-1/2 C roasted almonds and pecans
  • Zest from one large orange
  • 1 C cashews
  • ½ C water
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
Directions
  1. To make the cashew cream, soak the cashews in water for at least 4 hours, or if you're short on time, pour boiling water over them in a bowl and let soak an hour.
  2. Drain them and transfer to a food processor. Puree with the water, then add the apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and salt.
  3. Transfer to a squeeze bottle. You can also use a pastry bag, but I find that to be messier and more difficult to store leftovers.
  4. If you use dates with a pit, simply take a sharp knife and slice open one side of the date and remove the pit.
  5. Squeeze about ½ a teaspoon of cashew cream inside the date, add an almond or pecan, pipe in a bit more cashew cream, and top with orange zest. Voila! Repeat until you've filled all of the dates.
  6. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!

 

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