Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Chickpeas are just about the most versatile bean I've ever come across. They pair well with so many flavors making them the ultimate bean in my book. No wonder they are loved by so many! They may not have as much protein or fiber as black beans and cannellini beans, but chickpeas come in close enough with 15 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber per 1 cup. They are a nutrient dense food with good carbohydrates the body needs and are low in fat with only 4 grams of fat per 1 cup. And the other beans are not nearly as versatile as the chickpea. You can make savory chickpea pancakes with the flour, add them to ratatouille, stews, salads, make hummus, falafels, roast them as a snack and the list goes on and on. They are the greatest bean ever and I can't wait to put them into new recipes here in the future. I have lots of ideas for these little guys!

And we'll start by adding this super awesome Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Sandwich to the collection. If you didn't already know, chickpeas make for great sandwich fillers too!

You may already be familiar with my 'Chickpea of the Sea' Salad and my other classic Mashed Chickpea Salad. This one is just as delicious but with a sweet flair that I just know you'll fall in love with! I assure you that this will hit the spot and satisfy your craving for a chunky, sweet, peppery, crunchy style sandwich. Full of texture and flavor this has become my new favorite. It's a hearty salad that will comfort you and leave you feeling completely satisfied. This can be served as a traditional or open faced sandwich. Or simply serve on a bed of lettuce and skip the bread. You may even find that you love the salad all by itself without any accompaniment! I can easily eat this straight from the bowl all day long. :)

 
Slice your celery, feel free to add in some celery leaves if you can. For the scallions, when slicing use both the green and white parts. Roughly chop your walnuts. When buying cranberries, use organic whenever possible (I like the ones from Trader Joe's, they're so brightly colored too!). You can also use fresh chopped cranberries!



Roughly mash your chickpeas. I decided to double this batch using 3 cups of chickpeas instead of 1 1/2 so you'll have plenty of leftovers. And you'll be glad you have them! Add in the remaining ingredients and mix. About as simple as it gets, which is why I love chickpea salads!

There you have it...serve on your favorite bread. I have it paired here with a fruit, nut and seed loaf.

Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked or 2 cans (15oz) garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup celery, diced 
• 1/2 cup organic dried cranberries (chopped fresh would be great too)
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup scallions (green onions), thinly sliced, white & green parts
• mineral salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste (I used about 1/2 teaspoon each)

Dressing

• 6 tablespoons (1/3 cup) tahini or vegan mayo
• 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) champagne, white wine or cider vinegar (I used Orange Muscat Champagne Vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons water (only needed if using tahini)
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup

To serve

• leafy lettuce of choice
• bread of choice

Start by mixing your dressing. In a small bowl combine tahini/mayo, vinegar, water and maple syrup. Set aside so the flavors come together. This can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Add a tad more water, or vinegar if your a vinegar lover, to thin out dressing as desired. If using vegan mayo, you may like to add 2 more tablespoons.

In a medium to large bowl, add your garbanzo beans and roughly mash with a strong fork or potato masher. Add in celery, cranberries, nuts, scallions, salt, pepper and dressing, mix well. Serve at room temp or let chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.

Serve on your favorite bread as a closed or open faced sandwich, or on a bed of leafy greens. You may even opt to simply enjoy the salad as is.

Notes:

Add extra of anything you like, and vice versa if your not keen on an ingredient use less or omit! One particular ingredient may be the vinegar. I'm not much of a vinegar fan but I loved the orange muscat champagne vineagar and found I used quite a bit and loved it!

Change up the walnuts, using pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, etc. If using sunflower seeds, use half the amount called for.

For the dressing, I have only made this using tahini since I do not use any kind of store bought vegan mayos. If using vegan mayo, adjust accordingly adding more mayo as needed, maybe 1/2 cup instead of 1/3. I do recommend trying this reicpe with tahini...it is seriously so good that you would never know and it is much better/cleaner for you than the store bought mayos!

Enjoy!

Chickpeas are just about the most versatile bean I've ever come across. They pair well with so many flavors making them the ultimate bean in my book. No wonder they are loved by so many! They may not have as much protein or fiber as black beans and cannellini beans, but chickpeas come in close enough with 15 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber per 1 cup. They are a nutrient dense food with good carbohydrates the body needs and are low in fat with only 4 grams of fat per 1 cup. And the other beans are not nearly as versatile as the chickpea. You can make savory chickpea pancakes with the flour, add them to ratatouille, stews, salads, make hummus, falafels, roast them as a snack and the list goes on and on. They are the greatest bean ever and I can't wait to put them into new recipes here in the future. I have lots of ideas for these little guys!

And we'll start by adding this super awesome Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Sandwich to the collection. If you didn't already know, chickpeas make for great sandwich fillers too!

You may already be familiar with my 'Chickpea of the Sea' Salad and my other classic Mashed Chickpea Salad. This one is just as delicious but with a sweet flair that I just know you'll fall in love with! I assure you that this will hit the spot and satisfy your craving for a chunky, sweet, peppery, crunchy style sandwich. Full of texture and flavor this has become my new favorite. It's a hearty salad that will comfort you and leave you feeling completely satisfied. This can be served as a traditional or open faced sandwich. Or simply serve on a bed of lettuce and skip the bread. You may even find that you love the salad all by itself without any accompaniment! I can easily eat this straight from the bowl all day long. :)

 
Slice your celery, feel free to add in some celery leaves if you can. For the scallions, when slicing use both the green and white parts. Roughly chop your walnuts. When buying cranberries, use organic whenever possible (I like the ones from Trader Joe's, they're so brightly colored too!). You can also use fresh chopped cranberries!



Roughly mash your chickpeas. I decided to double this batch using 3 cups of chickpeas instead of 1 1/2 so you'll have plenty of leftovers. And you'll be glad you have them! Add in the remaining ingredients and mix. About as simple as it gets, which is why I love chickpea salads!

There you have it...serve on your favorite bread. I have it paired here with a fruit, nut and seed loaf.

Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked or 2 cans (15oz) garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1 cup celery, diced 
• 1/2 cup organic dried cranberries (chopped fresh would be great too)
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup scallions (green onions), thinly sliced, white & green parts
• mineral salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste (I used about 1/2 teaspoon each)

Dressing

• 6 tablespoons (1/3 cup) tahini or vegan mayo
• 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) champagne, white wine or cider vinegar (I used Orange Muscat Champagne Vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons water (only needed if using tahini)
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup

To serve

• leafy lettuce of choice
• bread of choice

Start by mixing your dressing. In a small bowl combine tahini/mayo, vinegar, water and maple syrup. Set aside so the flavors come together. This can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. Add a tad more water, or vinegar if your a vinegar lover, to thin out dressing as desired. If using vegan mayo, you may like to add 2 more tablespoons.

In a medium to large bowl, add your garbanzo beans and roughly mash with a strong fork or potato masher. Add in celery, cranberries, nuts, scallions, salt, pepper and dressing, mix well. Serve at room temp or let chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.

Serve on your favorite bread as a closed or open faced sandwich, or on a bed of leafy greens. You may even opt to simply enjoy the salad as is.

Notes:

Add extra of anything you like, and vice versa if your not keen on an ingredient use less or omit! One particular ingredient may be the vinegar. I'm not much of a vinegar fan but I loved the orange muscat champagne vineagar and found I used quite a bit and loved it!

Change up the walnuts, using pecans, almonds, sunflower seeds, etc. If using sunflower seeds, use half the amount called for.

For the dressing, I have only made this using tahini since I do not use any kind of store bought vegan mayos. If using vegan mayo, adjust accordingly adding more mayo as needed, maybe 1/2 cup instead of 1/3. I do recommend trying this reicpe with tahini...it is seriously so good that you would never know and it is much better/cleaner for you than the store bought mayos!

Enjoy!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Mirin & Maple Tempeh Stir Fry

 This is a wonderfully sweet and nutty flavored dish. The tempeh and buckwheat noodles lend to nuttiness and the marinade that was inspired by Nigel Slater gives to the sweetness. I happen upon Nigel's website and found this recipe for a marinade that he uses and thought it would make for a nice tempeh stir fry. I added the tamari and red pepper flakes for my own taste and just pretty much used the ratio of mirin to maple syrup from his recipe as a guide. You could possibly even add some grated ginger or garlic too. I was really happy with the outcome and the way everything came together in taste, color and textures.

It's a simple dish that delivers in flavor, protein and other healthy nutrients that we can all use more of!

Now let's talks about mirin for a moment. I've had my eye on recipes containing mirin but was so turned off by the product because I didn't research online first to find out more about it. Instead, while at the grocery store I made my assumption from the first bottle I picked up and happily put back because it contained corn syrup and other ingredients I prefer to stay away from. Months later I finally find there is a big difference in the way mirin is prepared. The real deal, like the one pictured above, is a traditionally brewed rice cooking wine that doesn't contain added sugar or synthetic enzymes. It’s also known as Hon-Mirin. Very commercial brands use corn syrup and preservatives and are known as Aji-Mirin. They may have their reasons for using corn syrup and preservatives but I will choose the ones that are free of these ingredients. Be sure to read the labels and find the real deal, Hon-Mirin, as it will give you the best flavor and add luster to your dishes. Here's a little article from the New York Times about mirin for further reading: Searching For The Real Mirin - Catching an Elusive Japanese Flavor

If you can't find this type of mirin in the store, you can order it onlineor you can substitute with dry sherry or sweet marsala if you must. Or you can dissolve a small amount of pure cane sugar in a little white wine or sherry, about 1/4 teaspoon of sugar to 1/4 cup wine. These are clean substitutes for hon-mirin.

We're going to start with the tempeh first. Tempeh is one of those soy products that is good for you, much more so than tofu which should be eaten in moderation. Tempeh is fermented and holds all kinds of healthy attributes along with 13 - 16 grams of protein per serving. I like to steam my tempeh before doing anything to it. Because I don't have a double broiler or bamboo steamer, I've made my own steamer by using a colander and medium size pot with lid. It works perfectly well. If you choose this route, you can reuse the pot and colander for cooking your buckwheat noodles. Steaming your tempeh will soften it nicely and the marinade will absorb a bit better. Steam for 10 minutes or so.

If you can't find tempeh in your usual grocery store, ask the store manager to consider carrying it. This is how change begins on a small scale and it never hurts to ask as they are there for you!

After steaming your tempeh, mix your marinade in a large bowl and add the tempeh, let set for 1 - 4 hours at room temp. Reserve the marinade.

Bake your tempeh...

I know what your thinking this is a stir fry! Well, I just liked it this way better. :) 

Dice your veggies of choice, these just happen to be on hand from my last recipe. Feel free to use whatever vegetables you like, have handy or need to be used up. Other options are bell peppers, broccoli, sugar peas, zucchini...these are what come to mind in a pinch but use whatever your preference is or sounds good. They will be stir fried, or sauteed, until al dente or your choice of firmness and then mixed with the soba noodles if using those. (My favorite wok is the el cheapo carbon steel wok for around $20! It heats up quickly and cools down quickly so your food cooks just right and stops cooking when you remove it from the heat. Just be sure to season your wok well. Here's a great article on the subject: When Cheaper is Better)

Mirin & Maple Tempeh Stir Fry 

Ingredients

• 8 oz package tempeh (I used a five grain tempeh)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, coconut oil or olive oil
• 1/3 red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 -3 large carrots, peeled and thinly sliced diagonally
• 2 -3 scallions, thinly sliced
• sesame seeds, garnish
• cilantro, garnish, optional 
• 8 oz. package soba noodles, or rice would fine too (I ♥ these 100% buckwheat noodles)

Marinade

• 1/3 cup mirin
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons warm water
• 2 tablespoons tamari, bragg's aminos or soy sauce 
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste

First start by steaming the tempeh. Use a double broiler, bamboo steamer or do like I did above by using a pot and colander. Bring water to a boil, cut tempeh into sticks about 1/4 inch or so, place in choice of steamer, steam for 10 minutes. This will soften and swell your tempeh a bit helping it to absorb more marinade.  

In a large bowl, mix together the marinade, add the tempeh and let set for 1 to 4 hours at room temp, turning every so often. Reserve marinade for later.

When ready, turn oven on to 400 degrees. Bake tempeh on a cookie sheet or in a baking dish for 25 minutes, turning once in between. 

Cook your soba noodles according to package. 100% buckwheat noodles take 8 minutes to cook while the wheat and buckwheat soba noodles only take 4 minutes to cook. Drain and rinse well under cool water. Set aside. If using rice, cook about 1 dry cup and set aside.

In a wok or large saute pan, heat oil and add your cabbage and carrots, cook for about 3 minutes, add scallions, a spoonful of marinade and cook another 2 minutes or until desired firmness (I like mine al dente). Add in the soba noodles and cook for another minute or so until soba noodles are gently warmed. 

To serve, place noodles and veggies in serving bowl and top with a few strips of tempeh. Add a few large spoonfuls of marinade over the noodle/veggie mixture and tempeh, top with sesame seeds and a few extra scallions. If using rice, serve rice in serving bowl and top with veggies and tempeh, drizzle with marinade, sesame seeds and scallions. 

Serves three but more likely two!

Enjoy!

 This is a wonderfully sweet and nutty flavored dish. The tempeh and buckwheat noodles lend to nuttiness and the marinade that was inspired by Nigel Slater gives to the sweetness. I happen upon Nigel's website and found this recipe for a marinade that he uses and thought it would make for a nice tempeh stir fry. I added the tamari and red pepper flakes for my own taste and just pretty much used the ratio of mirin to maple syrup from his recipe as a guide. You could possibly even add some grated ginger or garlic too. I was really happy with the outcome and the way everything came together in taste, color and textures.

It's a simple dish that delivers in flavor, protein and other healthy nutrients that we can all use more of!

Now let's talks about mirin for a moment. I've had my eye on recipes containing mirin but was so turned off by the product because I didn't research online first to find out more about it. Instead, while at the grocery store I made my assumption from the first bottle I picked up and happily put back because it contained corn syrup and other ingredients I prefer to stay away from. Months later I finally find there is a big difference in the way mirin is prepared. The real deal, like the one pictured above, is a traditionally brewed rice cooking wine that doesn't contain added sugar or synthetic enzymes. It’s also known as Hon-Mirin. Very commercial brands use corn syrup and preservatives and are known as Aji-Mirin. They may have their reasons for using corn syrup and preservatives but I will choose the ones that are free of these ingredients. Be sure to read the labels and find the real deal, Hon-Mirin, as it will give you the best flavor and add luster to your dishes. Here's a little article from the New York Times about mirin for further reading: Searching For The Real Mirin - Catching an Elusive Japanese Flavor

If you can't find this type of mirin in the store, you can order it onlineor you can substitute with dry sherry or sweet marsala if you must. Or you can dissolve a small amount of pure cane sugar in a little white wine or sherry, about 1/4 teaspoon of sugar to 1/4 cup wine. These are clean substitutes for hon-mirin.

We're going to start with the tempeh first. Tempeh is one of those soy products that is good for you, much more so than tofu which should be eaten in moderation. Tempeh is fermented and holds all kinds of healthy attributes along with 13 - 16 grams of protein per serving. I like to steam my tempeh before doing anything to it. Because I don't have a double broiler or bamboo steamer, I've made my own steamer by using a colander and medium size pot with lid. It works perfectly well. If you choose this route, you can reuse the pot and colander for cooking your buckwheat noodles. Steaming your tempeh will soften it nicely and the marinade will absorb a bit better. Steam for 10 minutes or so.

If you can't find tempeh in your usual grocery store, ask the store manager to consider carrying it. This is how change begins on a small scale and it never hurts to ask as they are there for you!

After steaming your tempeh, mix your marinade in a large bowl and add the tempeh, let set for 1 - 4 hours at room temp. Reserve the marinade.

Bake your tempeh...

I know what your thinking this is a stir fry! Well, I just liked it this way better. :) 

Dice your veggies of choice, these just happen to be on hand from my last recipe. Feel free to use whatever vegetables you like, have handy or need to be used up. Other options are bell peppers, broccoli, sugar peas, zucchini...these are what come to mind in a pinch but use whatever your preference is or sounds good. They will be stir fried, or sauteed, until al dente or your choice of firmness and then mixed with the soba noodles if using those. (My favorite wok is the el cheapo carbon steel wok for around $20! It heats up quickly and cools down quickly so your food cooks just right and stops cooking when you remove it from the heat. Just be sure to season your wok well. Here's a great article on the subject: When Cheaper is Better)

Mirin & Maple Tempeh Stir Fry 

Ingredients

• 8 oz package tempeh (I used a five grain tempeh)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, coconut oil or olive oil
• 1/3 red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 -3 large carrots, peeled and thinly sliced diagonally
• 2 -3 scallions, thinly sliced
• sesame seeds, garnish
• cilantro, garnish, optional 
• 8 oz. package soba noodles, or rice would fine too (I ♥ these 100% buckwheat noodles)

Marinade

• 1/3 cup mirin
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons warm water
• 2 tablespoons tamari, bragg's aminos or soy sauce 
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste

First start by steaming the tempeh. Use a double broiler, bamboo steamer or do like I did above by using a pot and colander. Bring water to a boil, cut tempeh into sticks about 1/4 inch or so, place in choice of steamer, steam for 10 minutes. This will soften and swell your tempeh a bit helping it to absorb more marinade.  

In a large bowl, mix together the marinade, add the tempeh and let set for 1 to 4 hours at room temp, turning every so often. Reserve marinade for later.

When ready, turn oven on to 400 degrees. Bake tempeh on a cookie sheet or in a baking dish for 25 minutes, turning once in between. 

Cook your soba noodles according to package. 100% buckwheat noodles take 8 minutes to cook while the wheat and buckwheat soba noodles only take 4 minutes to cook. Drain and rinse well under cool water. Set aside. If using rice, cook about 1 dry cup and set aside.

In a wok or large saute pan, heat oil and add your cabbage and carrots, cook for about 3 minutes, add scallions, a spoonful of marinade and cook another 2 minutes or until desired firmness (I like mine al dente). Add in the soba noodles and cook for another minute or so until soba noodles are gently warmed. 

To serve, place noodles and veggies in serving bowl and top with a few strips of tempeh. Add a few large spoonfuls of marinade over the noodle/veggie mixture and tempeh, top with sesame seeds and a few extra scallions. If using rice, serve rice in serving bowl and top with veggies and tempeh, drizzle with marinade, sesame seeds and scallions. 

Serves three but more likely two!

Enjoy!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Soba Noodles with Tofu, Broccoli & Carrots

“To keep the body in good health is a duty, for otherwise we shall not be able to trim the lamp of wisdom, and keep our mind strong and clear. Water surrounds the lotus flower, but does not wet its petals.”  ~Buddha

I've always been hardwired for the healthy lifestyle. I know it's difficult for some to follow this path as they shine in other ways. It's just always been natural for me to gravitate in this direction. Don't get me wrong though, I've eaten my share of  fast foods in my lifetime and still indulge in french fries, potato chips and various other not so healthy choices from time to time. It's just simply that I truly enjoy the good clean foods, the way they taste and the way they make me feel. But I also want to point out that even some healthy foods if over indulged in on a regular basis can cause problems. So as the old saying goes... moderation is key. It is my hope that you all find the recipes within this site to keep you inspired and eating good clean foods for the most part!

A healthy lifestyle also includes keeping your stress levels down. That is something I've worked on throughout my life. My life my seem a bit dull to most, but it suits me very well at this point in time. I choose to keep my stress levels to a minimum. With mistakes I've made in the past, I do my best to leave them there and pick up the pieces as best I can while moving forward. I have personally experienced what stress can do to the body, and it can be devastating!  I now pick and choose carefully what I let into my life, letting go of the unnecessary baggage. I like the quote by Jonatan Martensson...

"Feelings are much like waves, you can't stop them from coming but we can choose which ones to surf"...

I am much wiser with this perspective! We are only human and can only do so much...but what we can do is pay attention to the foods we eat and the thoughts we indulge in. And get plenty of rest in between!

So today I share with you this lovely soba noodle dish with tofu and vegetables. Tofu is one of those plant based foods that should be eaten in moderation. It is not something that you want to eat on a daily basis. And if you do, keep it in very small portions. But for this dish we are going to enjoy a good dose of this marinated tofu. I find this meal to fulfill many senses. The basil and mint work together well here. Sometimes you get a bite of mint, another time a bite of basil and every now and then you'll get the flavor sensation of both. But by all means use one or the other if you only can find one. The marinade is so good and will make the plain tasting tofu come to life. Paired all together with the soba noodles and sautéed vegetables and this is completely healthy, satisfying and stress free meal. 

Soba Noodles with Tofu, Broccoli & Carrots

Ingredients (serves 3)

• soba noodles (about 8 oz)
• 10 oz. extra firm tofu (I used Wildwood), cubed or sliced
• handful brocolli florets
• 2 carrots, sliced diagnoly
• 2 scallions, green and white parts, thinly sliced
• small handful mint leaves
• small handful basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, for sauteing
• white & black sesame seeds for garnish, optional
• a few fresh basil & mint leaves for garnish, optional

marinade

• 1/4 cup tamari, soy sauce or bragg's aminos
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch knob ginger, grated or minced
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• a dash or two of sriracha, optional

In a medium size shallow dish, combine the ingredients of the marinade.

Next prepare your tofu. Let me start by saying that I don't drain my tofu when I use extra firm but if you feel that yours is holding a lot of water, you may like to press your tofu between the ends of a double folded dish towel. Either use the palms of your hands or lay on a hard flat surface and set a heavy book on top for a few minutes. Slice or cube your tofu, however you like best. Place tofu in the marinade and let set for at least 20 minutes, flipping every so often. The tofu is meant to be served at room temp straight from the marinade. Feel free to warm the tofu by adding it to the skillet while sauteing the veggies.

In a medium size pot filled 2/3 of the way with water (or salted water if you wish), bring water to a boil, add desired amount of soba noodles, lower heat to medium high and cook noodles, uncovered, for 4 minutes. When done drain, rinse and set aside.

In a medium size pan/skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat, add the carrots and broccoli (and tofu if you would like it warmed), cook for about 3 minutes. Carefully add in a large spoonful tablespoon of the marinade along with the mint and basil and cook for another 2 - 3 minutes. I prefer my vegetables to be al dente and will remove from heat as soon as they brighten in color. Feel free to cook a little longer if you wish.

Serve soba noodles in individual dishes with marinated tofu, sauteed carrots, broccoli and herbs. Top with marinade, scallions, sesame seeds and additional fresh herbs.

This can be served warm or cooled. I ate this after taking the photos, it was on the cool side but still absolutely delicious!

Enjoy!

“To keep the body in good health is a duty, for otherwise we shall not be able to trim the lamp of wisdom, and keep our mind strong and clear. Water surrounds the lotus flower, but does not wet its petals.”  ~Buddha

I've always been hardwired for the healthy lifestyle. I know it's difficult for some to follow this path as they shine in other ways. It's just always been natural for me to gravitate in this direction. Don't get me wrong though, I've eaten my share of  fast foods in my lifetime and still indulge in french fries, potato chips and various other not so healthy choices from time to time. It's just simply that I truly enjoy the good clean foods, the way they taste and the way they make me feel. But I also want to point out that even some healthy foods if over indulged in on a regular basis can cause problems. So as the old saying goes... moderation is key. It is my hope that you all find the recipes within this site to keep you inspired and eating good clean foods for the most part!

A healthy lifestyle also includes keeping your stress levels down. That is something I've worked on throughout my life. My life my seem a bit dull to most, but it suits me very well at this point in time. I choose to keep my stress levels to a minimum. With mistakes I've made in the past, I do my best to leave them there and pick up the pieces as best I can while moving forward. I have personally experienced what stress can do to the body, and it can be devastating!  I now pick and choose carefully what I let into my life, letting go of the unnecessary baggage. I like the quote by Jonatan Martensson...

"Feelings are much like waves, you can't stop them from coming but we can choose which ones to surf"...

I am much wiser with this perspective! We are only human and can only do so much...but what we can do is pay attention to the foods we eat and the thoughts we indulge in. And get plenty of rest in between!

So today I share with you this lovely soba noodle dish with tofu and vegetables. Tofu is one of those plant based foods that should be eaten in moderation. It is not something that you want to eat on a daily basis. And if you do, keep it in very small portions. But for this dish we are going to enjoy a good dose of this marinated tofu. I find this meal to fulfill many senses. The basil and mint work together well here. Sometimes you get a bite of mint, another time a bite of basil and every now and then you'll get the flavor sensation of both. But by all means use one or the other if you only can find one. The marinade is so good and will make the plain tasting tofu come to life. Paired all together with the soba noodles and sautéed vegetables and this is completely healthy, satisfying and stress free meal. 

Soba Noodles with Tofu, Broccoli & Carrots

Ingredients (serves 3)

• soba noodles (about 8 oz)
• 10 oz. extra firm tofu (I used Wildwood), cubed or sliced
• handful brocolli florets
• 2 carrots, sliced diagnoly
• 2 scallions, green and white parts, thinly sliced
• small handful mint leaves
• small handful basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, for sauteing
• white & black sesame seeds for garnish, optional
• a few fresh basil & mint leaves for garnish, optional

marinade

• 1/4 cup tamari, soy sauce or bragg's aminos
• 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch knob ginger, grated or minced
• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• a dash or two of sriracha, optional

In a medium size shallow dish, combine the ingredients of the marinade.

Next prepare your tofu. Let me start by saying that I don't drain my tofu when I use extra firm but if you feel that yours is holding a lot of water, you may like to press your tofu between the ends of a double folded dish towel. Either use the palms of your hands or lay on a hard flat surface and set a heavy book on top for a few minutes. Slice or cube your tofu, however you like best. Place tofu in the marinade and let set for at least 20 minutes, flipping every so often. The tofu is meant to be served at room temp straight from the marinade. Feel free to warm the tofu by adding it to the skillet while sauteing the veggies.

In a medium size pot filled 2/3 of the way with water (or salted water if you wish), bring water to a boil, add desired amount of soba noodles, lower heat to medium high and cook noodles, uncovered, for 4 minutes. When done drain, rinse and set aside.

In a medium size pan/skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat, add the carrots and broccoli (and tofu if you would like it warmed), cook for about 3 minutes. Carefully add in a large spoonful tablespoon of the marinade along with the mint and basil and cook for another 2 - 3 minutes. I prefer my vegetables to be al dente and will remove from heat as soon as they brighten in color. Feel free to cook a little longer if you wish.

Serve soba noodles in individual dishes with marinated tofu, sauteed carrots, broccoli and herbs. Top with marinade, scallions, sesame seeds and additional fresh herbs.

This can be served warm or cooled. I ate this after taking the photos, it was on the cool side but still absolutely delicious!

Enjoy!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

French Lentil & Bitter Greens Salad

I know, I know...another salad! :)

It is no secret that salads have been on my mind lately. The weather is warming up here in So. Cal and I instinctually start craving them. And so it is...another salad that I have been loving lately I have to share with you. And if you're like me, you can find a salad and stick with it for month's on end. This is one of those simple salads that falls into that category for me. Not that my other salads don't but this one has lots of qualities that suit me on a regular basis. For one, it's easy. It's only one tablespoon oil. The ingredients are simple and readily available. It's filling and has a nice share of protein from the lentils. The lentils can be served warmed or chilled, making it a nice versatile salad for the cooler season's. For me these are great qualities that I can stand behind day after day. 

The first time I had french lentils was from Trader Joe's. They sell a steamed package that is fantastic! I've used them for tacos, eaten them plain, either cold or warmed, and now in salads. If you have access to these Trader Joe's lentils by all means feel free to use them in this recipe in place of making them from scratch. 

I finally got my hands on some dried french green lentils from Bob's Red Mill. I love them as well...they are so beautiful dry with their marbled and speckled surface. They have a nice flavor and pair wonderfully in this salad with the bitter sweet greens while adding a nice heartiness. I like to use about 1 cup cooked lentils for my salad but feel free to adjust up or down to suit your needs. Anything smaller than a cup for me and I'm hungry an hour after. I like my salads to be on the big side! You will have left over lentils for another salad or usage of choice. 

The remaining key ingredients are simple and few. You may even have most of them on hand right now. I know the endive may be a bit harder for some to come by but you can use all arugula or choose from a variety of bitter greens such as radicchio, kale (julienned lacinato is best for this recipe), watercress, spinach, escarole, dandelion, etc. Use a much as you like of each ingredient. 

On a side note: I love music...when I'm in the kitchen playing around with recipes I usually have my playlist going and the volume up high...it's so therapeutic and relaxing to me. I thought I'd share a track that suited this recipe a bit, being that they both relate to french. You may already know this song, and if you don't have a listen and enjoy the mellow sounds...

Thievery Corporation - Lebanese Blonde (French Version)

French Lentil & Bitter Greens Salad

Salad

• 1 cup french lentils (beluga or puy), rinsed and picked over
• 2 bay leafs
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• bitter greens of choice (arugula, belgian endive, watercress, spinach, lacinato kale, escarole, dandelion to name a few)
• grape tomatoes, halved
• scallions or shallots, sliced
• mineral salt, to taste
• fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Lemon Dijon Balsamic Vinaigrette

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 
• 1 tablespoon white or dark balsamic vinegar (I used white)
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard (whole grain is great too)
• juice of one small lemon

In a medium size pot, bring water, lentils, bay leafs and garlic powder to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. We want them tender but still holding their shape. Remove from heat, let cool a few minutes and drain.

While lentils are cooking start your vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard and lemon juice. Set aside. Note: Instead of adding salt and pepper to the dressing...I prefer to simply add it to my salad instead.

Next, prepare your greens and remaining salad ingredients using as much or little as you like.

Once lentils are done, prepare your salad by laying your greens first, then add in some lentils and toss gently. Top with tomatoes, scallions and a good sprinkling of mineral salt and fresh cracked pepper. Or simply lay your greens and top with lentils and remaining salad ingredients without tossing at all if you rather. No rules here, do what feels best for you! Store leftover lentils in the refrigerator for another salad or usage of choice.

Enjoy!

I know, I know...another salad! :)

It is no secret that salads have been on my mind lately. The weather is warming up here in So. Cal and I instinctually start craving them. And so it is...another salad that I have been loving lately I have to share with you. And if you're like me, you can find a salad and stick with it for month's on end. This is one of those simple salads that falls into that category for me. Not that my other salads don't but this one has lots of qualities that suit me on a regular basis. For one, it's easy. It's only one tablespoon oil. The ingredients are simple and readily available. It's filling and has a nice share of protein from the lentils. The lentils can be served warmed or chilled, making it a nice versatile salad for the cooler season's. For me these are great qualities that I can stand behind day after day. 

The first time I had french lentils was from Trader Joe's. They sell a steamed package that is fantastic! I've used them for tacos, eaten them plain, either cold or warmed, and now in salads. If you have access to these Trader Joe's lentils by all means feel free to use them in this recipe in place of making them from scratch. 

I finally got my hands on some dried french green lentils from Bob's Red Mill. I love them as well...they are so beautiful dry with their marbled and speckled surface. They have a nice flavor and pair wonderfully in this salad with the bitter sweet greens while adding a nice heartiness. I like to use about 1 cup cooked lentils for my salad but feel free to adjust up or down to suit your needs. Anything smaller than a cup for me and I'm hungry an hour after. I like my salads to be on the big side! You will have left over lentils for another salad or usage of choice. 

The remaining key ingredients are simple and few. You may even have most of them on hand right now. I know the endive may be a bit harder for some to come by but you can use all arugula or choose from a variety of bitter greens such as radicchio, kale (julienned lacinato is best for this recipe), watercress, spinach, escarole, dandelion, etc. Use a much as you like of each ingredient. 

On a side note: I love music...when I'm in the kitchen playing around with recipes I usually have my playlist going and the volume up high...it's so therapeutic and relaxing to me. I thought I'd share a track that suited this recipe a bit, being that they both relate to french. You may already know this song, and if you don't have a listen and enjoy the mellow sounds...

Thievery Corporation - Lebanese Blonde (French Version)

French Lentil & Bitter Greens Salad

Salad

• 1 cup french lentils (beluga or puy), rinsed and picked over
• 2 bay leafs
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• bitter greens of choice (arugula, belgian endive, watercress, spinach, lacinato kale, escarole, dandelion to name a few)
• grape tomatoes, halved
• scallions or shallots, sliced
• mineral salt, to taste
• fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Lemon Dijon Balsamic Vinaigrette

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 
• 1 tablespoon white or dark balsamic vinegar (I used white)
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard (whole grain is great too)
• juice of one small lemon

In a medium size pot, bring water, lentils, bay leafs and garlic powder to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. We want them tender but still holding their shape. Remove from heat, let cool a few minutes and drain.

While lentils are cooking start your vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard and lemon juice. Set aside. Note: Instead of adding salt and pepper to the dressing...I prefer to simply add it to my salad instead.

Next, prepare your greens and remaining salad ingredients using as much or little as you like.

Once lentils are done, prepare your salad by laying your greens first, then add in some lentils and toss gently. Top with tomatoes, scallions and a good sprinkling of mineral salt and fresh cracked pepper. Or simply lay your greens and top with lentils and remaining salad ingredients without tossing at all if you rather. No rules here, do what feels best for you! Store leftover lentils in the refrigerator for another salad or usage of choice.

Enjoy!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Cucumber Salad + Peanut Citrus Dressing

As we head into summer and the temperatures begin to rise here in Southern California, I find myself craving salads more and more. This is a refreshing salad of cucumbers and fresh vegetables with a wonderful peanut citrus dressing that will have you tipping the bowl for every drop (I know I say that about all the salad dressings but it's true...you'll see!)

Originally I wanted to create cucumber noodle salad for this recipe but quickly decided that I would rather keep this as easy as possible without having to use too many tools. The only tool I do recommend for this recipe is a microplane for grating your ginger and garlic. It's a great tool for any kitchen and will come in handy over and over again.

Bring on the warmer weather and let's beat the heat with this easy and flavorful Thai inspired salad!

Cucumber Salad + Peanut Citrus Dressing

Salad 

• 2 1/2 cups English cucumbers, sliced and quartered
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 head of purple cabbage, sliced
• handful cilantro, roughly chopped
• handful cashews, for garnish
• red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

Peanut Citrus Dressing

• 3 tablespoons orange juice, lime juice or lemon juice, + more as needed
• 3 tablespoons raw or natural peanut butter (almond or cashew butter is great too)
• 1 tablespoon tamari, bragg's liquid aminos or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1/2 garlic clove, grated
• 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• pinch of red pepper flakes or 1/2 teaspoon sriracha hot sauce (optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the peanut citrus dressing, set aside allowing the flavors to come together. Then before adding the dressing to the salad, taste for flavor adding anything extra you might like. For a thinner dressing add 1 or 2 tablespoons citrus juice or water. To make it thicker add a tad bit more nut butter.

Prepare your salad ingredients. Check your dressing for flavor. In a large bowl combine the salad mix with the dressing, toss well and serve. Top with cashews and red pepper flakes. Serves two.

Notes for the dressing: Use the orange juice for a less tangy dressing. I used orange for this recipe and have also used lemon as well. Both were great, and I know the lime will be wonderful too! You can also lessen the amount of juice replacing it with water. Add in some citrus zest of choice if desired. And if your a vinegar lover, try adding a splash or two of rice vinegar!

Notes for the salad: Try tossing in a cup of cooked quinoa after mixing for a more nutritionally balanced profile.

Recommended tool as mentioned above: Microplane

Enjoy!

As we head into summer and the temperatures begin to rise here in Southern California, I find myself craving salads more and more. This is a refreshing salad of cucumbers and fresh vegetables with a wonderful peanut citrus dressing that will have you tipping the bowl for every drop (I know I say that about all the salad dressings but it's true...you'll see!)

Originally I wanted to create cucumber noodle salad for this recipe but quickly decided that I would rather keep this as easy as possible without having to use too many tools. The only tool I do recommend for this recipe is a microplane for grating your ginger and garlic. It's a great tool for any kitchen and will come in handy over and over again.

Bring on the warmer weather and let's beat the heat with this easy and flavorful Thai inspired salad!

Cucumber Salad + Peanut Citrus Dressing

Salad 

• 2 1/2 cups English cucumbers, sliced and quartered
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 head of purple cabbage, sliced
• handful cilantro, roughly chopped
• handful cashews, for garnish
• red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)

Peanut Citrus Dressing

• 3 tablespoons orange juice, lime juice or lemon juice, + more as needed
• 3 tablespoons raw or natural peanut butter (almond or cashew butter is great too)
• 1 tablespoon tamari, bragg's liquid aminos or soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
• 1/2 garlic clove, grated
• 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• pinch of red pepper flakes or 1/2 teaspoon sriracha hot sauce (optional)

In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the peanut citrus dressing, set aside allowing the flavors to come together. Then before adding the dressing to the salad, taste for flavor adding anything extra you might like. For a thinner dressing add 1 or 2 tablespoons citrus juice or water. To make it thicker add a tad bit more nut butter.

Prepare your salad ingredients. Check your dressing for flavor. In a large bowl combine the salad mix with the dressing, toss well and serve. Top with cashews and red pepper flakes. Serves two.

Notes for the dressing: Use the orange juice for a less tangy dressing. I used orange for this recipe and have also used lemon as well. Both were great, and I know the lime will be wonderful too! You can also lessen the amount of juice replacing it with water. Add in some citrus zest of choice if desired. And if your a vinegar lover, try adding a splash or two of rice vinegar!

Notes for the salad: Try tossing in a cup of cooked quinoa after mixing for a more nutritionally balanced profile.

Recommended tool as mentioned above: Microplane

Enjoy!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Carrot Miso Soup

This wonderful soup comes from the Smitten Kitchen. It's the simplest of ingredients with such great flavor. Yes, there are a lot of carrots involved but carrots are really on the cheap. I can pick up a 5 lb bag of organic carrots for under $5 making this a very inexpensive soup to prepare (double the recipe and store in the freezer for later if you like). The miso costs a bit more at around $8-9 a tub but will last up to a year + in the fridge. If you follow my recipes you will be sure to use it more than once. The miso compliments this soup beautifully making it a classic favorite. I love miso for its flavor and health benefits, it is quite unusual and irreplaceable. The only changes I made to Deb's recipe was adding a little tofu to round this soup out with some protein. I have chosen to use a silken tofu, sliced and topped with a bit of cayenne for a little kick of spice. The tofu is soft and silky blending in almost seamlessly with each bite and the cayenne adds a bit of warmth. So delicious! Feel free to omit the tofu if you're not a fan. And if you are a fan, feel free to add more for extra protein. 

Lot's of carrots for a colorful, nutritional and flavorful soup that I know you will love! Another great soup for The Simple Veganista collection.

Carrot Miso Soup 

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 - 2 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated 
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth (I used water)
• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) white miso paste
• 8 oz. organic silken tofu, sliced thin and at room tempature
• cayenne pepper as garnish, to taste
• chives, chopped OR scallions, thinly sliced

In a large stock pot or saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and garlic, saute until onion is translucent, about 10 minutes. Add liquids and ginger. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally for 30 minutes, or until carrots are tender.

Let soup cool a bit. Puree soup with an immersion blender, food processor or in regular blender. You may have to puree the latter two methods in batches.

In small bowl, add 1/4 cup miso and 1/2 cup of soup. Whisk together until combined, add back into the pot of soup and stir to mix. Add a bit more water as needed. Taste for seasoning adding salt, especially if you didn't use veggie stock you may like to add salt. Add pepper, more miso or grated ginger to taste.

Slice your tofu, ladle your soup into serving bowls, top with tofu, a sprinkle of cayenne and a nice bunch of chives or scallions.

Enjoy!

This wonderful soup comes from the Smitten Kitchen. It's the simplest of ingredients with such great flavor. Yes, there are a lot of carrots involved but carrots are really on the cheap. I can pick up a 5 lb bag of organic carrots for under $5 making this a very inexpensive soup to prepare (double the recipe and store in the freezer for later if you like). The miso costs a bit more at around $8-9 a tub but will last up to a year + in the fridge. If you follow my recipes you will be sure to use it more than once. The miso compliments this soup beautifully making it a classic favorite. I love miso for its flavor and health benefits, it is quite unusual and irreplaceable. The only changes I made to Deb's recipe was adding a little tofu to round this soup out with some protein. I have chosen to use a silken tofu, sliced and topped with a bit of cayenne for a little kick of spice. The tofu is soft and silky blending in almost seamlessly with each bite and the cayenne adds a bit of warmth. So delicious! Feel free to omit the tofu if you're not a fan. And if you are a fan, feel free to add more for extra protein. 

Lot's of carrots for a colorful, nutritional and flavorful soup that I know you will love! Another great soup for The Simple Veganista collection.

Carrot Miso Soup 

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 - 2 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated 
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth (I used water)
• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) white miso paste
• 8 oz. organic silken tofu, sliced thin and at room tempature
• cayenne pepper as garnish, to taste
• chives, chopped OR scallions, thinly sliced

In a large stock pot or saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and garlic, saute until onion is translucent, about 10 minutes. Add liquids and ginger. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally for 30 minutes, or until carrots are tender.

Let soup cool a bit. Puree soup with an immersion blender, food processor or in regular blender. You may have to puree the latter two methods in batches.

In small bowl, add 1/4 cup miso and 1/2 cup of soup. Whisk together until combined, add back into the pot of soup and stir to mix. Add a bit more water as needed. Taste for seasoning adding salt, especially if you didn't use veggie stock you may like to add salt. Add pepper, more miso or grated ginger to taste.

Slice your tofu, ladle your soup into serving bowls, top with tofu, a sprinkle of cayenne and a nice bunch of chives or scallions.

Enjoy!

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Broccoli + Tahini-Miso Dressing

Simple, flavorful and creamy. Tahini and miso pair so well together and are both full of nutrition. No empty calories in this recipe, each ingredient holds benefits to unlock your bodies full potential. This easy to make dish can be served as a side dish, paired with rice or quinoa, or simply eaten as is. I found this to be a great lunch or dinner as is with a nice glass of lemon water. Filling and light, yet very satisfying. I look forward to coming back to this again and again. Feel free to serve the broccoli either raw, steamed or roasted. I have mine lightly steamed here. If keeping broccoli raw, you may like to keep the florets on the smaller side.

Broccoli + Tahini-Miso Dressing

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Tahini-Miso Dressing

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 teaspoons mellow white miso
• pinch or two red pepper flakes, optional
• juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon tamari
• 1 tablespoon or so water for thinning

Prepare your broccoli as desired, either raw, steamed or roasted and slice your green onion.

Combine the dressing ingredients in a small bowl, mix well adding any additional water 1 teaspoon at a time as needed to thin. This is meant to be on the creamy side but you may prefer it a little thinner, and it will stretch farther by adding water.

Combine everything together and serve as desired.

Serves four, or if you like me and eat it for lunch or dinner...one.

Enjoy!

Simple, flavorful and creamy. Tahini and miso pair so well together and are both full of nutrition. No empty calories in this recipe, each ingredient holds benefits to unlock your bodies full potential. This easy to make dish can be served as a side dish, paired with rice or quinoa, or simply eaten as is. I found this to be a great lunch or dinner as is with a nice glass of lemon water. Filling and light, yet very satisfying. I look forward to coming back to this again and again. Feel free to serve the broccoli either raw, steamed or roasted. I have mine lightly steamed here. If keeping broccoli raw, you may like to keep the florets on the smaller side.

Broccoli + Tahini-Miso Dressing

Ingredients

• 2 cups broccoli
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Tahini-Miso Dressing

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 teaspoons mellow white miso
• pinch or two red pepper flakes, optional
• juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon tamari
• 1 tablespoon or so water for thinning

Prepare your broccoli as desired, either raw, steamed or roasted and slice your green onion.

Combine the dressing ingredients in a small bowl, mix well adding any additional water 1 teaspoon at a time as needed to thin. This is meant to be on the creamy side but you may prefer it a little thinner, and it will stretch farther by adding water.

Combine everything together and serve as desired.

Serves four, or if you like me and eat it for lunch or dinner...one.

Enjoy!

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Simple Zucchini Pasta Salad

I love, love, love the simplicity of this dish. Simple flavors that work well together. This is fresh, light and will leave you feeling vibrant and healthy. The noodles can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple days for a quick grab and go meal idea any time you need. And don't forget your almond parmesan. It is a great staple to have in the pantry or fridge for meals like this. It really tops if off nicely while adding more nutrition and flavor!

Simple Zucchini Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 large or 2 small zucchini, julienned or spiralized
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• handful cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half
• few large leaves of basil, julienned
• drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
• pinch or two of red pepper flakes
• himalayan salt & cracked pepper to taste
• almond parmesan, for dusting

Prepare your vegetables. In a medium size bowl combine all ingredients and serve with a dusting of almond parmesan on top. So simple, easy and delicious...

Enjoy!

I love, love, love the simplicity of this dish. Simple flavors that work well together. This is fresh, light and will leave you feeling vibrant and healthy. The noodles can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple days for a quick grab and go meal idea any time you need. And don't forget your almond parmesan. It is a great staple to have in the pantry or fridge for meals like this. It really tops if off nicely while adding more nutrition and flavor!

Simple Zucchini Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 large or 2 small zucchini, julienned or spiralized
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• handful cherry or grape tomatoes, cut in half
• few large leaves of basil, julienned
• drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
• pinch or two of red pepper flakes
• himalayan salt & cracked pepper to taste
• almond parmesan, for dusting

Prepare your vegetables. In a medium size bowl combine all ingredients and serve with a dusting of almond parmesan on top. So simple, easy and delicious...

Enjoy!

reade more... Résuméabuiyad

Spicy Stir-Fried Cabbage, Tofu and Red Pepper + Soy Awareness

By learning you will teach. By teaching you will learn. ~ Latin Proverb

I'd like to go over the subject of soy and what forms of soy are good for you and which ones to avoid. There was a time when I avoided soy almost completely because I thought soy was bad. That is not the case and I was missing out on the very beneficial qualities that some soy products like tofu, tempeh, miso, tamari, soy sauce, whole soybeans and natto offer. These are the soy products that are good and can be eaten fairly freely. Tempeh, miso, natto and tamari are fermented soy. Fermenting soy creates good bacteria and health promoting probiotics to keep us well. It also reduces the estrogen content in soy foods. The soy to avoid is highly processed soy, especially soy isolate protein. Soy isolate protein has been linked to, some serious, and some not so serious, health issues. If possible please avoid soy milk, soy cheeses, soy powders (like soy baby formula and soy protein powders), soybean oil (often labeled as vegetable oil), packaged products that include soy ingredients, etc. Look for alternatives and stick with fermented soy products or buy tofu, whole soybeans and soy sauce as they are beneficial. And buying organic or at least non-GMO soy products is important as well. They do not cost much more and is well worth the few extra cents especially because soy can be very inexpensive...at least tofu is. So enjoy your crispy pan fried tofu or tofu scrambles, and use soft tofu in smoothies, cheeses, sauces and dressings....but do use it in moderation and not at every meal. Make your miso soup or use miso in dressings and enjoy the added benefits of vitamin B12, a good source for vegans, plus it's ability to aid the digestive tract. 

Below are three articles that you can read at your leisure. They will explain much better than I can. I always recommend for you to do your own research. Everything is out there just waiting to be found and I want to pass along the information that I find in hopes that we can all create good healthy habits for ourselves and the world around us.

Soy Information Sources: 

The Soy Controversy from the Huffington Post

The Evidence Against Soy from Dr. Mercola

Soy Alert from The Weston A. Price Foundation

So now let's enjoy this wonderful and flavorful tofu dish. I saw this recipe from the NY Times and thought it needed to be put into the recipe collection. I didn't go too far from the original recipe and only changed a few things while adding a little red pepper flakes because I love spiciness. Feel free to omit this if your not a fan of spice. This meal can be ready in about 30 minutes or so making it a good go to recipe when you need something quick. 

Spicy Stir-Fried Cabbage, Tofu and Red Pepper

Ingredients

• 12 ounces firm or extra firm organic tofu, cut into slices a little bit more than 1/4 inch
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce, divided
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups shredded cabbage or about 1/2 cabbage (red, green or both)
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 3 green onions, sliced (reserve one green onion for garnish)
• pinch or two red pepper flakes
• himalayn salt & cracked pepper to taste
• sesame seeds as garnish
• quinoa, basmati or jasmine rice for serving

Start your quinoa or rice and set aside.

Cut the tofu into dominoes (mine are double domino size) and press between paper towels or dish cloth (there won't be too much water so this will go quick). In a small bowl or measuring cup combine the stock, 1 tablespoon tamari and rice wine vinegar.

Heat a large wok or large skillet over high heat until a drop of water evaporates within a second or two when added to the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of the sesame oil and swirl to coat, add tofu and stir-fry until golden, about 3 minutes, 1 1/2 minutes on each side. Add remaining tablespoon tamari/soy sauce, toss together for a few seconds and transfer to a plate.

Swirl in the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, add the garlic and ginger to the wok/skillet and stir-fry for no more than 10 seconds. Add red pepper and stir-fry for 1 minute, or until it begins to soften. Add cabbage, stir-fry for 1 minute, add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, stir-fry another 1 to 2 minutes, until crisp-tender. Return the tofu to the vegetable mixture, stir in stock/tamari mixture and stir-fry for another minute, until it has just about evaporated. Remove from heat and serve with quinoa or rice of choice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serves 4.

Enjoy!

If you have any questions about soy and/or finding replacements your always welcome to contact me through posting a comment here, finding my email in my about page or messaging me on Facebook. 

By learning you will teach. By teaching you will learn. ~ Latin Proverb

I'd like to go over the subject of soy and what forms of soy are good for you and which ones to avoid. There was a time when I avoided soy almost completely because I thought soy was bad. That is not the case and I was missing out on the very beneficial qualities that some soy products like tofu, tempeh, miso, tamari, soy sauce, whole soybeans and natto offer. These are the soy products that are good and can be eaten fairly freely. Tempeh, miso, natto and tamari are fermented soy. Fermenting soy creates good bacteria and health promoting probiotics to keep us well. It also reduces the estrogen content in soy foods. The soy to avoid is highly processed soy, especially soy isolate protein. Soy isolate protein has been linked to, some serious, and some not so serious, health issues. If possible please avoid soy milk, soy cheeses, soy powders (like soy baby formula and soy protein powders), soybean oil (often labeled as vegetable oil), packaged products that include soy ingredients, etc. Look for alternatives and stick with fermented soy products or buy tofu, whole soybeans and soy sauce as they are beneficial. And buying organic or at least non-GMO soy products is important as well. They do not cost much more and is well worth the few extra cents especially because soy can be very inexpensive...at least tofu is. So enjoy your crispy pan fried tofu or tofu scrambles, and use soft tofu in smoothies, cheeses, sauces and dressings....but do use it in moderation and not at every meal. Make your miso soup or use miso in dressings and enjoy the added benefits of vitamin B12, a good source for vegans, plus it's ability to aid the digestive tract. 

Below are three articles that you can read at your leisure. They will explain much better than I can. I always recommend for you to do your own research. Everything is out there just waiting to be found and I want to pass along the information that I find in hopes that we can all create good healthy habits for ourselves and the world around us.

Soy Information Sources: 

The Soy Controversy from the Huffington Post

The Evidence Against Soy from Dr. Mercola

Soy Alert from The Weston A. Price Foundation

So now let's enjoy this wonderful and flavorful tofu dish. I saw this recipe from the NY Times and thought it needed to be put into the recipe collection. I didn't go too far from the original recipe and only changed a few things while adding a little red pepper flakes because I love spiciness. Feel free to omit this if your not a fan of spice. This meal can be ready in about 30 minutes or so making it a good go to recipe when you need something quick. 

Spicy Stir-Fried Cabbage, Tofu and Red Pepper

Ingredients

• 12 ounces firm or extra firm organic tofu, cut into slices a little bit more than 1/4 inch
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce, divided
• 1 tablespoon seasoned rice wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 5 cups shredded cabbage or about 1/2 cabbage (red, green or both)
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 3 green onions, sliced (reserve one green onion for garnish)
• pinch or two red pepper flakes
• himalayn salt & cracked pepper to taste
• sesame seeds as garnish
• quinoa, basmati or jasmine rice for serving

Start your quinoa or rice and set aside.

Cut the tofu into dominoes (mine are double domino size) and press between paper towels or dish cloth (there won't be too much water so this will go quick). In a small bowl or measuring cup combine the stock, 1 tablespoon tamari and rice wine vinegar.

Heat a large wok or large skillet over high heat until a drop of water evaporates within a second or two when added to the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of the sesame oil and swirl to coat, add tofu and stir-fry until golden, about 3 minutes, 1 1/2 minutes on each side. Add remaining tablespoon tamari/soy sauce, toss together for a few seconds and transfer to a plate.

Swirl in the remaining 1 tablespoon oil, add the garlic and ginger to the wok/skillet and stir-fry for no more than 10 seconds. Add red pepper and stir-fry for 1 minute, or until it begins to soften. Add cabbage, stir-fry for 1 minute, add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes, stir-fry another 1 to 2 minutes, until crisp-tender. Return the tofu to the vegetable mixture, stir in stock/tamari mixture and stir-fry for another minute, until it has just about evaporated. Remove from heat and serve with quinoa or rice of choice. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serves 4.

Enjoy!

If you have any questions about soy and/or finding replacements your always welcome to contact me through posting a comment here, finding my email in my about page or messaging me on Facebook. 

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Kale & Quinoa Salad

This has been my new to-go lunch lately and I just love it. It's simple, easy and nutrient dense while of course tasting clean, fresh and delicious! Might I also add that this is anti-aging, anti-fattening and a mood enhancing salad! It has been proven that a healthy diet improves mood. Give it a try and vary it up to your liking by adding/subtracting any vegetables you like. Pumpkin seeds would be a great topping for this too. Also feel free to cut this recipe in half. I find that I will make this taking half one day and half the next for my to-go lunches. That may seem like a lot but I'm one of those who will munch on it throughout the day without eating it in one sitting. I have also been known to eat this all to myself in one day as my lunch and dinner. What can I say, I love it! Get that kale into your diet with this simple salad and enjoy the benefits of clean, healthy eating!

Kale & Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry quinoa, rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 8 -10 good size kale leaves, stems removed and finely chopped or julienned
• 3 large or 5 small scallions (white & green parts), thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1/2 large zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced or cut into wedges
• 2 - 3 lemons
• drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, optional
• lemon pepper seasoning or cracked pepper, to taste
• himalayan salt to taste

Rinse your quinoa and place in a medium saucepan with water. Bring to boil over medium high heat, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Once done, remove cover and let set for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

While your quinoa is cooking, place the chopped kale in a medium size bowl along with the juice of one lemon, mixing occasionally. This will help soften the kale a bit.

Clean and dice the remaining ingredients. Once quinoa is done, combine everything together. Add lemon pepper and salt to taste. Squeeze the juice of the remaining lemon on top and drizzle with optional oil, mix once more. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Serves 4

Enjoy!

You may also like this Garden Quinoa Salad w/ Zesty Garlic Dressing

This has been my new to-go lunch lately and I just love it. It's simple, easy and nutrient dense while of course tasting clean, fresh and delicious! Might I also add that this is anti-aging, anti-fattening and a mood enhancing salad! It has been proven that a healthy diet improves mood. Give it a try and vary it up to your liking by adding/subtracting any vegetables you like. Pumpkin seeds would be a great topping for this too. Also feel free to cut this recipe in half. I find that I will make this taking half one day and half the next for my to-go lunches. That may seem like a lot but I'm one of those who will munch on it throughout the day without eating it in one sitting. I have also been known to eat this all to myself in one day as my lunch and dinner. What can I say, I love it! Get that kale into your diet with this simple salad and enjoy the benefits of clean, healthy eating!

Kale & Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry quinoa, rinsed
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 8 -10 good size kale leaves, stems removed and finely chopped or julienned
• 3 large or 5 small scallions (white & green parts), thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1/2 large zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced or cut into wedges
• 2 - 3 lemons
• drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, optional
• lemon pepper seasoning or cracked pepper, to taste
• himalayan salt to taste

Rinse your quinoa and place in a medium saucepan with water. Bring to boil over medium high heat, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Once done, remove cover and let set for 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

While your quinoa is cooking, place the chopped kale in a medium size bowl along with the juice of one lemon, mixing occasionally. This will help soften the kale a bit.

Clean and dice the remaining ingredients. Once quinoa is done, combine everything together. Add lemon pepper and salt to taste. Squeeze the juice of the remaining lemon on top and drizzle with optional oil, mix once more. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Serves 4

Enjoy!

You may also like this Garden Quinoa Salad w/ Zesty Garlic Dressing

reade more... Résuméabuiyad