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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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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!

 

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!

 

Hearty Tuscan Chili

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Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganI like to imagine the posh Italian ski resorts would serve something like this, or at a cafe where snow is lightly falling in Milan. With a nice glass of red wine, this flavorful stew is perfect for a fall or winter evening with friends. This would also be great for tossing in the crockpot and letting it simmer on low all day (just do the sauteeing ahead of time). Served with some crusty bread or croutons, you’ll feel like the Italian Alps are right outside your window.

INGREDIENTS:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
1 red onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 Tofurky sausages, Spinach & Pesto flavor, cut into small cubes
1 medium zucchini, cut into small cubes
15-oz can tri-bean blend (or Cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
14-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
2-1/2 C vegetable broth
1/4 C red wine
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp basil
1/2 tsp parsley
1/2 tsp crushed rosemary
1/4 tsp thyme
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Crusty bread or croutons
Hearty Tuscan Chili2-- Epicurean VeganDIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 2 minutes, then add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Next, add the Tofurky and saute another 5-8 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes.
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganAdd the beans, tomatoes, wine, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean VeganTop with croutons or serve with some crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!
Hearty Tuscan Chili -- Epicurean Vegan

Hearty Tuscan Chili
 
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I like to imagine the posh Italian ski resorts would serve something like this, or at a cafe where snow is lightly falling in Milan. With a nice glass of red wine, this flavorful stew is perfect for a fall or winter evening with friends. This would also be great for tossing in the crockpot and letting it simmer on low all day (just do the sauteeing ahead of time). Served with some crusty bread or croutons, you'll feel like the Italian Alps are right outside your window.
Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 Tofurky sausages, Spinach & Pesto flavor, cut into small cubes
  • 1 medium zucchini, cut into small cubes
  • 15-oz can tri-bean blend (or Cannellini beans), drained and rinsed
  • 14-oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2-1/2 C vegetable broth
  • ¼ C red wine
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp basil
  • ½ tsp parsley
  • ½ tsp crushed rosemary
  • ¼ tsp thyme
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Crusty bread or croutons
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute 2 minutes, then add the onion and red bell pepper; cook until softened, about 10 minutes. Next, add the Tofurky and saute another 5-8 minutes. Add the zucchini and cook for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the beans, tomatoes, wine, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes over medium-low heat.
  3. Top with croutons or serve with some crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!

 

 

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Sun-dried Tomatoes

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Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Sun-dried Tomatoes -- Epicurean VeganI’d often see recipes using zucchini noodles and of course, they look delicious. I finally broke down and spent the $15 (minus 20% coupon from BB&B) and got the spiralizer.
20140607_085217This fancy little thing also works with carrots, potatoes, squash, etc. We planted zucchini this year, so I have a feeling this will come in handy this summer. We loved the noodles and even The Tenth Grader said he liked them more than pasta. It’s very easy to use and it gives you the option of making thin or thick noodles. We found that the thick noodles worked better. I had the teenager on it:
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Sun-dried Tomatoes -- Epicurean VeganAll I had to do was make the pesto and chop up the sun-dried tomatoes and dinner was ready in no time. Since there was only the two of us for this meal, we used just 2 zucchinis, but the pesto recipe makes enough for about 6 zucchinis. I also didn’t peel the zucchini, but you certainly may if you wish. The noodles can be pretty long, so you may want to cut them as you go for more manageable strands. Another thing, is that I slightly sauteed the noodles, but feel free to make this a raw meal by skipping that step.

INGREDIENTS:
2-6 medium zucchinis (depending on how many servings you’d like; about 1 zucchini per serving)
1/4 to 1/2 C sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
Optional: Vegan Parmesan
1-2 Tbs Earth Balance
Pesto:
2 C fresh basil leaves
1 C spinach
1/4 C olive oil
1/4 C lemon juice
2 cloves garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 Tbs nutritional yeast
1/2 C pine nuts or sunflower seeds

DIRECTIONS:
To make the pesto, combine all of the ingredients in a food processor, except for the pine nuts, and blend until smooth. Then add the pine nuts and process another minute.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Sun-dried Tomatoes -- Epicurean VeganIn a large skillet, melt the Earth Balance and add the spiralized zucchini.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Sun-dried Tomatoes -- Epicurean VeganSaute for only 3-4 minutes–just enough to warm the noodles. Again, you can omit this step for a raw-licious version. Zucchini cooks down fast, so don’t overdo it. Serve with a scoop or two of pesto, a few sun-dried tomatoes, and vegan Parmesan (if you’d like). Enjoy!

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto & Sun-dried Tomatoes
 
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Author:
Ingredients
  • 2-6 medium zucchinis (depending on how many servings you'd like; about 1 zucchini per serving)
  • ¼ to ½ C sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
  • Optional: Vegan Parmesan
  • 1-2 Tbs Earth Balance
  • Pesto:
  • 2 C fresh basil leaves
  • 1 C spinach
  • ¼ C olive oil
  • ¼ C lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ½ C pine nuts or sunflower seeds
Directions
  1. To make the pesto, combine all of the ingredients in a food processor, except for the pine nuts, and blend until smooth. Then add the pine nuts and process another minute.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the Earth Balance and add the spiralized zucchini. Saute for only 3-4 minutes--just enough to warm the noodles. Again, you can omit this step for a raw-licious version. Zucchini cooks down fast, so don't overdo it.
  3. Serve with a scoop or two of pesto, a few sun-dried tomatoes, and vegan Parmesan (if you'd like). Enjoy!

 

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus & Avocado

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

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

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

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

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

Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Hummus & Avocado
 
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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!

 

Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables

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Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables -- Epicurean VeganMy mom made this dish for me a few weeks ago and I’ve been anxious to make it for the family. It’s so easy to prepare. The only difficult part was actually finding this fancy little product . .

Knorr Homestyle Vegetable Stock, Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables -- Epicurean VeganMy mom had used Knorr’s Vegetable Homestyle Stock, but I had a hell of time finding it—or I should say, finding the vegetable flavor. Of course the beef, chicken, and low-sodium chicken ones seemed to be available, but us vegemites seem to get left out. I eventually found them at Safeway, but only one of the two Safeways in town (Taft and Drake for you locals). Anyway, this stock is ideal for this dish. It’s extremely concentrated; like a paste, so all I had to do was add a little water, and volia! it was ready.

The gnocchi on the other hand, was pretty easy to find . . .

Delallo Potato Gnocchi, Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables -- Epicurean Vegan

INGREDIENTS:
1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
1 large red onion, cut into big slices
1 large zucchini, cubed
1 large yellow squash, cubed
2 C carrots, cut into cubes/chunks
2-3 C mushrooms, quartered
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper
2 tubs of Knorr Vegetable Homestyle Stock
2 (16-oz) pkgs. gnocchi

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 400. Prepare all of the veggies. (When peeling a butternut squash, a decent potato peeler works just fine). Combine all the veggies (except the mushrooms) in a large bowl. Drizzle with just a tiny bit of olive oil and teensy bit of balsamic vinegar. You don’t want the veggies dripping with oil; use enough to just barely coat them. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a baking sheet. I used two pans—the vegetables won’t roast evenly if the pan is too crowded; they’ll steam instead.

Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables -- Epicurean VeganI roasted them for about 30 minutes before adding the mushrooms (that I prepared with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper). All ovens run differently and cooking time also depends on how large the vegetables are cut. Roast another 10 minutes or so. A good time to start the water boiling for the gnocchi would be right before you throw the mushrooms in.  In a small measuring cup, combine two tubs of the Knorr stock with about 1/2 C of water. Heat in the microwave for about a minute.

Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables -- Epicurean VeganThe gnocchi will only take 3-5 minutes. I divided the drained gnocchi in half and added them to the two pans of veggies. I then poured 1/4 C of the stock to each pan and coated everything well. I ended up combining both pans into one . . .

Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables -- Epicurean VeganThat’s it! So delicious . . . enjoy!

Gnocchi with Roasted Vegetables
 
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Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 large red onion, cut into big slices
  • 1 large zucchini, cubed
  • 1 large yellow squash, cubed
  • 2 C carrots, cut into cubes/chunks
  • 2-3 C mushrooms, quartered
  • Olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 tubs of Knorr Vegetable Homestyle Stock
  • 2 (16-oz) pkgs. gnocchi
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400.
  2. Prepare all of the veggies. (When peeling a butternut squash, a decent potato peeler works just fine). Combine all the veggies (except the mushrooms) in a large bowl.
  3. Drizzle with just a tiny bit of olive oil and teensy bit of balsamic vinegar. You don't want the veggies dripping with oil; use enough to just barely coat them.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Transfer to a baking sheet. I used two pans---the vegetables won't roast evenly if the pan is too crowded; they'll steam instead.
  6. I roasted them for about 30 minutes before adding the mushrooms (that I prepared with some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper).
  7. All ovens run differently and cooking time also depends on how large the vegetables are cut. Roast another 10 minutes or so. A good time to start the water boiling for the gnocchi would be right before you throw the mushrooms in.
  8. In a small measuring cup, combine two tubs of the Knorr stock with about ½ C of water. Heat in the microwave for about a minute
  9. The gnocchi will only take 3-5 minutes. I divided the drained gnocchi in half and added them to the two pans of veggies. I then poured ¼ C of the stock to each pan and coated everything well. I ended up combining both pans into one.
  10. Enjoy!

Cherry-Zucchini Bread

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Cherry Zucchini Bread -- Epicurean Vegan

Sorry for my absence. We were all hit with a pretty nasty cold and it’s taken a couple of weeks to return to normal. The break did, however, give me way too much time to veg out and thanks to Hulu and PBS, I watched all three seasons of Downton Abbey. (If they keep killing off beloved characters, I’m going to have to stop watching; my heart can’t take it.) Anyway, I’m back in the kitchen and it feels great. We spent the afternoon with our friends (both human and animal) at Beakon Hill Farm and Education Center. Their newest residents are a trio of adorable lambs. They took them in when they were just less than 24 hours old and have been bottle-feeding them for weeks. Randy and Teresa are such amazing people and are working toward making Beakon Hill a non-profit. It is home to some of the most wonderful animals: goats, horses, alpacas, hens, roosters, ducks, and many more.

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The Eighth Grader bottle-feeding one of the lambs

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Shiro’s just like a puppy, but with horns. His latest game is to push against you with his head.

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 Zee Man liked to follow us around as we shoveled poop from the pens . . .

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So I figured I’d bring along this amazing bread to share (with the humans) of Beakon Hill. The recipe is adapted from Hell Yeah it’s Vegan, because I made a few changes and added some ingredients. That’s the beauty of making two loaves; share the love!

INGREDIENTS: (Makes 2 loaves)
4-1/2 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer
1/2 C warm water
1-1/4 C brown sugar
1/2 C applesauce
1/2 C canola oil
1 tsp vanilla
2 C zucchini, grated
2 C flour
1 C whole wheat flour
1 Tbs baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 Tbs cinnamon
2 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp salt
1 C dried cherries
1/8 C chia seeds (optional . . . I was out of them, but I would have definitely put them in if I had any)!

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. Grease two 8x4x2″ loaf pans and set aside. In a large bowl, mix together the egg replacer and warm water. Add the brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla and applesauce. I don’t usually keep applesauce on hand, but we definitely have plenty of apples, so I just pureed two apples in the food processor.

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Add the zucchini and blend until smooth. In a medium bowl, combine the flours, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and chia seeds (if using). Little by little, add the dry ingredients to the batter.

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Fold in the dried cherries. Divide the dough between the two loaf pans.

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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until done in the middle (check using a toothpick or knife).

Cherry Zucchini Bread -- Epicurean Vegan

Let them cool on a rack and lay a piece of foil loosely over the top to keep in the moisture while they cool. Slice and enjoy!

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Me holding Worf, the rooster.

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Cherry-Zucchini Bread
 
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The recipe is adapted from Hell Yeah it's Vegan, because I made a few changes and added some ingredients. That's the beauty of making two loaves; share the love!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 4-1/2 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer
  • ½ C warm water
  • 1-1/4 C brown sugar
  • ½ C applesauce
  • ½ C canola oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 C zucchini, grated
  • 2 C flour
  • 1 C whole wheat flour
  • 1 Tbs baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 Tbs cinnamon
  • 2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 C dried cherries
  • ⅛ C chia seeds (optional . . . I was out of them, but I would have definitely put them in if I had any)!
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. Grease two 8x4x2" loaf pans and set aside. In a large bowl, mix together the egg replacer and warm water. Add the brown sugar, canola oil, vanilla and applesauce. I don't usually keep applesauce on hand, but we definitely have plenty of apples, so I just pureed two apples in the food processor.
  3. Add the zucchini and blend until smooth. In a medium bowl, combine the flours, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and chia seeds (if using). Little by little, add the dry ingredients to the batter.
  4. Fold in the dried cherries. Divide the dough between the two loaf pans.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until done in the middle (check using a toothpick or knife).
  6. Let them cool on a rack and lay a piece of foil loosely over the top to keep in the moisture while they cool. Slice and enjoy!

Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart

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Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

This was so good and so easy to make! Yes, I know, puff pastry—even though it’s vegan—isn’t the healthiest of foods, but once in a while, it’s okay. In fact, it’s downright fun to come up with recipes using it. This is the perfect time to break out the mandolin slicer (if you’re brave enough). I’m still too freaked out to use it after my mishap with it.  Anyway, I used my go-to ricotta cheese recipe which makes more than what you need for this, but the rest will freeze well or keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s great mixed in some cooked pasta with veggies, or small batch of a stuffed shells. You can also just halve the recipe if you’d like. This dish works as a main meal, or cut into small squares, is ideal as an appetizer. Check out these other tart recipes: Savory Vegetable Tart and Savory Asparagus Tart.

INGREDIENTS:
1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
1 medium zucchini, sliced thin
2 tomatoes, sliced thin
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Ricotta:
14-oz tub of extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
1 tsp basil (sometimes I use fresh basil–about a cup)
1 tsp rosemary (Again, you can use 1 Tbs of freshly chopped rosemary)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 Tbs lemon juice
1/3 C nutritional yeast
Optional: 1/4 to 1/3 cup of vegan mozzarella, shredded

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 350. On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to fit an 11″x17″ cookie sheet. It’s ok if the edges go over the side—just tuck them in. Stick with a fork in several places.

DSC07186

Bake for 7-10 minutes (check it to make sure it’s not browning). You want it just toasted:

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To make the ricotta, combine all of the ingredients (except the cheese, if using) in a food processor. Transfer to a bowl, then stir in the cheese.

DSC07187

Spread about a cup or so of the ricotta onto the puff pastry. You can use as little or as much as you’d like. Top with the tomato slices. I got about 9 slices, so I spaced them evenly on top.

DSC07189

Next, layer on the zucchinis. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the crust brown the zucchinis are tender.

Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

Transfer to a large cutting board, then cut and enjoy!

Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart -- Epicurean Vegan

Zucchini, Tomato & Ricotta Tart
 
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This was so good and so easy to make! Yes, I know, puff pastry---even though it's vegan---isn't the healthiest of foods, but once in a while, it's okay. In fact, it's downright fun to come up with recipes using it. This is the perfect time to break out the mandolin slicer (if you're brave enough). I'm still too freaked out to use it after my mishap with it. Anyway, I used my go-to ricotta cheese recipe which makes more than what you need for this, but the rest will freeze well or keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. It's great mixed in some cooked pasta with veggies, or small batch of a stuffed shells. You can also just halve the recipe if you'd like. This dish works as a main meal, or cut into small squares, is ideal as an appetizer. Check out these other tart recipes: Savory Vegetable Tart and Savory Asparagus Tart.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced thin
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced thin
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Ricotta:
  • 14-oz tub of extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 1 tsp basil (sometimes I use fresh basil--about a cup)
  • 1 tsp rosemary (Again, you can use 1 Tbs of freshly chopped rosemary)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbs lemon juice
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • Optional: ¼ to ⅓ cup of vegan mozzarella, shredded
Directions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350.
  2. On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to fit an 11"x17" cookie sheet. It's okay if the edges go over the side---just tuck them in. Stick with a fork in several places.
  3. Bake for 7-10 minutes (check it to make sure it's not browning). You want it just toasted.
  4. To make the ricotta, combine all of the ingredients (except the cheese, if using) in a food processor. Transfer to a bowl, then stir in the cheese.
  5. Spread about a cup or so of the ricotta onto the puff pastry. You can use as little or as much as you'd like. Top with the tomato slices. I got about 9 slices, so I spaced them evenly on top.
  6. Next, layer on the zucchinis. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the crust brown the zucchinis are tender.
  8. Transfer to a large cutting board, then cut and enjoy!

Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles

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Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles -- Epicurean Vegan

Sorry for the absence…I haven’t been making new dishes over the last couple of weeks, but instead, have been relying on some old favorites like enchiladas, creamy cashew pasta, and tofu sandwiches. We are leaving Wednesday for Santa Fe and Taos, so it was a good time to use up the veggies in the fridge. I’m excited to bring you lots of wonderful vegan food and news from New Mexico. It’s been ten years since we’ve there and we’re  looking forward to going back. Of course, any road trip is not complete in my household without an accident/injury a day or two before leaving. (Last year, the Eighth Grader got his two front teeth knocked out during a trampoline incident. We were supposed to drive to Southern CO for a wedding. It didn’t happen. Spring Break this year was altered after the kid’s appendectomy). It was my turn, I guess. I got a little too excited trying out my new mandolin slicer Sunday night…

I should have seen it coming. I’ve heard the horror stories associated with the mandolin, but I bought one the other day anyway. First time I use it, I slice a pretty large chunk off my right pinkie finger. I’m lucky though, it could have been worse. I was millimeters short of taking off bone and nail! Yikes. Good thing I married an Eagle Scout. He kept me calm and got it wrapped up. I ended up going to urgent care yesterday morning and they cleaned it up good, wrapped it, and I have to go back today to have it looked at. The doc said it will take several months to heal. 🙁  The mandolin is in timeout.

Had I not been an idiot and lost part of an appendage, I probably would have used it to make this stir-fry, but I decided to stick with a good old-fashioned knife. It was slow-going, but I had some help. I picked up some East-West Stir-fry Sauce and these awesome ramen noodles from Hakubaku. Both were outstanding. The sauce had a mild flavor with just a tiny bit of zip. I used about 1/2 the jar, but feel free to use as much or as little as you’d like.

Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles -- Epicurean Vegan

 

INGREDIENTS:
2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
6 mushrooms, quartered
6 celery stalks, sliced
1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 can bamboo shoots, drained
6 green onions, sliced
1-2 handfuls of cashews
3 Tbs freshly grated gingerroot
1 jar East-est Stir-fry Sauce
9.5-oz Hakubaku noodles
Olive oil

DIRECTIONS
Heat about a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Add the zucchini, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until they begin to get tender, about 7-9 minutes.

Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the bamboo shoots and ginger. Cook another 5 -7 minutes.

Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles -- Epicurean Vegan

The noodles will take four minutes to cook in boiling water, so when you toss them in to cook, add the mushrooms, green onion, and cashews to the skillet. Cook 2 minutes…then add the sauce. Stir well to combine and saute to heat the sauce.

Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles -- Epicurean Vegan

Drain the noodles and serve them topped with some stir-fry. Enjoy!

Cashew Stir-fry with Noodles
 
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Author:
Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, cut into sticks
  • 6 mushrooms, quartered
  • 6 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 can bamboo shoots, drained
  • 6 green onions, sliced
  • 1-2 handfuls of cashews
  • 3 Tbs freshly grated gingerroot
  • 1 jar East-est Stir-fry Sauce
  • 9.5-oz Hakubaku noodles
  • Olive oil
Directions
  1. Heat about a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet. Add the zucchini, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until they begin to get tender, about 7-9 minutes.
  2. Add the bamboo shoots and ginger. Cook another 5 -7 minutes.
  3. The noodles will take four minutes to cook in boiling water, so when you toss them in to cook, add the mushrooms, green onion, and cashews to the skillet. Cook 2 minutes...then add the sauce. Stir well to combine and saute to heat the sauce.
  4. Drain the noodles and serve them topped with some stir-fry. Enjoy!

 

Field Roast and Veggie Tacos

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Field Roast and Veggie Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

I’ve used Field Roast in breakfast burritos, so why not tacos? ( As you can see, I had a taco fiesta foul with one of the shells, but it worked out ok. 🙂 ) Somehow, zucchini reproduced in my fridge so I had to use some of them up—they’re ideal for tacos.  I also had some chipotle-flavored olive oil from Rocky Mountain Olive Oil Company—the perfect opportunity to use it.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
2 tsp garlic, minced
4 Field Roast Chipotle-flavored veggie sausages, thawed and crumbled
4 med zucchinis, cut into sticks
2 red bell peppers, sliced
Corn taco shells
All the other fixings: vegan cheddar shreds, vegan sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and salsa

DIRECTIONS:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the onions, and cook 4-5 minutes.

Field Roast and Veggie Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Next, add the zucchini, peppers, and Field Roast. You don’t necessarily have to add the sausages at this point since it’s only a matter of heating them through, but I like to get the flavors incorporated with the veggies early on.

Field Roast and Veggie Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Cook over medium heat, stirring often, for about 20 minutes, or until tender. I like to cover and let the steam help cook the veggies. Serve with your favorite taco fixings and enjoy!

Field Roast and Veggie Tacos
 
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Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 tsp garlic, minced
  • 4 Field Roast Chipotle-flavored veggie sausages, thawed and crumbled
  • 4 med zucchinis, cut into sticks
  • 2 red bell peppers, sliced
  • Corn taco shells
  • All the other fixings: vegan cheddar shreds, vegan sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and salsa
Directions
  1. In a skillet, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the onions, and cook 4-5 minutes.
  2. Next, add the zucchini, peppers, and Field Roast. You don't necessarily have to add the sausages at this point since it's only a matter of heating them through, but I like to get the flavors incorporated with the veggies early on.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, for about 20 minutes, or until tender. I like to cover and let the steam help cook the veggies. Serve with your favorite taco fixings and enjoy!

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