Category: Dinner

Pearled Barley with Shiitake and Asparagus

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Pearled Barley with Shiitake and Asparagus
(Serves 8 – Vegan/Plant-Based, Soy-Free)

I typically like barley in a soup, usually always in soup. But today I opened the pantry, then the freezer and looked around for a change from the usual rice and beans. I considered pearled barley, because it has a similar texture to rice, and thought the nutty flavor would go great with the shiitake mushrooms I had in the freezer. These frozen mushrooms by Woodstock specifically are my new favorite, I genuinely love the taste and freshness, and highly recommend them.

I realize the prep/cook time of this recipe could look intimidating… (I mean—one whole hour and some change just to cook the barley alone!) But think about all the other things you can do while it’s cooking. Sometimes the long cook-time recipes allow me to get other tasks completed or even just time to relax. But today for example, I put the barley on… lowered it to a simmer, set the clock and went to iron my husband’s clothes. Another consideration is to prep any time-consuming items on another day/time. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
2 Cups Pearled Barley (dry)
6 Cups Water
2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Garlic, minced
10oz Shiitake Mushrooms, frozen
16oz Asparagus, frozen (chopped)
1 Lemon (juice & zest)
Dried Parsley
Salt/Pepper

Directions:
-In a large pot combine barley with water and bring to a boil. Immediately lower and simmer for one hour and 20 minutes. Then remove from heat, add seasoning (salt/pepper) and set aside.

-In a large pan, heat olive oil and add garlic and mushrooms. Sauté for about five minutes, while stirring. Add sauteed mushroom mixture to the cooked barley. To this add zest of lemon.

-To the pan, add lemon juice, chopped asparagus, and dried parsley. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally.

-Add asparagus to the barley and mix all together to combine. Season to taste. Enjoy!

Pearled Barley with Shiitake and<br /> Asparagus

Ingredients:
2 Cups Pearled Barley (dry)
6 Cups Water
2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Garlic, minced
10oz Shiitake Mushrooms, frozen
16oz Asparagus, frozen (chopped)
1 Lemon (juice & zest)
Dried Parsley
Salt/Pepper

Directions:
-In a large pot combine barley with water and bring to a boil. Immediately
lower and simmer for one hour and 20 minutes. Then remove from heat, add
seasoning (salt/pepper) and set aside.
-In a large pan, heat olive oil and add garlic and mushrooms. Sauté for about
five minutes, while stirring. Add sauteed mushroom mixture to the cooked
barley. To this add zest of lemon.
-To the pan, add lemon juice, chopped asparagus, and dried parsley. Cook for
about five minutes, stirring occasionally.
-Add asparagus to the barley and mix all together to combine. Season to taste. Enjoy!

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French Onion and Kale Soup

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French Onion and Kale Soup (Vegan)
(No ramekin required)

I certainly embrace soup season, nothing like the comfort from a warm bowl of soup/stew. Soup is economical, and you can make endless variations of vegetable or bean soups. And we love cheap eats in our home – rice, and beans for days…lots of rice and beans. 😊 Historically, French onion soup was considered food of the poor, and these days we appreciate cost-effective dinners. It’s typically made with a meat/beef stock, but this veganized version uses a vegetable stock instead. One of the keys to success in preparation is caramelizing the onions. For the topping, I toasted slices of a baguette and topped it with a vegan smoked gouda cheese. Also, since my ramekins are packed away, I created this version that does not utilize them (plus many folks don’t have them). Enjoy! 

Vegan French Onion and Kale Soup

Ingredients:
1 Stick Earth Balance (vegan butter)
3 large Sweet Onions, sliced
3 Fresh Bay leaves
3-5 Sprigs of Fresh Thyme
1 Tbsp fresh Garlic, minced
3 bunches of Kale, stems removed and chopped finely
1 Tsp Salt
1/2 Tsp Pepper
1/2 Cup White Wine or Cooking Wine
2 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
1/2 Tbsp Goya Adobo seasoning, optional (or use additional salt/pepper to taste)
For topping:
2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Fresh French Baguette
Vegan Cheese (I used Follow Your Heart, Smoked Gouda)

Directions:
-In a large pot, heat the Earth Balance (butter) over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions, bay leaves and fresh thyme. Cook the mixture for about five minutes until softened and the onions will become translucent.

-Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook the onion mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring periodically.
-Increase the heat to medium, remove the lid and cook for another 20 minutes uncovered to allow for the onions to caramelize and become golden brown. Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems before proceeding to the next step.

-Next, stir in the garlic, chopped kale, salt, pepper, and cook for about two minutes, before adding the white/cooking wine to deglaze the pot. Pour in the wine and be sure to scrap around the pot. Scrap the bottom to get up those brown caramelized bits, that were browning from the bottom. It’s all part of the deglazing process. Allow the wine to cook for about three minutes.

-Stir in the flour to thicken up the mixture. Then add the vegetable broth and heat to medium-high.
-Increase the heat back to medium-high to bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for another 20 minutes. Note: while the mixture is in the final 20 minutes of cooking. Pre-heat the oven to 450 degrees F.
-Slice up a baguette or other bread loaf. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and add salt/pepper to taste before topping with a slice of cheese.
-Toast the bread in the oven for 10 minutes to melt the cheese and toast up the bread.

     Note: I only prepare the amount of bread/cheese needed to serve immediately.
-To serve: Ladle the soup in a bowl and top with the bread/cheese slices.

Enjoy!

Note: Traditionally French onion soup is typically served in a ramekin. If you do have a ramekin, serve the soup in that container and top with the bread/cheese and bake the entire ramekin in the oven during the final 10 minutes to melt the cheese.

French Onion and Kale Soup

  • Difficulty: Easy
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Ingredients:
1 Stick Earth Balance (vegan butter)
3 large Sweet Onions, sliced
3 Fresh Bay leaves
3-5 Sprigs of Fresh Thyme
1 Tbsp fresh Garlic, minced
3 bunches of Kale, stems removed and chopped finely
1 Tsp Salt
1/2 Tsp Pepper
1/2 Cup White Wine or Cooking Wine
2 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
1/2 Tbsp Goya Adobo seasoning, optional (or use additional salt/pepper to taste)
For topping:
2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Fresh French Baguette
Vegan Cheese (I used Follow Your Heart, Smoked Gouda)

Directions:
-In a large pot, heat the Earth Balance (butter) over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions, bay leaves and fresh thyme. Cook the mixture for about five minutes until softened and the onions will become translucent.
-Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Cook the onion mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring periodically.
-Increase the heat to medium, remove the lid and cook for another 20 minutes uncovered to allow for the onions to caramelize and become golden brown. Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems before proceeding to the next step.
-Next, stir in the garlic, chopped kale, salt, pepper, and cook for about two minutes, before adding the white/cooking wine to deglaze the pot. Pour in the wine and be sure to scrap around the pot. Scrap the bottom to get up those brown caramelized bits, that were browning from the bottom. It’s all part of the deglazing process. Allow the wine to cook for about three minutes.
-Stir in the flour to thicken up the mixture. Then add the vegetable broth and heat to medium-high.
-Increase the heat back to medium-high to bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for another 20 minutes. Note: while the mixture is in the final 20 minutes of cooking. Pre-heat the oven to 450 degrees F.
-Slice up a baguette or other bread loaf. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and add salt/pepper to taste before topping with a slice of cheese.
-Toast the bread in the oven for 10 minutes to melt the cheese and toast up the bread.
Note: I only prepare the amount of bread/cheese needed to serve immediately.
-To serve: Ladle the soup in a bowl and top with the bread/cheese slices.
Enjoy!

1 Peter 4:19

“Therefore, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.”

God, may you bless and always protect our sons. Thank you Lord for Cameron and Joshua. We recognize them not only on this National Son’s Day, but every day. Daily you occupy our hearts, prayers and thus our home. We love you gentlemen, and you are each truly a blessing to us. We are so proud of you both. Our love will endure forever. Love always.

Simple Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

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Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

I’m missing my calling as a minimalist, lol. We are moving, and as we are getting the house ready – I think to myself (and out loud) …there is so much stuff. Ugh…things…why do we have so many things, ah! It amazes me how much we accumulate over the years. I’m trying to redefine “spring cleaning” over here as I throw, toss and donate things away, while simultaneously deep cleaning. Ironically, none of this hit me until I had to paint. As I removed all the things from the kitchen, everything quite literally seems to be overflowing into the dining room now. While I don’t have a bunch of tchotchkes (knickknacks) or collections, I still feel like there are a lot of items in general. This immediately made me think of the bible verse (in Matthew 6:19) about storing your treasures on earth. Although I’m not materialistic by any stretch, it still made me stop and reflect. On another note, I also can’t help but to notice how quickly this month is moving right along. The pressure is on to finish, as I’m trying not to let May slip by.  

This recipe today is one that is very simple and tasty. This recipe can be served over cooked rice or noodles of your choice. It tastes delicious on white/basmati or brown rice, and with ramen. Also, additional vegetable additions that would go great are edamame (soybeans) or mushrooms. I did not have any this time around, but next time I will be adding some. Additionally, I used an apple in this recipe instead of sugar to balance the sweet/salty flavors. The apple adds a nice freshness to this dish. Enjoy!



Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry

  • Difficulty: easy
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Simple Tofu and Vegetable Stir Fry
Ingredients:
2-3 Tbsp Oil
1 (16oz) Package (Block) Super Firm Tofu
1 Tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated
2 Tbsp Fresh Garlic, minced
1/4 Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
1 bunch of Scallions, about 7-8
Salt/Pepper (to taste)
1/2 Tbsp Smoked Paprika
1 small Apple, grated
4 Cups Broccoli (Fresh/Frozen)
4 Tbsp Soy Sauce/Tamari, divided
2 Tbsp Rice Vinegar, divided
1/2 Head of Cabbage
2-3 Carrots, grated or matchstick cut
Finish with:
Sesame Oil
Fresh Parsley, optional

Directions:
-Season tofu with salt/pepper to taste and add the paprika. Mix together to combine seasoning.
-Heat oil to medium-high heat. Then add the tofu and cook for about 10 minutes, be sure to toss/turn or even shake the pan every few minutes to halfway through for even cooking.
-Remove tofu from pan and set aside; allow to drain on napkin/paper towel, if needed.
-Back to pan add red pepper flakes, fresh garlic, and scallions. I typically keep some scallions off to the side for garnish.
-Cook the above for about one minute, then add apples, parsley and ginger. Continue cooking for another two minutes keep tossing while cooking.
-To the mixture add half of the soy sauce (2 tbsp) and vinegar (1 tbsp), plus the fresh/frozen broccoli. Cover and cook for five minutes to allow broccoli to steam up. Keep shaking and tossing in between.
-Remove cover. Over high heat, add cabbage and carrots to mixture plus remaining soy sauce and vinegar. Continue tossing/stirring while cooking for another one to two minutes.
-Add back in the tofu and give it another toss before serving.
-Serve over rice or noodles and finish with a garnish of additional ginger, scallions, parsley, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Enjoy!

The prep:

Matthew 6:19
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal (NIV).

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal” (ESV).

Vegetable Soup

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Vegetable Soup – the no recipe—recipe.

Soup warms the soul, leaves me with positive vibes and comfort. Whenever I make vegetable soup, I make a LARGE quantity that will last us a few days. It’s so hard for me to put an actual vegetable soup recipe into words though. There are so many different variables when I set out to make it. Each time I use different veggies and sometimes I have no broth/stock and use water. I always start with a couple tablespoons of oil, crushed red pepper flakes, lots of garlic and an onion chopped. To this I add carrots and celery and sauté for a couple of minutes. Then, add diced tomatoes, water/broth and begin layering in my seasonings and veggies. If I’m adding potatoes, I include them in the carrots and celery step. The veggies vary and can include broccoli, cabbage, peas, spinach, kale, corn, cauliflower etc. I always try to include beans for fiber and protein — typically, red kidney beans or chickpeas. I hope this recipe inspires you to mix and match veggies too.
A must try – small/baby potatoes left whole= they are sometimes called creamers. I added them to this soup and left them whole, which made the soup very filling and satisfying.
Enjoy!

Lamentations 3:25-26

“The Lord is good to those who wait for him,

    to the soul who seeks him.

It is good that one should wait quietly     for the salvation of the Lord.”

Vegan Bolognese

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Vegan Bolognese
(Makes one large pot) ~ Vegan, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free

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There are times when quick and easy recipes are the only feasible option. There are also times when a labor of love is much needed and super easy. Last Sunday, we were just lazing around, the perfect day to make this Bolognese. This recipe cooks for a long time but requires little attention – except when you have to keep stirring (think Goodfellas ). The time is needed to develop the delicious flavors. Plus an added bonus – it fills your home with a wonderful smell. It’s little a bowl of warm soup. Versatile. Warm. Appetizing.
Enjoy!

Ingredients:

1 medium Sweet Onion, chopped
3 Celery Ribs, chopped
2 large Carrots, chopped
2 Tbsp Garlic, minced
3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
12 Fresh Basil leave, chiffonade/chopped, divided
1/2 Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
1 (28oz can) Diced Tomatoes
1 (28oz can) Crushed Tomatoes
5 Fresh Vine Tomatoes
1 Red Pepper, diced
10oz (2 ½ Cups) Walnuts
2 Tbsp Liquid Smoke
1 (25oz can) Dark Red Kidney Beans
1 Tsp to ½ Tbsp Ground Cumin
1 Tbsp Paprika
1 Tbsp Cumin
1 Tbsp Sugar (or to Taste)
1 Tsp Course Ground Pepper
½ Tbsp Salt
(Add Sugar, Salt, Pepper to taste)

Directions:

-Heat Extra Virgin Olive Oil over medium/high heat.
-Add Red Pepper Flakes and Garlic, sauté for 1 minute.

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-Add Onion, Celery, Carrots and heat for about 3 to 5 minutes.

20181028_170936-Add half of the chopped Basil and stir to incorporate, then place the Vine Ripe Tomatoes on top of the mixture. Do Not Stir – We are only placing the tomatoes on top to steam them. Cover, reduce heat to low and steam for about 10 minutes.

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-After 10 minutes, uncover mixture remove tomatoes and set aside until they are cool to the touch.

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-Add canned Tomatoes (Crushed/Diced). Keep the pot over low heat while preparing whole tomatoes. Peel whole tomatoes when they are cool.

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-In a small bowl add Whole (peeled) Tomatoes along with Kidney Beans. Mash together – you can crush together with your hands or a potato masher will do. Add this tomato/bean mixture to pot.

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-Stir in Liquid Smoke, Salt, Pepper, and Sugar. (At this point, I am roughly 45 minutes into cook time).

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-Add Walnuts and stir all together. Cover with lid partially and continue cooking over low heat. (I break down the walnuts with my fingers so the pieces are not too large).

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-Keep stirring and keep simmering about 45 minutes.
-During the last 10 minutes, I add the remaining Basil, Paprika, Cumin and adjust Salt, Pepper, Sugar to taste also.

Vegan Bolognese

  • Servings: Makes 1 Large Pot
  • Difficulty: Easy
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Credit: veganrescue.com

Ingredients:

1 medium Sweet Onion, chopped
3 Celery Ribs, chopped
2 large Carrots, chopped
2 Tbsp Garlic, minced
3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
12 Fresh Basil leave, chiffonade/chopped, divided
1/2 Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
1 (28oz can) Diced Tomatoes
1 (28oz can) Crushed Tomatoes
5 Fresh Vine Tomatoes
1 Red Pepper, diced
10oz (2 ½ Cups) Walnuts
2 Tbsp Liquid Smoke
1 (25oz can) Dark Red Kidney Beans
1 Tsp to ½ Tbsp Ground Cumin
1 Tbsp Paprika
1 Tbsp Cumin
1 Tbsp Sugar (or to Taste)
1 Tsp Course Ground Pepper
½ Tbsp Salt
(Add Sugar, Salt, Pepper to taste)

Directions:

-Heat Extra Virgin Olive Oil over medium/high heat.
-Add Red Pepper Flakes and Garlic, sauté for 1 minute.
-Add Onion, Celery, Carrots and heat for about 3 to 5 minutes.
-Add half of the chopped Basil and stir to incorporate, then place the Vine Ripe Tomatoes on top of the mixture. Do Not Stir – We are only placing the tomatoes on top to steam them. Cover, reduce heat to low and steam for about 10 minutes.
-After 10 minutes, uncover mixture remove tomatoes and set aside until they are cool to the touch.
-Add canned Tomatoes (Crushed/Diced). Keep the pot over low heat while preparing whole tomatoes. Peel whole tomatoes when they are cool.
-In a small bowl add Whole (peeled) Tomatoes along with Kidney Beans. Mash together – you can crush together with your hands or a potato masher will do. Add this tomato/bean mixture to pot.
-Stir in Liquid Smoke, Salt, Pepper, and Sugar. (At this point, I am roughly 45 minutes into cook time).
-Add Walnuts and stir all together. Cover with lid partially and continue cooking over low heat. (I break down the walnuts with my fingers so the pieces are not too large).
-Keep stirring and keep simmering about 45 minutes.
-During the last 10 minutes, I add the remaining Basil, Paprika, Cumin and adjust Salt, Pepper, Sugar to taste also.

 

Here are some ideas for your Bolognese Sauce!

You can add to Pasta, Spaghetti Squash or make Quesadillas – check these out!

The pastabilities are endless! Try it on Gnocchi too.

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I used vegan sour cream and salsa for the quesadillas.

Carrot and Beet Salad

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Carrot and Beet Salad
(Serves 8-10) ~ Vegan, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free, Raw

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I wanted to share a quick raw recipe with you all… just in case you need a last minute side for tomorrow. Happy Thanksgiving!!

I have been making several raw recipes lately since Seth has been eating only raw dinners for the last few weeks. So I dare to create more raw recipes. I won’t get deep into how life has been. I will just say that new job plus higher learning equals life around me pausing or rather coming to a complete halt. I can admit at least that it has pretty much consumed me. I know I have been gone awhile but with Thanksgiving tomorrow I have been inspired…plus mom pseudo-scolded me a few weeks ago for not posting in a long time. That has been in the back of my mind.

I hope you all enjoy your Thanksgiving tomorrow with family, loved ones, old friends and new friends. This recipe is very fresh, crunchy and healthy! Enjoy!

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Ingredients:

2lbs Carrots (about 14), Shredded

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2 Beet roots, washed and julienned

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1 large handful Fresh Cilantro, chopped
1/4 Cup Canola Oil
Juice of 1 Lemon
1/4 Tsp Course Black Pepper
1/2 Tsp Kosher Salt
1/2 Tsp Cumin
1/4 Tsp Cayenne Pepper
1/4 Tsp or a Pinch Ground Ginger
1/4 Tsp or a Pinch Ground Celery Seeds
1 Tbsp Raw Honey or Agave Nectar

Directions:

-Wash and shred the carrots – I used a box grater.
-Wash and julienne the beets – I used a mandoline julienne blade.
-Wash and chop cilantro.
-In a small bowl, whisk together oil, lemon juice, seasonings.
-Combine together all ingredients and toss together. Refrigerate any unused portion. Enjoy!

Raw Carrot and Beet Salad

  • Servings: 8-10
  • Difficulty: Easy
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Ingredients:

2lbs Carrots (about 14), Shredded
2 Beet roots, washed and julienned
1 large handful Fresh Cilantro, chopped
1/4 Cup Canola Oil
Juice of 1 Lemon
1/4 Tsp Course Black Pepper
1/2 Tsp Kosher Salt
1/2 Tsp Cumin
1/4 Tsp Cayenne Pepper
1/4 Tsp or a Pinch Ground Ginger
1/4 Tsp or a Pinch Ground Celery Seeds
1 Tbsp Raw Honey or Agave Nectar

Directions:

-Wash and shred the carrots – I used a box grater.
-Wash and julienne the beets – I used a mandoline julienne blade.
-Wash and chop cilantro.
-In a small bowl, whisk together oil, lemon juice, seasonings.
-Combine together all ingredients and toss together. Refrigerate any unused portion. Enjoy!

Cabbage Savage

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Cabbage Savage
(Serves 6-8) ~ Vegan, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free

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This cabbage has a slight kick but you can add/adjust as needed. It is super addicting – hence the name… this cabbage is fierce.

I watched some new documentaries recently that I will update on my list. Netflix has some great documentaries and not just the food ones. I watched The Human Experiment and Plastic Paradise. Not only are GMO’s a concern for us but what about the other countless “invisible” toxic chemicals that we are exposed to? It’s no wonder there has been such an increase in: cancer, dementia, autism, obesity, etc. It seems we are really dropping the ball here. It’s like a question of what came first, the chicken or the egg… except it’s more like, the chem industry or the pharm industry.

Ingredients:
1 Head Green Cabbage, cleaned and chopped/shredded (I just use my knife)
1 Tbsp Canola Oil
3 Tbsp Earth Balance (vegan butter)
½ Tbsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
2 Tsp Minced Garlic
2 Tsp Salt
1 Tsp Course Black Pepper
½ Tsp Chili Powder
½ Tsp Tarragon

Directions:
-Clean and shred cabbage then set aside. I just slice it up on my cutting board. Be sure to remove the outer thick leaves and quarter/core before shredding and washing.
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-In a large pot, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Add red pepper flakes and minced garlic and heat through for about 1-2 minutes. (Be careful it can quickly burn).
-Add Earth Balance butter and cabbage. Cover and let it cook down for about 10 minutes.
-Stir after 5 minutes so it all sautés and begins to cook evenly.
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-After 10 minutes stir again and add seasonings: salt, pepper, chili powder and tarragon. Cover and continue cooking.
I cook for a total time of about 20 minutes and then I turn off heat and allow it to sit for 5 minutes before serving – but keeping the lid on. Enjoy!
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Spaghetti Squash with Baked Basmati Salad

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Spaghetti Squash with Baked Basmati Salad
(Serves 4-6) ~ Vegan, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free

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It will all be worth it. That feeling of accomplishment once you’ve completed a project, despite all the lost hours of sleep… It’s definitely a balancing act sometimes as an adult if you have: a family, school, work, projects, and then try squeezing in a social life here in there. I’m so pleased and proud that Seth’s latest book has finally been released, “ApocaLips” but I will blog a separate post all about it, with links for purchasing if any of my fellow bloggers are interested.

About the spaghetti squash… This recipe served four generous portions, however, it should really probably serve six given the amount of food. This is a nice recipe to serve now that we’re in that holiday season. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
2 Spaghetti Squash, halved
1 (15oz can) Black Eyed Peas, drained/rinsed
1 (15oz can) Black Beans, drained/rinsed
1 (11oz can) White Shoepeg corn, drained
½ Red Onion, chopped finely
½ Red Pepper, chopped
2 Cups (prepared) Basmati Rice
1 Handful Fresh Parsley, chopped (divided)
½ Tsp Italian Seasoning
½ Tsp Garlic Powder
½ Tsp Course Ground Pepper
½ Tsp Salt
1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
(Additional Salt/Pepper and EVOO to taste)
Nutritional Yeast, optional

Directions:
-Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
-Cut Spaghetti squash in half, scoop out seeds then add a generous drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Salt/Pepper.
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-Bake cut side down for 45 minutes.
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-In a bowl toss together: Basmati Rice, Black Beans, Black Eyed Peas, Corn, half of chopped Parsley plus seasonings.
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-Remove squash from oven after 45 minutes and add rice mixture. Place back into oven for another 20 minutes.
-Top with Red Pepper, Parsley and optional (salt/pepper/nutritional yeast). I used about ½ Tbsp Nutritional Yeast. Enjoy
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Spaghetti

Ingredients:
2 Spaghetti Squash, halved
1 (15oz can) Black Eyed Peas, drained/rinsed
1 (15oz can) Black Beans, drained/rinsed
1 (11oz can) White Shoepeg corn, drained
½ Red Onion, chopped finely
½ Red Pepper, chopped
2 Cups (prepared) Basmati Rice
1 Handful Fresh Parsley, chopped (divided)
½ Tsp Italian Seasoning
½ Tsp Garlic Powder
½ Tsp Course Ground Pepper
½ Tsp Salt
1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
(Additional Salt/Pepper and EVOO to taste)
Nutritional Yeast, optional

Directions:
-Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
-Cut Spaghetti squash in half, scoop out seeds then add a generous drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Salt/Pepper.
-Bake cut side down for 45 minutes.
-In a bowl toss together: Basmati Rice, Black Beans, Black Eyed Peas, Corn, half of chopped Parsley plus seasonings.
-Remove squash from oven after 45 minutes and add rice mixture. Place back into oven for another 20 minutes.
-Top with Red Pepper, Parsley and optional (salt/pepper/nutritional yeast). I used about ½ Tbsp Nutritional Yeast. Enjoy

Vegetable Ramen Noodle Soup

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Vegetable Ramen Noodle Soup
(Serves 8) ~ Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

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I don’t know about you, but this chilly weather instantly makes me want to prepare a big pot of soup. I’m not knocking the ramen soup that we all lived on at one time or another, but whew are those ingredient lists long! I love this recipe because the way it’s prepared the veggies stay fresh and crunchy without all the preservatives. This was a big hit in our home a few nights ago. Yes, these oodles of noodles are all grown up. Warm, inviting and fresh! Enjoy.

Ingredients:
3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
5 Scallions, chopped
3 Celery Ribs, sliced
3 Large Carrots, shredded/grated
16oz Frozen Corn
¼ Tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
10oz Fresh Green Beans
¼ Cup Tamari Soy Sauce
¼ Tsp Ginger Powder
3 Quarts Vegetable Broth
1 (10oz Package) Ramen Noodles (I used Lotus Foods – Millet & Brown rice)
1 Tbsp Rice Vinegar
Salt/Pepper to taste

Directions:
-Prepare ramen noodles according to package and set aside.
-In a large pot heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add celery and scallions then sauté for about 3 minutes.
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Grated Carrots – I used my box grater.
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-Add carrots, frozen corn, and crushed red pepper flakes continue to sauté for 5 minutes.
-Stir in soy sauce, vegetable broth and green beans. Bring to boil.
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-Once the soup begins to boil turn off and remove from heat. Stir in rice vinegar, ginger powder and ramen then season to taste (salt/pepper). Enjoy!

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Vegetable Ramen Noodle Soup

  • Servings: 8
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Ingredients:
3 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
5 Scallions, chopped
3 Celery Ribs, sliced
3 Large Carrots, shredded/grated
16oz Frozen Corn
¼ Tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
10oz Fresh Green Beans
¼ Cup Tamari Soy Sauce
¼ Tsp Ginger Powder
3 Quarts Vegetable Broth
1 (10oz Package) Ramen Noodles (I used Lotus Foods – Millet & Brown rice)
1 Tbsp Rice Vinegar
Salt/Pepper to taste

Directions:
-Prepare ramen noodles according to package and set aside.
-In a large pot heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add celery and scallions then sauté for about 3 minutes.
-Add carrots, frozen corn, and crushed red pepper flakes continue to sauté for 5 minutes.
-Stir in soy sauce, vegetable broth and green beans. Bring to boil.
-Once the soup begins to boil turn off and remove from heat. Stir in rice vinegar, ginger powder and ramen then season to taste (salt/pepper). Enjoy!

Eggplant Parm Bake

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Eggplant Parm Bake
(Serves 8-10) ~ Vegan, Gluten-Free, Soy-Free

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Can I quickly just say how much fun we had last night! We attended a game night hosted by my lifelong friend. Maribel is pretty much family since I’ve known her my entire life. She’s more like a cousin to me and growing up we hung out like sisters would. Her husband and two other close friends attended also. The six of us laughed so hard we were in tears. I love good times like this. The kids had their own game night happening in the living room with uno and cards.
I made this Eggplant Parmigiana bake a couple weeks ago. I wanted to take a quick shortcut to my ultimate eggplant parm recipe. This recipe was quick and delicious.

Eggplant Parm Bake

  • Servings: 8-10
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Ingredients:
3 Eggplants, sliced (recipe tripled)
(Prepared Eggplants – find recipe here)
Parmesan Topping (recipe tripled)
(Prepared Parm Topping – find recipe here)
1 Jar Store bought pasta sauce
3 Cups Fresh Baby Spinach
1 Package Vegan Shredded Mozzarella (I used Daiya brand)

Directions:
-Prepare Eggplant and Parmesan topping according to my Ultimate Eggplant Parmigiana recipe.
-In a large 13×9 baking dish, layer in the following: sauce, eggplant slices, sauce, baby spinach, Daiya cheese then repeat. Note: If you have any additional parmesan topping remaining add on top of spinach layer.
-Oven should already be heated to 500 degrees F. Cover with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes or until cheese has melted. I remove foil halfway through baking. Enjoy!

Spinach layer:
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Next Daiya Cheese and then Eggplant.img_0881
I served alongside Angel hair pasta.
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p.s. I cannot believe the holidays are right around the corner!!