Tag Archives: bell peppers

Sweet & Spicy Noodles With Tofu

. Asia, entrees . , ,

Do you like it sweet and spicy or very spicy? Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to make it perfect for you. The first time Sue made this recipe, she used 2+ tablespoons of chili garlic sauce. Ooh – way too spicy! The next time she used only 1 tablespoon, and it was just right.

To make this recipe fast and easy, slice tofu and veggies in advance, even the day before. The sauce can be made ahead as well. If you like more veggies, add a thin-sliced carrot or zucchini.

8 oz. uncooked udon noodles

3 Tbs. tamari

1 Tbs. to 2½ Tbs. chili garlic sauce

2 tsp. sesame oil

2 Tbs. sugar

½ tsp. minced garlic (1 garlic clove)

One 14- to 16-oz. package extra firm tofu

1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced

1/3 cup chopped green onions

2 to 3 Tbs. olive oil

Cook udon to desired firmness.

Make the sauce by whisking together the tamari, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and garlic. Set aside.

Rinse the tofu block. Stand it up on the narrow edge and slice through. Place the block halves face down and make three cuts the long way and three or four slices crosswise, ending up with ½- to 1-inch cubes.

Slice the peppers and onion.

In a large frypan, sauté the tofu in olive oil until lightly browned, turning halfway through. Add sliced veggies and cook just a few minutes, until veggies are tender-crisp.

Transfer the cooked, drained pasta into a shallow serving bowl. Top with tofu and veggies, and pour sauce over all. Serve.

savory stuffed peppers

. entrees . , , , ,

savory stuffed peppers on a plate with a hunk of crusty bread and a glass of wineWhy have boring green peppers when you can feast your eyes on orange, yellow, and sweet red peppers stuffed with a savory rice-rich mixture? Any leftover rice mix can be baked in a loaf pan. If you use fresh herbs in this recipe, use three times the quantity.

Don’t be put off by the long list of ingredients; if you prep before you start, it goes much more quickly!

1 bell pepper of each color: red, yellow, orange
1 cup wild rice blend, cooked according to directions
2 Tbs. olive oil
½ cup onion, diced
2/3 cup chopped bell peppers, any color
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, chopped
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
½ tsp. sea salt, and black pepper to taste
Dash of cayenne pepper
½ cup tomato juice
¼ cup ketchup
½ cup TVP
1 Tbs. dried parsley flakes (3 Tbs. fresh)
2 tsp. dried basil leaves (2 Tbs. fresh)
1 tsp. dried oregano (1 Tbs. fresh)

Cut peppers in half crosswise or lengthwise. Remove stem, seeds, and ribs.

Blanch for 1 minute: Place into boiling water for 1 minute, then remove and immediately place into ice water bath for 1 minute. Set each pepper on a rack or towel to drain.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. While rice is cooking, prep the vegetables.

In a large pan, sauté onion and chopped peppers in oil for 2 minutes.

Add spinach, mushrooms, garlic, salt, and black and cayenne pepper. Cook on medium heat until spinach and mushrooms are soft, 3 to 5 minutes.

Add cooked rice, tomato juice and ketchup, TVP and spices; blend well. Turn off heat and let stand 5 minutes.

Place pepper halves in a 9 x 13 pan sprayed with oil. Stuff gently with rice mixture.

Bake, loosely covered with foil, for 1 hour.

coconut curry soup with tofu

. Asia, soups . , , , , ,

a bowl of vegan coconut curry soup

Beautiful fragrant golden soup with tofu – yum! Red bell pepper and cilantro make a colorful addition – sort of like fireworks – and the curry can be like fireworks in your mouth! If you like it milder, just use mild curry powder or less of the hot stuff. Speaking of hot stuff, we’re going to help you impress your dinner guests with kitchen trivia. Did you know that “oz,” the abbreviation for ounce, comes from onza, the Italian word for ounce?

2-3 Tbs. light olive oil
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 Tbs. curry powder (hot or mild, to taste)
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 to 1 tsp. salt, to taste
1 can (14-15 oz.) vegetable broth or bouillon
1 can (14-15 oz.) coconut milk
1/2 cup soy milk, unsweetened
One 10-oz. package Mori-Nu tofu, extra firm, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 cups cooked rice
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Sauté onion and red pepper in olive oil for about 3 minutes. Add spices and sauté 30 seconds more. Add vegetable broth, coconut milk, and soy milk. Reduce heat and simmer 12-15 minutes. Add cubed tofu pieces, stir gently, and simmer another 3 minutes.

Serve over cooked rice; garnish with cilantro. Makes 4-6 servings.

boulder slaw

. picnic food, potluck food, salads, USA . , , ,

boulder_slaw
What can we say about a beautiful, colorful, nutrient-filled dish that takes after its namesake (well, at least the beautiful, colorful parts)?  This salad starts with a coleslaw base, but you can add everything you like and can only make it better! It’s so flavorful, you don’t need any fancy spices.  When you see the bright colors and taste the sweet-sour dressing, you’ll be bowled over by Boulder Slaw!

Start with a coleslaw base:

shredded green and red cabbage and shredded carrots (you can use a prepared coleslaw pack, if you like)

Add:

Lots more shredded or matchstick-cut carrots
Broccoli florets, blanched 30 seconds and cut very small
Red and green bell peppers, diced
Red or sweet yellow onion, diced
½ cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped fine

Also, you could try one or two of these ingredients:

Finely chopped apples
Dried cranberries or raisins
Pineapple pieces or crushed pineapple, drained
Finely chopped mushrooms

Dressing:

½ cup sugar
½ cup white vinegar
¼ cup water
¼ cup vegetable oil
1 tsp. salt
Dash of black pepper
Dash of red (cayenne) pepper
1 tsp. celery seed

roasted rosemary potatoes

. sides, USA . , ,

roasted_rosemary_potatoes
Here’s a fast, easy side dish. We added some leftover bell peppers to provide nice color, but you can omit them and use only potatoes if you prefer. The fresh rosemary smells divine.

4 Tbs. good-quality olive oil
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, quartered
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 small red onion, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1 Tbs. fresh rosemary
Sea salt crystals (to taste)

1. Preheat oven to 400°. Combine olive oil, vegetables, rosemary, and sea salt in a large mixing bowl. Toss until veggies are coated with oil and salt.

2. Cover a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spread vegetables evenly over foil. Bake for 30 minutes or until potatoes are desired consistency.

tempeh vegetable stir fry in curry peanut sauce

. Asia, entrees . , , , , , , , ,

tempeh vegetable stir fry with peanut curry sauce
This is a really flavorful sauce that could be the foundation for a zillion variations. Try tofu or a chicken substitute instead of tempeh. Add some shitake mushrooms. Use brown or white rice instead of soba noodles. Omit the curry powder and just enjoy the peanut sauce.

sauce:
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
4 Tbs. agave nectar
4 Tbs. white miso
2 Tbs. sesame oil
2 Tbs. lemon juice
1 tsp. chili powder
2 tsp. curry powder
1/2 cup water

stir fry:
2 Tbs. canola oil
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 medium red onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
8 oz. tempeh, cubed
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 16-oz. bag frozen Asian-style stir-fry veggies
Salt and pepper to taste

Package soba noodles (or brown or white rice)

1. In a medium-size pot over medium heat, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly, making sure all peanut butter and miso lumps are dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Fill a pot with water and bring to boil for soba noodles. Cook according to package directions.

3. Heat the oil over medium heat in a wok or heavy skillet. Add the garlic, onion, bell peppers, and tempeh. Stir fry for about 5 minutes. Add the zucchini and frozen veggies and continue to stir fry until the vegetables are just tender. Stir in the peanut sauce; heat tempeh and veggies until simmering. Remove from heat and serve over soba noodles.

south of the border soup

. Mexico/Central America, soups . , , , , ,

south of the border soup

Make sure you use red and yellow bell peppers for this soup. The colors contrast beautifully with the brilliant green cilantro for a festive dish. If you prefer vegan chowder, stir in 2 cups of your favorite unsweetened non-dairy milk after your soup is ready. Heat through and serve.

2 Tbs. canola oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
2 1/4 cups vegetable broth, divided
2 Tbs. flour
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. oregano
6 cups water
2 Tbs. vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4-5 medium), peeled and diced
2 cups frozen corn
1 4-oz. can diced green chilies, undrained
1 14-oz. can pinto beans, drained
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, cleaned and chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a large stewpot over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic in the canola oil until the onion is translucent. Add the bell peppers. Stir in 1/4 cup vegetable broth, flour, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Cook for about 5 minutes.

2. Add remaining 2 cups vegetable broth and water. Stir in Worcestershire sauce. Add potatoes and bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes. Increase heat to medium and stir in frozen corn, green chilies, pinto beans, and cilantro. Cook for about 5 more minutes until ingredients are heated through.

3. If making chowder, add soy milk and heat through. Serve with warm tortillas, tortilla chips, or a green salad. Optional: Mexican beer with a lime wedge.

ratatouille

. Europe, stews & chilis . , ,

Ratatouille is a wonderfully flavorful French vegetable stew; it can be eaten hot or cold, and it’s very filling! Try adding a thick-sliced fresh baguette to complement this tasty vegetable stew. This recipe takes advantage of your summer garden vegetables. Allow some prep time – you’ll be slicing and dicing. We added a teaspoon of Herbs de Provence for an intense country French flavor.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 medium onion, diced
1 8-oz. can tomato sauce
1 14-oz. can vegetable stock
1 large eggplant, diced
3 medium zucchini, quartered and cut into 1/4″ slices
1 red and 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, quartered
1 tsp. dried Herbs de Provence
3 Roma tomatoes (peeled, seeded, and diced)
5 sprigs Italian parsley, finely chopped
8-10 basil leaves, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and continue to sauté until onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add tomato sauce and stir. Pour in vegetable broth and stir until the liquid begins to bubble.

2. Add the diced eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and dried Herbs de Provence. Stir gently to combine, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes. It may look like there is not enough liquid, but do not add liquid – the vegetables will release a lot juice as they cook. Just keep stirring every couple of minutes. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy.

3. Stir in the diced tomatoes. After a minute or two, the tomatoes will be heated through. Turn the heat down to the lowest setting. Stir in the chopped parsley and basil. Add salt and pepper to taste – Sue adds about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Although ratatouille is usually served hot, it is also delicious served at room temperature the next day, which allows the vegetables a chance to reach their optimum flavor.

thai chili tofu

. Asia, entrees . ,

Chef Robert Church, author of The Tao of Tofu, was kind enough to share this recipe with us. Lime and chilies give a tart and spicy hue to this variation of the Thai classic. The vegetables provide additional flavor and color.

1 16-ounce block extra-firm tofu, pressed, drained, and cut into planks
2 Tbs. light vegetable oil
1 medium carrot, cut into 2″ matchsticks
1 red bell pepper, seeded, veined, and cut into 2″ matchsticks
2 Tbs. light vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 jalapeno, serrano, or Thai bird chili, seeded, veined, and finely diced
2 Tbs. tamari, shoyu, or generic soy sauce
1 Tbs. freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tsp. grated ginger
1 Tbs. palm sugar or light brown sugar

1. In a medium-size sautè pan or wok, fry tofu in the vegetable oil until lightly browned. Drain on paper towels.

2. Heat the vegetable oil to medium-high, add the carrot and bell pepper, and sautè 1 minute. Add the garlic, and carefully sautè 1 minute more. Don’t burn the garlic. Add the tofu and continue to cook.

3. Whisk together the chili, tamari, lime juice, ginger, and sugar. Pour into the pan and toss with the vegetables and tofu. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients.

fajitas with cool avocado sauce

. entrees, Mexico/Central America . , , ,

Tofutti’s Better Than Sour Cream is the secret ingredient in this delightfully creamy non-dairy sauce. It’s the perfect complement to the hot and spicy fajita veggies.

Avocado sauce:
1 ripe avocado, coarsely chopped
1 cup Tofutti Better Than Sour Cream
2 Tbs. lime juice
Salt to taste

Fajita veggies:
2 Tbs. olive or canola oil
1 large yellow onion, coarsely chopped
1 green pepper, coarsely chopped
1 red pepper, coarsely chopped
1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
3/4 cup vegetable broth
1 jalapeno, minced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 Tbs. chili powder
Pinch of cayenne
1 tsp. salt
Black pepper, freshly ground

Tortillas (preferably warm)

1. In food processor or blender, combine avocado, non-dairy sour cream, lime juice, and salt to taste. Set aside.

2. Heat oil in large, non-stick skillet. Sauté onion and peppers until onions are transparent. Add remaining ingredients; stir to combine and simmer until peppers are tender (about 5-7 minutes).

3. Spoon veggie mixture into tortillas; roll and top with avocado sauce or serve open-faced with avocado sauce.

Variation: Add chopped pre-cooked tofu or tempeh to the veggie mixture when you add the vegetable broth.

mediterranean pasta salad

. Europe, picnic food, potluck food, salads . , , ,

2 cups tricolor fusilli or rotini pasta
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
2 Tbs. Italian flat-leaf parsley
3 Tbs. fresh basil, chopped

Cook pasta; drain and cool. Combine with chopped vegetables and herbs. Toss with your favorite oil and vinegar dressing (we like Newman’s Own Balsamic Vinaigrette).

mediterranean stew

. Europe, stews & chilis . , , , , ,

This stew has a good blend of flavors and textures. Serve over polenta, rice, or couscous.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 cup red onion, chopped
2 cups green pepper, coarsely chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 medium eggplant, unpeeled, cut into 1-inch chunks (about 4 cups)
1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 15-oz can of garbanzo beans, drained
1 Tbs. rosemary, chopped
1 cup parsley, coarsely chopped

1. Heat oil in a large pan. Sauté onion and pepper until soft, about 10 minutes. Add garlic, mushrooms, and eggplant. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until eggplant is softened but not mushy, about 15 minutes.

2. Add tomatoes, olives, garbanzo beans, and rosemary. Simmer until heated through, about 10 minutes. Stir in parsley. Makes

spinach and peanut sauce over rice

. Africa, entrees . , , ,

Zainab Ali and her friend submitted this Gambian recipe. Serve over rice or couscous or millet.

2 Tbs. olive oil
2 onions, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
3/4 green bell pepper
1 6-oz. can tomato paste
1 10-oz. package frozen chopped spinach (or fresh spinach)
2 vegetarian bouillon cubes
1/4 cup peanut butter
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Salt to taste
Rice or couscous or millet
Optional: fried tofu

1. Heat olive oil in medium saucepan. Sauté onion, garlic, and green pepper in the oil until onion is translucent. Scoop out the vegetables and set aside. Add the tomato paste to the saucepan for the process called “burning the paste,” which means cooking the tomato paste until it bubbles and is thoroughly cooked.

2. Stir in the onions, peppers, garlic, and spinach. If you’re using frozen spinach, no additional liquid is needed. If you’re using fresh spinach, add 1/8 cup of water. Add the bouillon cubes. Sauté spinach until cooked.

3. Stir in the peanut butter. Add cayenne and salt to taste. Serve over rice or couscous or millet.

Optional fried tofu: Cut extra firm tofu into cubes. Place millet or corn meal in a bowl; stir in the tofu to lightly coat the cubes. Add approximately 3 Tbs. olive oil or canola oil to a medium skillet. Sauté the tofu until lightly brown; stir into the spinach mixture.

great grilled veggies

. sides, USA . , , , ,

Summer vegetables are wonderful on the grill. Pick your favorites, chop and skewer them, marinade them in your favorite sauce, and grill them to perfection. Served over a bed of rice, veggies are always tasty — and healthy — summer dinner fare.

Choose your favorite vegetables. Some ideas:

Zucchini
Bell peppers: red, green, yellow, orange
Yellow summer squash
Sweet yellow onions
Mushrooms
Cherry tomatoes

Brush on a marinade of oil-and-vinegar dressing, such as Newman’s Own (the original), or use a bottled spicy Thai peanut sauce. Or mix pineapple juice, agave nectar, vinegar, and a bit of vegetable oil for a sweet/sour Hawaiian-style flavor. Whatever your marinade, set aside a little extra for pouring over the grilled veggies and rice. Yum!

cuban black beans & rice

. Caribbean, sides . , , ,

Using dried beans is the most authentic way to prepare this dish, but to save time, we’ve substituted canned beans.

2-3 Tbs. olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1 large green pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
3 cups vegetable broth
2 14-oz. cans black beans
1 tsp. hot pepper sauce
1/4 tsp. dried oregano
1 bay leaf
2 tsp. raw sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 Tbs. dry white wine

Sautè onion and green pepper in oil until onion is transparent, about 6-8 minutes, stirring often. Add garlic and stir for one minute. Add broth and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Add beans and remaining ingredients except wine, and simmer for 20 minutes. Add wine and remove bay leaf. Serve over hot cooked rice.

southwestern veggie salad

. Mexico/Central America, picnic food, potluck food, salads, sides . , , ,

Southwestern Veggie Salad is a colorful side dish that’s perfect for a potluck or any occasion that calls for a quick recipe. You’ll make this salad again and again.

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/2 medium Vidalia or red onion, finely diced
1 bunch of flat-leaf parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 15-oz. can corn, drained
1 15-oz. can black beans, drained
1 15-oz. can garbanzo beans, drained
1 cup picante sauce

Mix all ingredients together and chill. That’s it!

better-than-chicken cacciatore

. entrees, Europe . , , , ,

Tomatoes, bell peppers, and mushrooms in a savory oven-baked sauce are perfect on a chilly night. Serve with a green salad, some crusty peasant bread, and perhaps your favorite wine.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
8-oz. package fresh button mushrooms, sliced
1 16-oz. package of your favorite chicken substitute (defrosted if frozen)
3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 tsp. dried basil
2 tsp. dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1 28-oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 Tbs. tomato paste

rice or pasta

1. Heat olive oil in large skillet. Sauté onions for about 5 minutes. Add bell peppers; continue to sauté until onions and peppers are softened.

2. Add remaining ingredients to skillet; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.

3. While cacciatore is simmering, preheat oven to 350°. Transfer cacciatore to an oven-safe baking dish and cover with a lid or foil. Bake until heated through and bubbly, about 40 minutes. Serve over rice or pasta.

24-hour salad

. picnic food, potluck food, salads, USA . , , , , , ,

This recipe can be served as a vegetable salad or as a pasta salad. It’s called 24-hour salad because the ingredients can be marinated in an oil-and-vinegar or Italian salad dressing for 24 hours. Or skip the marinade, toss all the ingredients with fresh-cooked pasta, and serve as a pasta salad. Either way, it’s delicious!

12 to 15 fresh mushrooms, halved
3-4 green onions, chopped
2 cucumbers, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 green pepper, sliced thin
2 large tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 14-oz. can whole pitted black olives, drained
3/4 cup Italian salad dressing

As a vegetable salad: In a large, deep, glass bowl, layer the first seven ingredients in the order given. Add 1/2 tsp. salt to the dressing, pour over veggies, cover and refrigerate for 24 hours. Toss and serve.

As a pasta salad: Boil 2 cups of your favorite pasta shapes until done. Drain and add to large bowl with all of the above ingredients. Mix and serve.

bettina’s antioxidant vegetable soup

. soups, USA . , , , , ,

The beets give this low-calorie, energizing soup a deep fuschia color. If you like, add a cup of small pasta shapes to this soup during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1/2 cup onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced or chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
1/2 large green pepper, diced
5-6 cups vegetable stock
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
2 beets, peeled and diced small
2 large potatoes (white or red), peeled and chopped
1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
1 14-oz. can kidney beans
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1/4 cup Bragg’s amino acids
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. tarragon
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat oil in a large stockpot over low-medium heat. Add onions; cover and cook until onions are soft (about 10 minutes). Add garlic, celery, and green pepper; stir well. Cover and cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.

2. Add stock, carrots, beets, potatoes, and green beans. Increase heat to bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer until vegetables are tender. Add remaining ingredients; stir to combine and heat through.

wisconsin summer veggie salad

. salads, USA . , , , , , ,

Sue named this salad in honor of her Wisconsin garden, which produced not only a healthy crop of mosquitoes, but also red and green peppers and yellow squash.

1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 small yellow squash, sliced
2 small zucchini, sliced
8 oz. mushrooms, halved
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 cucumber, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
10 cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup chopped Italian parsley

dressing:
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup raspberry or balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp. dried dill weed
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix dressing ingredients and apply to combined chopped vegetables, or use your favorite bottled dressing (Newman’s Own Balsamic Vinaigrette is a good one to try).

vegan creole sauce

. Europe, sauces, USA . ,

Love the romance (and the fragrance) of Creole flavors but not the meats (sausage and bacon grease) usually included in Creole cooking? We have a solution for you: Vegan Creole! This sauce has a tomato base and uses the “Holy Trinity” of New Orleans cooking: green peppers, onions, and celery. Mix in the chili powder and Tabasco® sauce for spicy heat, and you’ve got a regional Louisiana flavor!

You can change the heat level by adjusting the amount of Tabasco® and chili powder. Serve over rice, add authentic muffaletta bread, and later cool your palate with some pecan praline frozen soy yogurt for dessert.

Note: Check the label on your brand of Worcestershire sauce because some contain anchovies. Vegan versions are available.

1 large onion, chopped
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
3 Tbs. olive oil
1/4 tsp. minced garlic
2 15-ounce cans crushed tomatoes, with juice
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 Tbs. chili powder
2 tsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. vegan Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. Tabasco® sauce
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper

1 Tbs. cornstarch

1. Sauté the onion, green pepper, and celery in oil in medium cookpot until onion is transparent. Add garlic and stir. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices. Add salt and pepper to taste, and simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Mix cornstarch with 2 Tbs. COLD water and stir into cookpot. Let simmer another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove bay leaf. Serve over hot cooked rice. Serves at least 6.

flamin’ garden fajitas

. entrees, Mexico/Central America . , , , , , , ,

The combination of jalapeño, cayenne, and paprika gives these fajitas a pleasant heat. If you prefer a milder taste, omit the cayenne and reduce the amount of minced jalapeño. You can find flavored baked tofu in the refrigerated section of most supermarkets. (We used a tomato-basil flavored tofu.)

2 Tbs. canola oil
1 medium onion, sliced into thin strips
1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 jalapeño, minced
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cayenne (or to taste)
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. cumin
8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
8 oz. baked tofu, sliced
8 tortillas
Vegan sour cream (try Tofutti Better Than Sour Cream)
1 avocado, sliced
2 tomatoes, diced
2 Tbs. cilantro, minced for garnish

1. Heat oil in a large skillet. Sautè the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add bell peppers and jalapeño; stir to combine. Add 1/4 cup water, and cover skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Remove cover and add spices, mushrooms, and baked tofu. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the tofu is heated through (about 5 minutes). If desired, begin warming the tortillas (either wrapped in foil in the oven or wrapped in paper towels in the microwave).

3. Transfer fajita mixture to a large bowl. Allow guests to top their tortillas with the fajita mixture, vegan sour cream, sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Olè!

john’s authentic spanish gazpacho

. Europe, soups . , , , ,

“Of course everyone in Spain calls his or her recipe ‘authentic’ gazpacho, but they’re all different,” says John from Phoenix (part of Sue’s extended family). John’s recipe has received rave reviews from every person who’s tried it, so we’re dubbing his version authentic! This delicious raw-veggie recipe is not only healthy, but it’s also quick. Just throw everything in the blender.

If you like raw onion, feel free to add more. English cucumbers are long, skinny cucumbers with few seeds; you can substitute another type if you wish. If you like your gazpacho hot and spicy, use less tomato juice and more spicy vegetable juice or Bloody Mary mix.

1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 English cucumber, chopped
1/4 cup sweet yellow onion, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil
2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
1 tsp. oregano, dried
1/2 tsp. celery seed
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
36 ounces tomato juice or vegetable juice
12 ounces spicy hot vegetable juice or Bloody Mary mix

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup bread crumbs or crushed saltines

1. Reserve a few tablespoons of zucchini, bell pepper, and cucumber for a garnish. Combine all remaining ingredients in a blender except olive oil and bread crumbs. If your blender has a small capacity, process in batches. After everything is purèed, add olive oil and bread crumbs to blender (this adds a nice texture to the soup). Mix well.

2. Serve ice cold in chilled bowls, and top with a dollop of vegan sour cream and reserved chopped veggies.

bean and pasta soup

. Europe, soups . , ,

Ruth created this winter wonderland of pasta and beans with a spicy tomato-based sauce. We’ve all tried this dish and loved its color and flavor. It’s satisfying and perfect for a cold winter day.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
6 cups vegetable stock
1 6-ounce can tomato paste
1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 tsp. Italian seasoning blend
1 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 tsp. salt
2 bay leaves
1 1/2 cups Gemelli pasta

1. Heat oil in a large, heavy soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, green pepper, and garlic. Stir and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

2. Add remaining ingredients except pasta; then increase heat to high. When soup begins to boil, stir in pasta and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until pasta is tender. Serve with a salad and artisan bread.

This soup will thicken while in the refrigerator, so add water or broth when reheating leftovers.

southwestern skillet supper

. entrees, USA . , , , ,

This fast, hearty supper is a real crowd-pleaser. If you enjoy cooking with meat substitutes, try adding “beef” crumbles. (We added a few chopped Nate’s Meatless Meatballs. Fantastic!)

2 Tbs. canola oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 tsp. cumin
2 Tbs. chili powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 28-oz. can chopped tomatoes, undrained
1 16-oz. can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 10-oz. package frozen corn
2 cups pasta shapes (such as macaroni or gemelli), cooked and drained

1. Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and sautè the onion, bell pepper, and garlic for about 5 minutes. Add cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir to combine.

2. Add tomatoes, kidney beans, and frozen corn. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cooked pasta and “beef” crumbles, if using. Serve immediately.

fiesta beans and rice

. Mexico/Central America, sides . , ,

fiesta_beans_rice
Be sure to use both red and green bell peppers for a colorful, festive side dish.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1 cup vegetable stock
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. ground coriander
1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups cooked rice
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

1. In a large saucepan, sautè the onion and bell peppers until the onion is translucent. Add garlic, vegetable stock, chili powder, oregano, cumin, coriander, and black beans. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and cook for 10 minutes.

2. Stir in rice and season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and hot sauce (optional). Cook until heated through. Garnish with fresh, chopped cilantro if you like.

roasted red pepper soup

. Europe, soups . ,

Roasting the red bell peppers results in a sweet, slightly smoky flavor. Accompanied by a salad and crusty peasant bread, this soup makes a great light supper.

2 large red bell peppers
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 large carrot, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
4 cups vegetable stock
2 Tbs. tomato paste
1/2 tsp. salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Hot sauce to taste (optional)

1. Preheat broiler. Cut bell peppers in quarters; trim and discard seeds. Place quarters on a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for about 10 minutes or until skin blackens and peppers soften. Place peppers in a paper bag. Roll the top of the bag over to seal, and set aside for about 10 minutes.

2. Heat oil in a stewpot over medium heat. Sautè the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic for about 7 minutes. While the vegetables cook, peel the blackened skin from the roasted bell pepper quarters and coarsely chop. Add peppers to stewpot, along with vegetable stock. Add tomato paste and spices and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

3. Use your favorite method to puree the soup: blender, immersion blender, or food processor. Heat for an additional 5 minutes. Ladle soup into serving bowls.

spicy red lentil soup

. India, soups . , , ,

If you enjoy Indian food, you’ll love this spicy red lentil soup. We’ve replaced the yogurt that is traditionally used in Indian cuisine with Tofutti Better Than Sour Cream. Delicious! Look for lentils in the bulk foods section of your natural foods store.

1 cup dried red lentils
5 cups vegetable stock
3 Tbs. Tofutti’s Better Than Sour Cream
1 1/2 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. fresh ginger, minced
1 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. salt

Diced red bell pepper for garnish

1. Stir lentils and vegetable stock together in a soup pot; bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cook until lentils are tender (about 25 minutes).

2. Combine about 2 cups of lentils and broth with Tofutti Better Than Sour Cream in a blender. Process until smooth. Return to soup pot and combine with remaining ingredients. Cook until heated through. Serve with a garnish of diced red bell peppers.

black bean & hominy enchiladas

. entrees, Mexico/Central America . , , , , , , ,

Look for hominy (also known as posole or pozole) in the Mexican foods section of your supermarket, or visit your local Latin American grocery. This recipe makes 24 enchiladas, enough for a party or leftovers for lunch.

2 Tbs. canola oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 cup frozen corn
1 small zucchini, cut into matchsticks
1 4-oz. can diced green chilies
1 15-oz. can black beans, drained
1 15-oz. can hominy, drained
1 cup cooked rice
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
Freshly ground pepper to taste

2 dozen fresh corn tortillas
3 15-oz. cans green or red enchilada sauce
Salsa
Vegan sour cream for topping (optional; we used the Tofutti brand)
Vegan cheese for topping (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Grease two 9″ x 13″ baking dishes (or equivalent) and set aside. Heat the canola oil in a large saucepan. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic for about 5 minutes. Add the next 11 ingredients (corn through freshly ground pepper) and cook until heated through.

2. Empty two cans of enchilada sauce in a large bowl. Dip each corn tortilla in the sauce. Lay on a flat surface, and place about 1/3 cup of the bean/hominy mixture down the center. Roll up and place in the baking dish. Repeat until all tortillas are used (or you run out of filling). Spoon any remaining enchilada sauce over the tortillas, as well as the contents of the third can.

3. Cover pans with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and top with vegan cheese if using. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until enchiladas are browned. Top with salsa and vegan sour cream. Serve with a salad or Spanish rice.

spicy coconut soup

. Asia, soups . , , ,

Fans of Thai food, rejoice! This colorful soup is quick and easy.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1 tsp. red curry paste (read labels; the Thai Kitchen brand red curry paste is vegan) or more to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
1 14-oz. can coconut milk
2 medium zucchini, diced
1 12-oz. bag baby spinach leaves, larger leaves torn and stems removed

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until onion is translucent but not browned (about 5 minutes). Add red curry paste, broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add zucchini and continue to simmer for about 10 minutes. Add spinach leaves and cook until leaves are wilted. Serve with a cool salad.

mom’s sweet & sour pepper slaw

. picnic food, potluck food, salads, sides, USA . , ,

dressing:
1/2 cup vinegar
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup canola oil
1/4 cup water
1/2 tsp. salt

slaw:
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup jalapeño pepper, minced
6 cups coleslaw

1. Place dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Stir with a whisk and set aside.

2. Combine slaw ingredients in a medium bowl. Pour dressing over slaw, tossing to coat.

pasta salad with tofu

. salads . , , , , ,

Baked tofu is a good way to incorporate isoflavones into our daily diet. It’s pre-cooked, pre-seasoned, and therefore instant (fast and easy), healthy food.

2 1/2 cups rotini pasta, cooked al dente and drained
15-oz can garbanzo beans, drained
2 1/2-oz can sliced black olives, drained
10 cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1/2 cup Italian flat-leaf parsley, chopped
4 oz. baked tofu, tomato-basil flavor, cubed
1/3 cup vinegar and oil salad dressing (or balsamic vinegar and olive oil combined)
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix cooled pasta with remaining ingredients. Chill.

lemon ginger stir fry

. Asia, entrees . , ,

This is not your ordinary stir fry, but don’t let the exotic flavor fool you: It’s simple enough to serve on a weeknight.

2 Tbs. canola oil
1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
1 red bell pepper, coarsely chopped
2 Tbs. fresh ginger, minced
1 Tbs. sesame oil
1 Tbs. grated lemon rind
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
2 Tbs. agave nectar
3 Tbs. tamari
2 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
3 Tbs. water
3 tsp. cornstarch
2 cups zucchini, halved and sliced
1 12-oz. package of your favorite frozen stir fry veggies

Jasmine or basmati rice

1. Heat canola oil in medium saucepan. Add onion and bell pepper and cook for about 5 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, combine next nine ingredients (ginger through cornstarch) in a medium bowl. Set aside.

3. Add zucchini and frozen stir-fry veggies to saucepan. Cook for 2 minutes. Add stir fry sauce and cook for about 4 minutes. Serve with jasmine or basmati rice.