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Gnocchi Soup with Kale & Veggie Sausage

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Gnocchi Soup with Kale and Veggie Sausage -- Epicurean Vegan

Oh, winter soups, how I love thee! This soup is hearty, full of flavor, and packed with good-for-you veggies. The gnocchi are potato-y, pillow-y, perfection and even wheat- and gluten-free! Need another reason to love this soup? It’ll be ready in 30 minutes (and pairs well with a chilly December evening)!

INGREDIENTS:
1-2 Tbs olive oil
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 C mushrooms, diced (I used cremini)
2 Italian Seasoning-flavored Field Roast sausages, crumbled
5 C vegetable broth
12-oz Delallo mini gnocchi (gluten-free, wheat-free)
4 C Lacinato (Dino) kale, chopped
1-1/2 C almond milk
3 Tbs cornstarch
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic; cook for 2 minutes. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Over medium heat, cook the veggies for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. Add the mushrooms and Field Roast and cook another 5-7 minutes, stirring often.

Add the broth and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in the gnocchi and kale and cook for 3-5 minutes. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the cornstarch, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and milk; blend well. Stir it into the soup and bring to a boil for 1 minute, or until the soup thickens. Serve hot and enjoy!

Gnocchi Soup with Kale & Veggie Sausage
 
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Oh, winter soups, how I love thee! This soup is hearty, full of flavor, and packed with good-for-you veggies. The gnocchi are potato-y, pillow-y, perfection and even wheat- and gluten-free! Need another reason to love this soup? It'll be ready in 30 minutes (and pairs well with a chilly December evening)!
Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1-2 Tbs olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 C mushrooms, diced (I used cremini)
  • 2 Italian Seasoning-flavored Field Roast sausages, crumbled
  • 5 C vegetable broth
  • 12-oz Delallo mini gnocchi (gluten-free, wheat-free)
  • 4 C Lacinato (Dino) kale, chopped
  • 1-1/2 C almond milk
  • 3 Tbs cornstarch
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic; cook for 2 minutes.
  2. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Over medium heat, cook the veggies for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.
  3. Add the mushrooms and Field Roast and cook another 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
  4. Add the broth and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the gnocchi and kale and cook for 3-5 minutes.
  6. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the cornstarch, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and milk; blend well. Stir it into the soup and bring to a boil for 1 minute, or until the soup thickens. Serve hot and enjoy!

 

 

 

 

Black Rice Salad with Craisins & Shiitakes

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Black Rice Salad with Craisins & Shiitakes -- Epicurean Vegan

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

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

Black Rice Salad with Craisins and Shiitakes -- Epicurean Vegan

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

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

 

Portobello Tetrazzini Soup

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Portobello Tetrazzini Soup - Epicurean Vegan

Oh how I love soup season! I also love mushrooms, so portobellos are perfect for creating a hearty, satisfying soup. Meat-schmeat! Who needs it?! Because it’s just the two of us these days, I made a small batch (serves 3), but you could easily double this recipe to feed a larger crew. This soup has lots of savory flavor and is ready in about 30 minutes.

INGREDIENTS:
2 Tbs vegan margarine
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 C diced onion
5 portobello mushroom caps, cut into cubes
4 C vegetable broth
1/2 C red wine
4-oz spaghetti, broken in half (I used quinoa pasta to keep it gluten-free)
1 C frozen peas
1/2 tsp dried lemon peel
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 C non-dairy half and half, unsweetened (I recommend almond or soy; not coconut)
1 C chopped parsley
Vegan Parmesan (I like Follow Your Heart brand shredded Parmesan)

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, melt the vegan margarine and add the garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add the portobellos. It may seem like a lot at first, but they will cook down. Add the vegetable broth and wine. Bring to a boil and add the pasta; cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add the peas, salt, pepper, lemon peel, and thyme and cook another 5 minutes. Stir in the half and half and parsley and heat. Top individual servings with Parmesan and enjoy!

Portobello Tetrazzini Soup
 
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Oh how I love soup season! I also love mushrooms, so portobellos are perfect for creating a hearty, satisfying soup. Meat-schmeat! Because it's just the two of us these days, I made a small batch (serves 3), but you would easily double this recipe to feed a larger crew. This soup has lots of savory flavor and is ready in just over 30 minutes.
Author:
Serves: 3
Ingredients
  • 2 Tbs vegan margarine
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 C diced onion
  • 5 portobello mushroom caps, cut into cubes
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • ½ C red wine
  • 4-oz spaghetti, broken in half (I used quinoa pasta to keep it gluten-free)
  • 1 C frozen peas
  • ½ tsp dried lemon peel
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp thyme
  • ½ C non-dairy half and half, unsweetened (I recommend almond or soy; not coconut)
  • 1 C chopped parsley
  • Vegan Parmesan (I like Follow Your Heart brand shredded Parmesan)
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, melt the vegan margarine and add the garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add the portobellos. It may seem like a lot at first, but they will cook down.
  3. Add the vegetable broth and wine. Bring to a boil and add the pasta; cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add the peas, salt, pepper, lemon peel, and thyme and cook another 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the half and half and parsley and heat.
  6. Top individual servings with Parmesan and enjoy!

 

 

Roasted Corn & Chile Chowder

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Roasted Corn and Chile Chowder -- Epicurean Vegan
Fall is upon us and that means soup season! I had four fresh ears of corn in the fridge, cans of diced green chiles, and the cold and rain had set in outside, so I took it as a sign. Roasting the veggies ahead of time also seemed like the appropriate thing to do and I can tell you, it’s worth the small effort. This hearty, spicy chowder is packed full of flavor and heat that you’ll be welcoming fall and its soup-loving weather.

INGREDIENTS:
4 fresh sweet corn ears
1 red bell pepper, diced
4, 4-oz cans diced green chiles (I used two mild; two hot. Beware: it’s zippy!)
1 onion, diced
6 garlic cloves
2-3 Tbs coconut oil
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil
2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 C vegetable broth
2 C coconut milk (the refrigerated carton variety, unsweetened)
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
2 Tbs nutritional yeast
1/4 C lime juice
1/2 to 1 C fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
3-4 C cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
Vegan sour cream, tortilla strips, diced avocado, optional

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 450. Using a sharp knife, cut the corn kernels from the cobs. Combine in a medium bowl with the red bell pepper, onion, and diced chiles. Coat with coconut oil and season with salt and black pepper. On a foil-lined baking sheet, spread the veggie mixture out evenly. Leave a small corner free for the garlic. To roast the garlic, I removed the skins from the cloves, drizzled them with a tiny bit of oil and wrapped them up. Place it on the  baking sheet.

Roasted Corn and Chile Chowder -- Epicurean Vegan Roasted Corn and Chile Chowder -- Epicurean Vegan

Roast for 15 minutes, stir, then roast another 15 minutes.
Roasted Corn and Chile Chowder -- Epicurean Vegan

Keep the oven on so you can roast the tomatoes. Coat the tomatoes in olive oil; season with salt and black pepper, and layer onto the baking sheet with fresh foil. Roast for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large soup pot, add the roasted garlic (I used my garlic press, or you can mince the cloves with a knife), 2 Tbs olive oil, and the diced potato. Over medium heat, saute the potatoes for 5-10 minutes, then add the 2 cups of vegetable broth. Let simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes start to soften.
Roasted Corn and Chile Chowder -- Epicurean VeganAdd the roasted vegetables, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, cumin, oregano, and season with salt and black pepper.

Roasted Corn and Chile Chowder -- Epicurean VeganSimmer for 10-15 minutes. I used my immersion blender to puree only about a third of the soup—not too much. If you don’t have an immersion blender, I recommend pureeing no more than 2 cups in a food process or blender.

Stir in the lime juice and fresh cilantro. Top individual servings with some roasted tomatoes, sour cream, diced avocado, and tortilla strips. Enjoy!

Roasted Corn & Chile Chowder
 
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Fall is upon us and that means soup season! I had four fresh ears of corn in the fridge, cans of diced green chiles, and the cold and rain had set in outside, so I took it as a sign. Roasting the veggies ahead of time also seemed like the appropriate thing to do and I can tell you, it's worth the small effort. This hearty, spicy chowder is packed full of flavor and heat that you'll be welcoming fall and its soup-loving weather.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 4 fresh sweet corn ears
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 4, 4-oz cans diced green chiles (I used two mild; two hot. Beware: it's zippy!)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 2-3 Tbs coconut oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Olive oil
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 C vegetable broth
  • 2 C coconut milk (the refrigerated carton variety, unsweetened)
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ¼ C lime juice
  • ½ to 1 C fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 3-4 C cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • Vegan sour cream, tortilla strips, diced avocado, optional
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 450. Using a sharp knife, cut the corn kernels from the cobs. Combine in a medium bowl with the red bell pepper, onion, and diced chiles. Coat with coconut oil and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. On a foil-lined baking sheet, spread the veggie mixture out evenly. Leave a small corner free for the garlic. To roast the garlic, I removed the skins from the cloves, drizzled them with a tiny bit of oil and wrapped them up. Place it on the baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 15 minutes, stir, then roast another 15 minutes.
  4. Keep the oven on so you can roast the tomatoes. Coat the tomatoes in olive oil; season with salt and black pepper, and layer onto the baking sheet with fresh foil. Roast for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, in a large soup pot, add the roasted garlic (I used my garlic press, or you can mince the cloves with a knife), 2 Tbs olive oil, and the diced potato. Over medium heat, saute the potatoes for 5-10 minutes, then add the 2 cups of vegetable broth. Let simmer for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes start to soften.
  6. Add the roasted vegetables, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, cumin, oregano, and season with salt and black pepper.
  7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. I used my immersion blender to puree only about a third of the soup---not too much. If you don't have an immersion blender, I recommend pureeing no more than 2 cups in a food process or blender.
  8. Stir in the lime juice and fresh cilantro. Top individual servings with some roasted tomatoes, sour cream, diced avocado, and tortilla strips. Enjoy!

 

Chickpea Salad Tacos

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Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

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

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

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

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

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

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

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

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

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

Chickpea Salad Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

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

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

 

Glass Noodles & Carrots with Peanut-Sesame Sauce

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

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

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

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

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

Whisk together all of the sauce ingredients.

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

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

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

 

Cauliflower Fried Rice

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Cauliflower Fried Rice -- Epicurean Vegan

While perusing the produce section at Costco, I came across a bag of cauliflower “rice” that can be sauteed, mashed, baked. . . you name it. I had seen recipes for cauliflower rice, so I thought I’d give it a whirl. The Husband loves cauliflower and fried rice (sans egg), so this seemed like something I could work with. (I love the convenience of the cauliflower already being “riced.”) I added tofu, cashews, red bell pepper and green onion to make this unconventional, yet delicious “fried rice” in no time.
Cauliflower Fried Rice -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
4 C of cauliflower rice (that’s half of the Costco-sized bag)
1 14-oz pkg firm tofu, crumbled
4 Tbs cornstarch
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 Tbs sesame oil
1/4 C brown rice vinegar
1/2 C green onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced small
1 Tbs + 1 tsp olive oil, divided
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbs grated gingerroot
4 Tbs tamari or soy sauce
2 Tbs mirin
1 C toasted cashews

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled tofu in a bowl with the cornstarch and salt and pepper; toss gently to coat. Heat one teaspoon of the olive oil in a large skillet and add the tofu; saute over medium heat, stirring and flipping the tofu until browned.
Cauliflower Fried Rice -- Epicurean VeganTransfer to a bowl and set aside. Wipe the skillet clean and heat the remaining olive oil. Add the garlic and ginger and saute over medium heat for 2 minutes, then add the bell pepper. Cook until softened, then add the cauliflower. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then stir in the vinegar and let cook another 5 minutes, stirring often. Add the tofu, green onion, and cashews; combine well, then stir in the tamari and mirin. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cauliflower Fried Rice
 
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While perusing the produce section at Costco, I came across a bag of cauliflower "rice" that can be sauteed, mashed, baked. . . you name it. I had seen recipes for cauliflower rice, so I thought I'd give it a whirl. The Husband loves cauliflower and fried rice (sans egg), so this seemed like something I could work with. (I love the convenience of the cauliflower already being "riced.") I added tofu, cashews, red bell pepper and green onion to make this unconventional, yet delicious "fried rice" in no time.
Author:
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 4 C of cauliflower rice (that's half of the Costco-sized bag)
  • 1 14-oz pkg firm tofu, crumbled
  • 4 Tbs cornstarch
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbs sesame oil
  • ¼ C brown rice vinegar
  • ½ C green onion, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced small
  • 1 Tbs + 1 tsp olive oil, divided
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Tbs grated gingerroot
  • 4 Tbs tamari or soy sauce
  • 2 Tbs mirin
  • 1 C toasted cashews
Directions
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled tofu in a bowl with the cornstarch and salt and pepper; toss gently to coat. Heat one teaspoon of the olive oil in a large skillet and add the tofu; saute over medium heat, stirring and flipping the tofu until browned.
  2. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. Wipe the skillet clean and heat the remaining olive oil. Add the garlic and ginger and saute over medium heat for 2 minutes, then add the bell pepper. Cook until softened, then add the cauliflower. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then stir in the vinegar and let cook another 5 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Add the tofu, green onion, and cashews; combine well, then stir in the tamari and mirin.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy!

 

Seed n’ Green Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

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Next to summertime, I think January is high-salad time (thanks to all those New Year resolutions). I’m a salad gal all the time, but I might as well jump on the bandwagon. I could have called this something more catchy like, Grains n’ Greens, but quinoa is actually the seed that is extracted from the grain. Hence, it’s Seed n’ Green (even though I’m sure I’ve called quinoa a grain many times before). Anyway, quinoa is pretty awesome so it’s an ideal mate for salad fixings. I recommend making the quinoa ahead of time and letting it cool, but feel free to serve this salad warm.

INGREDIENTS:
1 C quinoa
2 C broth or water
6 C baby spinach
1 14-oz can sliced green olives
1 avocado, diced
Pepitas
Lemon-Tahini Dressing
2 Tbs tahini
1 Tbs red miso
1/8 C nutritional yeast
1/8 C lemon juice
1 Tbs chia seeds
1/4 C water (more for thinning out, if necessary)
1/8 tsp black pepper

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the quinoa and broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed. I then transferred the quinoa to a bowl and chilled it in the fridge, uncovered, for about 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile, to make the dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Puree until smooth. Transfer to a mason jar or other glass container. Store in the fridge until ready to use. Depending on how long it sits, the chia seeds will thicken the dressing up, so if you want a thinner dressing, whisk in a tad of water.

To make the salad, start with some spinach, then add a scoop or two of quinoa. Top with olives, avocado, pepitas and dressing. Enjoy!

Seed n' Green Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
 
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Next to summertime, I think January is high-salad time---thanks to all those New Year resolutions. I'm a salad gal all the time, but I might as well jump on the bandwagon. I could have called this something more catchy like, Grains n' Greens, but quinoa is actually the seed that is extracted from the grain. Hence, it's Seed n' Green (even though I'm sure I've called quinoa a grain many times before. Anyway, quinoa is pretty awesome so it's an ideal mate for salad fixings. I recommend making the quinoa ahead of time and letting it cool, but feel free to serve this salad warm.
Author:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 C quinoa
  • 2 C broth or water
  • 6 C baby spinach
  • 1 14-oz can sliced green olives
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Pepitas
  • Lemon-Tahini Dressing
  • 2 Tbs tahini
  • 1 Tbs red miso
  • ⅛ C nutritional yeast
  • ⅛ C lemon juice
  • 1 Tbs chia seeds
  • ¼ C water (more for thinning out, if necessary)
  • ⅛ tsp black pepper
Directions
  1. Combine the quinoa and broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
  2. I then transferred to a bowl and chilled in the fridge, uncovered, for about 30-45 minutes. Meanwhile, to make the dressing, combine all of the ingredients in a food processor. Puree until smooth. Transfer to a mason jar or other glass container. Store in the fridge until ready to use. Depending on how long it sits, the chia seeds will thicken the dressing up, so if you want a thinner dressing, whisk in a tad of water.
  3. To make the salad, start with some spinach, then add a scoop or two of quinoa. Top with olives, avocado, pepitas and dressing. Enjoy!

 

 

Lentil-Garbanzo Bean Salad with Creamy Garlic-Balsamic Dressing

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Lentil-Garbanzo Bean Salad with Creamy Garlic-Balsamic Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

With the fresh veggies, savory dressing, and some roasted walnuts for crunch, this salad is a easily my new favorite dish. Plus, it’s so easy to make when you use Trader Joe’s steamed lentils that are ready to eat.
Quick and Easy Lentils with Spinach and Mushrooms -- Epicurean Vegan

Let’s not forget lentils are loaded with protein, iron, and fiber–a powerhouse food ideal for any vegan diet.

INGREDIENTS:
1 pkg (1lb) Trader Joe’s Ready-to-Eat steamed lentils
1 15-oz can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
2 C fresh spinach, chopped
1 C fresh parsley, chopped
1 C green onions, sliced (white and green parts)
1 orange bell pepper, diced
1-1/2 C quartered cherry tomatoes
1 C roasted walnuts
Garlic-Balsamic Dressing
1 C cashews
2 garlic cloves
3/4 C cold water
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
1 Tbs grapeseed oil
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS:
To make the dressing, I soaked the cashews in hot water for about an hour. Drain and add to a food processor along with the garlic and water. Puree, then add the balsamic vinegar, oil, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until completely smooth; set aside.

In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients, except the walnuts. Serve the salad topped with walnuts and dressing. Enjoy!

Lentil-Garbanzo Bean Salad with Creamy Garlic-Balsamic Dressing
 
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With the fresh veggies, savory dressing, and some roasted walnuts for crunch, this salad is a easily my new favorite dish. Plus, it's so easy to make when you use Trader Joe's steamed lentils that are ready to eat. Let's not forget lentils are loaded with protein, iron, and fiber--a powerhouse food ideal for any vegan diet.
Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 pkg (1lb) Trader Joe's Ready-to-Eat steamed lentils
  • 1 15-oz can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 C fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 C fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 C green onions, sliced (white and green parts)
  • 1 orange bell pepper, diced
  • 1-1/2 C quartered cherry tomatoes
  • 1 C roasted walnuts
  • Garlic-Balsamic Dressing
  • 1 C cashews
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ¾ C cold water
  • 2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
  • 1 Tbs grapeseed oil
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp salt
Directions
  1. To make the dressing, I soaked the cashews in hot water for about an hour. Drain and add to a food processor along with the garlic and water. Puree, then add the balsamic vinegar, oil, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until completely smooth; set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients, except the walnuts.
  3. Serve the salad topped with walnuts and dressing. Enjoy!

 

Kale & Zucchini Bowls with Lemon-Cashew Sauce

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

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

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

DIRECTIONS:

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

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

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

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

 

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