Vegan Quiche

Ingredients
1 vegan pie crust

3 leeks, light green and white parts finely chopped

2 c. mushrooms

2 tbsp. vegan butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1-14 oz. package extra firm tofu, drained

1/2 c. raw cashews

1/2 tsp. nutmeg

1/4 c. nutritional yeast

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. kala namak (black salt)

1/2 cup water

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Saute leeks and mushrooms in butter with some salt and black pepper until the leeks become soft and tender, but do not brown. 

Place all other ingredients into Vitamix and blend until very smooth and airy. Season with salt and pepper, as needed. 

Add the tofu custard to the leeks and mix well. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 45 minutes, or until filling is set. It should not jiggle. Cool for 20 minutes before serving. 

Tofu with Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce

Veganized version of a recipe from Bon Appetit. 

Ingredients
8 oz. extra firm tofu, pressed

1 tbsp. nutritional yeast
6 scallions or 1/4 c. sliced red onion
1" piece ginger (I used 1 tbsp. jarred ginger)
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp. coriander seeds
1 tsp. cumin seeds
½ tsp. black mustard seeds
¼ tsp. cayenne powder
¼ tsp. ground turmeric
4 oz. sugar snap peas (about 1 cup)
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil or avocado oil, divided
Kosher salt
12 oz. cherry tomatoes (about 2 cups)
Pinch of sugar (optional)
½ cup (lightly packed) basil or mint leaves
Cooked rice (for serving)

Directions
First, prep your ingredients. Slice tofu into generous ¼"-thick planks and pat dry; set aside. Trim roots from 6 scallions and discard. Thinly slice on a deep diagonal and place in a medium bowl. Scrub and thinly slice a 1" piece ginger. Stack ginger slices and slice crosswise to make strips the size of matchsticks; add to bowl with scallions. Peel and thinly slice 2 garlic cloves; add to bowl.

Using a mortar and pestle or the side of your chef’s knife, coarsely crush 1 tsp. coriander seeds and add to vegetables. Mix in 1 tsp. cumin seeds, ½ tsp. black mustard seeds, ¼ tsp. cayenne powder, and ¼ tsp. ground turmeric; set aside.

Snap off tips from stem ends of 4 oz. sugar snap peas (about 1 cup) and pull to remove strings. Repeat process on the other end. Cut any larger sugar snap peas in half on a diagonal; set aside.

Now, bring it all together. Heat 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Arrange reserved tofu in a single layer and cook until golden brown underneath, about 1 minute. Flip tofu and season with salt and nutritional yeast. Once light brown in color, Transfer paneer to a plate, leaving as much oil behind in pan as possible. 

Set pan over medium heat and add remaining 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil along with reserved scallions, ginger, garlic, and spices. Cook, stirring often, until scallions are wilted and mustard seeds begin to pop, about 2 minutes.

Add 12 oz. cherry tomatoes (about 2 cups), reserved snap peas, and 1 cup water. Increase heat to medium-high, season with salt, and bring to a simmer. Gently smash each tomato open with spoon (gentle is key; you just want to break them open a little) and simmer until tomato juices thicken slightly, about 3 minutes (it should still be pretty brothy and light).

Taste sauce and add more salt if needed. If your tomatoes aren’t super sweet, you may need to add a pinch of sugar at this point to balance their acidity. Add tofu back to pan and simmer until warmed through.
Remove from heat and mix in ½ cup (lightly packed) mint or basil leaves. Serve with cooked rice.
Serves 2. 

Instant Pot Beets

For texture preferences, lowest amount of time results in firm beets with a little crunch and longest amount of time results in soft beets with some chew.

Beet Circumference	Texture Preferences	Release
5 inches	High pressure 11-15 minutes	Quick release
5.5 inches	High pressure 14-18 minutes	Quick release
6 inches	High pressure 17-21 minutes	Quick release
6.5 inches	High pressure 18-23 minutes	Quick release
7 inches	High pressure 20-25 minutes	Quick release
7.5 inches	High pressure 24-28 minutes	Quick release
8 inches	High pressure 27-31 minutes	Quick release
8.5 inches	High pressure 30-34 minutes	Quick release
9 inches	High pressure 32-36 minutes	Quick release

Roasted Broccoli & Tofu with Creamy Miso Dressing

Adapted from a recipe in Bon Appetit. 

Ingredients
½ lb. brussels sprouts
2 tsp. coriander seeds
2 small heads of broccoli (about 1 pound total), cut into large florets
1 14-oz. block firm tofu, drained well, torn into bite-size pieces
5 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 tsp. Aleppo-style pepper or other mild red pepper flakes
Kosher salt
⅓ c. green olives, pitted, coarsely chopped
¼ c. plus 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
½ c. hemp seeds
2 tbsp. white miso
1 tbsp. almond butter
2 tsp. toasted sesame seeds, plus more for serving
Parsley leaves with tender stems, for serving

Directions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cut off stems from brussels sprouts; discard. Place outer leaves, along with broccoli and tofu into a large bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of oil, add crushed coriander and pepper, and toss to combine; season with salt. Finely slice inner brussels sprout cores and transfer to a medium bowl. Coarsely grind coriander seeds in spice mill or with mortar and pestle.

Add broccoli and tofu mixture to baking sheet. Roast, tossing once halfway through, until broccoli is browned (even lightly charred in a few spots) and tender, 30–35 minutes. Let cool.

Meanwhile, add olives, 1 tablespoon of oil, and 1 tablespoon of  lemon juice to sliced brussels sprouts and toss to combine. Season with salt.

Purée hemp seeds, almond butter, miso, 2 teaspoons of sesame seeds, remaining 5 tablespoons of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of oil, and ¼ cup water in a blender until smooth. Season with salt.

Spread some dressing on bowls or plates. Toss roasted vegetables with sliced brussels sprouts and arrange over dressing. Top with sesame seeds and parsley.

Serves 2.

Kohlrabi Schnitzel

Ingredients
1 large kohlrabi
Frying oil

For the Egg Replacement: 
1/4 cup all-purpose flour 
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon paprika powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Breading:
1/3 cup bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika powder
1 teaspoon crushed pumpkin seeds
1 teaspoon sesame seeds 

Directions 
Take any additional leaves off the kohlrabi and wash it. Cut the kohlrabi in 4-6 slices (about 1/3 inch). Peel off the outer layer with a veggie peeler. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the kohlrabi slices. Let them cook for about 10 minutes. They should start to get translucent in the center. Then drain, place them on paper towels to remove excess water and set aside to cool off.

In a bowl, mix the ingredients for the egg replacement. It should have an egg-like consistency, you might have to add more water or flour to achieve that.

In another bowl, combine the ingredients for the breading.

When the kohlrabi slices are cold enough to handle, dip them first in the egg replacement, then coat them in the breading.

In a large pan, heat the frying oil (the bottom should be covered with oil) and add in the breaded Kohlrabi Schnitzel. Fry them on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side. They should be golden and crispy on both sides.

After frying, put them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Spicy Quick Pickles

Ingredients

12 to 14 oz. Persian, kirby or English cucumbers, cut into chunks
4 serrano chiles, halved lengthwise 
3 scallions, cut into 2-inch lengths 
1 c. water 
1 c. distilled white vinegar 
2 tbsp. kosher salt 
1 tbsp. sugar 
1 tbsp. sambal oelek

Directions
Stuff the cucumbers, chiles and scallions into a 1-quart glass or plastic jar with a tight-fitting lid.
In another 1-quart jar, combine the water, vinegar, salt, sugar and sambal oelek. Close the jar and shake vigorously until the salt and sugar dissolve. Pour over the cucumbers, cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight) or up to 1 month.

Note: These quick pickles call for thin-skinned cucumbers, such as Persian, kirby or English. You can also use thick-skinned cucumbers, partially peel them to allow the brine to permeate the cucumber.

Overnight Bread & Butter Pickles

Ingredients
4 to 6 pickling cucumbers
1 sweet onion
1/2 c. white sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. mustard seed
1/2 tsp. celery seed
1/2 tsp. turmeric
1 1/2 c. apple cider vinegar

Instructions
Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds and slice onions paper thin and place in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together all remaining ingredients and pour over the cucumber/onion mixture. Mix to coat. Cover and place in the refrigerator overnight.

Store in air-tight container(s), keeping in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Sheet Pan Veggie Dinner with Miso Maple Lime Dressing

Quick weeknight meal from Vegan Richa. 

Ingredients
1 head of broccoli
1 c. cubed sweet potato
1.5 c. cooked chickpeas or 1-15 oz. can drained
1 c. tofu (pressed for 10 mins then cubed)
1/2 c. red or green bell pepper, sliced
2 tsp. oil
3/4 tsp. chipotle pepper powder
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp. smoked or sweet paprika
3/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
3/4 tsp. salt
Optional spices: dash of black pepper, cinnamon or 1/2 tsp. oregano
3 tbsp. sunflower seeds
3 cloves of garlic finely chopped

Miso Maple Lime Dressing:
1 tbsp. lime juice
1 tbsp. miso
1 tbsp. water
1.5 tbsp. maple syrup
A good pinch of salt and paprika or chipotle pepper
1 tsp. olive oil optional

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a large baking dish with parchment. Cube the veggies and tofu and add to bowl or directly to the baking dish. Add chickpeas or beans that you are using. Drizzle oil all over and toss.

Mix the spices and salt in a small bowl. Add the spice mix and toss to coat. You can prepare the veggies and store in Ziploc bag for a day or two at this point. Spread the veggies in the baking dish in one layer. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 minutes.

For the Dressing: 
Mix miso in lime + water until well combined. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix. (you can also use a small blender to mix the dressing). Taste and adjust flavor to preference with additional lime for tang or salt.

Sprinkle the sunflower seeds and garlic, spray oil on top of the garlic and seeds and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the veggies are done to preference and chickpeas are roasted.
Serve with drizzle of the miso maple dressing and some crunchy lettuce or greens if you wish or add to tacos with the dressing and avocado.

Serves 4.

1 serving = 430 calories

Zucchini Butter Spaghetti

Ingredients
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for pasta water, and to taste
8 oz. spaghetti, cooked al dente
1 c. pasta water, reserved
1 lb. pound zucchini, trimmed and coarsely grated
6 tbsp. unsalted vegan butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes, or more to taste
1/2 c. grated vegan parmesan
Handful fresh basil leaves, cut into thin ribbons

Directions
Boil your spaghetti in well-salted water until it’s 1 minute shy of fully cooked. Before you drain it, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water and set it aside.

Melt butter in your empty pan over medium-high heat and add the garlic, stirring it into the butter for one minute before adding the zucchini, salt, and red pepper. Cook the zucchini, stirring from time to time, for 13 to 15 minutes. It will first let off a puddle liquid, the liquid will cook off, and the zucchini will become soft and concentrated. If the zucchini begins to brown, reduce the heat slightly. Stir frequently for 2 more minutes, chopping it down into smaller bits with the edge of your spoon or spatula, until it reaches an almost spreadable consistency.

Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and stir up anything stuck, then add drained pasta, and cook together for 2 minutes. Use tongs or two forks to pull up the zucchini butter sauce into the pasta strands, tossing frequently, and adding some or all of the remaining pasta water as needed to loosen. Toss in half of the parmesan and basil and mix, then transfer to a serving bowl. Finish with remaining parmesan and basil.

Serves 2 generously or 4 as a side.

Tofu with Soy-Butter Corn

Another winner from Bon Appetit. 

Ingredients
1-14-oz. package firm or extra-firm tofu, drained
3 lg. or 4 medium ears of corn, husked
1 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. vegetable oil
Kosher salt
8 scallions, thinly sliced on a diagonal
2 tbsp. mirin
3 tbsp. soy sauce; plus more for serving (optional)
2 tbsp. unsalted butter
½ c. torn basil leaves and/or cilantro leaves with tender stems
Toasted sesame seeds (for serving)
1 tsp. toasted sesame oil
Cooked white rice (for serving)

Directions
Press tofu for at least 15 minutes. 

Meanwhile, cut kernels from corn cobs. You should have about 3 cups kernels; if you have much more, save for another use. 

Slice tofu crosswise into 8–10 planks about ½" thick; pat dry. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Working in batches if needed, fry tofu in a single layer until golden brown all over, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and season lightly with salt.

Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 1 tsp. oil. Set a small handful of scallions aside for serving; add remaining scallions to skillet and cook, stirring often, until wilted and starting to brown, about 2 minutes. Add corn and cook, stirring, until kernels are well coated, about 2 minutes. Pour in mirin, 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 2 tablespoons of water and bring to a simmer. Nestle in tofu and cook until sauce reduces slightly, about 3 minutes. Swirl in butter and cook until sauce is glossy and coats tofu, about 2 minutes.

Set a few herbs aside for serving. Remove tofu mixture from heat and stir in remaining herbs. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and top with reserved scallions and herbs. Drizzle with sesame oil and more soy sauce if desired. Serve over rice.

Serves 2-3.

Corned Beet Reuben Sandwiches

Ingredients
1 ½ lbs. cooked peeled beets, very thinly sliced
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 
2 tsp. ground coriander
2 tsp. mustard seeds
½ tsp. ground cinnamon
¼ tsp. ground allspice
3 tbsp. vegan mayonnaise 
2 tbsp. ketchup
1 tbsp. dill relish (or chopped pickles)
1 tsp. hot sauce
4 slices rye bread, toasted
¾ c. sauerkraut
4 oz. sliced Swiss cheese (to veganize, I used Chao)

Directions
Position rack in upper third of oven; preheat broiler to high.

Toss beets with oil, coriander, mustard seeds, cinnamon and allspice in a large bowl to coat. Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish and hot sauce in a small bowl.

Spread the sauce on one side of each slice of bread and place on a baking sheet. Top with the beets, sauerkraut and cheese.

Broil the sandwiches until the cheese is melted and starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Serve immediately.

Pasta with Sausage, Basil & Mustard

My veganized version of the popular recipe from Food & Wine. 

Ingredients
1 lb. penne, rigatoni or similar pasta 
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 
8 hot Italian sausages, crumbled (I used 4 links of Beyond Meat's Hot Italian Sausage)
3/4 c. dry white wine
3/4 c. cashew cream
3 tbsp. grainy mustard
Pinch of crushed red pepper
1 c. thinly sliced basil

For the Cashew Cream: 
1 c. raw cashews
1 1/4 c. unsweetened plant milk (I used almond)

Directions
To make the cashew cream, soak a cup of raw cashews in hot water for 15 minutes, then blend with 1 1/4 cups of neutral plant milk in a high speed blender.

Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente; drain. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet. Add the sausage meat and brown over moderately high heat, about 5 minutes. Add the wine and simmer, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom, until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Add the cream, mustard and crushed red pepper and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat, add the pasta and basil and toss to coat. Serve at once.

Serves 4.

Chilled Tomato & Stone Fruit Gazpacho

Ingredients
2 lbs. beefsteak tomatoes (about 4), quartered
1 lg. English hothouse cucumber, peeled, seeded, cut into pieces
1 lg. ripe peach, peeled, halved
½ jalapeño, seeded (or with seeds for a spicier soup), chopped
½ garlic clove
1 c. fresh (or frozen, thawed) cherries (about 8 oz.), pitted
2 tbsp. (or more) white balsamic or Sherry vinegar
¼ c. extra-virgin olive oil plus more
1½ tsp. kosher salt plus more
Freshly ground black pepper
Flaky sea salt

Directions
Pulse tomatoes in a blender until finely chopped and transfer to a large bowl. Pulse cucumber, peach, jalapeño, garlic, and cherries in blender until finely chopped and add to bowl with tomatoes. Mix in vinegar, ¼ cup oil, 1½ tsp. kosher salt, and 1 cup cold water; season with pepper. Cover and let sit at room temperature 1 hour, or chill at least 12 hours.

Season soup with kosher salt, pepper, and more oil and vinegar, if desired. Serve soup drizzled with oil and seasoned with sea salt and pepper.

Soup can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Serves 6.

Tomato-Peach Salad with Tofu Cream

From Bon Appetit! 

Ingredients
8 oz. silken tofu
4 tbsp. Sherry vinegar, divided
4 tbsp. olive oil, divided
2 tbsp. soy sauce, divided
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 medium heirloom tomatoes, cut into 1-inch wedges
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
2 medium peaches, cut into ½-inch wedges
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
½ c. fresh corn kernels (from 1 medium ear)
2 tbsp. chopped fresh tarragon
2 tbsp. chopped fresh chervil, plus sprigs for serving
3 slices thick grilled or toasted country-style bread, cut lengthwise into wide strips

Directions
Blend tofu, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of oil, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce in a blender until light and smooth; season tofu cream with salt. Do this up to a day ahead, cover & chill.

Whisk remaining 3 tablespoons of oil, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Add tomatoes, peaches, onion, corn, tarragon, and chopped chervil and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Swipe tofu cream on a platter and arrange tomato salad over; top with chervil sprigs. Serve with bread.

Serves 8 as a side.

Coconut-Creamed Corn & Grains

Ingredients
2 ears of corn, husked
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
½ serrano chile or jalapeño, thinly sliced
1 ½" piece fresh ginger, peeled, sliced into matchsticks
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 scallion, thinly sliced, plus more for serving
¼ tsp. ground turmeric
½ c. cooked grains, such as freekeh, farro, or quinoa
½ c. unsweetened coconut milk, plus more for serving
Kosher salt
2 tbsp. store-bought crispy onions
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions
Cut kernels from corn; set aside. 

Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium until shimmering. Cook chile, ginger, garlic, and 1 sliced scallion, tossing, until softened and fragrant, 1–2 minutes. Add turmeric and cook, stirring frequently, just until darkened and fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add reserved corn and increase heat to medium-high. Cook, tossing occasionally, until corn is beginning to lightly brown, about 3 minutes. Add grains and cook, tossing often, until heated through and beginning to crisp around the edges, about 2 minutes. Add ½ cup coconut milk; season with salt. Bring to a simmer and cook, adding 1–2 Tbsp. water if needed to loosen, until flavors have melded, about 3 minutes.

Transfer corn mixture to a plate. Drizzle with more coconut milk, then top with crispy onions and sliced scallions. Serve with lime wedges alongside for squeezing over.

Serves 2. 

Sheet Pan Cheeseburger Veggies with Garlic Mayo Dressing

Vegan Richa calls this "Cheeseburger" because the flavors mimic those of a fast food burger. 

Ingredients

For the Veggies:

2 c. cubed sweet potatoes or squash
7 oz. firm tofu, pressed and cubed into 3/4 inch cubes
1-15 oz. can chickpeas
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, coarsely chopped
1/2 to 1 c. seasonal veggies of choice such as broccoli or cauliflower
3 to 4 tbsp. sunflower seeds

For the Cheeseburger Dressing:
1 tbsp. oil
2 tsp. soy sauce 
2 tsp. vegan Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. oregano
3 tbsp. barbecue sauce
1 tsp. prepared mustard
2 tbsp. ketchup
3/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/2 tsp. garlic powder

For the Garlic Mayo Dressing
1/3 c. vegan mayo
1 tsp. vinegar
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. ground mustard
1/4 tsp. salt

Directions
Chop all of your veggies. Line or grease a large baking dish. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. 

In a bowl, mix in all of the cheeseburger sauce ingredients until well combined. Reserve 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of this mixture to use later to drizzle on top. Add the chopped veggies, and toss well to coat with the cheeseburger sauce mixture, until evenly coated. You can do this a day or two in advance. I like to put my veggies and the sauce into a Ziploc and toss occasionally. 

Drop this mixture into the prepared baking dish, and spread it out into a single layer. 

Bake at 400 degrees for 35-45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender to preference, and everything else is starting to get gold and crisp. Sprinkle sunflower seeds on top in the last 5 to 10 mins of baking. 

To make your garlic mayo dressing, blend all the ingredients until well combined, taste and adjust flavor by adding more vinegar or salt.

Serve individual portions of the veggie tofu bean mixture, and drizzle the mayo on top. Thin out the reserved cheeseburger sauce with a tsp or two of water, and drizzle that as well. Top with some red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs of choice, and serve. You can also serve the tofu veggie mix over a bed of fresh lettuce!

Serves 4.

1 serving = 490 calories

Grilled Peach, Corn & Zucchini Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Basil Vinaigrette

Awesome summer salad from The Simple Veganista.

Ingredients
1 c. dried quinoa (or farro or wheatberries!)
1 3/4 c. water or vegetable broth
2 peaches (ripe but firm)
2 corn on the cob
2 medium zucchini
1 c. cherry tomatoes
1-15 oz. can chickpeas or 1 1/2 cup cooked, drained and rinsed (or try edamame!)
1/2 avocado
Small handful pepitas
Salt & fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Handful or two of baby arugula, to serve (optional)

Lemon-Basil Vinaigrette:
1/4 to 1/3 c. basil leaves, packed
3 to 4 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp. lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
2 to 3 tsp. apple cider vinegar
1 small clove garlic, chopped
Pinch of red pepper flakes
Good pinch of mineral salt

Directions
For the Quinoa:
In a medium saucepan, add quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes. Once done, remove lid and let rest for 10 minutes, fluff with fork.

For the Vinaigrette:
Add all the ingredients to a small food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside to let the flavors come together. Taste again before mixing to adjust flavor. Keep in the refrigerator if making a day or two in advance.

For the Vegetables: 
If corn has husks, remove them and all the silk threads from underneath. Cut peaches along the seam all the way around and twist halves off the pit. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise. Add a light of oil to the cut side of the peaches and zucchini before placing on the grill. Start with the corn first, it will take the longest, about 10 minutes or so depending on your grill. Then add the zucchini and peaches cut side down. The last two should grill up fairly quickly, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Once done, remove the corn off the cob. Slice zucchini into 1/4 to 1/2 inch slices. Slice peaches into 1/8 to 1/4 inch slices. Slice tomatoes in half. Slice avocado in half, twist to separate halves, remove seed and slice thinly.

Add quinoa to a large mixing bowl, along with the peaches, corn, zucchini, tomatoes, chickpeas, avocado and pepitas, and toss to combine. Add the dressing and mix again. Add salt & fresh cracked pepper to taste. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Enjoy as is or with a handful of arugula.

Serves 4 generously.

1 serving = 458 calories

Roasted Eggplant & Tomato Pasta

Ingredients
1 3/4-lb. eggplant, cut into 1″ cubes
2 Italian peppers, halved and thinly sliced
4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
Sea salt + freshly ground black pepper
12 oz. pasta
2 lbs. plum tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 tbsp. capers, drained
2 tbsp. vegan butter
Vegan parmesan, freshly grated
Fresh basil leaves

Directions
Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Toss eggplant and peppers in oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 30-40 minutes.

Cook the pasta in salted, boiling water; stop just before it reaches al dente.

Using a box grater, grate the tomatoes over a skillet, stopping before grating the skin. Make sure to use a safety glove. Add the garlic, red pepper, and 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan and bring to a simmer. Cook until it is reduced by half, then season with salt.

Add the cooked pasta, capers, and butter to the pan with the tomatoes and bring to a simmer, tossing until the butter melts and the pasta finishes cooking. Remove from heat and add the roasted vegetables and cheese.

Top with a drizzle of oil and fresh basil.

Spiced Creamy Broccoli Soup

A hearty, healthy bowl of winter comfort from Vegan Richa. 

Ingredients

2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil

1/2 c. chopped onion

2 c. or more grated broccoli

1 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. onion powder

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1/3 tsp. ground cumin

1/2 tsp. ground coriander

1/4 tsp. or more cayenne

2 tbsp. or more nutritional yeast

3/4 tsp. or more salt

3 tbsp. fresh basil, to taste

1/4 c. cashews soaked for 15 minutes or longer (1/3 cup for creamier)

2 c. or more unsweetened non-dairy milk 

Cayenne, for garnish

Directions

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium low heat. Add onions and a dash of salt and cook until mostly translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the shredded broccoli and spices. Mix and cook for 1 minute. Mix in the nutritional yeast and salt. I used some broccoli stems and some florets and processed them in a food processor to get about 2 cups grated broccoli.

Blend the cashews and basil with 1 cup of non-dairy milk until smooth. Blend a couple of times if the cashews were not soaked. Add to the saucepan. Add the rest of the non-dairy milk and mix in. Bring to a boil, about 5 minutes. If the soup starts to thicken too much or needs more liquid, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup or more water and mix in. Taste and adjust salt and spice.

Simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes or until desired consistency. Garnish with cayenne or red pepper flakes. 

Serves 2, as entrée.

1 serving = 325 calories

Sweet & Spicy Halloumi-Style Tofu Sandwich

A veganized recipe from The Spruce Eats.  

Ingredients
For the Roasted Squash:
1 small delicata squash, seeds removed and cut into rings
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 dash cinnamon
2 to 3 pinches salt
1 tbsp. agave or maple syrup
3 dashes cayenne pepper

For the Raspberry Harissa Jam:
1 tbsp. raspberry jam
1/2 tbsp. harissa paste

For the Brussels Sprouts Slaw:
1/2 c. Brussels sprouts, shredded
1 tbsp. parsley, chopped
1/4 tbsp. olive oil
1/4 tbsp. sherry vinegar
1/4 tbsp. agave or maple syrup
1/4 tbsp. mustard
1 lemon, juiced
1 pinch salt
1 pinch garlic powder

For the Sandwich:
2 slices rosemary sourdough bread
2 oz. tofu, sliced and seared until crispy
1 1/2 tbsp. raspberry harissa jam
1 tbsp. vegan mayonnaise

Directions
Toss delicata squash rings in olive oil, cinnamon, salt, agave or maple syrup, and cayenne pepper. Arrange evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until tender and beginning to caramelize.

For the Raspberry Harissa Jam:
Mix raspberry jam and harissa paste and set aside to meld. 

For the Brussels Slaw:
Place shredded sprouts in a large bowl. In a smaller bowl, whisk together olive oil, sherry, agave or maple syrup, mustard, lemon, salt, and garlic powder until combined. Add the wet mixture to the sprouts and stir to coat. Set aside.

For the Sandwich:
Toast your bread. Smear one side with mayo and top with Brussels sprouts slaw, the seared halloumi-style tofu, and the roasted squash. Smear the raspberry harissa jam onto the remaining piece of bread and place it on top. Serve immediately. 

Makes 4 sandwiches.

Spicy Corn on the Cob with Miso Butter & Lime

Ingredients
4 ears of corn, shucked
4 tbsp. plant butter, at room temperature
2 tbsp. white miso paste
2 tbsp. chives, freshly chopped
1 tsp. togarashi, furikake, or crushed red pepper flakes
squeeze of lime juice, to serve

Directions

Heat your grill to medium-high. Grill corn until slightly charred and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. 

Meanwhile mix butter and miso thoroughly in a small bowl. 

Slather hot corn with miso butter and sprinkle on chives and spices. Squeeze a wedge of fresh lime over the corn. 

Serves 4. 

1 ear = 260 calories
 

Spicy Braised Eggplant Noodles

Ingredients
Kosher salt
8 oz. dried wide rice noodles
3 tbsp. gochujang 
1 tbsp. white or yellow miso
3 tbsp. neutral oil, divided
1½ lb. medium eggplant, preferably Japanese, sliced ¾” thick
3 c. kale, chopped 
6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 tbsp. ginger, minced or paste
2 tbsp. double-concentrated tomato paste
2 tbsp. unsalted butter
3 scallions, thinly sliced
¼ cup chopped dry-roasted peanuts

Directions

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a simmer. Remove pot from heat and stir in noodles. Let soak, stirring often, until very al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup noodle cooking liquid. Rinse noodles under cold running water.

Mix gochujang and miso in a small bowl, gradually adding 1½ cups warm water, until smooth.

Meanwhile, heat 2 Tbsp. oil in a large skillet, preferably nonstick, over medium-high. Add eggplant; season lightly with salt. Cook, undisturbed, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Toss; continue to cook, tossing occasionally, until most of eggplant are golden and nearly tender, about 5 minutes more. Transfer eggplant to a plate.

Reduce heat to medium and add remaining oil to skillet. Cook garlic and ginger, stirring often, until golden, about 2 minutes. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring, until slightly darkened, about 1 minute. Stir in gochujang mixture and return eggplant to skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until eggplant are nearly falling apart, 6–8 minutes.

Add noodles, butter, and ½ cup reserved noodle cooking liquid to skillet. Cook, tossing often and adding more cooking liquid as needed, until sauce is glossy, about 2 minutes; season with salt. Serve noodles topped with scallions and peanuts.

Serves 4.

1 serving = 450 calories

Tahini-Smothered Charred Cabbage

Ingredients

1 medium head of green cabbage

1 tbsp. toasted black and white sesame seeds

1 tbsp. olive oil

kosher salt

For the sauce: 

1/3 c. tahini

1/4 c. olive oil

1/2 tsp. cumin

1 tsp. maple syrup

1 lemon, zested and juiced

1 garlic clove, grated

kosher salt

cold water

Directions

Prepare the dressing by whisking all ingredients together, with a significant pinch of salt and a few tablespoons of cold water. 

Cut cabbage into six wedges, keeping core intact, and rub each with a little olive oil and kosher salt. Grill cabbage on both sides, until deeply charred. You should be able to slide a paring knife easily through the cabbage. Let rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes.

Drizzle dressing over grilled cabbage and sprinkle with sesame seeds. 

Serves 6 as a side. 

1 serving = 180 calories

Celery, Green Bean & Tofu Salad

Ingredients
4 celery stalks, trimmed & thinly sliced on a steep diagonal into 2" pieces, plus leaves for serving
2 c. green beans, trimmed & sliced on a steep diagonal into bite-size pieces
8-oz. block firm tofu, braised or shallow fried, sliced into thin batons
¼ c. unsalted, roasted peanuts
2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
2 tbsp. chile crisp, plus more for serving
Flaky sea salt

Directions

Toss celery, green beans, tofu, peanuts, lime juice, and chile crisp in a medium bowl to combine. Top with more Chile Crisp as desired, celery leaves, and sea salt.

Serves 2. 

1 serving = 445 calories

Zucchini Bread

Ingredients
1/4 c. canola oil, coconut oil or vegan butter, melted
1/3 c. almond milk
1 tbsp. ground flaxseeds
1 c. brown sugar
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 c. grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini)
1 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper or spray with oil.
In a large bowl, add the oil, almond milk, ground flaxseeds, brown sugar and vanilla. Whisk well until combined. Lightly blot the grated zucchini with paper towels, and add it to the bowl. Stir the zucchini into the wet ingredients.

Now add the flour to the wet ingredients. Sprinkle the baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon on top of the flour. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to over mix, or your loaf will be dense.
Pour into the prepared pan, and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer the loaf to parchment paper or a cooling rack. Slice carefully right away, or let cool completely for easier slicing and serving.

Makes about 10 slices.

1 slice = 210 calories

Mango Toast with Hazlenut-Pepita Butter

Ingredients

1 c. raw hazelnuts

1 c. raw pepitas

kosher salt

1/4 c. freeze-dried blueberries

2 tsp. Aleppo pepper

4 slices sourdough

2 large, ripe mangoes, peeled and sliced

maple syrup, for serving

sea salt, for serving

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Toast hazelnuts on baking sheet, tossing once, until golden brown, about 20 to 25 minutes. Toast pepitas on a separate baking sheet, tossing once, until just beginning to brown in a few spots and very fragrant, about 14 to 16 minutes. 

Once nuts and seeds are cool, puree in Vitamix until a smooth paste forms. Taste and season with salt. 

Using a mortar and pestle, finely grind blueberries with Aleppo pepper and a pinch of salt. Spread hazelnut-pepita butter over each slice of toasted sourdough bread. Top with mango and drizzle with maple syrup. Sprinkle blueberry-red pepper and sea salt. 

Serves 4. 

1 serving = 375 calories 
 

Vegan Frittata

Ingredients

2 c. mixed veggies

1-2 tsp. avocado oil

1/2 c. chopped veggie protein (optional)

1/2 c. vegan mozzarella, feta, or ricotta (optional)

For the batter: 

1 c. chickpea flour

1 c. plant milk

1 tsp. kala namak

1 tsp. tumeric

2 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. crushed red pepper

1 tsp. Dijon mustard 

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Make the batter by blending all ingredients in Vitamix or other blender. Preheat a 10-inch cast iron skillet and add avocado oil to the skillet. Sauté the veggies until softened and slightly browned. Add the veggie protein, if using. Pour the batter over the sautéed veggies and dollop vegan cheese on frittata. 

Transfer the frittata to the oven and bake until lightly browned and fork comes out pretty clean. Mine took about 20 minutes. Switch to broiler for about 5 minutes to brown cheese.

Slice into 8 sections and serve with fresh herbs. 

1 slice = 150 calories (includes 4 oz. of vegan salami and 1.5 oz. of vegan mozzarella)

Sheet Pan Ratatouille with Polenta

Ingredients

5 to 6 cups of cubed vegetables, like eggplant, pepper, onion & zucchini

2 tsp. olive oil

2 1/2 tsp. of Herbs de Provence (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper, freshly ground

4 tomatoes, chopped (or 1-15 oz. can of diced tomatoes)

Fresh basil or parsley

For the polenta:

1/2 c. corn meal

2 c. vegetable broth

2 tsp. of nutritional yeast

1 tbsp. vegan butter

(I've also used vegan ricotta in place of nooch and butter)

Directions

Chop all the veggies and toss with olive oil and spices. I sometimes prep these the day before and store in a gallon sized plastic bag or container. 

Spread veggies on cookie sheet in a single layer and bake at 400 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes, or until eggplant is done. 

Add in the tomatoes, toss with other veggies, and bake for another 15 minutes. 

Meanwhile, make your polenta. Heat up the broth until hot, then add in corn meal gradually while whisking. Once you've added all the corn meal and you have thick polenta, add in your butter and nutritional yeast (or ricotta). Continue to whisk until smooth(ish). 

Serve ratatouille over polenta in bowls. Sprinkle fresh basil and some pepper flakes. 

Serves 3. 

1 serving = 282 calories

Peach-Basil Skillet Cobbler

Easy dessert to make when stone fruits are in season. Swap out Peaches + Basil for any of the following combos! 

Nectarines + Rosemary

Cherries + Mint

Plums + Thyme

Apricots + Sage

Mangoes + Lime Zest

Ingredients

For the filling: 

1/4 c. vegan butter

6 c. sliced peaches

1/2 c. brown sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/4 c. fresh basil, chopped

For the cobbler: 

1 c. all purpose flour

1/4 c. ground nuts, like pecans or almonds

1/4 c. oats

1/4 c. brown sugar

2 tsp. baking powder

2 tsp. cinnamon

1/8 tsp. salt

1/2 c. unsweetened plant milk

1/2 c. vegan butter (or refined coconut oil), melted

1 tbsp. sugar

Directions

For the filling, preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Allow butter to brown, stirring often, for 4 minutes. Remove from heat. 

To skillet, add peaches, brown sugar, and vanilla, stirring ingredients to coat evenly. Stir in chopped basil to incorporate. Transfer to oven and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and reduce heat to 375 degrees. 

For the cobbler, in a large bowl, whisk flour, ground nuts, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter, mixing until just combined. 

Use a tablespoon to dollop batter on top of peaches, leaving space to allow some peaches to peek through to create a cobblestone effect. 

In a small bowl, mix together sugar and remaining cinnamon, and sprinkle over top of batter. 

Return skillet to oven and bake 30 minutes until topping is golden brown. Cool for 15 minutes and serve topped with vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream. 

Serves 8.

1 serving = 405 calories (without ice cream or whipped cream)

Almond Butter Tofu Bowls

Ingredients
¾ c. sushi rice
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tsp. fresh ginger, minced
2 tbsp. almond butter
2 tbsp. tamari
1 tsp. turbinado sugar or agave
1 tbsp. sesame oil
2 tbsp. chile garlic sauce
1 radish
1 lb. extra-firm tofu, pressed
6 oz. chopped kale and/or chard
1 tbsp. + 2 tsp. vegetable oil
Salt and pepper

Directions
Add the sushi rice, 1¼ cups water, and a pinch of salt to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low, and cook until the grains are tender and water is absorbed, 15 to 18 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat, covered, to steam until ready to serve. (Or, cook rice in the Instant Pot at high pressure for 6 minutes with 3/4 cup of water.)

Add minced garlic, minced ginger, almond butter, tamari, turbinado sugar, sesame oil, as much chile garlic sauce as you’d like, and 2 tablespoons of warm water to a medium bowl. Stir the almond butter sauce until smooth.

Trim the radish and slice into matchsticks. Dice the tofu into bite-size cubes.

Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add chopped kale and/or chard and cook, tossing occasionally, until bright green and tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Sprinkle greens with salt and pepper, and transfer to a plate.

Return the skillet to medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add cubed tofu and cook until crispy in places, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the almond butter sauce and cook until tofu is browned in places, 2 to 3 minutes.

Divide the cooked sushi rice between bowls and top with almond butter tofu and winter greens. Top with radish matchsticks and any remaining chile garlic sauce.

Serves 2.

1 serving = 650 calories

Eggless Salad

Adapted from Vegan Egg Salad Sandwich - Nora Cooks.

Ingredients

1 lb. extra firm tofu, pressed and drained

1/2 c. vegan mayo

1 tsp. Dijon mustard 

1.5 tbsp. dill pickle juice

2 tsp. dill pickle, diced

1/8 tsp. smoked paprika

1/8 tsp. tumeric

1/2 tsp. kala namak (black salt)

1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 scallion, diced 

Directions

Prepare the dressing by whisking together all ingredients except tofu and scallions. Chop the tofu into tiny cubes, then chop again randomly with knife. Fold tofu and scallions gently into dressing and combine thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. 

Makes 2 cups. 

1/2 cup = 208 calories.

Thai Green Curry Noodles

This curry comes together quickly. Check out the original recipe from Vegan Richa.

Ingredients

Green Curry
1 hot green chili
2 cloves of garlic
1/2 inch piece of ginger
3/4 cup packed cilantro, with stems
1 lime, zested and juiced
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup coconut milk

Stir Fry

2 tsp. coconut oil
8 oz. extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
2 green onions, chopped (keep the greens for garnish)
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cups other vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, asparagus, broccoli, baby eggplant
6 oz. rice noodles cooked according to package instructions

1 tsp. agave
pepper flakes, black pepper and green onions for garnish

Directions
Make the green curry paste. Add all of the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth and set aside.

Cook the noodles according to instruction on package and set aside.

Heat a skillet over medium high heat. Add oil. Add the tofu and cook until the tofu is golden in the edges then add in the white parts of the green onion, bell pepper and other veggies. Use your judgment on when to add what - carrots go in first, where quick cooking veggies like broccoli and asparagus go in last.

Add a good dash of salt and cook for 3-4 minutes. Move the veggies to the edge of the skillet and pour the green curry paste in the middle. Once the paste is starting to boil, mix it in. Add in the noodles and toss well to coat. Taste; adjust salt and flavor. Add in a teaspoon of sugar or agave to balance out the flavor.  Adjust salt, sweet, and heat at the end. Serve with pepper flakes, black pepper and green onions as garnish.

Serves 3. 

1 serving = 350 calories

Hot & Sour Soup

Easy weeknight meal that comes together in a half hour. Check out the original recipe here: Vegan Hot and Sour Soup with Ramen - Vegan Richa.

Ingredients

5 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1/2 inch ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 hot green chili, minced
3 tbsp. soy sauce
1 tbsp .dark soy sauce (or use 1 tbsp. regular soy sauce + 1 tsp. molasses)
1 tbsp. rice vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
a good dash of white pepper
2 tsp. maple syrup
1/2 c. carrots, thinly sliced
2 c. shitake mushrooms
2 c. napa cabbage, thinly sliced
1/2-1 c. extra firm tofu, pressed and chopped small
1 tbsp. cornstarch
3 or 4 green onions chopped (keep most of the green parts for garnishing and use the white and half of the green parts for the soup)
3 oz. ramen noodles

Instructions
Add 5 cups of broth to a saucepan over medium heat. Mince your ginger, garlic, and chili together so that they get crushed together. Add that to the broth. Add all the sauces, and seasonings, the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, vinegar, salt, peppers, and maple syrup to the broth.

Once the mixture is starting to boil, add in your mushroom, carrots, tofu, and stir. Once the mixture is rapidly boiling, add in the cabbage. Mix in the cabbage, then carefully taste and adjust the flavor with the extra soy sauce, and vinegar if needed. Add in the white parts of green onions.

While the soup is boiling, make your cornstarch slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed in 1/2 cup of the broth.

Toss in the ramen noodles, and once they have broken apart, and they seem like they're about to be al dente, add in your cornstarch mixture, and mix well. Let the mixture start to boil again, and then take off heat. You don't want to cook the ramen noodles too much. You want them to be just about done, because they'll continue to cook in the hot broth.

Take the pot off the heat, taste, and adjust salt and flavor with soy sauce, salt, vinegar etc. Garnish with some pepper flakes or black pepper, and the remaining parts of the green onion, and serve immediately.

Serves 4. 

1 serving = 180 calories 

Wonton Soup

Ingredients

2 tsp. sesame oil
2 medium carrots, sliced
2-3 tsp. freshly grated ginger
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes optional
9 c. low sodium vegetable broth
2 tbsp. low sodium soy sauce
1 tbsp. rice wine

1 tbsp. mirin
1 tbsp. brown sugar
6 oz. baby bella, shitake, or oyster mushrooms, sliced
3 scallions, chopped
10 heads baby bok choy chopped into bite-size pieces (approx. 3 cups)

Frozen vegetable wontons

Directions
In a Dutch oven or soup pot, heat 2 teaspoons sesame oil over medium high heat. Add carrots, ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes and sauté for 1 minute. Add veggie broth, soy sauce, rice wine, and brown sugar and bring to a boil then reduce to a gentle simmer. Simmer on low for 20-30 minutes. 

Bring soup broth to a boil. Add mushrooms to soup then gently add wontons. Cook according to package, or until they float. Remove wontons with a slotted spoon straight to serving bowls (it is okay if you get some veggies with your wontons). Add bok choy and green onions to soup and cook 1 minute. Ladle soup over wontons and serve immediately. Do not let wontons sit in broth before serving or they will become soggy and fall apart.

Makes 4 servings.

1 serving = 200 calories (without wontons; see package)

Stovetop Polenta

Ingredients

4 c. water

1 tsp. salt

1 c. yellow cornmeal

1 c. plant cheese (optional)

1-3 tbsp. plant butter (optional)

Directions

Bring the water to a brisk boil over medium-high heat. Add the salt. While whisking gently, pour the polenta into the boiling water in a steady stream. Continue whisking until polenta is thickened. Turn down the heat to low and continue whisking until the polenta has thickened enough that it doesn't settle back on the bottom of the pan when you stop stirring.

Cook the polenta 30-40 minutes. Cover the polenta and continue cooking. Stir vigorously every 10 minutes or so, making sure to scrape the sides, bottom, and corners of the pan. Cook 30 minutes for softer porridge-like polenta or 40 minutes for thicker polenta. 

Stir in cheese and butter, if using. Serve immediately, or cover the pan and let it sit at the back of the stove for up to 15 minutes before serving.

Serves 4 (about 4 cups total). 

1 cup = 145 calories

Notes

Polenta will solidify into the shape of the container in which you store it. Leftover polenta can be sliced or cubed before being roasted, grilled, or deep-fried. To make it creamy again, warm it with a little broth, non-dairy milk, or water, and stir vigorously. It won't be quite as creamy as it was originally, but it should still be pourable.

Mexican Rice & Beans (Instant Pot)

Ingredients

1/2 c. dried black beans (not soaked)

3/4 c. brown rice

3/4 c. salsa (I used medium chunky)

1/2 c. frozen corn

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 white onion, chopped

2 c. vegetable broth

1/4 c. cilantro (stem and leaves, minced)

2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

1/2 tsp. chili powder

Directions

Add beans, rice and vegetable broth to the Instant Pot and stir to combine. Next, add the salsa, corn, bell pepper, onion, cilantro and spices BUT DO NOT STIR. Cover the Instant Pot and seal the vent. Cook on high pressure for 26 minutes. When done allow for 10 minutes of natural pressure release, then quickly release any remaining pressure.

Open the pot and give it a good mix. Serve in a burrito or over greens. 

Serves 3.

1 serving = 358 calories

Eggy Avocado Toast

Terrific idea and beautiful pics on Mississippi Vegan.

Ingredients
2 thick slices sourdough bread
1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed 
2 heaping tsp. plant butter
2 tsp. nutritional yeast
1 small ripe avocado (or ½ a large avocado), peeled and cut into chunks 
2 tsp. good white truffle oil
1 lemon wedge, to squeeze
Freshly cracked black pepper
Kala Namak 
Freshly chopped chives

Directions
Toast the bread and immediately rub with crushed garlic clove all over the toast, including the crispy edges. Preheat oven to 400 degrees, if serving hot.

Spread about 1 teaspoon of butter on each slice and dust with about 1 teaspoon of nutritional yeast on each slice. Divide the avocado onto each slice and use a fork to smash. Drizzle with about 1 teaspoon truffle oil to each slice. Squeeze only a few drops of lemon on top as well (about 4 drops on each slice). Sprinkle a good amount of Kala Namak on top. Crack over some black pepper and sprinkle with chives. Serve immediately or pop into the oven and bake for about 8 minutes, to warm thoroughly, if desired.

Vegan Fettucine Alfredo

Ingredients
2 tsp. oil
8 oz. fettuccine
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp. lemon zest
1 tsp. Herb de Provence or dried Italian herb mix of choice
Fistful chopped fresh parsley
Couple twists pepper
Salt to taste

Cashew Cauliflower Cream Sauce
¼ c. raw cashews, soaked in hot water
300 g. cauliflower head, yielding about 2 cups
2 tbsp. nutritional yeast 
¼ tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. onion powder or dried onion flakes
2 tsp. lemon juice
1/3 c. chilled water to thin the sauce
Salt to taste
Couple twists pepper
Makes about 3 cups of sauce

Instructions
Place cauliflower on the steaming rack in the Instant Pot. Steam for 6 minutes on high pressure and quick release. Carefully take out the softened cauliflower. Once cool, place cauliflower and remaining cream sauce ingredients into high powered blender and blend until smooth. 

Prepare pasta according to directions. While pasta is cooking, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. After draining pasta, add to sauté pan with garlic and toss with lemon zest, herbs and salt. Scoop 2 cups of sauce or more in the pasta or as needed and toss to coat. Add in freshly ground pepper. Taste test and adjust seasoning if desired.

Serves 4.

1 serving = 315 calories

Baba Ghanoush

Ingredients
1 large Italian eggplant
Salt, to taste
1/4 c. Simple Tahini Sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp. olive oil, plus more for garnish

Garnish
cherry tomatoes, halved
Toasted pine nuts
Ground sumac
Chopped parsley

Directions
Place eggplant directly on a gas burner and roast over medium-low heat. Turn until charred and blistered all over, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat, place in a bowl, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let cool for 10 minutes. (If you don't have a gas burner, the grill will work. But, try to connect the eggplant with open flame, if possible.)

When the eggplant is cool enough to handle, remove to a cutting board, make a cross-cut to open, and scoop out 1 cup of the flesh into another bowl. Add a pinch of salt and ¼ cup Simple Tahini Sauce and mix. Grate in about ¼ teaspoon garlic, followed by the olive oil, and mix again. Garnish with more tahini sauce, pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, salt, sumac, parsley, and more olive oil, and serve. 

Makes about 2 cups.

1 cup = 325 calories (without garnish)

Bulgur Veggie Chili with Kidney Beans

A bit of a different chili option by Naturally Ella.

Ingredients
1 medium yellow onion
2 cloves garlic
1 jalapeno 
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 medium parsnip (roughly 1/4 pound)
1/2 c. bulgur wheat
1 tbsp. chili powder
2 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
Pinch of cloves
Salt (to taste)
1 28- ounce can crushed tomatoes
2 oz. bittersweet chocolate
2 1/2 to 4 c. vegetable broth
1 15- oz. can kidney beans (drained and rinsed) or about 1.5 c. pre-cooked

Directions
Chop the onion, garlic, and jalapeno into large chunks. Place in a food processor and pulse until everything is minced. Drain any liquid that may have formed.

Heat a stockpot over medium heat. Add olive oil and onion mixture. Cook until onions are fragrant and transparent, 5 to 6 minutes. Meanwhile, chop the parsnip into large chunks and pulse in the food processor until the pieces are the same size as the bulgur. Transfer to the pot with the onions.

Stir in the bulgur and spices, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes or until you can smell the spices. Add in the tomatoes, chocolate, and 2 1/2 cups of the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for 10 minutes.

After 10 minutes, stir in the kidney beans, cover, and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes. Bulgur should be tender. Taste and adjust the salt/seasoning. Add more vegetable broth if a thinner consistency is desired.

Serves 4.

1 serving = 437 calories

Creamy Lemon Tofu

Check out the original recipe here: Creamy Lemon Tofu - Nora Cooks

Ingredients
1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed
1/4 tsp. salt
black pepper
1/4 c. cornstarch
3 tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic
3/4 c. vegetable broth
3/4 c. full-fat coconut milk
3-4 tbsp. fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
salt, to taste
1 tbsp. cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional for thickening sauce)

For Serving 

8 oz. pasta, cooked according to package

chopped fresh parsley, optional

Green vegetable, like asparagus or green beans

Directions
Slice the tofu into 1/2 inch thick rectangles. Cut the block in half, then into about 3 slices each. Pat the tofu dry with paper towels and lay evenly on a large cutting board or piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle each side with salt, a few shakes black pepper, then sprinkle on cornstarch, rubbing it in with your fingers, on both sides.

In a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the tofu and cook for about 2-3 minutes until crispy, then carefully use a spatula to get under the tofu and flip it to the other side. To prevent sticking, do not move it once you place it on the pan, wait 2-3 minutes before touching it. Also, use a quality pan that is not prone to sticking, and a thin spatula to get under the tofu. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the other side, then remove from the pan and place on a plate nearby.

To the pan, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Now pour in the broth, coconut milk and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and stir for about 3 minutes. Taste, and add more salt as desired.

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water, then add to the sauce and stir to thicken. 

Return the tofu to the sauce. There will be a lot of extra sauce, which is good because it's delicious mixed into pasta, with a few pieces of tofu on top. Serve with green vegetables! 

Serves 4.

1 serving = 476 calories (includes pasta, but not side veggie)

Green Curry with Green Beans

While not always vegan, Naturally Ella has so many veggie-forward healthful dishes. This green curry adaptation is pretty easy and delicious. Check out her recipe here: Green Bean Curry with Green Curry Sauce | Naturally Ella

Ingredients

Green Curry Sauce
2 tsp. coconut oil
1/2 c. white onion, minced
1 small jalapeno, deseeded and minced
1 tbsp. ginger, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp. Thai green curry paste
2 tbsp. lime juice
Salt, to taste
1 c. whole-fat coconut milk
1/3 c. loosely packed cilantro

Base
2 tsp. coconut oil
1 small white onion
1 red bell pepper
1/2 pound green beans, thinly sliced (or try asparagus here!)
Sea salt, to taste

For Serving
2 c. brown rice 
Toasted coconut
Fresh cilantro

Directions
Heat a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the coconut oil and melt. Measure in the onion and jalapeno, cook until fragrant and soft, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute or so. Add in the remaining ingredients for the sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the sauce until mostly smooth. Set the sauce aside and wipe out the pot.

Return the pot to the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil to the pot, followed by the onion, peppers, and pinch of salt. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes then add the green beans along with a splash of water. Cover and cook until the green beans until they are just about tender and bright green, 4 to 5 minutes. Add a bit more water as needed. Uncover and continue to cook for another few minutes to evaporate any leftover water and lightly brown the green beans.

Add in the curry sauce and simmer for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce is hot. Divide the rice into 4 bowls and top with green beans.

Serves 3.

Vegan Cottage Cheese

While not an exact approximation, this recipe definitely comes close to filling the void left by cottage cheese. Check out the original recipe by Loving It Vegan.

Ingredients
1 and 1/2 c. raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 1 hour
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 c. coconut cream (canned, unsweetened)
1/3 c. water
1 tsp. white vinegar
1 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. nutritional yeast
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. garlic powder
8 oz. extra firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
1 tsp. chives, chopped

Directions
Place soaked cashews, lemon juice, coconut cream, water, white vinegar, salt, nutritional yeast, onion powder and garlic powder into the blender and blend until smooth. Crumble the tofu and add it to a bowl. Pour over the blended cheese mixture, add the chopped chives and fold everything together gently so you don’t break up the tofu.

Place into the fridge for at least an hour to firm up.

1/4 cup = 146 calories

Coconut Curry Tofu Wrap

This is a terrific wrap for hiking. It holds up well and includes lots of nutritional goodness to keep you moving! Original recipe found on Veeg.

Ingredients

2 lbs. of extra-firm tofu, pressed
1/4 c. soy sauce or tamari 
1 c. raisins, hydrated if too hard and dried out
1/4 c. red onion, chopped
1/4 c. fresh basil, chopped
1 c. pecans (or other nut of choice)
1 c. coconut flakes
1 1/2 to 2 c. vegan mayo
3 tsp. of curry powder 
black pepper, freshly ground
your favorite wraps or bread
fresh alfalfa sprouts, or other sprout
mixed spring greens or another leafy green of choice

Directions

Slice the two blocks of tofu into bite-size cubes and place in a large mixing bowl. Cover the tofu with about 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari, gently tossing to distribute evenly. Let the marinated tofu sit as the oven preheats. 

Once the tofu is cubed and marinating, preheat your oven to 450 degrees and prepare a baking sheet for by lining with parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat.

After the oven has preheated, place the marinated tofu chunks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, flip and bake for another 10 minutes or so.

And as the tofu bakes, in the same large mixing bowl used to marinate the tofu, add the mayo, curry powder, freshly ground black pepper, and an extra dash of soy sauce or salt and stir, tasting to adjust seasoning to preference. Once the mayo is seasoned as you like, add the raisins and onion and stir to combine.

Optionally, but highly recommended, during the last couple of baking minutes for the tofu, slip the coconut and pecans into the oven for quick toasting. We used two separate baking pans so that we could remove as ready. The coconut toasts rather quickly so observe. The pecans toast in about 5 minutes or so or as soon as you smell a nutty aroma.

Once the tofu, nuts, and coconut have baked to your liking, add them to the large mixing bowl with the mayo and seasonings and stir to coat everything evenly. At this point, stir in the chopped fresh basil or wait and sprinkle it on before serving. 

Serve this curry salad on your favorite bun, bread or roll into a wrap. Load on some fresh sprouts and lettuce of choice. 

Serves 8.

1 serving = 359 calories (without bread or wrap)

Peanut Stew with Coconut & Kidney Beans

Original recipe found here: Peanut Stew with Coconut Milk & Kidney Beans ( Vegan) (veganricha.com)

Ingredients
1 tsp. oil or 2 tbsp. broth
1/2 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 tbsp. peanut butter (or other nut/seed butter)
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. thyme
1/2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. curry powder or garam masala or jamaican curry powder or berbere or baharat
1/2 c. chopped tomato
1 1/2 to 2 cups veggies, such as pepper, carrots, zucchini, winter squash, kale
1 c. coconut milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. sugar or sweetener
15 oz. canned kidney beans or 1.25 c. cooked kidney beans
1/2 c. water
cilantro, lime juice, chopped peanuts for garnish

Directions

Heat oil or broth in a skillet over medium heat, add onion and garlic and sauté them until golden. Add all the spices and herbs and stir into the onions for few seconds. Add in the peanut butter and mix it in. Add the tomatoes and veggies and mix in, letting everything come to a simmer. (If adding quick cooking veggies such as broccoli or kale, add them in the next step after 10 mins of simmering.)

Add the coconut milk, rinsed and drained kidney beans, salt, sugar and water and mix well. Cover and cook for 13-15 minutes or until the veggies are cooked to preference. Taste and add more salt or sugar to taste.

Garnish with cilantro and lime juice and serve with rice and other cooked grains.

Serves 4.

1 serving = 325 calories (does not include rice or grains)

Cacio e Pepe with Smoky Tofu

Another "new Italian" classic from Vegan Richa. She includes ways to make this dish soy free and nut free. 

Ingredients

Balsamic Roasted Tofu
3/4 c. pressed and chopped firm tofu
1 tsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
2 tsp. maple syrup , or use sugar/sweetener of choice
1/4 tsp. salt or 1 tsp. soy sauce

Pasta
8 oz. cooked spaghetti
2 tbsp. olive oil
3 cloves of garlic , finely chopped
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes , divided , use less for less heat
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper (use less for less heat)
1/3 c. vegan parmesan
1/2 c. pasta water
1/2 to 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
chopped parsley or basil or other herbs for garnish

Directions
Cook the spaghetti according to instructions on the package and set aside. 

Make the smoky tofu. Heat oil in a small skillet over medium heat. When hot, Add the tofu. Mix for a few seconds. add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Cook until the sauce thickens. Taste carefully and adjust flavor with more salt, vinegar or maple. Add a few drops of Liquid Smoke for extra smokiness. 

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium low heat. Add garlic and cook for half a minute. Add the black pepper and half the pepper flakes and cook until the garlic is golden. Add half of the parmesan and pasta water and bring to a good simmer. Add the spaghetti and toss to coat.

Sprinkle in rest of the parm, half the smoky tofu, black pepper, remaining pepper flakes and parsley and toss lightly and serve. Top each bowl with more smoky tofu.

Serves 4.

1 serving = 551 calories

Tumeric & Coconut-Braised Cabbage

Ingredients
½ medium head of green cabbage (about 2 lb.)
2 medium shallots (about 4 oz.)
1 1" piece ginger
2 garlic cloves
1 serrano or other green chile
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
3/4 tsp. kosher salt, plus more
1 13.5-oz. can unsweetened coconut milk
1 15.5-oz. can chickpeas (about 2 cups)
1 tsp. brown mustard seeds
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. turmeric powder
½ cup vegetable stock or water
Freshly ground black pepper
Steamed white rice, cilantro leaves, and lime wedges, for serving

Directions
To start, prep your ingredients. Slice cabbage through core to make 4 wedges. Peel and finely chop shallots. Finely chop or grate ginger and garlic cloves. Halve green chile lengthwise and, if you don’t want it too hot, scrape out seeds and white membrane with the back of the knife; discard. If you prefer some heat, leave as is. Finely chop chile. Set shallots, ginger, garlic, and chile aside. 

Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large high-sided skillet with lid or wide Dutch oven over medium-high. Add cabbage, cut side down, and season with kosher salt. Cook, undisturbed, until lightly charred underneath, about 5 minutes. Turn over and cook, undisturbed, until charred, about 5 minutes. Transfer cabbage to a plate. Shake one 13.5-oz. can unsweetened coconut milk to ensure it’s well mixed; open can. Open one 15.5-oz. can chickpeas and rinse in a colander under running water. Heat remaining olive oil in same skillet over medium-high. Add reserved shallots, ginger, garlic, and chile, and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add brown mustard seeds, ground cumin, and turmeric powder and cook, stirring, until mustard seeds are popping, about 1 minute. Add coconut milk, chickpeas, ½ cup vegetable stock or water, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine. 

Place cabbage wedges back into pan and, using a large spoon, baste cabbage with coconut milk; bring mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook until cabbage is tender, 15–20 minutes. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Scoop some steamed white rice into each bowl and divide cabbage and chickpeas over; top with cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges, for squeezing over.

Serves 4.