Plant Based Recipes Archives - Journey With Healthy Me

Easy Vegan Cornbread

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I switched to a plant based lifestyle in 2016. And since 2016, I’ve tried to create a decent vegan cornbread. Most of those attempts failed. One, Greg jokingly said, would be delicious with chocolate icing on it. That cornbread more resembled cake than anything else!

As a pot of Cajun 15 bean soup simmered on the stove a couple of days ago, I decided to give cornbread another try, using ingredients I already had on hand.

For the first time, I felt pleased with the results. Maybe I’ve been trying too hard!

Here is the simple recipe for Easy Vegan Cornbread. As a bonus, it’s oil free as well.

Easy Vegan Cornbread title

Easy Vegan Cornbread

Using only seven ingredients, readily found in the pantry, this cornbread came together in minutes. I popped the pan out of the oven as the Cajun bean soup finished simmering.

You can easily adapt this recipe to use what YOU have on hand.

Switch out the almond flour for regular flour, if you aren’t gluten sensitive, or a gluten free 1 to 1 flour like Bob’s Red Mill. Change out the coconut sugar for regular sugar if that’s what you have available. And you can substitute 1/3 cup of oil for the applesauce.

Easy Vegan Cornbread ready to eat — Ready to eat easy vegan cornbread

Easy Vegan Cornbread Recipe

Easy Vegan Cornbread

This quick from scratch cornbread is vegan, gluten free and oil free

4.50 from 2 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

1 1/4 cup almond flour
1 cup yellow corn meal
1/2 cup coconut sugar
1 tsp sea salt
1 tbsp baking powder
1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
Combine all dry ingredients in medium sized bowl.
Add almond milk and applesauce. Still well, combining all ingredients.
Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before cutting.

Keyword cornbread, oil free, Vegan

Tips for Easy Vegan Cornbread

This recipe is so simple that it doesn’t require many tips!

For a less sweet cornbread, reduce the amount of sugar.

Don’t overmix the batter. Stir until ingredients are just combined.

I haven’t tried doubling this recipe however it should work. Of course, use a larger baking pan.

Check for doneness after 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. When the toothpick is clean after removing, cornbread is done.

Store leftovers loosely covered, at room temperature.

The Taste Test

I admit I was almost afraid to try the cornbread. I’ve felt disappointment over earlier attempts.

Happily, this batch passed the taste test. It holds together well and has a light texture and a slightly sweet taste.

The cornbread paired well with the bean soup. And no icing required. This cornbread doesn’t taste like cake!

We enjoyed this batch of cornbread so much that we finished it off this evening.

Do you have a vegan cornbread recipe that you love?

Easy Vegan Cornbread with bean soup — Easy Vegan Cornbread with Cajun bean soup.

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Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa

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Looking for a simple, hearty recipe featuring whole foods and the superfood quinoa? Look no further. I have just the recipe for you!

Vegan burrito bowl with quinoa comes together in under 30 minutes plus it is versatile and highly nutritious. Loaded with protein packing black beans and fresh veggies along with amazing quinoa, you’ll turn to this recipe again and again for a savory meal.

Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa title meme

Superfood Quinoa Benefits

Although technically a seed, quinoa is typically grown as a grain crop. Quinoa comes in red, black and white varieties. It is gluten free, high in protein and one of the few plant based foods that provides all nine essential amino acids that the body needs.

Additionally, quinoa is high in fiber, magnesium, vitamins B and E, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, copper, zinc and antioxidants.

The seed’s antioxidants help calm inflammation throughout the body and provide anti-cancer, anti-viral and anti-depressant properties. There are so many other health benefits from including quinoa in the diet that I wrote a post about it. Check it out HERE.

Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa

The need to use an avocado before it passed its prime inspired this easy recipe. With basic pantry items, I created a filling bowl of goodness without the extra calories, meat and dairy products that a traditional burrito brings.

Although I didn’t prepare the vegan burrito bowl with quinoa in one pan…I used two…I think that’s a possibility, making clean up quicker and easier.

Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa

journeywithhealthyme

Quick and filling burrito bowl featuring superfood quinoa

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 Servings

Ingredients

2 cups cooked quinoa
3 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic gloves, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 orange bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cups cooked black beans may use 1 can black beans
1 cup frozen corn may use half a can of corn
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, in juice. Do not drain.
2 tsp Mexican seasoning may use cumin or chili powder
3 cups shredded lettuce, for bowl
1 avocado, diced, for bowl

Instructions

Combine 1 cup of quinoa and 2 cups of water in a medium sized saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
White quinoa cooks, heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes.
Add mushrooms and bell peppers, stir frying until veggies are almost tender. Add frozen corn, diced tomatoes in juice, black beans and seasoning. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until quinoa is done.
When quinoa is done, remove from heat, fluff with a fork and add to veggie mixture. Mix well. Season with sea salt and black pepper, if desired.
In a bowl, spoon in burrito mixture, shredded lettuce and diced avocado. Add additional toppings, if desired.
Makes approximately 6 servings. Store leftovers in covered container in fridge.

Keyword Burrito Bowl, quinoa, Vegan

Tips for Creating Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa

Pick up quinoa at your favorite grocery store or order HERE. I usually add a drizzle of olive oil to the quinoa pot, before reducing heat and simmering.

Add additional veggies to mixture, if desired. Summer squash, zucchini, broccoli or cauliflower are good choices. Don’t like mushrooms? Leave them out.

To create a one pot meal, add a half cup of vegetable broth and the uncooked quinoa after adding black beans, diced tomatoes with juice, corn and seasoning. Bring just to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir well and serve.

I use Frontier Co-op Mexican Fiesta Seasoning with chilis, tomato and cumin. You can use cumin or chili seasoning instead. If you’d like extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes before serving or a diced jalapeno when stir frying veggies.

In my bowl, I included shredded lettuce and diced avocado. Use salsa, guacamole, sliced green onions, vegan cheese, shredded cabbage, black olives or toppings of choice. Add small tortilla chips if you aren’t limiting sodium.

Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa mixture — Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa – veggie and quinoa mixture

Enjoying My Burrito Bowl

I love the blend of flavors in this burrito bowl. With plenty of leftovers, it’s a “cook once, eat twice”…or more…recipe that freezes well, making a quick heat and serve meal after a busy day.

Quinoa is one of my favorite foods right now. I never tire of trying new recipes with it as my base. (You might like this Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl as well.)

I’m excited to share that I’m about to begin a new health adventure as I participate in the Blue Zones 4 Week Challenge. Watch for upcoming posts about the challenge. Since whole grains play a vital role in the Blue Zones meals, I’ll be eating quinoa several times a week.

I hope you enjoy this vegan burrito bowl with quinoa. Let me know in the comments if you try the recipe. And please share your favorite quinoa recipes with me!

Vegan Burrito Bowl with Quinoa ready to eat

Easy Teriyaki Noodles and Veggies

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If there’s one food I could enjoy several times a week…if not every day…it’s Asian noodles. I love them with a little teriyaki. Served with stir fried veggies they are amazing. Combine those teriyaki noodles with veggies and yes, plate those up for me right now, please!

This easy teriyaki noodles with veggies recipe comes together so quickly, for a fast and filling meal. Keep a box of noodles or pasta in the pantry and some fresh veggies in the fridge and you can make this meal in minutes whenever you want.

Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies title meme

Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies

The only thing I love more than Asian noodles is making them myself at home. With a few pantry items, I can indulge my noodles craving any time.

Noodles are versatile too. Eat them plain. Add veggies of choice. Stir fry them for extra flavor.

Use this recipe as a springboard for your own creative recipe.

Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies

journeywithhealthyme

Asian style noodles with teriyaki sauce and stir fried veggies

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4 Servings

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3/4 cup baby carrots or shredded carrots
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cauliflower florets
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
10 ounces uncooked gluten free soba noodles or spaghetti
sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

In a large pot, cook noodles according to package directions or to desired level of tenderness.
While noodles cook, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in a large non stick skillet, in olive oil for three minutes.
Add broccoli and cauliflower florets and baby carrots. Stir fry over medium high heat until veggies are crisp tender. Stir in teriyaki sauce, coating veggies. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for five minutes.
When noodles are done, drain well and immediately add to skillet with veggies. Turn heat up to medium and stir fry noodles and veggies, mixing well, for two minutes. Serve immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired. Makes 4 servings.

Keyword Asian Noodles, Teriyaki Noodles

Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies stir fry — Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies – stir fry with teriyaki sauce

Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies pan — Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies – adding cooked noodles

Tips for Making Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies

If you aren’t gluten sensitive, use regular soba noodles. Can’t find soba noodles? Substitute regular spaghetti. I cooked the soba noodles for about five and a half minutes. Check after five minutes, so you don’t overcook. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the boiling water when adding the noodles, to prevent them from sticking together.

Use your veggies of choice, if desired, instead of broccoli, carrots and cauliflower. Sliced mushrooms, snow peas, kale, cubed sweet potatoes or green peppers are suggestions. I tend to use whatever veggies I have on hand.

Also, use your favorite purchased sauce or make your own teriyaki, peanut or Asian sauce. (Watch for an upcoming post on making your own sauces.)

Add diced green onions, sesame seeds, chopped sunflower seeds, peanuts or cilantro for garnish. Or add a squeeze of lime juice or a few drops of hot sauce.

Love My Noodles

I love that I can easily whip up these delicious noodles whenever I want, instead of visiting a restaurant. They make a great inexpensive and yet nutritious lunch or dinner meal. I’m looking forward to experimenting with different sauce and veggie combinations with the noodles.

If you enjoy Asian noodles too, let me know what you think of this recipe. And try my Vegan Ramen Noodles recipe for another go to meal of mine.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy noodles? Share your recipe with me by leaving a link in the comments.

Easy Teriyaki Noodles with Veggies ready to eat

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Celebrate a World of Flavors

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March is National Nutrition Month, a yearly campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dieticians. The campaign encourages everyone to learn more about making nutritious food choices and developing healthy eating and physical activity habits.

The National Nutrition Month theme for 2022 is Celebrate a World of Flavors. This month celebrate flavors from cultures around the world while also nourishing the body and appreciating diversity. It’s a great time to expand your tastes by trying new foods.

I’m here to help you celebrate with a selection of vegan recipes inspired by different cultures.

Celebrate a World of Flavors

Check out this round up of recipes. Click on each link for the recipe.

Asian Inspired

These Asian inspired dishes rely on lots of veggies for flavor and nutritional value. And the Thai Welcome Tea is a fun hot drink.

Cauliflower Fried Rice

Vegan Ramen Noodles

Nori Rolls with Spicy Tahini Sauce

Thai Welcome Tea

Celebrate a World of Flavors ramen — Celebrate a World of Flavors – vegan ramen noodles

Mexican Inspired

Add some spice to liven up flavors with these Mexican inspired recipes.

Mexican Bowl

Tortilla Soup

Six Easy Salsa Recipes

Best Vegan Chili Recipes

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Celebrate a World of Flavors tacos — Celebrate a World of Flavors – sweet potato and black bean tacos

Indian Inspire

I love curry recipes, savory with fragrant spices. Try one of these dishes inspired by India.

Madras Curried Lentils

Middle Eastern Inspired

These easy hummus recipes bring a taste of the Middle East to your meals.

Black Bean Hummus

Easy Classic Hummus

Mediterranean Inspired

These tasty salads combines the flavors of chickpeas or pasta with fresh veggies.

Chickpea Salad

Gluten Free Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Celebrate a World of Flavors – Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Hungarian Inspired

Try this vegan version of a classic dish that originates in Hungary.

Vegan and Gluten Free Goulash

Italian Inspired

From freshly made pesto to vegan lasagna, these recipes draw their inspiration from Italy.

Basil Pesto

Spinach Lasagna

British & Scottish Inspired

Vegan shepherd pie and haggis rely on lots of veggies and lentils for their rich flavors. And the sweet treats from Scotland are excellent with a cup of hot tea.

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Vegan Haggis

Rustic Shortbread Cookies

Healthy Blueberry Scone

Celebrate a World of Flavors shepherds pie — Celebrate a World of Flavors – shepherd’s pie

Additional Ways to Celebrate a World of Flavors

Enjoy celebrating all month with these activities:

visit cultural restaurants in your city to enjoy a variety of foods
study cultural food traditions
have a potluck dinner where everyone brings foods inspired by different countries
read nutrition books and look through cookbooks for recipes to try
create art inspired by your favorite cultural foods
have a family meal with your favorite cultural foods
create a recipe inspired by another culture
try a new cultural food
do a virtual cooking demonstration
donate food to a local food pantry or shelter
take a classic cultural recipe and give it a healthy twist

Favorite Cultural Meal

Did you find a new recipe to try this month, during National Nutrition Month? Which one will you try first? I hope you enjoy a variety of healthy foods in March to celebrate a world of flavors!

I’m always looking for new vegan recipes to try. If you have a favorite cultural meal that is vegan and preferably gluten free, share in the comments below!

Celebrate a World of Flavors graphic

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Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl

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I love quinoa. This superfood, which is actually a seed rather than a grain, is one of the world’s most popular health foods. It’s versatile, easy to prepare and delicious.

Learn a bit about quinoa and then try this super easy recipe to create a quinoa and broccoli bowl.

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl title meme

Superfood Status

Although quinoa is a seed, it is grown as a grain crop. Cultivated in South America for thousands of years, the superfood only recently became a health food trend in the US.

Quinoa is gluten free, high in protein and one of the few plant based foods that provides all nine essential amino acids that the body needs.

Additionally, quinoa is high in fiber, magnesium, vitamins B and E, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, copper, zinc and antioxidants.

Quinoa’s antioxidants help calm inflammation throughout the body and provide anti-cancer, anti-viral and anti-depressant properties.

Find out more about quinoa…and check out several other recipes…HERE.

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl

I recently made incredibly yummy sweet potato and black bean tacos that contained quinoa. I still had a cup of dried quinoa left in the package that I wanted to use. So…ta da…I created a super easy bowl for dinner tonight.

Bowls…also called Buddha Bowls or grain bowls…and a fun and healthy way to get plenty of veggies. And they take minutes to prepare.

Here’s the recipe:

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl

journeywithhealthyme

A super easy bowl for a quick meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Ingredients

1 cup dry quinoa
2 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp sea salt
1 large onion, chopped
1 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped green or red bell pepper
2 cloves minced garlic
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets
sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder to taste

Instructions

Cooking the Quinoa

Add 1 cup of dried quinoa to medium sized sauce pan along with 2 cups of water. Stir in 2 teaspoons of olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder and sea salt. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and allow quinoa to sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove lid and fluff quinoa with a fork. Makes two cups of cooked quinoa for recipe.

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl

While quinoa cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in large, non stick skillet. Add onions, celery, peppers and garlic. Stir fry over medium high heat until onions soften.
Add broccoli and cauliflower florets. Sprinkle with additional onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt and black pepper, if desired. Continue cooking and stirring until veggies are crisp tender.
Add cooked quinoa. Stir to combine and serve immediately in bowls. Makes 4 servings.

Keyword broccoli, Buddha bowl, quinoa

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl onion mix — Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl – onion mix

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl stir fry — Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl – stir frying veggies

Tips for Creating Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl

Bowls are such a versatile way to create a delicious and healthy meal. You can add any combination of veggies and grains…or in this case, seeds. Follow these tips for a tasty bowl.

Try cooking quinoa with vegetable broth instead of water, for a richer flavor. You can even make your own veggie broth from vegetable scraps. Add other herbs or spices such as cumin, turmeric, basil, thyme or Italian seasoning to the quinoa while it cooks. I seem to add garlic and onion powder to almost everything!

And change out the broccoli and cauliflower for any other veggie combo. Try cut up asparagus and halved Brussels sprouts, carrots, sliced mushrooms or kale.

To make this recipe super easy, used frozen chopped onions, celery and peppers and a bag of fresh already cut up broccoli and cauliflower. I keep these on hand for quick meals. And you can purchase minced garlic in a jar.

Don’t have quinoa on hand? Sub cooked brown rice instead.

And you can also include sliced avocado, cooked chickpeas, a green salad, sliced tomatoes or other raw veggies to your bowl as well. Bowls are a great way to use leftover veggies, a few carrots or the last of the beans.

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl skillet — Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl – ready to eat

Ready to Eat in About 30 Minutes

In half an hour, my quinoa and broccoli bowl was ready to eat.

It was delicious and filling. I love the combination of broccoli, cauliflower and quinoa however, I enjoy other veggie combos as well.

Store any leftovers in the fridge and you have another meal ready to warm up the next day.

Do you like quinoa? I’d love to know if you have a favorite quinoa recipe. Share it or a link in the comments below!

Quinoa and Broccoli Bowl

Order quinoa from Amazon by clicking on photo below:

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

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February is National Sweet Potato Month, with the 22nd designated as Cook a Sweet Potato Day. This hearty root vegetable is so versatile, you could create a different sweet potato recipe every day of the month.

One large, lone sweet potato in my veggie bin inspired me to create something new, delicious and filling. I came up with Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos. They turned out SO well. Grab the recipe and tips for making this easy dish below.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos title meme

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes were cultivated and consumed in Peru long before the white potato was in Ireland. Christopher Columbus toted the vegetable back to Europe where it was given the name “sweet potato” due to its taste. The vegetable forms the basis for several tasty Thanksgiving side dishes. However, don’t just enjoy this nutritious potato during the holidays.

Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. The fiber is both soluble and insoluble, meaning you feel full longer and blood glucose levels don’t spike as they do with refined sugars. Sweet potatoes provide potassium, magnesium and beta carotenes. They help regulate blood pressure and metabolism, improve vision and promote productive bacteria in the gut. Sweet potatoes also support the production of vitamin B12 in the body and help prevent skin, breast, reproductive, stomach, intestinal, esophageal and rectal cancers.

Those are powerful reasons to include sweet potatoes regularly in the diet.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

I decided to use my remaining sweet potato in a highly nutritious filling for tacos. And I love pairing sweet potato with black beans, which I had on hand. Checking my pantry, I also found quinoa, lentils and an onion.

This recipe came together quickly. I made it up as I went along, however it’s simple to duplicate.

I drizzled a yummy lemon tahini sauce on my tacos. Recipe included below. Add salsa or whatever sauce you want.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

journeywithhealthyme

This savory dish combines sweet potatoes, black beans, lentils and quinoa for a hearty taco filling.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 10 tacos

Ingredients

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 can black beans, drained
2 cups cooked brown or green lentils
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minces
4 tsp chili or taco seasoning
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup water or vegetable broth, as needed
10 taco sized gluten free tortillas

Lemon Tahini Sauce

3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup tahini
2 tsp pure maple syrup
1/2 tsp cumin

Instructions

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

Cook lentils and quinoa according to package directions so that you have 2 cups cooked of each.
Add olive oil to large, non stick skillet. Heat over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic and cubed sweet potato, stirring and cooking until sweet potatoes are almost tender. Add water or vegetable broth to prevent sticking, if necessary.
Add black beans, lentils, quinoa and taco or chili seasoning. Stir to combine, reduce heat, cover and simmer 10 - 15 minutes.
Prepare lemon tahini sauce while taco fillings simmer or add sauce of choice.

Lemon Tahini Sauce

Combine all ingredients in blender and blend well until sauce is smooth. While finishing tacos, pop sauce into refrigerator to chill and thicken slightly.

Creating Tacos

To create tacos, add very small amount of olive oil to small non stick skillet. Warm taco sized tortillas, a minute or less on each side so that they puff slightly and brown.
Fold warm tortillas to form taco shells. Add sweet potato and black bean filling. Add taco toppings of choice. I simply used chopped avocado. Drizzle with lemon tahini sauce or salsa. Makes 10 -12 tacos.

Keyword Black Beans, Sweet Potatoes, Tacos

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos saute — Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos – onions, garlic and sweet potato

Tips for Making Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These tips make this recipe easy.

Use one large or two medium sized sweet potatoes. I peeled mine but leave the skin on for a more rustic dish.

Make a little extra quinoa and lentils for use in other recipes. I always prefer to cook once and eat twice!

I use either non GMO white corn taco sized tortillas or gluten free flour ones. Use your preference, if you are not gluten sensitive.

You can add chili seasoning, taco seasoning or create your own spice mixture. I like this lower sodium taco seasoning. If you like a spicier taco filling, increase the amount of seasoning. I didn’t want the seasoning to overpower the sweet potato mixture. Four teaspoons was perfect for my tastes.

Add taco toppings of choice. I used a chopped avocado. Shredded cabbage makes a tasty and different taco topping. Use the toppings you like best.

And I love lemon tahini sauce or vegan garlic aioli. Tahini is sesame seed paste. Get it HERE.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos filling — Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos – filling

Enjoy Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos

These tacos turned exactly as I hoped they would! They are full of flavor and the inclusion of lentils and quinoa give the mixture a “meat” like texture. I’ll make these again and add that finely shredded cabbage as a topping next time.

Try these sweet potato and black bean tacos for Meatless Monday, Taco Tuesday or for a fun, healthy meal any time. The filling actually makes a great stand alone meal as well. Skip the tortillas and make it a sweet potato, black bean, lentils, quinoa bowl with sliced avocado, tomatoes and non GMO corn chips. Don’t forget to add your favorite sauce!

What’s your go to meatless taco filling?

Red Apple Recipes

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Today, December 1, is National Eat a Red Apple Day!

This day encourages us to enjoy an apple…and not just any apple but a red skinned one.

Why?

Apples play a crucial role in fighting inflammation of all kinds. They calm the systems of the body by reducing viral and bacterial loads that cause inflammation. In addition, the phytochemicals in apples feed the neurons of the brain and increase electrical activity. That makes them brain food!

Red skinned apples are especially beneficial. The pigments that create that rosy color have anti-obesity properties and strengthen the digestive system. They are the best colon cleanser. Pectin from a red apple rids the intestinal tract of bacteria, viruses, yeast and mold. It also helps to eliminate debris that clogs pockets in the intestines.

And this powerhouse fruit helps to pull heavy metals from the body and detoxifies the brain of MSG. Apples hydrate the body at a cellular level, providing trace minerals and salts and electrolytes, making them ideal to consume after exercise or a stressful day.

To help you get your “apple a day”, try these healthy red apple recipes.

Red Apple Recipes title meme

Red Apple Recipes

Click on the underlined titles below for these delicious red apple recipes.

Healthy Fried Apples

This recipe is a great way to use up apples that are a bit past their prime.

Fragrant with cinnamon, this easy recipe does not contain refined sugar or butter. It’s vegan and gluten free. And it makes an excellent side dish, stand alone meal or simple dessert.

Red Apple Recipes fried — Red Apple Recipes – healthy fried apples

Raw Applesauce

Another way to use an overabundance of apples is with this super simple recipe.

Raw applesauce comes together in minutes, and it’s so good. I purposefully leave my applesauce slightly chunky, however you can make it smooth as well. I add my applesauce to fruit or veggie bowls. You can use it in the next recipe too!

Applesauce Cake

Applesauce cake is extremely easy to create, using a few basic pantry items. The recipe adapts well to adding extras such as nuts, raisins and grated apples and tastes great with or without icing.

This cake is vegan, of course, and also gluten free. And as a bonus…it smells amazing as it bakes! Try serving it with fresh berries.

Red Apple Recipes cake — Red Apple Recipes – applesauce cake

Apple Porridge

This yummy recipe uses raw apples as well. Apple porridge makes a great breakfast alternative to cereal. Use a food processor to finely chop apples, leaving the skin on, and then top with walnuts, raisins or shredded coconut.

Beyond enjoying apple porridge for breakfast, try a bowl with afternoon tea or as a simple dessert.

Apple Crisp

Packed with red skinned apples, this vegan and gluten free crisp is easy to make. It’s perfect for a chilly winter evening. Enjoy with a cup of hot herbal tea to experience bliss!

Apple Crisp comes together in minutes and the result is a hot, fragrant, good-for-you dessert. For the best health benefits, leave the peeling on the apples.

Red Apple Recipes crisp — Red Apple Recipes – apple crisp

Rustic Apple Galette

Galette is the French word for a flat, round cake or pastry, usually open faced with fruit piled in the middle. This rustic dish is a healthy version that can be enjoyed without guilt or the ill effects sugar and gluten cause.

This beautiful dessert is perfect for fall and makes a wonderful treat to serve guests.

Favorite Ways to Enjoy Red Apples

The easiest way to benefit from red apples is to simply cut one up and eat it, plain or with a spoonful of sugar free organic nut butter. However, when the mood for something fancier strikes, the possibilities are endless.

I hope you found a new way to bring more red skinned apples into your diet. Their health benefits truly do help keep the doctor away.

What are you favorite recipes for red apples?

Red Apple Recipes galette — Rustic apple galette

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Sweet Potato Chili Fries

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November is Sweet Potato Awareness Month. It’s an appropriate time to recognize the sweet potato, given that many serve it in Thanksgiving meals.

Although sweet potatoes are often smothered in butter, brown sugar and marshmallows, they are much more versatile than that.

Enjoy this fall staple with this quick and simple recipe…sweet potato chili fries…as a flavorful side or as a stand alone meal. And for a delicious pop of flavor, serve the fries with this wonderful vegan lemon dill aioli.

Sweet Potato Chili Fries title meme

The Goodness of Sweet Potatoes

Why include sweet potatoes in your meals?

Sweet potatoes are wonderful for the digestive system. They promote productive bacteria in the stomach, small intestine and colon, while starving out unproductive bacteria and mold. They enhance the body’s production of B12. And they help to prevent megacolon, an expansion of the large intestine due to bacteria, and alleviate narrowing of the intestinal tract due to chronic inflammation.

Sweet potatoes have an abundance of vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Their orange flesh is packed with carotenoids. Those phytochemicals are powerful, drawing radiation from the body and protecting against skin, breast, reproductive, stomach, intestinal, esophageal and rectal cancers.

Additionally, sweet potatoes rid the body of unstable, destructive, cancer causing estrogen that interferes with the body’s hormone function. These estrogens come from plastics, pharmaceuticals and environmental toxins. And for those struggling with insomnia, sweet potatoes provide a critical form of glucose that stimulates the development of neurotransmitters, which aid in sleeping soundly. (Info from Life Changing Foods by Anthony William.)

Sweet Potato Chili Fries

I love roasting potatoes and sweet potatoes in the oven. For me, they make a comforting and satisfying meal.

These roasted sweet potato fries take flavor to the next level with the addition of chili seasoning. And they are wonderful accompanied by the vegan lemon dill aioli.

Sweet Potato Chili Fries

Roasted sweet potato fries flavored with chili seasoning

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 2

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes or 4 small
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tsp chili seasoning
1 tsp sea salt

Lemon Dill Aioli

1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1/4 cup vegan mayo
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, finely minced

Instructions

Sweet Potato Chili Fries

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/2 inch wide fries
Place fries into a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add chili seasoning and sea salt. Mix well to coat fries.
Spread fries in single layer on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 30 minutes, turning fries halfway through, until fries are browned on outside and tender inside. Serve with lemon dill aioli. Makes two servings.

Vegan Lemon Dill Aioli

In a small bowl whisk together all ingredients. Makes a little more than 1/4 cup. Store leftovers in refrigerator.

Keyword Sweet potato fries, Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potato Chili Fries peeled — Sweet potatoes ready to become fries.

Tips for Making Sweet Potato Chili Fries

If you like your roasted fries rustic, leave sweet potato peeling on.

May substitute coconut oil, or another high quality oil, for the olive oil. Add another tablespoon of oil if needed.

I love the slight spiciness that the chili seasoning adds. You may use cumin, paprika, garlic powder and/or onion powder if desired.

Parchment paper helps fries to brown evenly and makes clean up a snap.

Fresh dill may be purchased in the produce section at the grocery store. Or substitute 1 teaspoon of dried dill.

I purchase vegan mayo at Natural Grocers. However, more and more grocery stores are carrying vegan products, such as mayo.

The vegan lemon dill aioli is good with so many things! I love it.

Sweet Potato Chili Fries plated — Sweet Potato Chili Fries ready to eat. Served with vegan aioli and vegan fried green tomatoes.

What’s Your Favorite Way to Enjoy Sweet Potatoes?

Are sweet potatoes on your Thanksgiving Day menu?

They might show up on mine as a vegan sweet potato casserole. Beyond the holidays, however, sweet potatoes are often “what’s for dinner” in my house.

Let me know if you try these yummy fries and the vegan lemon dill aioli!

Sweet Potato Chili Fries with lemon dill aioli — Sweet potato chili fries with vegan lemon dill aioli.

Helpful Finds from Amazon:

Chickpea Salad

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

I love the versatility of chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. They are the foundation for hummus, make a delicious curry and pair well with many other veggies, such as sweet potatoes.

Over the next two weeks, I’m experiencing a cleanse. That means although I am already plant based, I’m focusing on consuming fruits and vegetables only. During the cleanse I’m avoiding grains, except for gluten free oats, fermented foods, sugar, salt and oils and eating very little fat. This allows my digestive system to reset and toxins, bacteria and viruses to flush out of my body.

Even with the limitations, it’s not difficult to enjoy hearty, highly nutritious meals. This chickpea salad, loaded with fresh veggies, is an excellent example.

Chickpea Salad title meme

Hearty Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a legume, cultivated originally in the Middle East. They’ve been around for more than 9,500 years. Chickpeas are used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. They are also a key ingredient in Indian foods such as curry. Today India produces 70% of the chickpea crop.

These legumes are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Additionally, chickpeas offer a variety of health benefits including improving digestion, aiding in weight management and reducing the risk for diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease.

Quick and Easy Chickpea Salad

I enjoy chopped salads, heavy on veggies and light on lettuce. And I appreciate chickpeas. This tasty recipe combines the two for a perfect light meal or as the main dish in a bigger one.

Craving some chickpeas today, I made this salad in a few minutes, with what I had on hand. And because I’m avoiding oils right now, I adapted a simple recipe for an oil free dressing that uses the liquid in the can of chickpeas.

You may use canned chickpeas for this recipe…which is what I did…or start with dry beans and cook your own. Save at least 1/4 cup of liquid, either way.

Chickpea Salad

This quick and easy salad combines hearty chickpeas with freshly chopped veggies.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Salad

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and saving 1/4 cup liquid or 3 cups cooked chickpeas
1 medium red, yellow or orange pepper, chopped
1/2 large green bell pepper, chopped
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
12 grape tomatoes, quartered

Dressing

1/4 cup liquid from canned or cooked chickpeas
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 tsp tahini
1 tsp dried parsley
pinch black pepper

Instructions

Salad

Drain chickpeas, reserving 1/4 cup liquid for dressing
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas and remaining veggies. Stir gently to combine.

Dressing

In a small mason jar, combine liquid from chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, parsley and black pepper. Cap and shake jar well. Pour over chickpea salad and stir to coat veggies. Serve immediately or store covered in the refrigerator. Makes approximately 4 servings.

Keyword Chickpeas, Salad

Tips for Making Chickpea Salad

This is a great recipe for using canned goods or, if cooking chickpeas for another recipe, cook extra for this salad.

I used the vegetables I had on hand, chopping them as I would for a typical chopped veggie salad. The peppers add color and powerful nutrients. I had a bag of mini orange, red and yellow peppers and used four of those in this recipe.

Feel free to include any other veggies of choice, including cabbage, red cabbage, zucchini, cucumber, carrots, olives or pepperoncini.

Chickpea or bean liquid is called aquafaba and useful for many other recipes. I saved ALL the liquid from my two cans of chickpeas so I could experiment with the aquafaba. Watch for recipes!

Fresh parsley may be substituted for dried, in the dressing.

Tahini is sunflower seed paste. It is rich in omega-6 fatty acids and makes a healthy salad dressing. Purchase online or in health conscious food stores. I used a small amount in the dressing, rather than oils.

Taste Test

The fun part of creating a new recipe is tasting it!

I made the recipe with the intent of enjoying it for lunch. And enjoy it I did. The taste is fresh, with all the veggies, while the chickpeas add a mild, nutty flavor and some density to the meal. This is one of those dishes that is sure to taste even better the next day, as the flavors all mingle.

I really liked the simple chickpea liquid, lemon juice, parsley and tahini dressing. It added just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the chickpeas and vegetables. When I’m back to consuming small amounts of sea salt, I’ll add a bit to the dressing. Otherwise, I won’t change a thing! Add sea salt and black pepper to taste to the salad and/or the dressing.

Eat this chickpea salad alone or add roasted sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli for a larger meal.

Let me know if you try this satisfying meal!

Chickpea Salad fresh

More Chickpea Recipes

Looking for more chickpea recipes? Try these:

Curried Chickpeas

Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas and Kale Bowl

Hummus

Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

August is National Peach Month, the perfect time to enjoy these fruits as they reach their delicious peak.

As I did last month, for National Blueberry Month, I wanted to create a simple, healthy dessert.

Check out last month’s Blueberry Crumble. And then enjoy Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler this month, with fresh peaches.

Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler title meme

Benefits of Peaches

Peaches are a stone fruit…or drupe…that originated in China more than 8,000 years ago. With their fuzzy peels and yellow or white flesh, peaches are a summer favorite.

Peaches are rich in vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds. This fruit provides vitamins A, C, E and K, niacin, potassium, copper and manganese. Plus they are packed with antioxidants that combat oxidative damage to cells and protect the body against aging and disease.

The health benefits from peaches include:

aids digestion
improves heart health
protects skin by helping it retain moisture
prevents cancer, especially breast cancer
reduces allergy symptoms
boosts immunity
removes toxins from body
lower blood sugar levels

Fresh peaches are higher in antioxidants than canned. For this recipe, use fresh peaches if possible. Or use frozen after allowing them to thaw.

Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler peaches — Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler – sliced peaches and cinnamon

Ingredients for Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler

This simple dessert is vegan, gluten free, refined sugar free and oil free.

I used four fresh peaches, gluten free oats, oat flour, unsweetened applesauce, pure maple syrup and cinnamon.

Additionally, this recipe requires a couple of mixing bowls and an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish.

Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler

This delicious dessert is vegan, gluten free and oil and sugar free.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Ingredients

4 fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
1 cup oat flour
2 cups gluten free oats
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly spray 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish with cooking spray or coat lightly with coconut oil
In large bowl, combine oat flour, applesauce, maple syrup together. Add oats and mix well.
Press about 1/3 of mixture into bottom of baking pan, forming a crust.
In small bowl, mix peeled peach slices with cinnamon. Pour into baking dish.
Spoon remainder of oats mixture on top of peaches, spreading evenly over fruit.
Bake for 30 minutes, checking after 25. Crust should be lightly browned and peaches tender. Cool slightly then serve warm. Makes 8 servings.

Keyword Gluten Free, oil free, Peach Cobbler, sugar free, Vegan

Tips for Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler

This simple dessert cobbler is similar to a crisp, except it has a bottom crust. The texture of this crust resembles baked oatmeal making it ideal for breakfast as well.

Oats are naturally gluten free. However, they are typically processed in facilities with other products that contain gluten. Look for packages of oats that specify gluten free, if you have a gluten sensitivity, meaning they were prepped in a facility without contamination with other products. I use Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Oats.

I use gluten free oat flour as well. Any flour, gluten free or regular, is fine for this recipe. Unsweetened applesauce is available in packages of half cup containers, making them easy to use for recipes.

Leave the peeling on the peaches, for more a more rustic peach cobbler.

Cover leftovers and store on the countertop or in the refrigerator.

Easy Vegan Peach Cobbler Taste Test

I love baking with anything containing cinnamon. The aroma drifting out from the kitchen is tantalizing.

After allowing the peach cobbler to cool slightly, I enjoyed a bowl with a cup of hot peppermint tea. The cobbler is slightly tart and so yummy. While the maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness, this cobbler is not very sweet at all. If you want more sweetness, add a bit more maple syrup, or add coconut sugar to the sliced peaches.

This cobbler is the perfect way to use peaches during their time of abundance and also enjoy a healthy, low sugar treat.

Do you love peaches? What is your favorite way to enjoy them?

Bowl of Peach Cobbler — Bowl of vegan peach cobbler