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Quinoa-Tempeh Veggie Wraps

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Quinoa-Tempeh Veggie Wraps -- Epicurean VeganWho doesn’t love a good veggie wrap? These take very little time to prepare, so lunch or dinner will be ready in minutes. Not only is this a fast and tasty meal, but both quinoa and tempeh provide lots of protein, iron and fiber, not to mention some vitamin B2 and manganese, an antioxidant. These are downright delicious topped with veggies and vegan Thousand Island dressing from Follow Your Heart (which is gluten-free, non GMO and has no cholesterol). Great to wrap and go when you’re on the road, too.
20140720_182001INGREDIENTS:
2 8oz pkgs tempeh, cut into bite-sized cubes
1 small onion, chopped
1 C quinoa
1-1/2 C veggie broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
Tamari
1 Tbs vegan Worcestershire sauce
1/3 C pepitas
1-1/2 C cherry tomatoes, halved
2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
2 C lettuce, chopped
Vegan dressing of your choice
6 Flour tortillas, warmed

DIRECTIONS:
Start the quinoa, as it will take about 20 minutes. In a medium sauce pan, combine the broth and quinoa. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and let cook about 17-22 minutes, until the water is absorbed. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute over medium heat for a minute, then add the onions. Cook the onions for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the tempeh and cook 10 minutes, stirring often until most of the tempeh begins to brown. I then drizzled tamari all over the tempeh and onions, using just enough to coat them, perhaps around a 1/4 cup. Add the Worcestershire sauce too. Coat the mixture thoroughly and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the pepitas.
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To assemble the wrap, start with quinoa, pile on some of the tempeh-onion mixture, then top with lettuce, tomato, avocado and dressing. Wrap up and enjoy!

Quinoa-Tempeh Veggie Wraps
 
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Who doesn't love a good veggie wrap? These take very little time to prepare, so lunch or dinner will be ready in minutes. Not only is this a fast and tasty meal, but both quinoa and tempeh provide lots of protein, iron and fiber, not to mention some vitamin B2 and manganese, an antioxidant. These are downright delicious topped with veggies and vegan Thousand Island dressing from Follow Your Heart (which is gluten-free, non GMO and has no cholesterol). Great to wrap and go when you're on the road, too.
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 8oz pkgs tempeh, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 C quinoa
  • 1-1/2 C veggie broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • Tamari
  • 1 Tbs vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • ⅓ C pepitas
  • 1-1/2 C cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and diced
  • 2 C lettuce, chopped
  • Vegan dressing of your choice
  • 6 Flour tortillas, warmed
Directions
  1. Start the quinoa, as it will take about 20 minutes. In a medium sauce pan, combine the broth and quinoa. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and let cook about 17-22 minutes, until the water is absorbed.
  2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Saute over medium heat for a minute, then add the onions. Cook the onions for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
  3. Add the tempeh and cook 10 minutes, stirring often until most of the tempeh begins to brown.
  4. I then drizzled tamari all over the tempeh and onions, using just enough to coat them, perhaps around a ¼ cup. Add the Worcestershire sauce too. Coat the mixture thoroughly and reduce heat to medium-low.
  5. Stir in the pepitas.
  6. To assemble the wrap, start with quinoa, pile on some of the tempeh-onion mixture, then top with lettuce, tomato, avocado and dressing. Wrap up and enjoy!

 

Quinoa & Kale Pitas with Tahini Dressing

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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:
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!

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich

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Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

If you want to call this “Egg Salad” or “Tuna Salad,” go right ahead. It certainly has the feel, so to speak. I do put some kelp powder in this salad, so it can have that tuna-ish essence. I made this version somewhat chunky, but I’ve also made it more like a pate. If that’s more your fancy, I suggest using a food processor to mash up the tempeh, then finely cut the onions instead of chopping them. Either way, this is a healthy lunch that will keep in the fridge for a few days. Serve on some toasted bread with lettuce, and if you like, a slice of vegan cheese.

INGREDIENTS:
8-oz tempeh, cut into large chunks
1/3 C onion, chopped (I prefer red onion in this, but I was out)
1/3 C vegan mayo
1-1/2 Tbs yellow miso mixed with 1 Tbs water
1/4 C fresh parsley, minced or chopped
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried dill
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
1 tsp kelp powder
1 Tbs water
The rest…optional ingredients
bread
tomato
lettuce
vegan cheese
cucumber slices

DIRECTIONS:
Steam the tempeh for 15-20 minutes.

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Transfer the tempeh to a bowl (or the food processor) and mash up until your reach the desired consistency.

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Makes about 2-1/2 cups. Enjoy!

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich -- Epicurean Vegan

Tempeh-Salad Sandwich
 
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If you want to call this "Egg Salad" or "Tuna Salad," go right ahead. It certainly has the feel, so to speak. I do put some kelp powder in this salad, so it can have that tuna-ish essence. I made this version somewhat chunky, but I've also made it more like a pate. If that's more your fancy, I suggest using a food processor to mash up the tempeh, then finely cut the onions instead of chopping them. Either way, this is a healthy lunch that will keep in the fridge for a few days. Serve on some toasted bread with lettuce, and if you like, a slice of vegan cheese.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 8-oz tempeh, cut into large chunks
  • ⅓ C onion, chopped (I prefer red onion in this, but I was out)
  • ⅓ C vegan mayo
  • 1-1/2 Tbs yellow miso mixed with 1 Tbs water
  • ¼ C fresh parsley, minced or chopped
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp kelp powder
  • 1 Tbs water
  • The rest...optional ingredients
  • bread
  • tomato
  • lettuce
  • vegan cheese
  • cucumber slices
Directions
  1. Steam the tempeh for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Transfer the tempeh to a bowl (or the food processor) and mash up until your reach the desired consistency.
  3. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Makes about 2-1/2 cups. Enjoy

Vegan & Gluten-Free Mini Quiches

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Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean VeganI’ve been wanting to figure out how to make vegan mini quiches for a while now, but I wasn’t sure where to start. Do I use tofu? Flour? Wave a magic wand? Well, when I came across this recipe, I knew my search was over. I only made one modification and that was to add the veggies to the batter instead of just topping the batter with them. Doing so, will give you about 4 more quiches (16 instead of 12) unless . . . you have a larger muffin tin like I do—you’ll just get 12 larger quiches. Otherwise, you could add your veggies just to the tops. I was thoroughly impressed with these. They taste like a cross between an actual egg-y quiche and a biscuit. They’re packed with protein and make a great quick breakfast on the go—just zap in the microwave for 20-30 seconds and you’re good to go. (These are especially ideal for a post-workout snack.) Also, think about making these in tart pans, ramekins, or other small dishes for various presentations.

INGREDIENTS:
2-1/2 C garbanzo/chickpea flour (I also had some garbanzo & flava flour mix that worked great, too)
3 C cold, filtered water
3 Tbs olive oil
2 tsp salt
Cooking spray
Veggies/toppings: Use your favorites, but I like to use 1-1/2 to 2 cups of chopped . . . spinach, tomato, mushrooms, green onion, cilantro
Other options: veggie bacon or ham, bell pepper, sauteed garlic, olives, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, basil, Swiss chard, shredded (and squeezed dry) zucchini, peas, . . . the list is endless. (My favorites are mushrooms, onion, and kalamata olives along with some dried rosemary, thyme, and garlic. YUM!)
Note: I used sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) in a batch and I recommend easing up on the oil in the batter by at least a tablespoon.
Also, throw in some chia seeds. Pepitas or sunflower seeds would also be great additions. I also sometimes add some seasonings or herbs such as thyme, basil, or garlic powder for some extra flavor.

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 500 and lightly spray the muffin tins. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, oil, and salt. Be sure to whisk until all the lumps are gone and  you have a smooth batter. You can then pour the batter evenly among 12 muffin cups and just add your veggies to the top, OR (as I would recommend) add the veggies to the batter.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean Vegan

Fill the muffin tins . . . Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean VeganBake for 14 minutes, then crack the oven door slightly, and cook another 11 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes or so, and remove with a knife. Enjoy!

Vegan and Gluten-Free Mini Quiches -- Epicurean Vegan

Vegan & Gluten-Free Mini Quiches
 
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Author:
Serves: 12-16
Ingredients
  • 2-1/2 C garbanzo/chickpea flour (I also had some garbanzo & flava flour mix that worked great, too)
  • 3 C cold, filtered water
  • 3 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 tsp salt
  • Cooking spray
  • Veggies/toppings: Use your favorites, but I like to use 1-1/2 to 2 cups of chopped . . . spinach, tomato, mushrooms, green onion, cilantro.
  • Other options: veggie bacon or ham, bell pepper, sauteed garlic, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, basil, Swiss chard, shredded (and squeezed dry) zucchini, peas, . . . the list is endless. (My favorites are mushrooms, onion, and kalamata olives along with some dried rosemary, thyme, and garlic. YUM!)
  • Note: I used sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil) in a batch and I recommend easing up on the oil in the batter by at least a tablespoon.
  • Also, throw in some chia seeds. Pepitas or sunflower seeds would also be great additions. I also sometimes add some seasonings or herbs such as thyme, basil, or garlic powder for some extra flavor.
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 500 and lightly spray the muffin tins.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, water, oil, and salt. Be sure to whisk until all the lumps are gone and you have a smooth batter. You can then pour the batter evenly among 12 muffin cups and just add your veggies to the top, OR (as I would recommend) add the veggies to the batter.
  3. Fill the muffin tins.
  4. Bake for 14 minutes, then crack the oven door slightly, and cook another 11 minutes.
  5. Let cool 5 minutes or so, and remove with a knife. Enjoy!

Roasted Mushroom and Garlic Soup with Caramelized Onions

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Roasted Mushroom & Garlic Soup with Caramelized OnionsI found this recipe on She Wears Many Hats, and knew it was right up my alley. I love mushrooms and it also has white beans, so I was hooked. I wasn’t expecting to change it up, but I ended up deviating off the recipe a little. It turned out fabulous; full of flavor! Not only that, it was pretty easy to make. The only thing that takes a while is caramelizing the onions, so I recommend allowing about 30-45 minutes for that—but well worth it!

INGREDIENTS:
6 C white and cremini mushrooms, quartered
3 – 15 oz cans white beans, not drained
5-6 large cloves of garlic, skins on
2 Tbs olive oil + a drizzle
Salt and pepper, to taste
8-10 fresh sage leaves
8-10 thyme sprigs + 1 Tbs fresh leaves
5 C vegetable stock (I recommend using Better Than Bouillon)
2 Tbs dried minced onions
Caramelized onions:
1 large white or yellow onion, sliced into strips
2 Tbs olive oil
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
1 Tbs sugar

DIRECTIONS:
Begin with the onions. Combine the onions and olive oil and add to a medium skillet. Saute over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they begin to brown. Add the balsamic vinegar and cook another 15 minutes; stirring often. Stir in the sugar and continue to saute until the onions are almost black and sticking to the skillet.

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Reduce heat to low. Of course, while you’re doing all of this, you’ll need to start the soup . . . Preheat oven to 450. Coat the mushrooms with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a large baking pan. Add the sage and thyme sprigs. To prepare the garlic, place the cloves in the middle of a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil and wrap up tightly; place onto the baking sheet.

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Bake/roast for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, add the broth, beans, salt, pepper (to taste), and the tablespoon of thyme to a large soup pot; bring to a simmer. Stir the mushrooms in the oven and roast another 10 minutes.

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Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. Gather the sage leaves and set aside. Transfer one cup of the soup broth to a blender, along with 2 cups of drained beans. Toss in the sage leaves and the two tablespoons of minced onion, along with the garlic (the skins should slide right off). Puree until smooth. Add the mushrooms to the soup and stir in the puree; season with salt and pepper if you’d like then bring to a simmer.

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Serve with some caramelized onions on top and enjoy!

Roasted Mushroom and Garlic Soup with Caramelized Onions
 
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I found this recipe on She Wears Many Hats, and knew it was right up my alley. I love mushrooms and it also has white beans, so I was hooked. I wasn't expecting to change it up, but I ended up deviating off the recipe a little. It turned out fabulous; full of flavor! Not only that, it was pretty easy to make. The only thing that takes a while is caramelizing the onions, so I recommend allowing about 30-45 minutes for that---but well worth it!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 6 C white and cremini mushrooms, quartered
  • 3 - 15 oz cans white beans, not drained
  • 5-6 large cloves of garlic, skins on
  • 2 Tbs olive oil + a drizzle
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8-10 fresh sage leaves
  • 8-10 thyme sprigs + 1 Tbs fresh leaves
  • 5 C vegetable stock (I recommend using Better Than Bouillon)
  • 2 Tbs dried minced onions
  • Caramelized onions:
  • 1 large white or yellow onion, sliced into strips
  • 2 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
  • 1 Tbs sugar
Directions
  1. Begin with the onions. Combine the onions and olive oil and add to a medium skillet. Saute over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until they begin to brown. Add the balsamic vinegar and cook another 15 minutes; stirring often. Stir in the sugar and continue to saute until the onions are almost black and sticking to the skillet.
  2. Reduce heat to low. Of course, while you're doing all of this, you'll need to start the soup . . . Preheat oven to 450. Coat the mushrooms with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a large baking pan. Add the sage and thyme sprigs. To prepare the garlic, place the cloves in the middle of a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil and wrap up tightly; place onto the baking sheet.
  3. Bake/roast for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, add the broth, beans, salt, pepper (to taste), and the tablespoon of thyme to a large soup pot; bring to a simmer. Stir the mushrooms in the oven and roast another 10 minutes.
  4. Remove the thyme sprigs and discard. Gather the sage leaves and set aside. Transfer one cup of the soup broth to a blender, along with 2 cups of drained beans. Toss in the sage leaves and the two tablespoons of minced onion, along with the garlic (the skins should slide right off). Puree until smooth. Add the mushrooms to the soup and stir in the puree; season with salt and pepper if you'd like then bring to a simmer.
  5. Serve with some caramelized onions on top and enjoy!

Quinoa and Rice Stir-fry with Cashews & White Beans

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Quinoa and Rice Stir-fry with Cashews & White Beans -- Epicurean VeganWhen I want to create a quick and filling dinner, I usually reach for quinoa or rice. Mixed with veggies and nuts, it always makes a great meal and very handy leftovers. I threw in some white beans, too and ended up with a flavorful, protein-filled dish that is nearly gluten-free. The rice mix I used contained wheat, but you can sub in another variety to make it gluten-free.

 

INGREDIENTS:
1 C quinoa
1 box Long Grain Wild Mix
4 C vegetable broth, divided
2 C mushrooms, chopped
6 green onion, sliced
1 C cashews
1 15-oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
1 Tbs olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 C white wine
1 C fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
Start by getting the rice and quinoa going. In a medium saucepan, bring 1-3/4 C of the stock to a boil. Add the rice mix and seasoning packet, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 25 minutes.

Quinoa and Rice Stir-fry with Cashews & White Beans -- Epicurean VeganStart the quinoa about 15 minutes before the rice mix is done. In another medium saucepan, bring the remaining 2-1/4 C stock to a boil and stir in the quinoa. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 12-15 minutes. In a large skillet, toast the cashews over medium heat until they begin to brown; transfer to a boil and set aside. In the same skillet,  heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the mushrooms, green onion, and white beans, and saute 5-7 minutes.

Quinoa and Rice Stir-fry with Cashews & White Beans -- Epicurean VeganStir in the rice, quinoa, and white wine; saute 3 minutes.

Quinoa and Rice Stir-fry with Cashews & White Beans -- Epicurean VeganStir in the parsley and cashews and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

Quinoa and Rice Stir-fry with Cashews & White Beans
 
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When I want to create a quick and filling dinner, I usually reach for quinoa or rice. Mixed with veggies and nuts, it always makes a great meal and very handy leftovers. I threw in some white beans, too and ended up with a flavorful, protein-filled dish that is nearly gluten-free. The rice mix I used contained wheat, but you can sub in another variety to make it gluten-free.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 C quinoa
  • 1 box Long Grain Wild Mix
  • 4 C vegetable broth, divided
  • 2 C mushrooms, chopped
  • 6 green onion, sliced
  • 1 C cashews
  • 1 15-oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ C white wine
  • 1 C fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. Start by getting the rice and quinoa going. In a medium saucepan, bring 1-3/4 C of the stock to a boil. Add the rice mix and seasoning packet, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 25 minutes.
  2. Start the quinoa about 15 minutes before the rice mix is done. In another medium saucepan, bring the remaining 2-1/4 C stock to a boil and stir in the quinoa. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 12-15 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, toast the cashews over medium heat until they begin to brown; transfer to a boil and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the mushrooms, green onion, and white beans, and saute 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in the rice, quinoa, and white wine; saute 3 minutes.
  6. Stir in the parsley and cashews and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

Baked Tofu Tacos

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Baked Tofu Tacos -- Epicurean VeganThis was a delicious experiment. The Eighth Grader suggested these tacos, so why not? Tofu’s the chameleon of plant-based foods. I had bought some seasoning mix from Savory Spice Shop   that we thought sounded interesting, and decided to try it out on these tacos.

I think it works best to try to marinate the tofu in the seasoning for a few hours. (These tacos tasted even better the next day).

INGREDIENTS:
16-20 oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
2 Tbs seasoning mix of your choice, divided
2-4 Tbs olive oil, divided
1 onion, sliced
Taco shells
Lettuce, shopped
Tomatoes, chopped
Salsa
Avocado, sliced

DIRECTIONS:
Cut the tofu into little slabs . . .

Baked Tofu Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Line a baking sheet (preferably with sides to catch the oil) with foil. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of the seasoning mix with about 1 to 1-1/2 Tbs of olive oil. Brush the foil with a little of the mixture, then line the pan with the tofu. Brush the tops and sides of the tofu with the olive oil mix. If you can cover and leave the tofu for an hour or two, that would be great. You can also combine the the 2 Tbs of the mixture and olive oil in a bag or dish with the tofu and marinate it that way.

Baked Tofu Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Preheat oven to 375. Bake the tofu for about 15 minutes, or until the edges start to brown. Turn the tofu slices and brush the remaining seasoning/oil mix on the other side. Bake another 15 minutes or so, again, until the edges begin to brown.

While the tofu is baking, saute the onion slices in a little olive oil over medium heat.

Baked Tofu Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Once baked, cut each slice in half, longways.

Baked Tofu Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

I transferred the tofu to the onion pan.

Baked Tofu Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Scoop into some taco shells, add a slice or two of avocado, some lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa. Enjoy!

Baked Tofu Tacos
 
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Author:
Ingredients
  • 16-20 oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2 Tbs seasoning mix of your choice, divided
  • 2-4 Tbs olive oil, divided
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • Taco shells
  • Lettuce, shopped
  • Tomatoes, chopped
  • Salsa
  • Avocado, sliced
Directions
  1. Cut the tofu into little slabs
  2. Line a baking sheet (preferably with sides to catch the oil) with foil. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of the seasoning mix with about 1 to 1-1/2 Tbs of olive oil. Brush the foil with a little of the mixture, then line the pan with the tofu. Brush the tops and sides of the tofu with the olive oil mix. If you can cover and leave the tofu for an hour or two, that would be great. You can also combine the the 2 Tbs of the mixture and olive oil in a bag or dish with the tofu and marinate it that way.
  3. Preheat oven to 375. Bake the tofu for about 15 minutes, or until the edges start to brown. Turn the tofu slices and brush the remaining seasoning/oil mix on the other side. Bake another 15 minutes or so, again, until the edges begin to brown.
  4. While the tofu is baking, saute the onion slices in a little olive oil over medium heat.
  5. Once baked, cut each slice in half, longways.
  6. I transferred the tofu to the onion pan.
  7. Scoop into some taco shells, add a slice or two of avocado, some lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa. Enjoy!

Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers

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Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers -- Epicurean VeganThe Seventh-Grader was nice enough to share his cold with me. I can’t remember the last time I was out of commission with a cold, and I don’t plan to let this one win. So far, I’ve kept it somewhat at bay with lots of juiced veggies and kale. Never under estimate the healing powers of vegetables. That may be why I was drawn to making these. Bell peppers, particularly orange and yellow ones, are packed with vitamins C, A, and B6 (although the heating process will deplete them a bit). But I’m certain they still retain many of their healthy benefits. These also have mushrooms which are a great source of B vitamins, selenium, vitamin D, and potassium. Now on to the zucchini…these guys have tons of vitamin C and A which are actually anti-inflammatory agents. Zucchinis are also high in fiber—an added bonus! And let’s not forget that quinoa is an ideal source of protein, too! Let the healing begin!

Oh, and remember Operation Save Basil from October?

I’m happy to report that it has bounced back beautifully. It looks like there’s room to add another basil plant, but for now, I’m thrilled the basil’s back, baby!

INGREDIENTS:
3 large bell peppers (preferably orange, red, or yellow) sliced in half and innards cleaned out
1 C quinoa
1-15oz can mandarin oranges (look for no sugar added), juice reserved
1 C water
1 tsp tamari
1 Tbs olive oil
2 tsp garlic, minced
1/2 C slivered almonds
1 C mushrooms, sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced then quartered
1/2 C fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce:
1 C almond milk
2 Tbs arrowroot
2 Tbs nutritional yeast
2 Tbs yellow miso
dash of nutmeg
dash of garlic salt

DIRECTIONS:
Begin with the quinoa: Combine the quinoa, reserved Mandarin orange juice, water, and tamari in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover. Let simmer for 12-15 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375. While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil and garlic in a skillet. Add the slivered almonds and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.

Add the zucchini, mushrooms, salt, and pepper; cook another 6-8 minutes on medium heat.

Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers -- Epicurean Vegan

Once the veggies are tender, remove from the heat and stir in the oranges and basil.

Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers -- Epicurean Vegan

Stir in the cooked quinoa and evenly fill the pepper halves.

Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers -- Epicurean Vegan

Sometimes I pour about 2 cups of water in the bottom of the pan before covering with foil. This will help soften the peppers without overcooking the filling. I think this is especially important when using cheese or fake meats in the filling. Bake 20-25 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the sauce ingredients over high heat, stirring constantly. After a few minutes, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir frequently so it doesn’t burn. Don’t worry about getting the sauce thickened; it’s meant to seep and ooze into the filling. 🙂

Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers -- Epicurean Vegan

Ladle the sauce over the peppers and enjoy!

Quinoa-Mandarin Stuffed Peppers
 
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Bell peppers, particularly orange and yellow ones, are packed with vitamins C, A, and B6 (although the heating process will deplete them a bit). But I'm certain they still retain many of their healthy benefits. These also have mushrooms which are a great source of B vitamins, selenium, vitamin D, and potassium. Now on to the zucchini...these guys have tons of vitamin C and A which are actually anti-inflammatory agents. Zucchinis are also high in fiber---an added bonus! And let's not forget that quinoa is an ideal source of protein, too!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 3 large bell peppers (preferably orange, red, or yellow) sliced in half and innards cleaned out
  • 1 C quinoa
  • 1-15oz can mandarin oranges (look for no sugar added), juice reserved
  • 1 C water
  • 1 tsp tamari
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 tsp garlic, minced
  • ½ C slivered almonds
  • 1 C mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small zucchini, sliced then quartered
  • ½ C fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Sauce:
  • 1 C almond milk
  • 2 Tbs arrowroot
  • 2 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • 2 Tbs yellow miso
  • dash of nutmeg
  • dash of garlic salt
Directions
  1. Begin with the quinoa: Combine the quinoa, reserved Mandarin orange juice, water, and tamari in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover. Let simmer for 12-15 minutes.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375. While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil and garlic in a skillet. Add the slivered almonds and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Add the zucchini, mushrooms, salt, and pepper; cook another 6-8 minutes on medium heat.
  4. Once the veggies are tender, remove from the heat and stir in the oranges and basil.
  5. Stir in the cooked quinoa and evenly fill the pepper halves.
  6. Sometimes I pour about 2 cups of water in the bottom of the pan before covering with foil. This will help soften the peppers without overcooking the filling. I think this is especially important when using cheese or fake meats in the filling. Bake 20-25 minutes.
  7. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the sauce ingredients over high heat, stirring constantly. After a few minutes, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer. Stir frequently so it doesn't burn. Don't worry about getting the sauce thickened; it's meant to seep and ooze into the filling.
  8. Ladle the sauce over the peppers and enjoy!

Quinoa with Mushrooms and Spinach

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Quinoa with Mushrooms and Spinach -- Epicurean VeganOccasionally, there are nights I don’t cook dinner for the fam. Either we have lots of leftovers, or everyone is doing their own thing, so we fend for ourselves. Tonight was one such night. But when The Husband saw what I made, he kindly asked if I’d share. He said this was one of his favorites dishes—we both loved it. And so easy! Throw this together in 20 minutes and you have a healthy, protein-packed meal.

INGREDIENTS:
1 C quinoa
2 C water
1 vegetable bouillon cube
3 C spinach, chopped
3 C mushrooms, sliced
Salt, pepper, and garlic, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water with the bouillon cube to a boil. Stir it around so the cube dissolves completely. Stir in the quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover for about 15 minutes. When the quinoa is almost done—just a tiny bit of water left—add the spinach, mushrooms and seasonings; combine well.

Quinoa with Mushrooms and Spinach -- Epicurean Vegan

Turn the heat off, cover, and let the spinach and mushrooms steam a bit—5-7 minutes. You may need to drizzle with some water if there isn’t enough moisture left. Once the spinach is wilted and the mushrooms are tender, serve and enjoy!

Quinoa with Mushrooms and Spinach
 
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Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 C quinoa
  • 2 C water
  • 1 vegetable bouillon cube
  • 3 C spinach, chopped
  • 3 C mushrooms, sliced
  • Salt, pepper, and garlic, to taste
Directions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water with the bouillon cube to a boil. Stir it around so the cube dissolves completely. Stir in the quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover for about 15 minutes. When the quinoa is almost done---just a tiny bit of water left---add the spinach, mushrooms and seasonings; combine well.
  2. Turn the heat off, cover, and let the spinach and mushrooms steam a bit---5-7 minutes. You may need to drizzle with some water if there isn't enough moisture left. Once the spinach is wilted and the mushrooms are tender, serve and enjoy!

 

Lemony Pan-Fried Chickpeas with Chard

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Lemony Pan-Fried Chickpeas with Chard -- Epicurean VeganThis recipe is from Color Me Vegan and considering I love chickpeas, (a.k.a garbanzo beans) and chard, this is a new favorite. I would, however, make a few changes next time. Even though chickpeas are a great source of fiber and protein, and have no saturated fat, they do sport 90 calories per half a cup. Given this, I would use just half a can and even double the chard. So what to do with the other half of beans? Make a small batch of hummus, perfect for a few sandwiches during the week. I could have eaten the entire pan of this, which would not have been wise, so reducing the amount of chickpeas and adding more chard, I think, is a smart way to go. Otherwise, share this dish with plenty of others! (The recipe below is sans my suggestions.)

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained
1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
1 small lemon
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
Black pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook until tender. Add the chickpeas and cook 10 minutes, or until the beans begin to brown.

Lemony Pan-Fried Chickpeas with Chard -- Epicurean Vegan

Stir in the chard and cook until it begins to wilt and cook down, about 5-7 minutes. Zest the lemon over the pan, then cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice from one half over the mixture. (Watch out for seeds). Stir well to combine. Add salt, pepper, and more lemon, if desired. (If you go with my suggestions, you can use the leftover lemon—if there is any— in the hummus). Serve immediately, or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Lemony Pan-Fried Chickpeas with Chard -- Epicurean Vegan

Lemony Pan-Fried Chickpeas with Chard
 
Print
This recipe is from Color Me Vegan and considering I love chickpeas, (a.k.a garbanzo beans) and chard, this is a new favorite. I would, however, make a few changes next time. Even though chickpeas are a great source of fiber and protein, and have no saturated fat, they do sport 90 calories per half a cup. Given this, I would use just half a can and even double the chard. So what to do with the other half of beans? Make a small batch of hummus, perfect for a few sandwiches during the week. I could have eaten the entire pan of this, which would not have been wise, so reducing the amount of chickpeas and adding more chard, I think, is a smart way to go. Otherwise, share this dish with plenty of others! (The recipe below is sans my suggestions.)
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 15-oz can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
  • 1 small lemon
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
Directions
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Add the onion and cook until tender. Add the chickpeas and cook 10 minutes, or until the beans begin to brown.
  2. Stir in the chard and cook until it begins to wilt and cook down, about 5-7 minutes. Zest the lemon over the pan, then cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice from one half over the mixture. (Watch out for seeds). Stir well to combine. Add salt, pepper, and more lemon, if desired. (If you go with my suggestions, you can use the leftover lemon---if there is any--- in the hummus). Serve immediately, or at room temperature. Enjoy!

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