Butternut Squash Apple Galette – Whole-Foods Plant-Based

Butternut Squash Apple Galette – Whole-Foods Plant-Based

Whole-Foods Plant-Based Galette with Whole-Wheat Pastry – Creamy Tofu, Apple, Fennel Filling

Are you looking for a whole-foods plant-based butternut squash galette recipe?  I couldn’t find one, so I created this for us to enjoy.

This vegan galette recipe has butternut squash, sliced and roasted, then layered beautifully over a soft filling made from food processing, or blending a fennel bulb (or dried fennel), crabapples (or regular apples), extra firm tofu, and yummy sage, rosemary, nutmeg and other fall flavours.

All snugly embraced in a galette dough pouch, for a cozy harvest meal.

Basic vegan galette dough:

Whole-wheat whole-grain flour, almond flour (healthy unprocessed fat, replaces margarine), non-dairy milk, nutritional yeast, and some seasonings.   Made in a food processor.

The dough is easy to handle, rolls out fine, but was a little tough right out of the oven – due to lack of oil I expect, and potentially I cooked it too long.

The pastry softened up in the fridge and was nicely tender as leftovers.

  • Next time I’ll blend 3-4 dried prunes into the dough for moisture.
  • I’m confident prunes will make it great, because I use prunes in my oil-free pizza crust and it is really fantastic,

BUT I haven’t tested prunes in the galette dough yet.

I’m posting the version I did test, next time I’ll add prunes and update the ingredients.

Think of a galette as a lazy pie, or a lazy quiche.

I was surprised how easy it was to roll out the dough, spread the ingredients on it, wrap it gently and pop it back in the oven.

I used a large oven safe wok, which shaped the sides nicely.  An extra-large skillet would also work, as would a baking sheet.

We got easy to pack galette leftovers, perfect for school and work lunches.  I can see how little mini galettes would make great individual servings.

Butternut Squash Dinner Idea That is Vegan

This galette is wonderful at the end of summer, since you make it with autumn harvest vegetables, helping you use up that butternut squash on your counter.

I will definitely be making this again throughout the winter. 🙂 

whole foods plant based galette

Vegan Butternut Squash Galette - Whole-Foods Plant-Based

Jeanette
With butternut squash, and a savoury tofu filling with fennel, and crabapples (or regular apples), this galette is simple, satisfying, and a great way to use up food harvested from your backyard.  
The soft creamy tofu filling is delicate and tasty, the pastry complements the ingredients well.  Butternut squash is the perfect not too sweet, firm colourful topping.
Let this vegan galette cool slightly before slicing and serving.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Egg Free, French
Servings 8 servings
Calories 217 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

Pastry

Filling

  • 1 butternut squash peeled and sliced, see instructions
  • 1 1/2 cups fennel bulb small sized, sliced
  • 2 cups apples crabapples, cored and sliced
  • 340 g extra firm tofu
  • 1 teaspoon sage dried
  • 1 tablespoon rosemary fresh, or 1 tsp dried
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed

Topping

Bake the Filling (Squash, Apples, Fennel)

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.  Take out an extra-large oven-proof skillet with high sides or a wok.  A baking sheet can work too.
  • Peel the entire squash, you can roll and peel lengthwise.   Then cut the squash into two pieces to separate the bottom rounder part from the narrower top section. 
    Cut both parts in half and remove any seeds. 
    Cut all four pieces into 1/4-inch-thick slices. 
    Core and slice the apples, slice the fennel into small pieces (it will be food processed anyways).  Note: if you are short on time, you could add the apples raw to the filling in the food processor instead of baking.
    roast butternut squash no-oil
  • Spread sliced squash, apples, and fennel on baking sheets.  Place the apples and fennel together, you will scoop them up with a spatula to move to the food processor. 
    I didn't line or oil my sheets, some of the squash edges stuck, but was easy to scrape off.  
    Bake until the squash, apples, and fennel are tender, about 25-30 minutes. 

Prepare the Pastry (Food Processor)

  • While the squash is baking, put the flour, almond flour, nutritional yeast (if using), and salt in a food processor. 
    Pulse to combine.  Add 1/3 cup of the non-dairy milk, process, it should still be floury.  Add additional non-dairy milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough sticks together (to test, remove the top and gather the dough in your fingers. If it sticks together without crumbling, it’s ready). I ended up using another full 1/3 cup of milk.
    Be careful not to over mix once it is doughy, it makes it tough. 
    Soak or clean the food processor, you will need it again to finish the filling.
    whole-wheat fat-free galette dough
  • Transfer dough to a lightly floured board or counter, and shape the dough into a disk. 
    With a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a very large circle about 1/4-inch thick. 
    Transfer dough into the large skillet, baking sheet, or wok, let the dough hang over the edges if necessary, you will fold it over the ingredients.

Prepare the Tofu-Filling (Food Processor)

  • Add extra firm tofu, sage, rosemary, salt, nutmeg, pepper and lemon juice to the food processor.  You could also add the apples raw at this stage if you chose not to bake them, say maybe because you ran out of time to slice them :o.  
  • When the vegetables are done baking, scoop the apples and fennel with a spatula and add them to the food processor with the extra firm tofu.  It's fine/better if they are still hot.  Blend until well mixed. Taste test and adjust seasonings.

Assemble the Galette

  • Spread the apple-tofu (ricotta) mixture over the top of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. 
    Arrange the squash prettily, in a spiral pattern, over the apple-fennel-tofu-ricotta mixture and fold the edges of the pastry toward the center of the galette. 
    whole-foods plant-based galette
  • Sprinkle almond flour, garlic powder and salt over the center of the galette and optionally onto the crust.
    vegan whole foods plant based galette
  • Bake until the crust is crisp and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
    vegan butternut squash galette fennel apple whole-wheat crust

Notes

Serve with a bright green salad, also goes well with steamed brussels sprouts.  

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Vegan Butternut Squash Galette - Whole-Foods Plant-Based
Amount Per Serving (1 / 8th of recipe)
Calories 217 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Sodium 646mg28%
Potassium 618mg18%
Carbohydrates 36g12%
Fiber 6g25%
Sugar 6g7%
Protein 9g18%
Vitamin A 10010IU200%
Vitamin C 23.9mg29%
Calcium 96mg10%
Iron 2.5mg14%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!

 

 
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Tahini Roasted Broccoli – Whole-Foods Plant-Based

Tahini Roasted Broccoli – Whole-Foods Plant-Based

Vegan Roasted Broccoli – Whole-Foods Plant-Based – Crunchy Side Dish Delight with Tahini, Garlic, and Lemon

Toss broccoli in a vegan and gluten-free mixture of tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, and pepper, then bake for 10 minutes.  
It’s crispy and creamy at the same time.  

Tired of steamed and boiled broccoli?  Try crisping your broccoli in the oven.  It’s a very fast and simple way to make broccoli interesting as a side dish.  Whole-foods plant-based vegetables done right.

A lemon garlic infused side dish, broccoli with a citrus twist.

Add some hot sauce for fun!

SERVE WITH: Lazy Vegan Frittata – minus the spinach and peas.

Roasted Tahini Broccoli Whole Foods Plant Based

Tahini Roasted Broccoli

Jeanette
Broccoli roasted with tahini, garlic, and lemon becomes crispy and creamy.
I loved how quick and easy this was to make, and also how delicious it was. 
I recommend this recipe for someone searching for a more interesting take on roasted broccoli.
Try serving with my Lazy Vegan Frittata - minus the spinach and peas. 
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 7
Calories 102 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons tahini well stirred
  • 2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter
  • 6 tablespoons lemon juice fresh, plus more to serve
  • 3 garlic cloves large, minced
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Several grinds black pepper
  • 10 cups broccoli cut into bite sized florets
  • Preheat oven to 450° F. 
  • Place all of the ingredients except for the broccoli in a large bowl and whisk to combine. 
    Roasted Tahini Broccoli coating recipe vegan
  • Add broccoli and toss well to thoroughly coat. 
  • Scatter on a sheet pan and bake for 10 minutes. 
    Serve hot for best flavor, squeezing a little extra lemon juice on top.
    Goes great with Lazy Vegan Frittata.

Notes

In case you don't have tahini in the refrigerator, I think that miso and Sriracha, or peanut butter would be good, too.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Tahini Roasted Broccoli
Amount Per Serving (1 / 7th of recipe)
Calories 102 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Sodium 92mg4%
Potassium 483mg14%
Carbohydrates 11g4%
Fiber 4g17%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 5g10%
Vitamin A 810IU16%
Vitamin C 121.5mg147%
Calcium 85mg9%
Iron 1.3mg7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!
 
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Garam Masala Baked Acorn Squash – Stuffed With Cranberry Rice

Garam Masala Baked Acorn Squash – Stuffed With Cranberry Rice

Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash With Cranberry Rice & Garam Masala

Oh acorn squash – how I thought you were disgusting when I was a child, and, now I know what it takes to make you delicious!

Many adults aren’t squash fans, probably because their family didn’t serve it very well.  This recipe can change all that.

Healthy Vegan Baked Acorn Squash – No-Oil, Whole-Foods Plant-Based

Most people don’t know how to stuff vegetables, do they?   The ones I know anyways, are wowed when presented with a flavourful rice filled acorn squash.

No need to be impressed folks, because this stuffed acorn squash recipe is a dead easy meal to make.

Downright relaxing for the cook actually.

Jump to Recipe

Roasted With Wild Rice, Dried Cranberries, Garam Masala, Spinach and Black Beans

This whole-foods plant-based (wpb) oil-free roasted and stuffed acorn squash is extra deliciously complex, because the whole grain wild rice (any nice healthy whole grain rice should do) has extra scrumptious dried cranberry bits in it, plus the east Indian dessert pepper spice Garam Masala.

Nutrition Facts
Garam Masala Baked Acorn Squash - Stuffed With Cranberry Rice
Amount Per Serving (1 / 4th of recipe)
Calories 568 Calories from Fat 18
% Daily Value*
Fat 2g3%
Sodium 727mg32%
Potassium 1617mg46%
Carbohydrates 125g42%
Fiber 18g75%
Sugar 21g23%
Protein 20g40%
Vitamin A 4325IU87%
Vitamin C 37mg45%
Calcium 170mg17%
Iron 6.1mg34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

You can buy Garam Masala in the ethnic section of your grocery store.  I have a large bag of it, it goes nicely with fruit as well, like apple slices before bed, or on oatmeal.

Garam masala, cranberries, and acorn squash are a great combo.  Very romantic.

Plus, I’ve stirred some spinach ribbons, and optionally black beans, through this sticky sweet, spicy, rice, making things very much more interesting.

Can You Eat the Skin of Acorn Squash?

I looked it up and people said that the skin of acorn squash is edible if cooked long enough, so I announced this to my family, when serving them, they promptly all said “no thanks”.

Then I proceeded to try some of the skin on my squash, spit it out, and declared it was much too tough.

“Told you so” my husband said.

I would not encourage others to enjoy eating the skin.

Do enjoy the rest though. 🙂

FODMAP rating – without the black beans this recipe is Low FODMAP.  With the black beans, be sure to used canned, eat 1/4 cup or less of the canned beans and it is moderate FODMAP.

vegan garam masala cranberry rice stuffed acorn squash

Garam Masala Baked Acorn Squash - Stuffed With Cranberry Rice

Jeanette
Stuffed acorn squash presents well at any family gathering or dinner party, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.  The warm, peppery and sweet seasonings pair perfectly with fall and winter weather.
I can't over-emphasize how easy this dish is to make, but makes you look like a fairly accomplished cook.  As long as you have time to cook rice, it will come together 5 minutes after the rice is done.
This vegan no-fat version has dried cranberries, rice, spinach and optionally black beans, so it can easily serve as your entire meal.  
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Indian, Western
Servings 4 people
Calories 568 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 cups wild rice or other healthy whole grains, like short grain brown rice, brown basmati rice, or quinoa
  • 4 cups water or as per rice package instructions
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 tsp garam masala
  • 1 cup dried cranberries I use Craisins (sweetened)
  • 2 acorn squash small, or 1 large, washed and halved
  • 5 cups spinach finely chopped
  • 398 ml black beans, can small can, optional - if you are serving as a meal rather than a side dish
  • Preheat oven to 400F
  • Add rice, water, salt, garam masala and cranberries to a pot on high heat.  Bring to a boil, immediately reduce to low simmer, and cook for 45 minutes, or as per rice package instructions.  Check and stir often, to prevent the cranberries from burning.   If the rice is not soft once the water is gone, add more water and cook longer.  The dried cranberries can absorb liquid the rice needs.
  • Break stem off acorn squashes (if there is one).  Cut in halves.  Scoop out the seeds and strings.  Sprinkle with pepper and salt, place cut side down on a baking sheet and bake for 30 - 45 minutes (timing will depend on the size of the squash).    
  • Once the rice is done, turn off the heat.  Stir chopped spinach into the rice so it 'melts'.
  • If using, drain and rinse black beans, add to rice mixture.  Let sit for a few minutes to warm the beans.
  • Once done, remove acorn squash from the oven.  The squash should be soft all the way through.
  • Spoon spinach, black bean, cranberry, rice mixture into squash, you should be able to pile it quite high, serve warm.

Notes

Omit the black beans to make this recipe a side dish. 
Goes well with lentil loaf at holidays.
Cut large squash into quarters before serving.
 

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Garam Masala Baked Acorn Squash - Stuffed With Cranberry Rice
Amount Per Serving (1 / 4th of recipe)
Calories 568 Calories from Fat 18
% Daily Value*
Fat 2g3%
Sodium 727mg32%
Potassium 1617mg46%
Carbohydrates 125g42%
Fiber 18g75%
Sugar 21g23%
Protein 20g40%
Vitamin A 4325IU87%
Vitamin C 37mg45%
Calcium 170mg17%
Iron 6.1mg34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Italian Cornmeal Zucchini Polenta – 20 minutes

Italian Cornmeal Zucchini Polenta – 20 minutes

Easy Vegan Zuchinni Cornmeal Italian Polenta

Turn a Bag of Cornmeal into Italian Creamy Zucchini Polenta, FAST – with Savoury Seasonings

Nutrition Facts
Vegan Italian Cornmeal Zucchini Polenta - 15 minutes - Fat-free
Amount Per Serving (1 / 4th of recipe)
Calories 177 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 309mg13%
Potassium 408mg12%
Carbohydrates 33g11%
Fiber 5g21%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 6g12%
Vitamin A 186IU4%
Vitamin C 17mg21%
Calcium 24mg2%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

I’d never made polenta from scratch before.  Have you?

I didn’t know you could make a vegan, fat-free, polenta (think corn porridge!) using cornmeal, for dinner, and that it would only take 15 – 20 minutes.

It’s really easy and very yummy when you add some seasonings and zucchini to it.  The zucchini keeps it moist and stops it from hardening as much, as it cools.

Jump to Recipe

Cornmeal polenta is faster than pasta, easier than potatoes, speedier than quinoa, quicker than rice, and seriously lip smacking good.raw cornmeal for vegan polenta

If you do know how to make polenta, then you probably agree, making creamy vegan cornmeal polenta is really easy, and naturally tastes great as a no-oil gluten-free whole-grain plant-based quick easy vegan side-dish.

Simple Creamy Vegan Polenta

Boil water, add seasonings and extras (if any), add cornmeal, wait a few minutes, done!

My kids probably would have preferred if I left out the seasonings and extras.

But… I still had 4 zucchini squash from my neighbours and aunt taking up most of my counter ledge.

Must. Use. More. Zucchini. Autumn harvest and all.

So I created this shredded zucchini polenta recipe that turned out wonderfully.

Simple Creamy Vegan Polenta with Zucchini and Italian Seasonings

Boil water, food process a generous sized zucchini (mine made 4 cups), add salt, Italian seasonings like oregano, and rosemary, with generous pepper, add zucchini to the water, stir in cornmeal, wait 5 minutes, voila!

Savoury, vegan, fat-free, gluten-free, low FODMAP (for us folks with IBS), Italian style polenta.

Feeding Vegan Children – Skip the Green Bits

My kids were disappointed that the polenta had the seasonings, and the green bits of zucchini skin.

If you are feeding vegan children who are picky about mixed in green things, like mine, I would suggest you peel the zucchini and make the polenta with just salt, pull the kids portions out, then quickly add remaining seasonings for the non picky eaters.  Serve broccoli or something else green on the side, full transparency kids.

Fast

I say quickly, because cornmeal thickens up real fast in boiling water, I was very surprised, and pleased by this.  It is why I suggest adding the spices before the cornmeal in the recipe below, otherwise it is tricky to stir them into the thickness.

I ended up with lumps, and discovered they are very tasty, so don’t worry about those.  What a great easy carb for a supper on a busy night.  Polenta weekly from now on?!

Mmmmm Kind of Texture

The polenta is such a comforting texture when it is warm, like thick porridge, but more smooth, sophisticated, and appropriate for dinner.

Is this what grits are?  I really don’t know.

As soon as I find out, I will share my knowledge with you, it’s my mission.

To make vegan families the norm.

FODMAP rating – low FODMAP.  For people with IBS, no onions in this dish, and cornmeal is low fodmap, yay!

Vegan Dinner Idea Italian Cornmeal Zucchini Polenta

Vegan Italian Cornmeal Zucchini Polenta - 15 minutes - Fat-free

Jeanette
Take water, a bag of cornmeal, a zucchini, oregano, rosemary, salt and pepper and turn it into a filling, lip smacking, yummy, warm, vegan comfort food, that comes together so fast and tastes wonderful.
Whole-grains, gluten-free, plant-based, no-oil.  Tastes a bit like thanksgiving.
Use a food processor to prepare the zucchini, peel it first if serving picky children, throw it in some boiling water with the seasonings, add cornmeal, stir and wait 5 minutes for the cornmeal to cook.  
Very simple.  Very cozy.  Very smooth and full of taste.
Great recipe to try on a night you are running late and looking for a fast, easy, simple, vegan carb/starch side-dish for your supper.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 177 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
 
 

  • 3 cups water
  • 3 cups zucchini approximate, coarsely shredded in food processor, or grated. One large zucchini.
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast optional, truly, you won't miss it
  • 0.5 tsp oregano dried, or 1/2 tbsp fresh
  • 0.5 tsp rosemary or thyme, dried, or 1/2 tbsp fresh
  • 1 cup cornmeal cornmeal
  • Grate or food process zucchini. Peel first if serving to picky children, or picky adults.  Add zucchini and water to a large saucepan, stir to combine and bring to a boil.
  • Add salt, pepper, oregano, rosemary, and nutritional yeast, if using.
  • With water / zucchini and spices bubbling, add cornmeal in a thin stream, stirring with a wooden spoon to incorporate.  
    raw cornmeal for vegan polenta
  • Turn heat to low.  Keep stirring over low heat for at least 5 minutes as the cornmeal cooks and loses it's raw taste. It thickens into polenta very quickly, which is why it is important to have the seasonings in the liquid before the cornmeal. Otherwise it is tricky to stir it all together.
  • Taste test (blow on it, don't burn your tongue!) and adjust seasonings to your preference.
  • After the cornmeal has been cooking, it should get thick, turn off heat, let it sit 5 more minutes, then it should be ready to serve.  The longer the polenta sits, the thicker it will get and the herbs will mellow out.  Oregano can be quite strong, I find it tastes better the longer it sits, and is really nice as leftovers.
    Creamy fat-free vegan zucchini cornmeal polenta
  • Snip green onions or chives overtop when serving, some people like this with freshly squeezed lemon as well, or cranberry sauce.
    vegan no-oil cornmeal polenta with zucchini

Notes

Stir in black beans before serving if you are looking to add a vegan protein.
Serving ideas, with:
carrots sautéed in water, add spinach and fresh dill when carrots are almost done.
kidney beans or chickpeas and canned mushrooms microwaved in a steamer dish, seasoned with cumin or chili powder and freshly squeezed lemon.  
a nice dark leafy greens salad.
cranberry sauce.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Vegan Italian Cornmeal Zucchini Polenta - 15 minutes - Fat-free
Amount Per Serving (1 / 4th of recipe)
Calories 177 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 309mg13%
Potassium 408mg12%
Carbohydrates 33g11%
Fiber 5g21%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 6g12%
Vitamin A 186IU4%
Vitamin C 17mg21%
Calcium 24mg2%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!

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Green Tomatoes Chickpea Avocado Edamame Rice Salad

Green Tomatoes Chickpea Avocado Edamame Rice Salad

Mix Avocado, Fresh Green Tomatoes, Chickpeas, and Edamame Beans for a Creamy Vegan Spread or Salad Bowl

Use up fresh green tomatoes in this creamy avocado, edamame, chickpea, whole-foods plant-based green goddess recipe.

Put it on rice, quinoa, or other grains with some greens, like a bed of spinach.  No-oil needed, it’s fat-free but full of natural omega fats to keep your body glowing.

Also try smashing this green spread on toast or as a filling in a lettuce wrap.

Hard to go wrong, and very easy to go right, with avocado and edamame, some frozen peas, and optionally green tomatoes.

Create yourself a super vegan creamy mixture and delight.

FODMAP rating – medium low amount of FODMAPS.  Monash recommends eating less than 1/4 cup of chickpeas, and less than 1/4 cup of thawed peas in a sitting.  If you proportion more grains and spinach and less of the filling, IBS sufferers should be able to enjoy this recipe.

Nutrition Facts
Chickpea Avocado Edamame Rice Salad
Amount Per Serving (1 / 6th of recipe including rice and red pepper)
Calories 530 Calories from Fat 99
% Daily Value*
Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 510mg22%
Potassium 1119mg32%
Carbohydrates 89g30%
Fiber 16g67%
Sugar 10g11%
Protein 20g40%
Vitamin A 3685IU74%
Vitamin C 83.7mg101%
Calcium 132mg13%
Iron 6.2mg34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

 

chickpea avocado edamame rice bowl

Chickpea Avocado Edamame Rice Salad

Jeanette
This has a green goddess appeal when you use green tomatoes fresh from your garden or local farmer's market.  Fresh and green, with creamy avocado, edamame, the tomatoes add a light citrus.
Red tomatoes also work, or omit the tomatoes.
On toast, on rice, in a lettuce wrap how else can we use this delicious filling, spread and smash?
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course dinner, lunch
Cuisine Vegan, Western
Servings 6 servings
Calories 530 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups brown rice or a brown rice, quinoa blend
  • 1.5 cups edamame beans, frozen
  • 1 avocado
  • 540 ml chickpeas canned, drained and rinsed
  • 1.5 cups green tomatoes diced, optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp dijon mustard or more to taste
  • 1 cup peas frozen
  • 2 tbsp green onions as garnish, discard the white parts of the onions to make this recipe low FODMAP
  • hot sauce to taste
  • 4 cups spinach
  • 2 red peppers

Cook Grains

  • Cook grains, I used a rice quinoa mix.  Set aside to cool.

Prepare Edamame, Avocado, Chickpea Mix

  • Microwave edamame in a microwave steamer to cook, as per package directions.  Usually 5 minutes. 
  • Add avocado, drained chickpeas, green tomatoes, salt, and dijon mustard to a medium/large bowl.  Taste and adjust amount of mustard to your preference.
    vegan green tomato avocado chickpea salad
  • Add edamame to the bowl.   Mine were in their shells still, so I microwaved them in their steamer bag and then shelled them into the bowl.
    Chickpeas, avocado, edamame smash
  • Mash with potato masher until desired consistency.
    Edamame, Avocado, Chickpea Filling
  • Stir in frozen peas, still frozen, they will cool it down and then you don't need to refrigerate.

Notes

To Assemble Salad:
Line a bowl or plate with fresh baby spinach or romaine lettuce.
Add rice/grains, and then the edamame, avocado, chickpea mix.  
Top with sliced red peppers, use scissors to cut green onions on top.
Add hot sauce.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Chickpea Avocado Edamame Rice Salad
Amount Per Serving (1 / 6th of recipe including rice and red pepper)
Calories 530 Calories from Fat 99
% Daily Value*
Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 510mg22%
Potassium 1119mg32%
Carbohydrates 89g30%
Fiber 16g67%
Sugar 10g11%
Protein 20g40%
Vitamin A 3685IU74%
Vitamin C 83.7mg101%
Calcium 132mg13%
Iron 6.2mg34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole

Green Beans and Lentil Casserole with Homemade Toasted Bread Croutons

I asked my mother the other day, what is the best way to cook green beans?  They can be tough and chewy if you try to steam them in the microwave, but can be limp, soggy, and watery if you boil them on the stove.  She agreed.  We weren’t sure.

How about baked green beans in a vegan casserole?  Sounds like a great dinner idea.

Apparently green bean casserole is a thing.  I needed to try it, and after testing it out, green beans in a casserole is my favourite way to cook green and yellow beans.

First you blanch the beans in salted boiling water for 5 minutes, then bake them in the casserole for 20-25 minutes in a rich savoury bubbling lentil gravy sauce.  The result?  Tender, flavourful green beans, really nicely done.  Sprinkle them with toasted croutons and almonds before baking, and you get a combo of crunchy, soft, and creamy textures, plus flavours of a holiday meal like Christmas or Thanksgiving.  Quite a delight.

Because of the homemade toasted bread croutons, and the rich lentil gravy base, this classic Thanksgiving side dish could be a light main course on a regular night, lots of protein here.  But, if you are like us, you probably will crave more carbs, so consider serving it with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, or my tomato parsley quinoa salad.

I think you should try making a warm and nicely textured green bean casserole too, the beans will be not too tough, and not too soggy, they will be just right.

Hopefully you choose this whole-foods plant-based green bean casserole recipe to try first. 🙂

FODMAP recipe rating – this is a low FODMAP recipe except for the croutons – use wheat free bread to make low FODMAP croutons.

Nutrition Facts
Fat-free Vegan Lentil Gravy in 10 minutes
Amount Per Serving (1 / 7th of recipe)
Calories 194
% Daily Value*
Sodium 172mg7%
Potassium 598mg17%
Carbohydrates 34g11%
Fiber 12g50%
Sugar 2g2%
Protein 14g28%
Vitamin A 15IU0%
Vitamin C 2.4mg3%
Calcium 32mg3%
Iron 5.3mg29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Nutrition Facts
Green Bean Casserole With Croutons
Amount Per Serving (1 / 7th of recipe (no gravy))
Calories 135 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Sodium 300mg13%
Potassium 314mg9%
Carbohydrates 21g7%
Fiber 5g21%
Sugar 5g6%
Protein 6g12%
Vitamin A 680IU14%
Vitamin C 12.2mg15%
Calcium 85mg9%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

 

Whole-foods plant-based Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole With Croutons

Jeanette
Turn a classic Thanksgiving side dish, into a wfpb main dish, with lentil gravy, crispy croutons and no heavy cream.  The sauce is my 10 minute gorgeous vegan gravy.
This recipe is easily adjusted to be low FODMAP by using gluten free bread.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Vegan, Western
Servings 7 servings
Calories 135 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

  • 24 oz green beans fresh or frozen
  • 4 cups Brown Lentil Gravy prepared, see recipe
  • 8 slices wheat bread or gluten free bread
  • 1 tbsp green onions chopped fresh or chives
  • 1 tsp sage chopped, or dried
  • 1 tsp thyme leaves chopped, or dried
  • 1 tsp rosemary chopped, or dried
  • 3 tbsp almond flour or blended or crushed almonds
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • Heat the oven to 375 degrees F.  Take out a large sized casserole dish, no lid required.
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil with a large pinch of salt to season the beans nicely; add the green beans. Cook for about 5 minutes, the beans should still be crisp, they will be cooked more in the oven. 
    Blanched Green Beans
  • Prepare a batch of my 10 minute lentil Gorgeous Vegan Gravy.
    Low FODMAP Lentil Vegan Gravy
  • Drain and put the green beans into the baking dish, pour the lentil gravy over top and stir to cover the beans.  
  • Prepare topping: in a small bowl, combine chives, sage, thyme, rosemary, almond flour, pepper, and salt. 
  • Prepare croutons: Toast whole grain bread, pile on a cutting board, and cut into medium sized squares, with a long bread knife.   Bread with seeds or crunchy bits in it adds another lovely texture element if you have any.  Use wheat free (low FODMAP) or gluten free bread if desired.
    Homemade Croutons
  • Top beans with the croutons, and sprinkle the herb mix overtop. 
  • Bake uncovered, until everything is hot and bubbling, about 20 to 25 minutes.
    Vegan Green Bean Casserole Topping

Notes

Fresh herbs add amazing flavour, but dried herbs work also!
Adapted from Tyler Florence.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Green Bean Casserole With Croutons
Amount Per Serving (1 / 7th of recipe (no gravy))
Calories 135 Calories from Fat 27
% Daily Value*
Fat 3g5%
Sodium 300mg13%
Potassium 314mg9%
Carbohydrates 21g7%
Fiber 5g21%
Sugar 5g6%
Protein 6g12%
Vitamin A 680IU14%
Vitamin C 12.2mg15%
Calcium 85mg9%
Iron 2mg11%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!
 
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Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Healthy Cabbage Coleslaw Recipe – Whole-Foods Plant-Based No-Oil

One of my new behaviours in 2017 is to eat a salad for lunch or supper most days.  When I do this, I stay slim and have more energy and need less sleep.  How often do you eat salad?

Plant-based doctors recommend we eat cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts or cauliflower daily to prevent cancer.  Coleslaw is a tasty, refreshing and easy way to eat cabbage – a proven cancer fighting food.

The dressing I recommend is my Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette. I have included the nutrition facts from the salad and the dressing for you to see.

Coleslaw is great for picky eaters like kids, many kids like coleslaw plain without dressing.  Try offering some plain to your kids (if you have any) or put some aside before you add the dressing.

Coleslaw keeps for a long time in the fridge, it’s great for school and work lunches.

Nutrition Facts
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Amount Per Serving (1 / 8th of salad with no dressing)
Calories 105
% Daily Value*
Sodium 42mg2%
Potassium 288mg8%
Carbohydrates 26g9%
Fiber 3g13%
Sugar 18g20%
Protein 1g2%
Vitamin A 5690IU114%
Vitamin C 8.3mg10%
Calcium 49mg5%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Nutrition Facts
Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette Dressing
Amount Per Serving (1 / 8th of dressing only (no salad))
Calories 84 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Sodium 18mg1%
Potassium 138mg4%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 30IU1%
Vitamin C 1mg1%
Calcium 35mg4%
Iron 0.6mg3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

 

healthy vegan apple cabbage salad

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

Jeanette
Apples, carrots, celery, cranberries, and cabbage are beautiful to look at and are a wonderful combination as well.  Making coleslaw in the food processor is so fast and easy.  Only 100 calories per serving, and you are getting cruciferous vegetables (cabbage) which if you eat daily will greatly reduce your chances of getting cancer.
I recommend my healthy sugar-free  and oil-free vegan Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette dressing for this coleslaw.  This dressing turns a salad into a sweet tasting but healthy treat!  
No ratings yet
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine High Fibre
Servings 8 servings
Calories 105 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups red apples red, shredded
  • 4 cups chinese cabbage raw, shredded. Click link to view a picture of Chinese Cabbage. You can use regular green or red cabbage too. I used Chinese Cabbage because it is a bit softer to chew, and easier for me to digest raw.
  • 2 cups carrots raw, shredded
  • 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins, reduce to 1/2 cup for weight loss diets.
  • 2 celery stalks sliced and diced
  • healthy vegan coleslaw dressing low-fat
  • Slice unpeeled apples into chunks and add to food processor.  Add to large salad bowl.
  • Chop or food process cabbage and carrots.  Slice and dice celery, I do celery by hand because of the strings not always doing well in the food processor.
  • Add dried cranberries or raisins.  
    chopped vegan coleslaw wfpb
  • Pour Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette dressing on salad, and stir to combine.
    pour creamy vegan coleslaw salad dressing wfpb
  • Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes first.  
    creamy vegan apple cabbage coleslaw

Notes

Coleslaw keeps well for days in the fridge.  

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Cranberry Apple Coleslaw
Amount Per Serving (1 / 8th of salad with no dressing)
Calories 105
% Daily Value*
Sodium 42mg2%
Potassium 288mg8%
Carbohydrates 26g9%
Fiber 3g13%
Sugar 18g20%
Protein 1g2%
Vitamin A 5690IU114%
Vitamin C 8.3mg10%
Calcium 49mg5%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!
 
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What's Special About VeganEnvy Recipes?  

VeganEnvy recipes are easy, low-fat, whole-foods, plant-based and nutrition rich.  Real food my family eats, and techniques we use to cook.

I choose ingredients that are proven to prevent and reverse disease, based on scientific studies, such as those reviewed on nutritionfacts.org and findings published by whole-foods plant-based (WFPB) experts featured in the Forks Over Knives (FOK) and What the Health documentaries FOK trailer.

Eating VeganEnvy recipes will make you lose weight, look better, feel better and live longer.  PLUS spend your money to cruelty free food systems, cut your environmental impact, and likely increase your compassion for, and awareness of, lives other than your own.

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Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette Salad Dressing

Sweet Tangy Rich Creamy Healthy Dressing – Perfect for Coleslaw

This sweet tasting dairy-free no-oil healthy dressing will make your vegan coleslaw shine!  With dates, rice vinegar, tofu, lemon and pecans it is also going to keep you from getting hungry.  Eat healthy unsaturated fats from whole nuts and not processed oil.

How often can you say your salad dressing is high fibre and sugar-free?  With this vinaigrette you can!

Jump to Recipe
Nutrition Facts
Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette Dressing
Amount Per Serving (1 / 8th of dressing only (no salad))
Calories 84 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Sodium 18mg1%
Potassium 138mg4%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 30IU1%
Vitamin C 1mg1%
Calcium 35mg4%
Iron 0.6mg3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

 

creamy tangy sweet vegan coleslaw dressing from tofu

Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette Dressing

Jeanette
A sweet and tangy egg-free, dairy-free, dressing made with tofu, rice vinegar, lemon, dates and pecans.  Plant-based oil-free dressing that complements coleslaw and keeps you from getting hungry.  Contains healthy fats from nuts rather than unhealthy fats from processed oils.
I recommend my Cranberry Apple Coleslaw recipe to go with this dressing.
Going to a pot luck or a party?  Try wowing your friends with Crowd Pleasing Chili recipe, it's amazing.  Don't forget dessert!  How about some White Bean Brownies or Peanut Butter Cookies?  No one will know they are eating healthier than they ever have...
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Salad, Sauce
Cuisine Dresssing
Servings 8 servings
Calories 84 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup tofu soft or medium (I use medium because I can always add a non-dairy milk to make it thinner)
  • 1/2 cup soy milk or almond milk, or hemp milk
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 6 dates pitted
  • 4 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 cup pecans optionally toasted - Toasting nuts like pecans results in a more intense flavor.

How to Toast Pecans - 3 Methods Broil, Bake, or Skillet

  • You don't have to toast the pecans, but if you do, you are going to get a more intense and rich flavoured dressing.  I recommend toasting, and it is really easier than you might think.  Often I have the oven going anyways, and I just spread nuts on the sheet beside whatever else I am baking for a few minutes and then take them out again.
  • Broil: Spread pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet.  Place in oven under Broil in oven on the "broil" setting for 2 - 4 minutes to toast.  Bake: Preheat oven to 350. Place in oven for 10 - 12 minutes.  Skillet: Heat a pan to medium on the stovetop, add pecans. Stir for 3 - 5 minutes with a spoon continuously so they will cook evenly and not burn. 
  • Regardless of method, remove when they begin to smell toasty and turn dark. Do not burn.

Blend Dressing

  • While pecans toast, add tofu, non-dairy milk, rice vinegar, dates, and lemon juice to a high speed blender.
  • Add toasted pecans and blend.
    healthy vegan coleslaw dressing low-fat
  • Pour over Cranberry Apple Coleslaw.  Or other coleslaw of your choice.
    vegan healthy salad dressing vinaigrette
  • Mix, and serve.
    creamy vegan apple cabbage coleslaw

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Creamy Coleslaw Vinaigrette Dressing
Amount Per Serving (1 / 8th of dressing only (no salad))
Calories 84 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Sodium 18mg1%
Potassium 138mg4%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 30IU1%
Vitamin C 1mg1%
Calcium 35mg4%
Iron 0.6mg3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!

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Super Summer-Time Pasta Salad

Super Summer-Time Pasta Salad

Healthy Vegan Black Bean Pasta Salad

We eat this salad on days I have waited too long to start supper.  If I want to feed my family food in 15 minutes, this will do!  My kids favourite food is pasta, so they love it.

Try this great no-oil whole-foods plant-based meal salad for a pot-luck, party, or BBQ. Get your plant-based protein from beans and whole grain pasta.  People will ask you about the dressing, surprise them by saying “it’s only dried herbs and lemon!”.

With frozen peas, cucumber, canned or frozen corn, green onions, tomatoes, whole grain pasta and black olives this simple vegan dinner salad is fast, fresh, and easy to put together.

Jump to Recipe

Nutrition Facts
Super Summer-Time Pasta Salad
Amount Per Serving (1 / 10th of recipe)
Calories 351 Calories from Fat 63
% Daily Value*
Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 1275mg55%
Potassium 719mg21%
Carbohydrates 60g20%
Fiber 11g46%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 15g30%
Vitamin A 800IU16%
Vitamin C 25.8mg31%
Calcium 103mg10%
Iron 4.6mg26%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Hot pasta thaws the peas, activates the seasonings

While the pasta cooks, gather the vegetables, stir them together, still frozen.  Add the drained pasta and the heat cooks the peas a touch, the pasta cools, things get juicy, the dried herbs release flavour, and your meal is ready to serve in minutes.

Why whole grain pasta?  Read How To Judge the Healthiness of Grain Products to learn more about why whole grain pasta is going to help your gut microbiome, prevent cancer, and help you lose weight.

Olives make this salad so satisfying

Olives are better for you than olive oil – filled with a small amount of healthy unsaturated fat – the way nature intended us to eat fat, packaged with fibre and phytonutrients.

Canada’s food guide is being revamped, I just gave my input, and was pleased to see they recommend we limit saturated fats and instead choose unsaturated fats.  Good news!

Olives cause your brain to signal “yup, we are satisfied and full here!”  You get that mouth oil feeling, olives curb cravings.

Vegan meal salad that kids love

Simplicity means kid friendly, and most kids really enjoy pasta.  I call this pasta salad, and focus on the pasta when serving it to my kids, more than the vegetables.  Once they taste a few bites, they gobble it all up, making us all happy.  🙂

Vegan Meal Proportions

See my article, How to Eat Vegan For Energy and Weight Loss I talk about the proportions of beans, greens, veggies and starches to eat to keep up your energy and lose weight!  Tip: eat this salad on a bed of spinach or other dark greens, if you want to feel extra energy.

 

Vegan Healthy Pasta Salad Fat-free Italian

Super Summer-Time Pasta Salad

Jeanette
This salad is a meal, a 15 minute vegan fat-free plant-based protein pasta salad dinner!  Black olives, cucumber, whole grain rotini pasta, frozen peas, corn, tomatoes, green onions plus Italian seasonings and lemon juice make an extraordinary delicious high fibre FRESH healthy pasta salad.  
Assemble the vegetables - including the frozen ones - add the drained pasta, stir and the temperature will become perfect to serve.  The peas will melt, even cook a bit, the pasta will cool, it's awesomely fast.
We are always surprised by how tasty this simple combination is.  It's just perfect.  Kids love the sweet peas, salty seasonings, and the pasta!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta, Salad
Cuisine Italian, Western
Servings 10 servings
Calories 351 kcal

Instructions and Ingredients
  

Pasta

Vegetables

  • 3 cups cucumber diced, 1 large is about 3 cups
  • 2 cups tomatoes cherry quartered, or large diced whole tomatoes
  • 4 green onions sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups corn frozen, or canned
  • 398 ml black olives pitted canned, whole, no-oil, add a splash of olive juice to the salad, then drain the rest.
  • 1080 ml black beans can drained
  • 2 cups peas frozen

Dressing

  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp basil dried
  • 1 tbsp oregano dried
  • 1 tsp salt depending on how salty your canned items already are
  • 6 tbsp lemon juice fresh squeezed for vitamin C if you can!
  • Heat water for pasta.  We like whole grain rotini for this, the rotini shape holds the seasoning well and doesn't get soggy as leftovers.  Once water is boiling, add the pasta, stir.  Cook to be firm - al dente, following package directions, don't overcook.
  • While the water heats, dice the cucumber, tomatoes, green onions and add to an extra large bowl.
  • Open the cans of black beans, corn (if using canned) and black olives.
    Add corn with it's juice (max 1/3 cup) to the bowl, I like to splash some of the black olive juice into the salad bowl too.  If you are using frozen corn it will create some juice when it hits the hot pasta, so don't worry.
  • Add the drained black beans and olives. 
  • Add frozen peas - it is important that they are frozen at this point because they cool the pasta.
  • Add seasonings and lemon juice to a small bowl or measuring cup, stir to combine, taste test and adjust to your preference, pour over salad, and stir  through.
    Easy Healthy WFPB Bean Tomato Cucumber Pasta Salad
  • Once pasta is done, drain pasta well, while it is still hot add the pasta to the vegetables and dressing.
  • Stir to combine. Wait a couple minutes for the herbs to release their flavours, and serve!

Notes

 
Variations: 
Sub herbs for a dried Italian seasoning purchased mix.  Store mixes usually contain salt, so don't add any extra salt.  Read the label, choose a mix that doesn't contain added oils.
Sub cucumber for orange and yellow peppers, zucchini, or romaine lettuce.  As long as you keep the peas, corn, tomatoes and olives other vegetables work well.
Omit the Pasta: This tastes great without the pasta as well, as a bean salad, serve with toast, pitas, or rice, or just with spinach.
Vinegar: I'm curious if a vinegar would make this even nicer.  Afraid to try, because my kids aren't into vinegar much yet and we've got something here that works.
If anyone tries adding vinegar, please let me know!!  Personally, I'd use a balsamic.
 

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Super Summer-Time Pasta Salad
Amount Per Serving (1 / 10th of recipe)
Calories 351 Calories from Fat 63
% Daily Value*
Fat 7g11%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 1275mg55%
Potassium 719mg21%
Carbohydrates 60g20%
Fiber 11g46%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 15g30%
Vitamin A 800IU16%
Vitamin C 25.8mg31%
Calcium 103mg10%
Iron 4.6mg26%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @veganenvy or tag #veganenvy!

 

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