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Hummus & Tomato Tart

May 27, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Hummus and Tomato Tart -- Epicurean VeganThis is great for a last minute appetizer and is extremely versatile. Change up the veggies, spices, and herbs and you have another great appetizer. I used Pillsbury crescent rolls (yes, they’re vegan) and I actually like them as a crust a bit more than puff pastry (which is also vegan). The crescent rolls have a fluffy layer effect that’s light and tasty. I cut the tart into 9 squares, but feel free to slice and dice the way you’d like.

INGREDIENTS:
1 pkg. Pillsbury Crescent Rolls (8 to a package)
1/3 to 1/2 C prepared hummus
2 tomatoes, sliced thin (about 9 slices)
1/3 C chopped fresh basil

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375. Grease a 9×13 baking sheet. Unroll the crescent rolls on the baking sheet and press the perforated edges to seal them. Using your fingers, firmly press the dough in several directions in order to get it to fit the baking sheet.

Hummus & Tomato Tart -- Epicurean VeganBake for 9 minutes, or until golden brown.
Hummus & Tomato Tart -- Epicurean VeganLet it cool completely, then spread on the hummus, add the tomatoes and sprinkle on the basil. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Hummus & Tomato Tart
 
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Prep time
10 mins
Cook time
10 mins
Total time
20 mins
 
This is great for a last minute appetizer and is extremely versatile. Change up the veggies, spices, and herbs and you have another great appetizer. I used Pillsbury crescent rolls (yes, they're vegan) and I actually like them as a crust a bit more than puff pastry (which is also vegan). The crescent rolls have a fluffy layer effect that's light and tasty. I cut the tart into 9 squares, but feel free to slice and dice the way you'd like.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 pkg. Pillsbury Crescent Rolls (8 to a package)
  • ⅓ to ½ C prepared hummus
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced thin (about 9 slices)
  • ⅓ C chopped fresh basil
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 375. Grease a 9x13 baking sheet.
  2. Unroll the crescent rolls on the baking sheet and press the perforated edges to seal them. Using your fingers, firmly press the dough in several directions in order to get it to fit the baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 9 minutes, or until golden brown.
  4. Let it cool completely, then spread on the hummus, add the tomatoes and sprinkle on the basil. Cut into squares and enjoy!
3.4.3177

 

Filed Under: Appetizers Tagged With: basil, fast and easy, finger food, hummus, hummus tart, party food, Pillsbury Crescent Rolls, tart, tomato tart, tomatoes, Vegan

Creamy Kale & Mushroom Pasta

May 24, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

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

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

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

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

Creamy Kale & Mushroom Pasta
 
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Kale and mushrooms. Two of my favorite veggies. Together with pasta: a new favorite meal! It's incredibly easy to make and will be ready in no time.
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ C onion, minced
  • 3 Tbs flour, divided
  • 1 C vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • ⅛ tsp nutmeg
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ¾ C unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 portobello mushroom caps, sliced, then cut in half
  • 2 C kale, torn into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ C green onions, sliced
  • Optional: ⅓ C Dairy-free sour cream
  • 12-14 ounces pasta of your choice (I used rotini)
Directions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat the olive oil and garlic over medium heat; cook for 3 minutes.
  3. Add the onions, and cook another 6-8 minutes, or until the onions are softened.
  4. Add two tablespoons of the flour and coat the onions well; cook 1 minute.
  5. Little by little, add the broth and whisk until the mixture is thickened.
  6. While I prepare the sauce, I had the kale and mushrooms in my steamer pot. They only need about 5-7 minutes to steam, so keep an eye on the pot; I find that kale can get bitter-tasting if it gets over-steamed. Once it turns bright green, it's perfect---remove from heat.
  7. Stir the nutritional yeast into the sauce, along with the salt, pepper, thyme and nutmeg.
  8. In a small cup, whisk together the almond milk with the remaining tablespoon of flour. Again, little by little, whisk it into the sauce until it has thickened.
  9. Stir in the lemon juice.
  10. Combine the cooked pasta with the green onions and the steamed kale and mushrooms.
  11. Pour the sauce over the pasta mixture and combine well.
  12. If using, add the sour cream and mix thoroughly.
  13. Season with more salt and pepper if you'd like, serve and enjoy!
3.4.3177

Filed Under: Dinners, Sides Tagged With: creamy pasta, fast and easy, kale, Pasta, Portobellos, Vegan

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce

May 7, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

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

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

20140507_164716

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

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

Tofu-Avocado Bowl with Cilantro-Ginger Cashew Sauce
 
Print
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
  1. Start with preparing the rice. Combine the broth and rice in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover for 40 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, to make the amazing sauce, drain the cashews and transfer them to the food processor. Add the other ingredients and puree. Scrape the bowl a few times and process until completely smooth
  3. Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and place over medium-high heat. Place the tofu slabs in the skillet, season with shallot salt. Turn the tofu once one side is browned. Season once again with shallot salt.
  4. Once the tofu is done, transfer to a cutting board and cut each slab into 3 long pieces, then again in half.
  5. Add the snowpeas and green onion to the same skillet. Over medium heat, saute the veggies for just a few minutes; enough to soften them a little. If need be, spray the skillet again with cooking spray. Stir in the carrot and cook another few minutes. Season with a little shallot salt, if you'd like.
  6. To assemble, start with rice, top with the vegetable mixture, then add the tofu and avocado. Drizzle, drop or dump some sauce on top. Then . . . mix it all together and enjoy!
3.4.3177

 

Filed Under: Dinners, Dressings/Condiments, Lunches Tagged With: Asian, Asian bowls, avocado, cashew cream, cilantro, easy, ginger, Lundberg Rice, tofu, Vegan

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus & Avocado

April 15, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

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

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

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

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

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

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus & Avocado
 
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Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • Marinade
  • ½ C balsamic vinegar
  • ½ C red wine
  • ¼ C olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • The rest
  • 2 small zucchini, sliced length-wise
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into wide strips
  • 1 eggplant, sliced length-wise, then again length-wise
  • ½ large onion, cut into wide strips
  • 1 avocado (preferably real and not imaginary), sliced
  • 1 C fresh basil leaves
  • ½ C hummus, homemade (easy) or store bought (even easier)
  • 6 French rolls, or other sandwich bread
Directions
  1. Combine the marinade ingredients in a large zip bag. Add the veggies and let them marinate in the fridge for about an hour. Turn the bag over halfway through.
  2. Spray the grill pan with a small amount of cooking spray and heat pan over medium heat. Using tongs, place the veggies in the pan. I recommend putting as many slices of bell pepper on as you can because they'll take the longest to cook. I also suggest flattening them out a little so that you can turn them over to cook both sides. The zucchini and eggplant will take about 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. I continued cooking all of the zucchini and eggplant, transferring the cooked slices to a large sheet of foil and sealing it up while everything else cooked. Everything stayed nice and hot. I then added the onions while the peppers continued to cook.
  4. Once the vegetables are cooked, start assembling your sandwiches! (You can toast the bread first, if you'd like). Spread on some hummus, add the veggies, basil and of course, a few beautiful slices of avocado. Enjoy!
3.3.3077

 

Filed Under: Dinners Tagged With: avocado, basil, bell pepper, eggplant, grilled vegetable sandwiches, hummus, marinade, Vegan, zucchini

And the winner is . . .

April 7, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Congrats to Scout and Bodhi who won a copy of The Oh She Glows Cookbook!

Thank you to everyone who visited and entered!

The Oh She Glows Cookbook -- Epicurean VeganAnd by the way, I also made the Fiesta Taco Potato Crisps that are on page 85 and brought them to a get together. Everyone (including us) declared they were the Best. Appetizer. Ever. I made them again last night when my Mom came over for dinner. Again, Best. Appetizer. Ever.

Fiesta Taco Potato Crisps from The Oh She Glows Cookbook -- Epicurean VeganThanks again, everyone!

Filed Under: My Vegan Life Tagged With: Fiesta Taco Potato Crisps, Giveaway, The Oh She Glows Cookbook, Vegan

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

April 3, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

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

Empowered Noodle Bowl -- Epicurean Vegan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Filed Under: Dinners, Dressings/Condiments, Lunches, Sides Tagged With: buckwheat, easy, Empowered Noodle Bowl, fast and easy, Giveaway, Oh She Glows, Orange-Maple Miso Dressing, soba noodles, Thai Peanut Sauce, The Oh She Glows Cookbook, Vegan

I’ll be back soon…I promise!

March 31, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Sorry it’s been a while since my last post! I’ve been swamped with training for a half marathon, helping coordinate a writer’s conference and traveling. We spent a wonderful week in the Big Apple, so for now, I’ll leave you with this drool-worthy pic of a a vegan cheeseburger from PeaceFood Cafe in NYC.

20140319_114039I’ll be back with new recipes very soon!

Filed Under: My Vegan Life Tagged With: NYC, PeaceFood Cafe, Vegan

Quinoa & Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing

March 2, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Quinoa and Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganThese are packed with some of my favorite ingredients! Quinoa is loaded with protein and the kale is well . . . it’s kale! We all know kale is high in iron, calcium and several vitamins. Check out these 10 Health Benefits of this super green. I also threw in some pepitas, which are rich in vitamins, beta carotene, and protein. I made a pretty big batch so that I can nosh all week (especially post workouts), but feel free to halve the recipe if you’re fearful of getting quinoa’d out. (Inconceivable! 😉 )

INGREDIENTS
Filling
2 C tri-color quinoa
4 C vegetable broth or water
1 Tbs olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 C red onion, diced
3/4 C green onion, sliced
2 C mushrooms, diced
1 bunch kale, leaves removed and chopped (stems discarded)
3/4 C pepitas
Dressing
2 large cloves of garlic
1 Tbs tahini
2 Tbs yellow/light miso
1/4 C nutritional yeast
1/2 C unsweetened almond milk
1/2 C cold water
2 Tbs chia seesds
1/4 tsp black pepper
The rest
Pita pockets
Avocado slices

DIRECTIONS
I recommend making the dressing first. It’ll be a little runny, but letting it sit for 20 minutes or so, will allow the chia seeds to do their thing and thicken up the dressing. In a food processor or blender, combine all of the dressing ingredients and blend until smooth. Set aside.

Quinoa and Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganIn a large soup pot, combine the broth (or water) with the quinoa. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.

Quinoa and Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganMeanwhile, heat the olive oil and garlic in a large skillet. Add the red and green onions. Saute until softened and a tiny bit browned. Add the kale and mushrooms and saute until the the kale is bright green, about 5 minutes.
Quinoa and Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganFold the veggies and pepitas into the cooked quinoa.
Quinoa and Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean VeganI placed a little dressing inside the pita,  along with a slice or two of avocado, then added the filling, and topped with some more dressing. Enjoy!
Quinoa and Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing -- Epicurean Vegan

Quinoa & Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing
 
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These are packed with some of my favorite ingredients! Quinoa is loaded with protein and the kale is well . . . it's kale! We all know kale is high in iron, calcium and several vitamins. Check out these 10 Health Benefits of this super green. I also threw in some pepitas, which are rich in vitamins, beta carotene, and protein. I made a pretty big batch so that I can nosh all week (especially post workouts), but feel free to halve the recipe if you're fearful of getting quinoa'd out. (Inconceivable! 😉 )
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Ingredients
  • Filling
  • 2 C tri-color quinoa
  • 4 C vegetable broth or water
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 C red onion, diced
  • ¾ C green onion, sliced
  • 2 C mushrooms, diced
  • 1 bunch kale, leaves removed and chopped (stems discarded)
  • ¾ C pepitas
  • Dressing
  • 2 large cloves of garlic
  • 1 Tbs tahini
  • 2 Tbs yellow/light miso
  • ¼ C nutritional yeast
  • ½ C unsweetened almond milk
  • ½ C cold water
  • 2 Tbs chia seesds
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • The rest
  • Pita pockets
  • Avocado slices
Directions
  1. I recommend making the dressing first. It'll be a little runny, but letting it sit for 20 minutes or so, will allow the chia seeds to do their thing and thicken up the dressing. In a food processor or blender, combine all of the dressing ingredients and blend until smooth. Set aside.
  2. In a large soup pot, combine the broth (or water) with the quinoa. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.
  3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and garlic in a large skillet. Add the red and green onions. Saute until softened and a tiny bit browned. Add the kale and mushrooms and saute until the the kale is bright green, about 5 minutes.
  4. Fold the veggies and pepitas into the cooked quinoa.
  5. I placed a little dressing inside the pita, along with a slice or two of avocado, then added the filling, and topped with some more dressing. Enjoy!
3.4.3177

Filed Under: Dinners, Dressings/Condiments, Lunches Tagged With: easy, fast and easy, healthy, kale, pepitas, pita sandwiches, protein, quinoa, tahini, tahini dressing, Vegan

Wild Rice & Potato Stew with Field Roast

February 6, 2014 by Epicurean Vegan

Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean VeganCan you tell that I’m loving my new Dutch oven?! But really, this could be made with a regular soup pot too, but it’s way more satisfying to get use out of a new kitchen toy. This is a little similar to the Creamy Wild Rice Soup, but I revved it up by adding a Field Roast sausage (which we all thought, made the soup) and some other seasonings. I also didn’t have to prepare a roux, so it was even easier. This stew is perfect for a cold and wintry night. We’ve been socked in with LOTS of snow and temps this week haven’t risen much above 12 degrees. Our rain chain is certainly feeling it . . .

rainchainINGREDIENTS:
2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
1/2 large red onion (about a cup)
3 carrots, peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 C vegetable broth
1 C wild rice mix (I like Lundberg’s Wild Blend)
1 Field Roast sausage (either Apple & Sage, or Italian Seasoning flavor), crumbled
3 small red potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-1/2 cups)
1/2 C Tofutti sour cream
1/4 C almond milk
3 Tbs flour
3/4 tsp Herbs de Provence
Salt and pepper, to taste

Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean Vegan

DIRECTIONS:
In a Dutch oven (3Q or larger) or in a large soup pot, melt the Earth Balance over medium-high heat. Add the onions and carrots and cook 4-5 minutes, or until they are softened. Stir in the garlic and Field Roast and saute over medium heat for 3 minutes. Pour in the broth and rice; cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 40 minutes. Add the diced potatoes and cook covered for another 20-25 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, milk and flour until well blended; stir into the soup. Season with the Herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper.

Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean VeganLet it cook a few minutes longer until heated through, then enjoy! (Serves 6)
Wild Rice and Potato Stew with Field Roast -- Epicurean Vegan

Wild Rice & Potato Stew with Field Roast
 
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Prep time
10 mins
Cook time
1 hour 5 mins
Total time
1 hour 15 mins
 
This stew is perfect for a cold and wintry night, but I make it often throughout the year; it's just that good!
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • ½ large red onion (about a cup)
  • 3 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 C vegetable broth
  • 1 C wild rice mix (I like Lundberg's Wild Blend)
  • 1 Field Roast sausage (either Apple & Sage, or Italian Seasoning flavor), crumbled
  • 3 small red potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1-1/2 cups)
  • ½ C Tofutti sour cream
  • ¼ C almond milk
  • 3 Tbs flour
  • ¾ tsp Herbs de Provence
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. In a Dutch oven (3Q or larger) or in a large soup pot, melt the Earth Balance over medium-high heat. Add the onions and carrots and cook 4-5 minutes, or until they are softened. Stir in the garlic and Field Roast and saute over medium heat for 3 minutes.
  2. Pour in the broth and rice; cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 40 minutes.
  3. Add the diced potatoes and cook covered for another 20-25 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream, milk and flour until well blended; stir into the soup.
  5. Season with the Herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let it cook a few minutes longer until heated through, then enjoy!
3.4.3177

Filed Under: Dinners, Soups Tagged With: comfort food, comfort stew, creamy, Dutch oven, easy, Field Roast, make ahead, potato stew, tofutti, Vegan, vegan potato stew, wild rice

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto

January 9, 2014 by epicureanvegan

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

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

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

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

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

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

 

Creamy Wild Mushroom Risotto
 
Print
I've made this risotto several times now, and I swear we love it more each time. Sure, there's a little prep work involved, as well as some constant stirring, but I promise you, it's worth it. You can even read a book while you make this. Seriously. Have a book handy because you might as well get some reading done as you stir. (A glass of wine wouldn't hurt either).
Author: Epicurean Vegan
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • ¾-oz pkg. dried shiitake mushrooms
  • ¾-oz pkg. dried porcini mushrooms
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 3 C fresh spinach, chopped
  • ⅛-1/4 C lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ large onion, chopped small (about 1 C)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbs olive oil, divided
  • 16-oz cremini mushrooms
  • 1-1/2 tsp thyme
  • 1 C Arborio rice
  • ½ C white cooking wine
  • 1-1/2 Tbs Earth Balance margarine
  • ⅛ C nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp black pepper
Directions
  1. To begin, soak the shiitake and porcini in very hot water for about 30 minutes. Once re-hydrated, drain, wash, and chop the mushrooms up small; set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the spinach, lemon juice and salt; set aside as well.
  3. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 Tbs of olive oil and add the garlic. Cook 2 minutes over medium heat, then add the onion. Saute until softened, about 10 minutes. Add the cremini, shiitake, and porcini mushrooms and cook 10-12 minutes, or until they have cooked down. Add the thyme, Arborio rice, and remaining olive oil.
  4. Combine the rice well in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes.
  5. Stir in the wine and cook 5 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed.
  6. Add about ½ C of the broth and stir constantly until completely absorbed; repeat, adding only a ½ C of broth at a time. It will take about 20-30 minutes. (Good time to have a book handy). Next, stir in the spinach mixture and cook 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has cooked down.
  7. Stir in the Earth Balance, nutritional yeast, and black pepper. Enjoy! (This is great with some oven-roasted asparagus and garlic toast.)
3.4.3177

 

Filed Under: Dinners, Sides Tagged With: Arborio rice, easy, lemon, make ahead, Risotto, spinach, Vegan, vegetarian

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The Epicurean Vegan is devoted to those wanting to eat healthy, save animals, and reduce their carbon footprint. My decision to go vegan started out as a quest to get healthier, but the more I learned about veganism, the more I realized how damaging the meat and dairy industries are to the environment and, of course, the animals. And it is for these reasons, that I would never go back to eating or wearing animal products. Ever.
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