Veggie Taste

Whole Grain Linguine with a Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

2010-08-27T16:08:00.004-05:00

Ingredients
1 lb Barilla Whole Grain Linguine
2 Tbs Olive Oil
1 clove Garlic, Chopped
1/4 Onion, Chopped
1 Tbs Fresh Parsley, Chopped
2 Roasted Red Peppers, Sliced
1 tsp Thin Fresh Lemon
1/4 cup Water
Salt
Black Pepper, Freshly Ground
1 cup Romano Cheese, Shredded

Instructions
BRING a large salted pot of water to a boil.
JUICE lemon to yield 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
SAUTÉ garlic in olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
ADD onion and continuing cooking until the onion appears translucent.
ADD chopped parsley and sauté for 2 minutes over medium heat.
ADD roasted red peppers, lemon juice and water; bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
COOK Whole Grain Linguine according to the package directions. Meanwhile, TRANSFER sauce mixture to a blender and blend until smooth; pour back into skillet and bring to a simmer.
DRAIN Whole Grain Linguine and toss with sauce. Sprinkle cheese on top and allow to melt before serving.

Barilla® Whole Grain Linguine with a Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Spinach-Zucchini Soup

2010-08-09T11:04:00.008-05:00

This light soup is full of sunny flavors like lemon, zucchini, and dill. Serves 6.

Ingredient List:

1 1/2 Tbs. olive oil
1 large onion, diced (2 cups)
1 medium zucchini, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (2 cups)
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 1/2 cups cooked white beans, such as cannellini, or 1 15-oz. can white beans, rinsed and drained
4 cups baby spinach (4 oz.)
2 Tbs. lemon juice
2 tsp. grated lemon zest
4 tsp. finely chopped mint leaves

Instructions:

Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat.
Sauté onion 3 to 5 minutes, or until translucent.
Add zucchini, and cook 8 minutes more, or until vegetables are well browned.
Add vegetable broth and 2 cups water, and bring to a boil.
Stir in beans and spinach, and return to a boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 5 minutes, or until spinach is wilted.
Stir in lemon juice, zest, and mint.
Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Vegetarian Times Issue: September 1, 2009 p.51

Penne Pasta Salad with Shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano

2010-07-27T11:22:00.004-05:00

A high-quality, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is essential to this recipe's success: the bold, salty flavor curbs the need for extra fat or seasoning. The salad also makes a quick weeknight meal when served hot. Serves 6.

Ingredient List:

6 oz. penne rigate pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
9 cloves garlic, minced (3 Tbs.)
3 Tbs. olive oil
1/2 red jalapeño chile, seeded and chopped (1 Tbs.)
10 fresh red or yellow grape tomatoes, halved
1 oz. shaved or crumbled Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Instructions:

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water 8 minutes. Add broccoli, and cook 1 minute more. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup cooking water.
Return pot to stove, and heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic in oil 1 minute. Add jalapeño, and cook 30 seconds. Stir in pasta mixture, tomatoes, and reserved cooking water. Transfer to large serving bowl, and season with salt and pepper, if desired. Cool to room temperature, and top with cheese.

Vegetarian Times Issue: July 1, 2009 p.48

Whole-Wheat Shells with Asparagus, Peas, Feta, and Mint

2010-04-13T10:36:00.002-05:00

One large pot of boiling water is all it takes to make a pasta medley full of fresh spring vegetables. Blanching the vegetables in the boiling water also adds flavor to the pasta. Serves 6.

Ingredient List
12 oz. whole-wheat pasta shells
1 lb. asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen baby peas
2 Tbs. garlic oil, such as Garlic Gold
3 green onions, thinly sliced (1/3 cup)
1 cup sliced fresh basil
1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint
1 Tbs. grated lemon zest
3 oz. feta cheese, crumbled (3/4 cup)

Directions

Bring large pot of water to a boil. Add asparagus, and cook 4 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Remove asparagus with slotted spoon; transfer to serving bowl.
Add pasta to boiling water; cook 5 minutes. Add peas, return water to a boil, and cook 2 minutes. Drain pasta and peas, reserving 1/4 cup cooking water, and return pasta and peas to pot. Stir in reserved cooking water, asparagus, garlic oil, green onions, basil, mint, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, if desired; transfer back to serving bowl; and sprinkle with feta cheese, if using.

Vegetarian Times Issue: April 1, 2009 p.69

Whole-Wheat Spaghetti with Golden Garlic, Tomatoes, and Sage

2010-04-07T13:08:00.004-05:00

Sage and tomatoes pair beautifully in this light pasta sauce. Firm Roma tomatoes are your best bet here for a sauce that’s not too watery. If early-season tomatoes make the sauce taste too acidic, stir 1 tsp. sugar or honey in with the sage and olives. Serves 6.

Ingredient List
1/2 lb. whole-wheat spaghetti
3 Tbs. olive oil
4 large garlic cloves, peeled, halved, and sliced (3 Tbs.)
1 1/2 lb. ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped (6 cups)
3/4 cup cooked chickpeas
2 Tbs. fresh chopped sage, plus more leaves for garnish
2 Tbs. chopped kalamata olives

Directions

Cook spaghetti in large pot of boiling salted water 10 to 11 minutes, or until al dente.
Heat oil and garlic in large saucepan over medium heat. Cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until garlic is browned, stirring occasionally. Stir in tomatoes, chickpeas, sage, and olives, and simmer 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Drain spaghetti, and return to pot. Add sauce, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Divide among 6 serving bowls, and garnish with sage leaves.

Vegetarian Times Issue: June 1, 2009 p.43

Whole Grain Spaghetti with Fresh Vegetables

2010-03-25T14:25:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS

1 box(es) BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti
2 tablespoon(s) extra virgin olive oil
1 clove(s) garlic
1 cup(s) white onion, finely chopped
2 cup(s) zucchini, diced small
2 cup(s) yellow squash, diced small
1 bunch(es) asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup(s) yellow bell pepper, julienne
3 cup(s) cherry tomatoes, halved
to taste salt
to taste freshly ground black pepper
4 leaf(ves) fresh basil, torn

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

BRING a large pot of water to a boil.
HEAT olive oil in a large skillet. Using the side of a knife, gently press and peel the garlic.
ADD onion and saute for 5 minuts, until translucent. Add garlic and saute for 2 minutes until slightly brown.
ADD bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash and asparagus and saute until heated but not completely cooked.
ADD tomatoes, season with salt and pepper; sauté for 2 additional minutes. Remove garlic clove and discard.
COOK Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti according to the package directions.
DRAIN pasta and add to the skillet. Toss with vegetables and add fresh basil before serving.

Whole Grain Medium Shells with a Winter Squash and Walnut Ragu

2010-03-25T14:20:00.002-05:00

INGREDIENTS

1 box(es) BARILLA® Whole Grain Medium Shells
3 tablespoon(s) olive oil
1 whole acorn squash, diced
1/2 whole butternut squash, peeled and diced
1 cup(s) water
1 whole zucchini, diced
1 whole yellow squash, diced
1/4 cup(s) walnuts
1/4 cup(s) Pecorino cheese, grated
to taste salt
to taste freshly ground black pepper

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

BRING a large pot of salted water to a boil.
SAUTÉ garlic in 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet until garlic turns slightly yellow.
ADD acorn and butternut squash; sauté for 1 minute.
ADD water and simmer for 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Set mixture aside.
SAUTÉ diced zucchini and yellow squash with remaining olive oil in the same skillet; season with salt and pepper. Add the blended squash mixture to the skillet and combine.
TOAST walnuts in a small non-stick skillet until golden brown; remove and roughly chop.
COOK Barilla® Whole Grain Medium Shells according to the package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
POUR cooking water into the sauce and stir well. Add pasta to the skillet and toss well.
TOP with chopped nuts and grated cheese before serving.

Whole Grain Thin Spaghetti with Zucchini and Parmesan

2010-03-25T14:18:00.000-05:00

INGREDIENTS

1 box(es) BARILLA® Whole Grain Thin Spaghetti
4 small zucchini, diced
to taste sea salt
2 tablespoon(s) extra virgin olive oil
1 clove(s) garlic, chopped
2 cup(s) cherry tomatoes
4 leaf(ves) fresh basil, cut into strips
1/2 cup(s) Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

BRING a large pot of water to a boil.
SEASON zucchini with sea salt.
COOK pasta according to package directions.
Meanwhile, HEAT olive oil in medium skillet, add garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.
ADD zucchini to the skillet and saute for 2 minutes.
ADD cherry tomatoes and sauté until skins are slightly blistered and the tomatoes are heated through, about 2 minutes.
DRAIN pasta, add to skillet and toss with basil and cheese.

Oven-Dried Sweet Potato Chips

2010-03-11T14:34:00.002-06:00

Colorful, crisp sweet potato chips create a flavorful and low-fat substitute for the more familiar fried white potato chips. Serves 4.

Ingredient List

* 1 tsp. fine-grained sea salt
* 1 tsp. chili powder
* 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
* 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
* 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
* 1/4 tsp. ground cayenne
* 1 lb. sweet potatoes, scrubbed and peeled, if desired
* 1 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 250F.
2. Combine salt and spices in mixing bowl.
3. Slice sweet potatoes paper-thin and toss lightly with oil. Toss potatoes with spice mixture until evenly coated. Arrange potatoes on wire grates sprayed with nonstick vegetable spray or on baking sheets fitted with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 2 hours, then turn off oven and let potatoes dry for 2 more hours or overnight. Alternately, dehydrate sweet potato slices in dehydrator according to manufacturer’s directions.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories: 110, Protein: 1g, Total fat: 3g, Saturated fat: g, Carbs: 18g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 590mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 7g

Oven-Dried Sweet Potato Chips - Vegetarian Times Issue: December 1, 2002 p.45

Baked French Fries

2010-03-11T14:33:00.003-06:00

Better than fast-food fries, this healthy homemade version has lots of flavor with a minimum of fat. As a welcome bonus, the skins can be left on the potatoes for extra crispness. 4 Servings.

Ingredient List

* 2 medium baking potatoes, scrubbed (leave peels on if preferred)
* 2 tsp. melted butter or olive oil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut potatoes lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices, then cut slices into fry-shaped sticks.
3. Pour melted butter or oil into medium bowl. Add potato sticks and toss to coat. Spread on baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes, then turn potatoes and bake until crisp, about 30 minutes. While still warm, season with salt and pepper and serve.

Nutritional Information

Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 128, Protein: 2g, Total fat: 2g, Saturated fat: 1g, Carbs: 26g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 29mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugars: g

Baked French Fries - Vegetarian Times Issue: February 1, 1998 p.58

Colorful Oven Fries

2010-03-11T14:30:00.003-06:00

Oven-fried sweet potatoes can be tricky because the potatoes’ high moisture content makes it difficult for them to “fry,” and their ample sugar causes them to burn easily. Okinawan sweet potatoes work well here because of their dry texture, but a dusting of potato starch helps keep all varieties crisp. Serves 6.

Ingredient List

2 lb. assorted sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick sticks
1 Tbs. canola oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon, optional
2 Tbs. potato starch

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper, or coat with cooking spray. Set 1 oven rack in top position and 1 rack in bottom position.
Toss together sweet potatoes, oil, salt, pepper, and cinnamon, if using. Sprinkle with potato starch; toss mixture once more to coat well. Arrange in single layer on prepared baking sheets. Bake 10 minutes.
Turn potatoes with spatula, and rotate baking sheets. Bake 12 minutes more, or until golden brown.

Nutritional Information
Per 1/2-cup serving: Calories: 121, Protein: 2g, Total fat: 3g, Saturated fat: 1g, Carbs: 24g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 226mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 7g

Colorful Oven Fries - Vegetarian Times Issue

Garlicky Oven Fries

2010-03-11T14:13:00.010-06:00

Presoaking potato slices in hot water helps remove excess starch so they brown and crisp like oil-cooked fries.

Ingredient List

1 1/2 lb. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¼-inch-thick wedges
2 tsp. canola oil
2 tsp. olive oil
4 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Place oven rack in lowest position, and preheat oven to 475°F. Coat baking sheet with cooking spray. Soak potatoes in bowl of hot water 10 minutes. Drain, pat dry, and return to dry bowl.
Meanwhile, heat canola oil, olive oil, and garlic in saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook garlic 2 minutes, or until it begins to brown. Transfer garlic to small bowl with slotted spoon.
Pour oil over potatoes, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Arrange potatoes in single layer on prepared baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes, or until potatoes are golden on bottom. Turn, and bake 10 minutes more, or until golden and crisp.
Meanwhile, stir parsley into reserved garlic; sprinkle over fries. Season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

Per SERVING: Calories: 167, Protein: 3g, Total fat: 4.5g, Saturated fat: 0.5g, Carbs: 29g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 298mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 5g

Garlicky Oven Fries

Soupe au Pistou

2009-11-04T12:33:00.004-06:00

Pistou is a fragrant sauce of garlic, basil, and olive oil that’s related to Italian pesto. Here, it is stirred into a Provençal soup at the last minute. The heat of the soup releases the flavors of the garlic and basil without cooking them.

Ingredient List

Soup
* ¹⁄3 cup dried chickpeas, rinsed
* ¹⁄3 cup dried pinto beans, rinsed
* 1 15-oz. can chopped tomatoes
* 1 medium onion, chopped (1 cup)
* 1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 sprig fresh thyme
* 3 medium red potatoes, cut into ½-inch chunks (1 cup)
* 2 carrots, sliced (1 cup)
* 1 cup frozen Italian flat beans
* ¼ cup vermicelli, optional

Pistou
* 8 cups fresh basil leaves
* 8 cloves garlic, peeled
* ½ cup olive oil

Directions
1. To make Soup: Place chickpeas and pinto beans in large pot, and cover with water. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and let stand 30 minutes. Drain beans, and rinse.

2. Return beans to pot; add tomatoes, onion, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and 5 cups water. Cover, and bring to a boil. Season with pepper, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes. Add potatoes and carrots, and simmer, covered, 30 minutes. Stir in flat beans, and cook 10 minutes, or until beans are tender. Stir in vermicelli, if desired. Cook 3 minutes more.

3. Meanwhile, make Pistou: Pulse basil and garlic in food processor until finely chopped. Add olive oil, and pulse until combined. Transfer to small bowl.

4. Spoon 2 Tbs. Pistou in bottom of each bowl. Spoon Soup over top.

Serves 8

Nutritional Information
Per : Calories: 237, Protein: 6g, Total fat: 14.5g, Saturated fat: 2g, Carbs: 22g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 375mg, Fiber: 6g, Sugars: 5g

Soupe au Pistou: Vegetarian Times Issue: November 1, 2008 p.82

Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage

2009-04-07T15:59:00.002-05:00

We knew this was a winner recipe when Karen Quatsoe, VT’s prop stylist, who comes from a long line of Italian cooks, asked for the recipe before it was published. Sauté with butter and toss with fresh sage and grated Parmesan (as shown), or top with your favorite pasta sauce. Serves 8.

Ingredient List

* 3 lbs. russet potatoes (about 4 medium)
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 tsp. salt
* 1 tsp. ground black pepper
* 2 to 3 Tbs. vegetable oil, optional

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400F. Prick potatoes all over with fork. Bake 70 minutes, or until soft. Cool 10 minutes, or until easy to handle.

2. Lightly flour baking sheet. Slice potatoes in half and scoop flesh into large bowl. Mash until no lumps remain, but potatoes are still fluffy. Fold in flour, egg, salt and pepper. (It’s easiest to use your hands.) Divide dough into 4 balls, and transfer to lightly floured work surface.

3. Roll 1 dough ball into long strand about 3/4-inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces, and place pieces on prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining balls of dough.

4. Bring large pot of water to a boil. Drop quarter of cut gnocchi into pot, and cook 2 minutes, or until gnocchi rise to surface. Transfer to serving bowl, and repeat with remaining gnocchi. If serving later, toss with vegetable oil to keep gnocchi from sticking together. Otherwise, top with desired sauce, and serve.

Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage: Vegetarian Times Issue: March 1, 2007 p.71

Mexican Rice Soup

2009-04-07T15:55:00.001-05:00

This light soup (traditionally made with chicken and chicken broth) gets its body from diced avocado, which is served with tortilla strips and added at the table, along with lime wedges and freshly chopped cilantro and green onions. The heat of the soup warms the avocado and tortilla strips without turning them to mush. Serves 6.

Ingredient List

Broth

* 1 Tbs. olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped (¾ cup)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
* 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
* 1 Tbs. grated lime zest
* 1 tsp. dried oregano

Soup

* ¼ cup short-grain rice
* 2 small tomatoes, seeded and diced (1 cup)
* ¹⁄3 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
* 1 8-inch flour tortilla
* 1 avocado, diced (1 cup)
* 2 green onions, thinly sliced (¼ cup)
* ¼ cup chopped cilantro
* 6 lime wedges
* Hot sauce for garnish, optional

Directions

1. To make Broth: Heat olive oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until softened. Stir in garlic, and sauté 1 minute more. Add vegetable broth, lime zest, oregano, and 3 cups water; cover, and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 10 minutes. Strain Broth, discard solids, and return to saucepan.

2. To make Soup: Add rice to Broth. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes, or until rice is soft. Stir in tomatoes and corn, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F. Spray flour tortilla with cooking spray, and cut into thin strips. Arrange strips on baking sheet, and bake 5 to 7 minutes, or until tortilla is crisp.

4. Place diced avocado, green onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and tortilla strips in small bowls. Ladle Soup into serving bowls. Garnish with avocado, tortilla strips, green onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and hot sauce, if desired.

Mexican Rice Soup: Vegetarian Times Issue: September 1, 2008 p.84

White Bean and Kale Soup

2009-03-03T17:31:00.002-06:00

Ingredient List

1 Tbs. olive oil
1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced (1 cup)
3 cups chopped kale
1 small garnet yam, peeled and diced (1 cup)
1 Tbs. smoked sweet paprika, plus more for garnish
1 Tbs. curry powder
1 bay leaf
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 15.5-oz. cans great Northern beans, drained and rinsed, divided
2 Tbs. red wine vinegar

Directions

1. Heat oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and cook 8 minutes, or until lightly caramelized, stirring often.

2. Add kale, and cook 4 to 5 minutes, or until wilted. Stir in yam, paprika, curry powder, and bay leaf; cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant.

3. Add broth, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, and cook 30 minutes, or until kale and yam are tender. Purée 1 cup beans with 3/4 cup water in blender or food processor. Add purée and remaining beans to soup. Simmer 10 minutes, then stir in vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle each serving with paprika.

White Bean and Kale Soup: Vegetarian Times Issue: March 1, 2008 p.71

Italian-Style Spaghetti Squash

2008-10-14T10:55:00.004-05:00

This squash resembles strands of spaghetti.
Serves 4.

Ingredient List
* 2 lb. spaghetti squash, halved lengthwise and seeded
* 2 Tbs. olive oil
* 1 medium-sized red onion, thinly sliced
* 1 zucchini (8 oz.), diced
* 4 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
* 1/4 tsp. salt
* 1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
* 1/2 cup reduced-fat grated Parmesan cheese for garnish, optional
* 1 small lemon, sliced

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350F.

2. Place squash halves, cut side down, in baking dish. Add 1/4 cup water, and cover dish with foil. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until tender. Remove from oven, and cool slightly.

3. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, and cook for 3 minutes, or until onion is translucent. Add zucchini, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until zucchini begins to brown. Add tomatoes, salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low, and cook, uncovered, for about 10 minutes.

4. Using a fork, scrape squash strands into a bowl. Toss with remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Mound squash in the centers of four pasta bowls. Spoon vegetable mixture around or over squash strands, dividing vegetables equally among bowls. Drizzle with more oil, if desired, and garnish with Parmesan cheese. Add lemon slices, and serve.

Italian-Style Spaghetti Squash » Vegetarian Times Issue: January 1, 2004 p.67

Spicy Tofu Bento Bowl

2008-10-07T13:30:00.003-05:00

Bento boxes are lunch containers with separate compartments used for take-along and take-out lunches in Japan. Here we’ve assembled traditional bento box components in a one-bowl salad. Serves 6.

Ingredient List
* Spicy Tofu
* 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
* 1/4 cup hot chili-garlic sauce
* 2 Tbs. dark sesame oil
* 14-oz. extra-firm tofu, cubed
* 5 green onions, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
* 1/4 cup nonfat yogurt
* 2 Tbs. lemon juice

Salad
* 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
* 2 Tbs. lemon juice
* 1 Tbs. minced fresh ginger
* 1 tsp. hot chili-garlic sauce
* 2 cups cooked short-grain brown rice
* 4 1/2 cups mixed baby greens
* 2 carrots, peeled
* 1 cucumber, sliced (about 1 1/2 cups)
* 1 avocado, peeled and sliced
* 1 Tbs. toasted sesame seeds

Directions
1. To make Spicy Tofu: Whisk together soy sauce, chili sauce and sesame oil in bowl. Heat nonstick skillet over medium heat. Dip tofu in chili mixture. Cook 10 minutes, or until browned, turning occasionally. Cool. Add green onions, yogurt and lemon juice to remaining chili mixture. Toss with tofu.

2. To make Salad: Whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, ginger and chili sauce in bowl. Mound rice in bowls. Top with greens. Shave strips of carrots over top with vegetable peeler. Top with tofu, cucumber and avocado. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with sauce.

Spicy Tofu Bento Bowl » Vegetarian Times Issue: October 1, 2006 p.84

Spicy Red Lentil Soup

2008-10-06T14:25:00.002-05:00

Red lentils soften up quickly when cooked, which makes them great for thickening soups. Tamarind paste has a sweet-sour flavor and can be found in Indian groceries or high-end supermarkets. Serves 6.

Ingredient List
* 1 cup red lentils
* 1 tsp. salt
* 1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes
* 2 Tbs. minced fresh ginger
* 1 Tbs. vegetable oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (2 tsp.)
* 1 15-oz. can light, unsweetened coconut milk
* 1 Tbs. tamarind concentrate or paste, optional
* 1 Tbs. ground coriander
* 1 tsp. ground cumin
* 1 tsp. turmeric powder
* 1 small jalapeño, stemmed, seeded and minced
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Directions
1. Combine lentils, salt and 5 cups water in large saucepan. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered, 20 to 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Blend lentils with whisk for rustic texture, or purée in food processor for creamier feel.

2. Purée tomatoes and ginger in blender or food processor until smooth. Set aside.

3. Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, and cook 30 seconds, or until just golden, stirring often. Add tomato mixture, coconut milk, tamarind if desired, coriander, cumin, turmeric and jalapeño. Simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Stir in lentils, and simmer, partially covered, 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with cilantro, and serve.

Spicy Red Lentil Soup » Vegetarian Times Issue: October 1, 2006 p.60

Smoky Penne with Corn and Cherry Tomatoes

2008-09-16T11:37:00.004-05:00

Ingredient List
* 12 oz. penne pasta
* 1 dried chipotle chile, soaked in hot water 10 minutes, or 1 chile from 4-oz. can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
* 2 Tbs. olive oil, divided
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp.)
* 1 4-oz. log goat cheese, plus more for crumbling and sprinkling, if desired
* 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
* 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
* 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels

Directions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, remove seeds from chipotle chile and finely chop. Heat 1 Tbs. oil in skillet over medium-low heat. Add chile and garlic, and sauté 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in goat cheese and 1/3 cup water, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until smooth sauce forms, stirring constantly. Simmer 2 minutes more, then remove from heat and add cilantro and remaining 1 Tbs. olive oil.

3. Drain pasta, and return to pot. Add tomatoes, corn and cheese sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and transfer to warm serving bowl. Toss in extra goat cheese crumbles, if desired.

Vegetarian Times Issue: September 1, 2006 p.71

Tuscan-Style Spaghetti with Kale and Cannellinis

2008-09-02T21:38:00.004-05:00

For an easy way to wash kale, swish it around in a large bowl of water with 1 tablespoon salt, then rinse. The abrasive action of the salt works to remove grit. Serves 8.

Ingredient List
* 2 Tbs. olive oil
* 1 medium-size onion, diced (about 1 cup)
* 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 Tbs.)
* 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
* 2 1/2 lb. kale, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 12 cups)
* 1 14.5-oz. can diced tomatoes
* 1 1/2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
* 3/4 tsp. salt
* 1 15-oz. can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
* 3/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
* 1 12-oz. pkg. whole-wheat spaghetti
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
1. Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion in oil 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes.

2. Add 6 cups kale, and cook 2 minutes, or until wilted, tossing occasionally. Add remaining kale, tomatoes, broth and salt. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer 15 minutes, or until soupy, tossing occasionally. Stir in beans and olives.

3. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain, and return to pot with kale mixture. Cook 2 minutes over medium heat, or until pasta absorbs most of liquid. Sprinkle with Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.

Nutritional Information
Per SERVING: Calories: 270, Protein: 10g, Total fat: 7g, Carbs: 46g, Cholesterol: 2mg, Sodium: 379mg, Fiber: 10g, Sugars: 5g

Vegetarian Times Issue: September 1, 2006 p.42

Curried Cauliflower Soup

2008-08-20T17:17:00.002-05:00

Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp turmeric
1 medium-sized head of cauliflower, separated into florets and washed
1/2 tomato, chopped finely
5 or 6 cups of vegetable stock
1/4 - 1/2 cup 18% cream, or light coconut milk
juice of 1 lime
salt to taste

Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add spice, stir and cook until until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add cauliflower florets and tomato and stir to coat in spices. Allow to cook to a minute or two, then add the stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover and simmer until cauliflower is quite tender, about 20 minutes.

With an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Add cream, lime juice and salt and adjust to taste.

Curried Cauliflower Soup via Treehugger

Green Pea Ravioli

2008-08-15T16:06:00.002-05:00

Making homemade ravioli is a snap when you use wonton wrappers (often sold in the produce section of the supermarket) for the pasta. Leftover wrappers can be covered tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for the next use. Serve the ravioli with prepared pesto, a light tomato sauce or simply a little butter and grated Parmesan cheese.

2 cups fresh or frozen peas
2 shallots, quartered
1 large clove garlic
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
36 wonton wrappers

1. Bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add peas, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid. Transfer peas to bowl of food processor or blender. Add shallots, garlic and reserved cooking liquid, and puré until smooth. Add cheese, and process until combined. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Set 1 wonton wrapper on work surface. Brush edges with water, then place 11/2 tsp. pea mixture in center. Fold wrapper into triangle over filling, and press edges with fingers to seal. Transfer to plate lined with damp paper towels. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling, placing damp paper towels between each layer of ravioli. Cover, and set aside.

3. Bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ravioli, and cook 3 minutes, or until tender. Drain. Place ravioli on plates and spoon desired sauce over top. Serve immediately.

Vegetarian Times: Peas Recipes

Mock Guac(amole)

2008-08-15T16:05:00.002-05:00

This recipe is a great option for those times you want to make guacamole but can only find hard, unripened avocados. The puréd peas absorb all the Tex-Mex flavors of the cilantro, lime juice and hot sauce, so most guests won't even guess the main ingredient!

4 cups fresh or frozen peas
1 medium tomato, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 bunch green onions, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1/8 tsp. hot pepper sauce

1. Bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add peas, and cook 15 minutes. Drain, and rinse under cold water. Puré in food processor, then press through medium-meshed sieve with back of ladle to separate skins from puré.

2. Combine pea puré and remaining ingredients in medium bowl. Let stand 30 minutes to develop flavors. Serve with tortilla chips or Mexican dishes.

Vegetarian Times: Peas Recipes

Mango-Pea Salad with Sesame Dressing

2008-08-15T16:02:00.002-05:00

Toss this salad with the dressing at the last minute, otherwise the peas will start to turn yellow as the acid in the lime juice "cooks" them.

Mango-Pea Salad
3 cups soybean sprouts
2 cups fresh or thawed frozen peas
2 mangoes, peeled and diced
2 bunches green onions, chopped (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
3 Tbs. black sesame seeds

Sesame Dressing
3 Tbs. lime juice
2 Tbs. toasted sesame oil
1 Tbs. vegetable oil
2 tsp. minced fresh ginger
1/2 tsp. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt

1. To make Mango-Pea Salad: Bring large pot of salted water to a boil. Add sprouts and peas, and cook 2 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Drain, and chill in ice water to stop cooking and keep peas bright green. Drain again.

2. Toss together sprouts, peas, mangoes, green onions, mint and sesame seeds in large bowl.

3. To make Sesame Dressing: Whisk together lime juice, sesame oil, vegetable oil, ginger, brown sugar and salt in small bowl. Pour over pea mixture, and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper, and serve on bed of lettuce, if desired.

Vegetarian Times: Peas Recipes

Turkish Tomato Soup

2008-08-15T15:51:00.004-05:00

Whether you're looking for a creative twist on tomato soup or you need an appetizer to start off a traditional Turkish meal, this recipe is likely to satisfy. This is also a unique way to enjoy fresh domates (tomatoes) on a cool, summer night.

Ingredients
* 6-7 large tomatoes
* 1 white onion
* pinch of nutmeg
* pinch of oregano
* pinch of sugar
* 4 small bunches of parsley (flat leaf preferred)
* 1 bay leaf
* three cups of broth/stock
* butter
* 1 teaspoon flour
* 1/4 cup of heavy whipping cream
* salt and pepper to taste

Steps
1. Slice the tomatoes and chop the parsley into very small pieces. Combine with the oregano, sugar, nutmeg, 1/2 tablespoon pepper and the bay leaf.

2. Chop the onion into small pieces and saute on medium high heat with butter in a pan until they are brown/yellow. If you find that your butter is burning you may add a bit of oil (canola or olive- not extra virgin olive oil however) to raise the smoke point of the fats.

3. Add all the ingredients of step one to the fried onion.

4. Mix thoroughly and fry for approximately fifteen minutes on half heat, until tomatoes are soft.

5. While you wait for the tomatoes to soften, heat up three cups broth/stock.

6. When the tomato mixture is soft, add the broth and stir well.

7. Put the lid on the pan and cook the mixture of tomatoes and chicken broth for about ten minutes.

8. Take the pan off the heat, discard the bay leaf, and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until there are no chunks of tomato left.

9. Melt a tablespoon of butter in a big pan.

10. Add teaspoon of flour and stir it well to make a roux - this will melt in the soup and thicken it. For optimal results cook the roux until it reaches a medium golden brown color.
* The more you cook a roux, the less thickening power it will have. It will also give it a stronger, almost nutty taste.

11. Slowly pour the soup into the pan with the butter and flour.

12. Add the whipping cream. Last add salt to taste.

13. Heat the soup on the stove and serve.

How to Make Turkish Tomato Soup - from wikiHow

Shells with Ricotta, Basil and Lemon

2008-08-15T15:38:00.003-05:00

Serves 6 in 30 minutes or fewer.

Toasted breadcrumbs give this dish an authentic touch.

1 lb. medium-size dried pasta shells or rigatoni
2 tsp. olive oil
3/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs
2 cups low-fat ricotta cheese (15 oz.)
3 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. lemon zest
16 fresh basil leaves, sliced into thin ribbons
1 lemon, cut in wedges

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs, and sauté 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown.

Combine ricotta, lemon juice and zest in warm serving bowl. Fold in basil; season to taste with salt and pepper.

Toss pasta with ricotta mixture until well coated. Taste, and adjust seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs, and garnish with lemon wedges.

PER SERVING: 394 CAL; 20G PROT; 6.5G TOTAL FAT (3G SAT. FAT); 65G CARB; 27MG CHOL; 437MG SOD; 3G FIBER; 5G SUGARS

Vegetariantimes: 30 Minutes - No-Cook Pasta Sauces

Spaghettini with Walnuts and Parsley Pesto

2008-08-15T15:37:00.003-05:00

Serves 6 in 30 minutes or fewer.

Parsley pesto is a light alternative to basil or sun-dried tomato versions. When storing any homemade or prepared pesto in the fridge, pour a thin layer of olive oil on top of the sauce before closing the lid. The oil seals out the air and keeps the sauce a bright, vibrant green for weeks.

1 lb. spaghettini
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
4 cups Italian parsley leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
3 to 5 cloves garlic, minced (1 to 1 1/2 Tbs.)
1 medium-size cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely chopped

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.

Toast walnuts in skillet over medium heat 3 to 4 minutes, or until browned and fragrant, shaking often.

Place parsley, cheese, oil, lemon juice and garlic in bowl of food processor. Pulse several times, or until parsley is finely chopped. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to serving bowl.

Add walnuts, cucumber and hot pasta to pesto. Toss to combine. Taste, and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve immediately.

PER SERVING: 471 CAL; 15G PROT; 18G TOTAL FAT (3G SAT. FAT); 63G CARB; 6MG CHOL; 323MG SOD; 4G FIBER; 2G SUGARS

Vegetariantimes: 30 Minutes - No-Cook Pasta Sauces

Fettuccine with Basil-Tomato Sauce

2008-08-15T15:35:00.003-05:00

Serves 6, Vegan, in 30 minutes or fewer.

There’s no better way to showcase ripe, juicy summer tomatoes than with this sauce. Seeding the tomatoes takes only a minute or two and makes all the difference. It keeps the sauce sweet—the seeds can be slightly acidic—and prevents it from becoming too watery.

2 1/2 lb. ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
2 Tbs. brown rice syrup
2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
2 Tbs. thinly sliced basil
1 Tbs. chopped chives
1 Tbs. minced Italian parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp.)
1 lb. fettuccine
Basil sprigs, for garnish

Combine tomatoes, rice syrup, vinegar, basil, chives, parsley and garlic in large serving bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.

Toss pasta with sauce. Season to taste with salt and lots of freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with basil sprigs, and serve.

PER SERVING: 343 CAL; 11G PROT; 1.5G TOTAL FAT (0G SAT. FAT); 69G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 215MG SOD; 4G FIBER; 12G SUGARS

Vegetariantimes: 30 Minutes - No-Cook Pasta Sauces

Farfalle with Feta and Chipotle

2008-08-15T15:34:00.003-05:00

Serves 4 in 30 minutes or fewer.

Smoky, creamy, crunchy...this Southwest-inspired sauce has it all. It’s served with farfalle so that the pumpkin seeds and feta crumbles don’t get lost in a pasta tangle.

2 Tbs. pumpkin seeds
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp.)
1/4 tsp. chipotle powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
3 Tbs. lime juice
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 tsp. lime zest
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
10 oz. farfalle or other small pasta

Toast pumpkin seeds in small skillet 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat, or until browned, shaking often.

Combine garlic, chipotle powder and salt in small bowl. Add cilantro, lime juice, oil and lime zest. Fold in cheese.

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.

Toss hot pasta with sauce in large serving bowl. Taste, and adjust seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds, and serve.

PER SERVING: 448 CAL; 12G PROT; 15G TOTAL FAT (4G SAT. FAT); 64G CARB; 19MG CHOL; 533MG SOD; 3G FIBER; 1G SUGARS

Vegetariantimes: 30 Minutes - No-Cook Pasta Sauces

Strozzapreti with Cheese and Green Peppercorns

2008-08-15T15:32:00.003-05:00

Serves 4 in 30 minutes or fewer.

Strozzapreti—which means “priest chokers”—sounds like it was invented by the Mafia, but it’s actually a type of pasta with curved, medium-length strands. If you can’t find strozzapreti, just use penne or fusilli.

1/4 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup grated Romano cheese (about 3 oz.)
1/4 cup plus 2 Tbs. mint leaves, sliced into very thin ribbons
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 tsp. brined green peppercorns, drained
1 8.8-oz. pkg. strozzapreti
2 cups grated zucchini
1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)

Toast pine nuts in small skillet over medium heat 3 to 4 minutes or until browned and fragrant, shaking often.

Blend cheese, 1/4 cup mint, oil and peppercorns in food processor until peppercorns are broken up. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.

Meanwhile, combine zucchini, garlic and mint sauce in large serving bowl.

Toss hot pasta with sauce. Taste, and adjust seasonings if necessary. Stir in pine nuts and remaining mint leaves, and serve.

PER SERVING: 409 CAL; 16G PROT; 18.5G TOTAL FAT (4.5G SAT. FAT); 46G CARB; 20MG CHOL; 427MG SOD; 3G FIBER; 4G SUGARS

Vegetariantimes: 30 Minutes - No-Cook Pasta Sauces

Grilled Okra

2008-06-11T10:49:00.001-05:00

Ingredients
1 pound fresh okra
1 tablespoon dark (Asian style) sesame oil or extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the grill to high.

2. Trim the tips off the stems of the okra, but do not cut into the pods. Lay 5 pieces of okra side by side in a neat row at the edge of a cutting board. Skewer crosswise with 2 bamboo skewers, one at the top, one at the bottom. Lightly brush the skewered okra with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper.

3. Grill the okra until tender and lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes per side, turning once with a flat spatula. Serve the okra at once, letting each guest remove the skewers.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes

Grilled Okra Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit

Sesame Noodle Salad with Asparagus and Tofu

2008-06-02T11:22:00.004-05:00

This vegetarian version of a popular Chinese dish called Bon Bon Chi is amazingly flavorful. Take care not to overcook the vermicelli when it's just tender to the bite, it's ready. If you like your noodles very saucy, use all of the sesame dressing; otherwise, use leftover dressing to spoon over pasta or rice. 6 servings.

Ingredient List
* 1 1/2 Tbs. sesame oil or other mild-flavored oil
* 2 cups well-drained diced firm tofu (13 oz.)
* 2 tsp. Bragg Liquid Aminos
* 1 lb. asparagus, tough ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch lengths
* 6 oz. dried vermicelli
* 1 English cucumber, peeled and julienned
* 1/3 to 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* Pinch of asafetida (optional)

Directions: Sesame Dressing
1. Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil for vermicelli. Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Stir in asafetida if desired and tofu. Sprinkle with liquid aminos and cook, stirring often, until tofu is golden-brown, about 7 minutes.

2. Add asparagus, sprinkle lightly with salt, cover and cook until crisp-tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Immediately remove from heat; set aside.

3. Add vermicelli to boiling water; stir to prevent sticking. Cook until just tender, about 6 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold running water and drain well.

4. Transfer noodles to large bowl; add half the dressing and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss well. Spoon asparagus-tofu mixture on top, sprinkle with cucumber and drizzle with some remaining dressing. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Sesame Noodle Salad with Asparagus and Tofu: Vegetarian Times [Issue: May 1, 2000 p.54 ]

Roasted Broccolini with Balsamic Vinegar

2008-04-22T17:04:00.001-05:00

Ingredients
2 bunches (about 8 oz. each) broccolini
1 tablespoon olive oil
kosher salt to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
2. Trim the stem ends of the broccolini and spread the spears on a baking sheet. Brush them with olive oil (especially the flowering part) and sprinkle with salt.
3. Roast the broccolini on the top rack of the oven until the stems become tender when pierced with a knife, about 10 minutes.
4. Toss the broccolini with the balsamic vinegar and serve.

This recipe serves: 6 | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes

Roasted Broccolini with Balsamic Vinegar: Recipe by FoodFit

Strawberry Soup with Sorbet

2008-04-22T17:02:00.000-05:00

Ingredients
1 pint fresh strawberries, cleaned and hulled
about 1/2 cup brown sugar
juice of 1 lemon
4 scoops of fruit sorbet

Cooking Instructions
1. Purée the strawberries in a blender or food processor.
2. Strain with a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently on the pulp to release the juice.
3. Blend in the sugar and lemon juice until a pleasant balance of sweetness and tartness is reached.
4. Ladle the soup into soup bowls and serve with a scoop of fruit sorbet.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 10 minutes

Strawberry Soup with Sorbet: Recipe by FoodFit

Sesame Noodles

2008-04-16T10:11:00.004-05:00

What’s the trick to making pasta healthy? Use whole-wheat noodles. This popular Asian noodle salad bolsters the fiber content and packs a nutrient punch without sacrificing flavor. The recipe comes courtesy of Annelise Stuart of Germantown, New York.

Serves: 8 (1 1/2 cups each).
Preparation time: 20 minutes

Ingredients
1 pound whole-wheat spaghetti
1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 tablespoons rice-wine vinegar or lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper
1 bunch scallions, sliced, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided (optional)
4 cups snow peas, trimmed and sliced on the bias
1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds

Preparation
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until just tender, 9 to 11 minutes or according to package directions. Drain; rinse under cold water.

2. Meanwhile, whisk soy sauce, sesame oil, canola oil, vinegar (or lime juice), crushed red pepper, 1/4 cup scallions and 2 tablespoons cilantro (if using). Add noodles, snow peas and bell pepper; toss to coat.

3. To serve, mix in sesame seeds and garnish with the remaining scallions and cilantro.

Elise's Sesame Noodles: Provided by Eating Well

Greek Salad Pitas

2008-04-15T15:37:00.006-05:00

Ingredients
1 cup peeled, seeded and diced cucumber
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced zucchini
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini, optional
1/4 cup chopped black olives, preferably kalamata
2 Tbs. extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. red wine vinegar
1 tsp. dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 6-inch whole wheat pita breads, cut in half
6 curly leaf lettuce leaves

Directions
1. Combine cucumber, bell pepper, zucchini, feta, onion, pepperoncini, olives, oil, lemon juice, vinegar and oregano in large bowl, and toss to mix. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Line each pita half with a lettuce leaf; fill with 1/2 cup salad mixture.

To pack this for lunch, wrap the pita pockets separately, and fill them with the salad just before serving. Or enjoy the chopped salad on its own with a bowl of soup for dinner. Note: Pepperoncini are thin, small pickled chile peppers that range in spiciness from medium to medium-hot. Look for them in the Italian section of large supermarkets.
Ingredient List

Serves 6 | 30 minutes or fewer

Greek Salad Pitas: Vegetarian Times Issue: April 1, 2005 p.38

Lentil Soup

2008-04-13T12:19:00.002-05:00

Ingredients
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion
1 cup brown lentils, picked over and rinsed
4 cups water
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 small kohlrabi or other root vegetables, peeled and diced
1 stalk celery, diced
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
1 large tomato, cored, seeded and diced
salt and freshly ground black pepper
plain low-fat yogurt (optional)

Cooking Instructions
1. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sauté onion until lightly browned, 5 minutes.

2. Have kids add lentils and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often.

3. Kids can add water, carrots, kohlrabi, celery and potato. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook, covered, about 30 minutes.

4. Kids can stir in the tomato. Cover and simmer 30 minutes longer, until lentils and vegetables are tender.

5. Season with salt and pepper. Have kids top each bowl with a dollop of yogurt prior to serving.

This recipe serves: 6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour

Children's Lentil Soup Recipe by FoodFit

Tortilla Soup

2008-04-11T14:02:00.002-05:00

Ingredients
For the soup:
5 cloves garlic, peeled
10 Roma tomatoes, cored and quartered
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, diced
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
8 cups low-sodium ... broth
1 dried chipotle pepper, stemmed and seeded (optional)
3/4 pound tortilla chips

Optional garnishes:
1 bunch (1/2 cup) fresh cilantro leaves
1 avocado, peeled, seeded and roughly chopped
1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream
2 limes, cut in wedges

Cooking Instructions
1. Puree the garlic and tomatoes in a blender until smooth.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over low heat.

3. Add the onion, salt and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until pale brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes.

4. Stir in the tomato puree and cook 10 minutes longer, stirring frequently.

5. Pour in the ... stock and add the chipotle chile (if desired). Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook, uncovered, for 20 minutes.

6. Stir in the tortilla chips and cook 10 minutes longer, until the chips soften.

7. Remove and discard the chile.

8. Serve hot, with cilantro, avocado, sour cream, lime wedges and some extra crisp, fried tortilla chips for adding at the table.

This recipe serves: 8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour

Tortilla Soup: Recipe by FoodFit

Peanut Noodle Salad

2008-04-10T11:46:00.002-05:00

Ingredients
1/4 cup reduced fat peanut butter
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/4 tablespoons sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 pound soba noodles
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
1/2 cup blanched peas

Cooking Instructions
1. Mix the peanut butter in a large bowl with the soy sauce, lemon juice, sesame oil and ginger. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook stirring constantly until the water returns to a boil. Cook until the noodles are al dente.

3. Scoop the noodles out of the pot and directly into the bowl with the peanut butter mixture.

4. Add 2-4 tablespoons hot pasta water to loosen up the sauce.

5. Add the vegetables and toss well. Let cool. Cover and refrigerate.

This recipe serves: 4 children
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes

Peanut Noodle Salad [Recipe by FoodFit]

Cold Zucchini Soup with Cinnamon, Cumin and Buttermilk

2008-03-18T17:53:00.001-05:00

Ingredients
1 pound trimmed zucchini
2 1/2 cups rich vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon seeded and minced Serrano chili pepper
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 1/2 cups good quality, reduced fat buttermilk
sea salt to taste
freshly ground pepper to taste

Garnish: chopped, fresh cilantro or mint
lime or lemon wedges

Cooking Instructions
1. Chop the zucchini in large chunks.

2. Add the broth to a soup pot, bring it to a boil and add the zucchini.

3. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the zucchini is barely tender and still bright green. Remove from heat and cool.

4. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a small, non-stick frying pan. Add the onion, chili pepper, fennel, cinnamon and cumin and fry until onion is soft, but not brown, and spices are fragrant.

5. Put both the zucchini and spice mixture into a food processor and pulse until well chopped but still retaining texture. Pour into a bowl and stir in the buttermilk and season to taste with salt and pepper.

6. Chill for at least 2 hours. Serve garnished with a sprinkling of cilantro and a few added drops of lemon or lime juice to taste.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes

Cold Zucchini Soup with Cinnamon, Cumin and Buttermilk | Recipe by FoodFit

Guacamole Recipe

2008-03-05T15:02:00.001-06:00

Ingredients
2 avocados
1 scallion, sliced
1/2 red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red chili pepper, toasted and crushed
juice of 1 lime
1/2 tomato, diced
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
salt to taste

Cooking Instructions
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse on and off until slightly pureed.

2. Transfer the pureed avocado to a bowl and combine with the remaining ingredients. Season to taste.

This recipe serves: 20 | Preparation time: 15 minutes

Guacamole Recipe Recipe by FoodFit

Green Chile Pilaf

2008-03-05T14:59:00.001-06:00

Ingredients
1/2 pound tomatillos, husked, washed and cut into quarters
1 large jalapeño, seeded and chopped
1/4 cup coarsely chopped onion
1 cup cilantro, stems and leaves
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3 poblano chiles roasted, peeled and seeded
4 romaine lettuce leaves
2 green onions
3 cloves garlic, peeled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups long-grain rice

Cooking Instructions
1. Place the tomatillos, jalapeños and 1 cup cold water in a blender or a food processor. Purée just until chunky; add onion, cilantro, salt, chiles, lettuce, green onions and garlic. Purée until smooth, about 2 more minutes. This may be done in batches unless using a large food processor.

2. In a heavy large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-heat. Sauté the rice, stirring constantly until golden and crackling, about 5 minutes. Pour in the purée and stir to combine.

3. Cover and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, 40-45 minutes.

4. Stir with a fork and serve hot.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes

Green Chile Pilaf Recipe by FoodFit

Penne with Asparagus and Red Peppers

2008-03-05T14:39:00.003-06:00

Ingredients
1 tablespoon kosher salt
12 ounces penne pasta, ziti and rigatoni also work well
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pound asparagus, ends snapped off and stalks cut into 2" pieces
2 roasted yellow bell peppers, peeled and diced
2 roasted red bell peppers, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 1/2 cups low-sodium canned [...] stock
1 1/2 tablespoons minced, fresh thyme
2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
black pepper freshly ground

Cooking Instructions
1. Bring 1 gallon water and 1 tablespoon kosher salt to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just before it becomes al dente. Drain.

2. Meanwhile, melt 2 tablespoons butter in a 10" skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the peppers and garlic, and cook 1 minute more. Add the stock, bring to a boil, and lower the heat to medium.

3. Add the penne and thyme. Stir to combine the ingredients and simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in half of the cheese and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

4. Transfer to a warm bowl, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and serve.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Michael Romano's Penne with Asparagus and Red Peppers Recipe by FoodFit

Stuffed Peppers with Tomato Sauce

2008-03-05T14:35:00.002-06:00

Simple and festive, these peppers will be welcome at any time of year

Ingredients: Serves 8, 1/2 stuffed pepper each
* 4 large red, green or yellow bell peppers
* 3 Tbs. olive oil
* 4 soy “sausage” links, cut into chunks
* 2 cups chopped onion
* 1 cup chopped celery
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup minced parsley
* 2 14.5-oz. cans chopped tomatoes
* 1 tsp. dried thyme
* Pinch cayenne, or to taste
* 3 cups cooked rice
* 1 cup plus 8 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese
* 8 sprigs fresh thyme for garnish, optional

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350F.

2. Slice bell peppers in half lengthwise. Remove core and seeds, rinse and pat dry. Set aside.

3. Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Sauté “sausage” for 2 minutes. Add onion, celery, garlic and parsley, and cook about 10 minutes more. Stir in 1/2 cup tomatoes, thyme and cayenne.

4. Put rice in bowl, and stir in vegetable mixture. Let stand 15 minutes so the rice absorbs any liquid from vegetables. Stir in cheese. Divide rice mixture among pepper halves, mounding mixture into cavities. Pour remaining tomato mixture into small baking dish. Nestle stuffed peppers on top of tomatoes. Cover dish with lid or aluminum foil.

5. Bake 1 hour. Uncover peppers, and sprinkle each pepper with 1 Tbs. Parmesan cheese. Cook, uncovered, 10 minutes. Serve with sauce from baking dish, and garnish, if desired.

Stuffed Peppers with Tomato Sauce: Vegetarian Times Issue: February 1, 2005 p.97

Rainbow Black Bean Salad Recipe

2008-02-08T09:55:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1 cup dried black beans
1 bay leaf
2 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
pinch of cayenne pepper
1 medium red onion, diced
1 large green pepper, diced
1 large red bell pepper, diced
1 cup corn kernels
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions
1. Place the beans in a colander and rinse with cold water. Pick over the beans to remove any stones. Place the beans in a clean pot, cover with fresh cold water and soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain.

2. In a large pot, combine the beans, onion quarters, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, cumin, coriander and cayenne pepper with 2 quarts of water and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender, about 1 hour.

4. Drain the liquid from the beans and remove the onions, garlic and bay leaf.

5. Combine the black beans, red onion, green and red pepper and corn in a large bowl. In a separate bowl mix the lime juice, vinegar and oil. Pour over the beans and vegetables and toss to combine.

6. Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding additional cayenne pepper if you want the salad spicier.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour

Rainbow Black Bean Salad Recipe [Recipe by FoodFit]

Silky Carrot and Ginger Soup

2008-02-05T19:14:00.000-06:00

Ingredient List
1 Tbs. unsalted butter
1/2 small onion or 2 shallots, chopped
1 tsp. minced fresh ginger
3/4 lb. carrots, peeled, trimmed and chopped (1 1/2 cups)
1 1/2 tsp. light brown sugar
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 to 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
2 Tbs. white rice
Salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste
2 Tbs. thick yogurt for garnish
1 Tbs. slivered mint leaves, optional

Directions
1. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté, stirring often, 3 to 5 minutes, until translucent. Add ginger and carrots, and cook, stirring, 5 minutes more. Add sugar, and cook, stirring, 1 minute more; add orange juice; bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring bottom of pan with wooden spoon to deglaze. Cook until liquid reduces by about half, about 3 minutes.

2. Add broth and rice, and bring to a boil. Add salt and pepper, reduce heat to low, cover and cook about 30 minutes, or until carrots are very tender.

3. Put mixture in food processor (or in blender in batches), and purée until smooth. Adjust seasonings to taste. Heat through, garnish with dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of mint leaves and serve. Serves 2 to 3.

Silky Carrot and Ginger Soup [via: Vegetarian Times]

Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Pepitas

2008-01-30T20:30:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1 pumpkin, about 2 to 2 1/2 lbs.
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 onion, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
2 cups low-fat milk
2 cups water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 pinch allspice
2 tablespoons dry sherry or Marsala wine
sea salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds, for garnish

Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Cut the pumpkin in half, scrape out the seeds, and place it, cut-side down, on a baking sheet. Bake for about 40 minutes or until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Allow the pumpkin to cool about 10 minutes before proceeding, as it will be easier to handle when it is not so hot.

3. While the pumpkin is baking, heat the oil in a small pan and stir the onion and celery for about 3 minutes or until softened and translucent.

4. Scoop the pumpkin pulp with a large spoon, put it into a large bowl and add the onion, celery, milk and water. Stir to combine. Ladle some of this mixture into a blender and puree it in batches, being careful not to overfill the blender. Strain the soup through a colander to remove any remaining fiber or seeds. Add the lemon juice, cumin, allspice and sherry or Marsala wine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

5. Spread the pepitas or pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 10 minutes or until toasted.

6. Reheat the soup, divide it among 4 warmed soup bowls and sprinkle with the toasted seeds.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour

Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Pepitas:Recipe by FoodFit

Dress Up Ramen for Dinner in Minutes

2008-01-29T21:25:00.001-06:00

This delicious noodle dish is one of my favorite "shortcut" recipes -- you can put it together quickly and it leaves you feeling satisfyingly full, but not stuffed. When you're pressed for time, it's surprisingly good even if you make just the main recipe and omit the peanut sambal. You can also dress it up by substituting soba noodles for the ramen...

Ramen Noodles with Peanut Sambal
4-6 servings

2 packages instant ramen noodles
1 tablespoon peanut oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup sweet corn
1 jalapeno, chopped with seeds and ribs removed
2 bok choy or 1 cup cabbage, cut into thin slices lengthwise
4 scallions, chopped
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 head of iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced

1. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add the noodles and boil until al dente, about three minutes. Drain, reserving the liquid.

2. Heat the oil in a sauté pan. Add the garlic, corn, and jalapeno and sauté until the garlic is golden, about 2 minutes, then add the bok choy and scallions and sauté another 2 minutes. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, and half of the reserved cooking liquid. Toss well.

3. Transfer the noodles to a large bowl. Top with iceberg lettuce and peanut sambal and serve.

Peanut Sambal
Makes 2 cups

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
Grated zest and juice of 1 lime
Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 cup roughly chopped peanuts
1 small red onion, chopped
1 large tomato, cut into 1/2-inch dice, or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
1 chili pepper, ribs and seeds removed, finely chopped
4 basil leaves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

1. Heat the olive oil in a small sauté pan over medium heat. Add the garlic, lime zest, and lemon zest and sauté until the garlic is golden, about 2 minutes.

2. Add the soy sauce and stir well to combine. Transfer to a large bowl and stir in the peanuts, onion, tomato, chili, basil, lime juice, lemon juice, and parsley. Serve warm, or store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Herbed Lemony Swiss Chard Recipe

2008-01-21T18:49:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
2 pounds Swiss chard, washed
1/2 cup low-sodium [vegetable] broth
1 tablespoon minced shallots
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions
1. Slice the chard on the diagonal into 2' pieces.

2. Heat the [vegetable] stock and add the stems of the chard and shallots. Simmer for about 3 minutes and add the chard leaves. Continue to cook until the [vegetable] stock is reduced and the chard is tender, about 5 more minutes.

3. Remove from the heat and toss the chard with the lemon juice and olive oil. Taste and add salt and pepper. Sprinkle with tarragon.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes

Herbed Lemony Swiss Chard Recipe [Recipe by FoodFit]

Garlicky Kale

2008-01-18T09:57:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
2 pounds kale, about 2 bunches
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
4 or 5 cloves garlic
pinch red pepper flakes
splash red wine vinegar
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions
1. Remove stems from the kale and chop the leaves coarsely. Wash and drain well but do not dry.

2. Heat a large sauté pan, add 3 tablespoons of the olive oil and enough kale to cover the bottom of the pan, and cook over high heat while stirring to rotate the leaves. Add more kale as the leaves wilt. When all the kale has been added, season with salt, cover and reduce the heat to medium.

3. Cook, stirring occasionally; the cooking time will depend on the maturity of the kale. Young kale will be tender after 4 to 5 minutes. It may be necessary to add a splash of water if the leaves begin to scorch. When the leaves are tender, remove the lid and allow any excess water to cook away.

4. Remove the kale to a warm bowl and set aside. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan along with the garlic and red pepper. Sauté just until you smell the aroma of garlic.

5. Sprinkle the garlic and red pepper over the kale and toss with a splash of vinegar. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes

Garlicky Kale: by FoodFit

Creamy Spinach Potage

2008-01-15T20:51:00.000-06:00

Sweeter, creamier and more flavorful than white potatoes, parsnips form the ideal vegetable base for a French potage, or thick, creamy soup. Choose small to medium parsnips that are heavy for their size, and slice them in uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients:
2 tsp. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 stalk celery, sliced (about 1/3 cup)
2 low-sodium vegetable bouillon cubes
1 1/2 lb. parsnips, peeled and sliced (about 4 cups)
3 cups baby spinach
1/3 cup low-fat plain yogurt
2 Tbs. low-fat milk or plain soymilk

Directions:
1. Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until vegetables are softened. Add 6 cups water, vegetable bouillon cubes and parsnips. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, then cover and simmer 20 to 25 minutes, or until parsnips are tender.

2. Increase heat to medium-high, and stir in spinach. Cook 1 minute, or until spinach wilts but is still bright green.

3. Transfer soup in batches to blender or food processor, and purée until soup is smooth. (Or purée soup in pot using an immersion blender.) Season soup to taste with salt and pepper. Return soup to pot, and keep warm. If making soup ahead of time, refrigerate it until an hour before you plan to serve it, then warm soup over medium heat, but do not boil.

4. Just before serving, whisk yogurt and milk in small bowl until smooth. Serve bowls of soup topped with dollops of yogurt mixture.

Creamy Spinach Potage [Vegetarian Times]

Pizza Dough

2008-01-12T11:55:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1(1/4 ounce) package dry yeast
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 cups warm but not hot water
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup semolina or cornmeal
1 tablespoon salt
3 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions
Making the dough by hand:
1. Fill a measuring cup with 1/2 cup of the warm water. Stir in the yeast and sugar. Let the mixture rest until it is foamy, about 5 minutes.

2. Combine the flour, semolina or cornmeal, and salt in large mixing bowl. Stir in the olive oil. Stir in the yeast mixture and then slowly add remaining water until the dough is stiff and sticky. Turn the dough onto lightly floured board and knead until it is smooth, moist, and elastic, about 10 minutes. Transfer to an oil-lined bowl, cover with damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled, 1 to 2 hours.

3. Punch down the dough once or twice and turn it out onto a lightly floured board. Cut it into 6 pieces for individual pizzas. Gently knead each piece into a ball. If baking soon, cover with towel and reserve on board. To store, tightly wrap each piece in plastic and store in the refrigerator for up to a day or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Making the dough with a food processor (for large-size processor):
1. Combine the 1/2 cup of the water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let the mixture rest until it is foamy, about 5 minutes.

2. In a processor fitted with the plastic dough blade, combine the flour, semolina or cornmeal, and salt. Pulse a few times to combine. Add the oil and briefly process.

3. With the machine running, add the yeast mixture through the feed tube. Slowly pour in the remaining water just until the dough clears the sides of the bowl and forms a ball on top of the blade. Process for an additional minute. Remove the dough and knead on a floured board about 1 minute. Follow 'hand' instructions for rising.

Making the pizzas:
1. Preheat the oven to 500°F or heat the grill to medium.

2. On a well floured counter, roll the 6 pieces of dough out with a rolling pin into 6 or 8-inch rounds.

3. If you are grilling the pizzas, grill the pizza rounds until they are golden on both sides.

4. Have everyone put their favorite toppings on their pizza.

5. To finish grilling the pizzas, put them back on the grill and cook with the cover down to warm the toppings for 2 or 3 minutes. Or, bake the pizzas on baking sheets in the oven until the crust is golden brown, about 15 minutes. Cut into slices and serve.

This recipe serves: 6 | Preparation time: 15 minutes

Pizza Dough Recipe: Recipe by Food Fit

Turkish Bulgur Pilaf with Chickpeas

2008-01-12T11:51:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1/2 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
4 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
1 large onion, diced
1 large tomato, peeled, seeded and cut in 1/2 inch cubes
2 teaspoons salt
3 cups water or broth
2 cups medium to coarse bulgur wheat
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley or fresh mint

Cooking Instructions
1. Soak the chickpeas in 1 1/2 cups cold water in the refrigerator overnight. Drain and rinse. Place the chickpeas in a sauce pan with 1 1/2 cups fresh cold water and cook until tender, about 45 minutes. Set aside. (Or, for your convenience, use canned chickpeas.)

2. Heat the olive oil in another saucepan and add the onion. Cook over moderate heat for 7 minutes, then add the tomato and stir for 3 minutes longer.

3. Add the cooked chickpeas, salt and water and bring to a boil. Add the bulgur and stir well. Cover the pan, lower the heat and simmer 20 minutes. If there seems to be too much liquid, drain it from the pot. Season the pilaf with black pepper and cayenne. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 15 minutes or until dry.

This recipe serves: 6 | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes

Turkish Bulgur Pilaf with Chickpeas: Recipe by Food Fit

Tomato Chutney

2008-01-05T12:24:00.001-06:00

Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup diced white onions
4 large tomatoes, diced
3/4 cup dried currants
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup tomato juice
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Cooking Instructions
1. Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and tomatoes and cook until soft, about 3 to 4 minutes.

2. Add the currants, vinegar and juices and cook until reduced by one-third, about 12 to 15 minutes.

3. Add the jalapeño pepper and cook 5 minutes.

4. Add the salt.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes

Todd English's Tomato Chutney Recipe: Recipe by FoodFit

Tortellini with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

2007-12-28T09:49:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
15 ounces chopped, canned tomatoes, undrained
12 ounces frozen cheese tortellini
1/4 cup chopped, fresh basil
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until well browned, about 10 minutes. Add the tomatoes and their juices and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 5 to 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Meanwhile, cook the tortellini until al dente, about 5 minutes. Drain and transfer into a large bowl. Toss with the tomato sauce and basil. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

This recipe serves: 4 | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes

Tortellini with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe: Recipe by FoodFit

Swiss Chard and Caramelized Onion Lasagna

2007-12-12T16:50:00.000-06:00

This lasagna is slightly unconventional, but not so much that traditional lasagna lovers won’t love it.

The caramelized onions have a delicious sweetness that is offset by the robustly flavored chard. 12 Servings.

Ingredient List
* 12 oz. dried or 1 lb. fresh lasagna noodles
* 4 Tbs. olive oil
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 2 bunches (about 3 lbs.) red Swiss chard, stemmed, leaves coarsely chopped and blanched
* 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 4 1/2 cups thinly sliced onions
* 1 tsp. sugar
* 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar
* 3 cups low-fat milk
* 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 1/4 cups plus 2 Tbs. grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese

Directions
1. In large pot of boiling salted water, cook noodles until just tender, about 8 minutes for dried and 1 minute for fresh. Drain and rinse under cold water. Spread noodles on clean kitchen towels and cover with plastic wrap.

2. In large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring often, 30 seconds. Add chard and cook, stirring often, until tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer chard to medium bowl and stir in ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

3. Wipe out skillet, heat remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring, until onions begin to brown all over, about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar and stir. Cook, stirring, until deep amber in color, about 20 minutes more. Remove from heat and splash with vinegar. Set aside.

4. In medium saucepan, heat 2 1/2 cups milk over medium heat until steaming. Meanwhile, put flour in small bowl and whisk in remaining 1/2 cup milk until smooth; whisk into hot milk mixture and whisk constantly until sauce comes to a simmer and thickens. Continue cooking and stirring for 1 minute. Stir in Asiago or Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly oil a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or coat with nonstick cooking spray. Coat bottom of prepared dish with 1/2 cup of sauce. Line bottom with a single layer of noodles. Spread half the chard over the noodles. Add another layer of noodles, arrange caramelized onions on top and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread another 1/2 cup sauce over all. Add another layer of noodles, followed by the remaining chard mixture. Finish with remaining noodles and sauce. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.

6. Lightly oil a large piece of aluminum foil or coat with nonstick cooking spray and use it to tightly cover dish. Bake lasagna for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 to 15 minutes more, or until lightly browned and bubbling. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Swiss Chard and Caramelized Onion Lasagna [Vegetarian Times Issue: December 1, 1998 p.24]

Orzo Salad

2007-11-30T14:15:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
8 ounces orzo
1 cup fresh, chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup pitted, halved olives
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh, chopped parsley
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions
1. Bring 1 gallon of well-salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain well and let cool.

2. Place the orzo in a large bowl. Add the tomatoes, olives, red wine vinegar and olive oil. Mix well. Add the fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This recipe serves: 10
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes

Orzo Salad [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Baked Ziti

2007-11-30T14:07:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1/2 pound ziti pasta
4 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 1/2 cloves garlic, crushed
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
2 cups tomato sauce
1/3 cup fresh, chopped basil
1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
2/3 cup grated, fat-free mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Bring 1/2 gallon of salted water to boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.

3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds more, season with salt and pepper, and brown.

4. Add the tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust the seasoning.

5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the ziti, sauce, basil and ricotta cheese together. Transfer to a casserole dish and sprinkle with the grated cheeses. (This can be made ahead and stored unbaked in the refrigerator up to 2 days, or it can be frozen.)

6. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and brown and the dish is thoroughly heated, about 15 to 20 minutes; bake longer if the dish has been refrigerated.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes

Baked Ziti [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Spinach, Grapefruit and Almond Salad

2007-11-30T14:02:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
For the vinaigrette:
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallots
1/3 cup olive oil
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper

For the salad:
1/2 cup slivered almonds
4 cups spinach, cleaned and torn into bite-size pieces
1 grapefruit, peeled and sectioned

Cooking Instructions
For the vinaigrette:
1. Place all the ingredients in a container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well.
2. Add the salt and pepper to taste.

For the salad:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Place the spinach in a bowl and toss with the vinaigrette.
4. Transfer the dressed spinach leaves to a serving plate. Arrange the grapefruit sections on top and sprinkle with the almonds.

This recipe serves: 6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes

Spinach, Grapefruit and Almond Salad [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Penne with Summer Squash, Zucchini and Sugar Snap Peas

2007-11-30T13:55:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1 pound penne rigate
1 cup Basic ... Stock, or low-sodium canned ... stock
1/2 pound summer squash, seeded and julienned
1/2 pound zucchini, seeded and julienned
1/4 pound sugar snap peas
1/2 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper

Cooking Instructions
1. Bring 1/2 gallon of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, bring the ... stock to a boil in a skillet large enough to hold the vegetables. Add the vegetables to the ... stock and steam, covered for about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. When the vegetables are just tender, add the cooked penne and the olive oil and toss until it is heated through.

4. Divide the pasta and vegetables evenly among 4 warmed plates or bowls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and basil.

5. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Penne with Summer Squash, Zucchini and Sugar Snap Peas [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Rustic Italian Minestrone

2007-11-30T13:26:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
1 16-ounce can chopped tomatoes
5 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, or 1/2 teaspoon dried
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano, or 1/2 teaspoon dried
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, or 1/2 teaspoon dried
1/4 pound fresh green beans, stemmed and cut into 1-inch lengths
1 16-ounce can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
2 medium zucchini, quartered and chopped
1 cup raw, small, shell pasta
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions
1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot and celery and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic, season with salt and pepper and cook for 2 minutes more.

2. Add the tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth and herbs, bring to a boil and turn down to a simmer.

3. Add beans and simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Add the zucchini and pasta and simmer for 10 minutes, or until all of the vegetables are tender and the pasta is al dente. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve the soup in large bowls with a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.

This recipe serves: 8
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Rustic Italian Minestrone Recipe [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Pizza with Mushrooms and Three Colored Peppers

2007-11-30T13:23:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
For the pizza dough:
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon milk
4 teaspoons active dry yeast
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon olive oil, plus extra

For the topping:
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 cup fresh diced tomatoes, or use canned drained tomatoes
4 ounces grated mozzarella cheese
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red pepper, cut into thin strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into rings
1 teaspoon dried oregano or chopped, fresh herbs
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
vinaigrette (optional)

Cooking Instructions
For the pizza dough:
1. Mix the water, milk and yeast together in a large bowl and stir with a wooden spoon.

2. Add the flour, salt and olive oil. Mix together with a wooden spoon until the dough is too thick and sticky to stir.

3. Spread a little flour on a work surface and place the dough on top of the flour. Knead the dough by pulling the dough from the sides and folding it in the middle. Keep kneading until the dough becomes a smooth ball. If it sticks to the table or to your hands, add a little more flour.

4. Rub a clean bowl with the olive oil and put the dough in it. Cover the bowl with a towel and put it in a warm place. Let the dough rise for about 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in volume.

5. Punch the raised dough down with your fist. Turn the dough over, form it into a ball again, cover, and let rise for another hour.

6. Heat the oven to 450°F. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin or use your hands to pat the dough into a circle about 12" to 14" across and 1/4"-thick. Place the dough on an oiled baking sheet.

For the topping:
1. Sprinkle the garlic and spread the olive oil over the rolled dough, then spread the tomatoes on top. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese, leaving the edge of the pizza free. Spray a skillet with non-stick cooking spray and place over medium -high heat. Sauté the peppers and mushrooms for 5 minutes. Place the vegetables on top of the cheese. If desired, drizzle a little vinaigrette on top of the pizza for added flavor.

2. Bake until nicely browned and crispy, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Cut the pizza into 8 slices.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Pizza with Mushrooms and Three Colored Peppers [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Olive Tapenade Bruschetta

2007-11-30T13:21:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
2 tablespoons pitted and finely chopped green or black olives
1 teaspoon capers
3 1/2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
freshly ground black pepper
12 French bread slices
2 cloves garlic

Cooking Instructions
1. Mash the olives, capers, 1/2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil and pepper together.

2. Toast the bread on both sides in a toaster oven, under the broiler or on the grill.

3. While the toasted slices are still warm, rub them with garlic and drizzle them with the remaining olive oil on one side.

4. Put a dab of the olive mixture on each slice of bruschetta.

This recipe makes: 12 pieces
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes

Olive Tapenade Bruschetta Recipe [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Four-Way Onion Soup

2007-11-30T13:18:00.000-06:00

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 large Vidalia onions, or other sweet onions, sliced into 1/4" rounds
1 bunch scallions, white parts only, sliced into rounds
4 large shallots, chopped
2 cups chicken broth or beef broth
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
4 slices French bread, toasted
2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chopped chives

Cooking Instructions
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the onions, scallions and shallots. Cook slowly for a long time stirring occasionally until the onions are golden brown, about 1 hour. If the onions get too dry, add water to keep them from burning.

2. Add the broth and lower the heat to simmer for another 15 minutes.

3. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper.

4. Ladle the soup into 4 deep soup bowls and top with 1 slice of toast and a sprinkle of cheese. Garnish with fresh chives.

This recipe serves: 4
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Four-Way Onion Soup Recipe [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Acorn Squash and Apple Soup Recipe

2007-10-24T13:47:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
2 acorn squash, about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds total
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
2 tart apples, such as Granny Smith, peeled, cored and chopped
salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
2 tablespoons dry sherry or white wine
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
1/4 cup low fat sour cream

Cooking Instructions:
1. Cut the acorn squash in half and microwave until tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes. Let cool.

2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, celery and apples, and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Season lightly with salt and pepper, add the cumin and curry powder and cook for 2 more minutes.

4. Remove the seeds from the squash and discard them. Scoop the squash pulp out of the skin with a spoon and add it to the soup pot along with the sherry or white wine and cook for 2 or 3 minutes more.

5. Puree this mixture in a blender in batches, being careful not to overfill the blender and adding broth as needed. Strain the blended mixture through a colander to remove any remaining fiber or seeds.

6. Reheat the soup and add the remaining broth to adjust the consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Serve the soup in warm bowls with a dollop of sour cream.

This recipe serves: 6 | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes

Acorn Squash and Apple Soup Recipe [Recipe Brought to you by FoodFit]

Matter Paneer Made Simple

2007-10-23T13:01:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
1 large onion, quartered
1 1/2 Tbs. vegetable oil
1/2 tsp. whole brown mustard seeds
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 bay leaf
1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)
1 15-oz. can tomato sauce
2 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. garam masala
1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. paprika
1 10-oz. pkg. frozen peas, thawed
3 Tbs. reduced-fat sour cream
1/4 tsp. sugar
1 8-oz. pkg. paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes

Directions:
1. Purée onion in food processor.

2. Heat oil in pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin and bay leaf. Cook 1 minute, or until fragrant.

3. Add onion and garlic, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned. Stir in tomato sauce, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, salt and paprika. Simmer 10 minutes, or until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally. Add up to 1/2 cup water if sauce is too thick.

4. Stir in peas, sour cream and sugar. Simmer 5 minutes, or until peas are heated through.

5. Fold in paneer, and cook 3 minutes more. Remove bay leaf, and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Vegetarian Times Issue: October 1, 2006 p.70

Sauce Your Pasta the Italian Way

2007-10-23T11:19:00.001-05:00

Swiss chard and white bean minestrone

2007-09-28T12:38:00.000-05:00

Minestrone is a delicious Italian vegetable soup that can be fancy and complex or laid back and unpretentious, like this recipe. The soup is beefed up here by serving ladles of the hot minestrone over thick and garlicky toasted ciabatta to mop up all the goodness. Serves 4.

2 tbs butter
1 onion, chopped
1 small bunch of Swiss chard (about 350g), finely chopped
1l vegetable stock
400g canned cannellini beans, drained but not rinsed and roughly mashed
4 thick slices of ciabatta
2 garlic cloves, halved
extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
finely grated parmesan cheese, to serve
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes to soften. Add the Swiss chard and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Add the stock and beans and gently bring to the boil. Season with sea salt and black pepper.

Toast the ciabatta until golden on both sides. Rub the bread with the cut side of the garlic, then place each one in a serving bowl. Drizzle each piece of bread with olive oil and ladle over the soup. Sprinkle the parmesan on top and serve immediately.

Next time: It's easy to turn this into a satisfying pasta meal. Simply leave out the stock and add 400g cooked pasta shapes to the pan when you add the beans, season well with sea salt and black pepper and stir in some finely grated parmesan cheese for extra flavour.

Swiss chard and white bean minestrone [via Treehugger]

Roasted carrots with barley risotto

2007-09-28T12:35:00.000-05:00

Barley is a wonderful ingredient - it's so earthy and unprocessed and I like to throw it into all sort of things, such as lamb stews and soups. I've used it here to make a dish much like a risotto, but without all the stirring! Despite seeming an odd couple, miso and parmesan do work well together and give the barley an intensely savoury flavour that's perfect with sweet carrots.Serves 4.

2 tbs light olive oil
12 baby carrots, ends trimmed
2 tbs butter
2 sprigs of fresh thyme
2 garlic cloves, unpeeled and cut in half
500ml [vegetable] stock
1 tbs light soy sauce
220g barley
1 tbs butter
3 heaped tbs finely grated parmesan cheese
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Heat the oil in a frying pan until very hot. Add the carrots and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, until golden. If your pan isn't big enough you may need to do this in batches. Add the butter, thyme and garlic to the pan with 125ml water and season with sea salt and black pepper. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning often, until the carrots are tender.

Meanwhile, to make the barley risotto, put the stock and soy sauce in a saucepan with 1 litre water and bring to the boil. Add the barley and cook for 45-50 minutes, stirring often, until the barley is soft but not breaking up. Stir in the butter and parmesan. Serve the carrots on top of the barley.

Next time: The carrots could be served hot on a bed of couscous or, left to cool and tossed in a salad with beetroot, toasted pine nuts and a soft cheese.

Roasted carrots with barley risotto [via Treehugger]

Spicy red vegetable soup

2007-09-28T12:32:00.000-05:00

The colour of this fiery red soup is matched by a pleasing chilli kick, which can be adjusted according to your palate - just add extra chillies as required. Don't be put off by the cooking time - use it as an opportunity to do a few chores. Serves 4

60ml light olive oil
1 tbs soft brown sugar
1 red pepper, chopped
1kg roma or plum tomatoes, quartered
1 red onion
1 large red chilli, deseeded and chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
250ml vegetable... stock
4 slices of rye bread
50g soft goats' cheese

Preheat the oven to 180C (350F) Gas 4. Put the olive oil, sugar, pepper, tomatoes, onion, chilli and garlic in a roasting tin, toss everything together and cook in the preheated oven for 2 hours, stirring often, until the vegetables are really soft and starting to turn brown.

Remove the vegetables from the oven. Put the stock in a saucepan and stir in the vegetables. Spoon the mixture, in batches, into a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Return the soup to a clean saucepan and cook over a low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Toast the rye bread and, while it's still warm, spread on the cheese. Float the toast on the soup to serve.

Ross Dobson on autumnal food | The Observer [via Treehugger]

Carrot and lentil soup

2007-09-28T12:26:00.000-05:00

You'll need to use a variety of lentils here that will soften to a mush when cooked for a short time. French green lentils, or puy, will not work. Orange or red varieties are what's needed and they also help to create the rich autumnal colour. The taste of this soup belies the simplicity of its ingredients. Carrots can be very sweet and lentils are nutty and wholesome, so they make a perfect pair. For a simple twist on this great recipe, try adding a couple of tablespoons of good-quality curry powder to the onions at the early stage of cooking. Serves 4

3 tsp butter
1 red onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, chopped
2 tsp sun-dried tomato purée
500g carrots, grated
250g red lentils, rinsed and drained
1.5l chicken stock
125ml natural yoghurt
a handful of fresh coriander leaves, chopped

Heat the butter in a heavy-based saucepan over high heat. When the butter is sizzling, add the onion and garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often. Add the sun-dried tomato purée and stir-fry for one minute. Add the carrots, lentils and stock to the pan and bring to the boil.

Cook at a rapid simmer for 40 minutes, until the lentils are soft. Spoon the soup, in batches, into a food processor or blender and process until smooth.

Return the soup to a clean saucepan and cook over a low heat for a few minutes, until heated through.Serve with dollops of yoghurt and the coriander sprinkled on top.

Carrot and lentil soup [via Treehugger.com]

Baked Orzo with Zucchini

2007-09-25T10:31:00.000-05:00

This simple dish comes together in minutes and calls for a light soup or tossed green salad and hot Italian bread with olive oil for dunking. It also makes a great buffet party dish, as it can feed a group when served with other fare. Serves 6.

Ingredients:
2 cups dried tri-colored or plain orzo
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 tsps. minced garlic
1 large leek, thinly sliced
2 zucchini, thinly sliced
1 cup chunky marinara sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded, low-fat mozzarella
Pizza or Italian spice mix to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400ºF. Lightly oil heatproof baking dish.

2. Heat water in covered saucepan. When at a rapid boil, cook orzo until almost tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, heat oil in skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic, leeks, and zucchini slices for about 10 minutes, stirring often.

4. Drain orzo and place in baking dish. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, and pepper and spice mix. Top with half the cheese.

5. Arrange zucchini and leek slices on top of orzo, and top with remaining mozzarella. Bake for 15 minutes, or until mozzarella melts. During last 5 minutes, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Baked Orzo with Zucchini

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers

2007-09-18T08:30:00.000-05:00

Stuffed peppers are a show-stopping, tried-and-true dinner classic. In this version, pomegranate juice and dried figs give it a Mediterranean feel.

Ingredients:
4 large yellow or red bell peppers
3/4 cup pomegranate or cranberry juice
1/2 cup dried figs, stemmed and chopped
1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
1 cup diced yellow squash
1/2 cup nonfat feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400ºF.

2. Cut tops off peppers to use as lids. Scrape out seeds and ribs with knife. Combine pomegranate juice and figs in large saucepan, and cook over medium heat 7 to 10 minutes, or until figs soften and juice reduces and becomes syrupy. Remove from heat, and stir in rice, squash, feta cheese and walnuts. Fill peppers with mixture, and set in 9x13-inch baking pan. Place tops on peppers. Add 1/2 inch water to pan, and cover with foil.

3. Bake 30 to 40 minutes, or until peppers are tender with slightly wrinkled skins and filling is hot.

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers [Vegetarian Times Issue: September 1, 2005 p.87]

No-Cook Cannellini Salad with Pesto Dressing

2007-09-10T10:10:00.000-05:00

In this recipe, the pesto is tossed with white beans to create an elegant salad in a flash. Serves 4.

2 19-oz. cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
3 cups shredded red cabbage
2/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
2 to 3 Tbs. prepared basil pesto
1 Tbs. chopped capers

Directions: Combine all ingredients in large bowl. Let stand 15 to 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve at room temperature.

No-Cook Cannellini Salad with Pesto Dressing [Vegetarian Times]

Smoky Penne with Corn and Cherry Tomatoes

2007-09-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

Most people associate goat cheese with French cuisine, but it plays a big role in Mexican cooking, too. Chipotle chiles are smoked jalapeños that can be found dried or canned in adobo sauce. Serves 4.

Ingredient List
* 12 oz. penne pasta
* 1 dried chipotle chile, soaked in hot water 10 minutes, or 1 chile from 4-oz. can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
* 2 Tbs. olive oil, divided
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp.)
* 1 4-oz. log goat cheese, plus more for crumbling and sprinkling, if desired
* 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
* 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
* 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels

Directions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, remove seeds from chipotle chile and finely chop. Heat 1 Tbs. oil in skillet over medium-low heat. Add chile and garlic, and sauté 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in goat cheese and 1/3 cup water, and cook 2 to 3 minutes, or until smooth sauce forms, stirring constantly. Simmer 2 minutes more, then remove from heat and add cilantro and remaining 1 Tbs. olive oil.

3. Drain pasta, and return to pot. Add tomatoes, corn and cheese sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and transfer to warm serving bowl. Toss in extra goat cheese crumbles, if desired.

Vegetarian Times Issue: September 1, 2006 p.71

Roasted Garlic Pasta

2007-08-31T13:46:00.000-05:00

To roast slice off just the very top of the head of garlic so that you can see the tip of the flesh of the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and roast at 350 F for about 15-20 minutes or until soft. When it has cooled break open the skin of each clove and the garlic should just pop out. You can keep the roasted garlic in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Serves 2.

1 head roasted garlic
1/2 - 3/4 cup cream
1/2 cup fresh thyme (or whatever) chopped
salt and pepper to taste
pasta for 2
parmesan cheese to taste

1. In a small pot mash the roasted garlic to a paste.
2 Add cream, thyme, salt and pepper and stir until slightly thickened
3. In a separate pot cook pasta in abundant boiling water until al dente.
4. Pour the sauce over the pasta and serve immediately

Roasted Garlic Pasta: From Hugh Alter, via Nigel Slater

Fava Bean Cakes with Diced Red Peppers and Yogurt

2007-08-14T16:53:00.000-05:00

This simple main course pairs favorite Mediterranean flavors and ingredients. It comes together quickly and suits family tastes, yet looks dramatic enough to impress VIPs. Serves4.

Ingredients:
2 cups canned fava beans, drained and rinsed
1 large egg [or substitute]
1 onion, peeled and diced
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 Tbs. olive oil, plus extra oil for frying
1 Tbs. fresh lemon juice
3 Tbs. all-purpose flour
2 Tbs. chopped Italian parsley
1 ½ cups plain low-fat or regular yogurt, for garnish
1 red pepper, seeded and diced, for garnish

Directions:
1. Combine fava beans, egg, onion, garlic, 1 Tbs. olive oil, lemon juice, flour, and 1 Tbs. parsley in food processor. Process until coarsely chopped and well combined.

2. Heat 2 to 3 Tbs. oil in large skillet over medium heat. When hot, scoop 1/4 cup bean mixture into oil and repeat until skillet is full. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on one side, and when firm and slightly brown, turn over to cook other side. Carefully remove from skillet and place on plates. Repeat with remaining bean mixture until mixture is used up.

3. To serve, spoon generous scoops yogurt over each serving and sprinkle with parsley and diced red pepper. Serve immediately.

Fava Bean Cakes with Diced Red Peppers and Yogurt [Recipe of the day: Vegetarian Times]

Soba Noodle Salad

2007-08-10T11:10:00.000-05:00

Dressing
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 1/2 tsp chili oil or chili flakes
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp chili flakes
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 cup water
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp corn starch or arrowroot powder
juice of 2 limes
2 tbsp cilantro, minced

Salad
1 lb soba noodles
2 tbsp hijiki seaweed, soaked and cut into small pieces or seaweed flakes, unsoaked
4 scallions, minced
1 carrot, shredded
1 sweet red pepper, julienned
1/2 English cucumber
2 avocado, cubed
1/4 cup roasted cashews

1. Heat oils in pot over medium heat. Add garlic and chili and saute briefly being careful not to let them burn. Stir in vinegar, soy sauce and water and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer and add honey, stirring to dissolve. Mix corn starch and a couple of tablespoons of water and whisk into simmering liquid. Continue to simmer for about 5 minutes. When the mixture has thickened slightly, remove from heat and cool. Stir in lime juice and cilantro and set aside.

2. Meanwhile cook noodles according to the package. Drain and rinse in cold, running water. Remove excess water. Lightly toss with sesame oil. Refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Before serving combine chilled noodles with prepared vegetables except avocado. Coat liberally with dressing and toss well. Garnish with avocado and cashews. Serve immediately.

From Sarah Bonsall and Robert Oullette of Reading Toronto [via TreeHugger].

Swiss Chard

2007-08-09T14:40:00.000-05:00

[Chard] has a more delicate taste than spinach and it holds it's shape and colour better in the cooking. You can find regular swiss chard which has a bright red stem or rainbow chard which has red and orange stems.

If you have young chard, by all means cook the stems as well. If the plant is a bit older and the stems are large they can be a bit woody so you should trim them off. With this recipe you can come home from work and have a simple, delicious dinner on the table in less than half an hour.

Ingredients:
1 bunch swiss chard, carefully washed and roughly chopped
2 cloves of garlic - mashed, chopped or minced - this is entirely to your taste
olive oil
1 can beans, drained and rinsed - use navy, black beans or white kidney beans, also your choice
crusty bread
sea salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Heat oil in pan. Saute garlic until golden. Add chard the saute over medium heat until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add beans and heat through.
3. Toast a couple of slices of bread - if you want, rub a clove of garlic over the toast. Pour the chard and beans on the toast and add salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Of course, you can always soak dry beans over night and then cook them and add to this recipe, but that implies forethought. This is really about getting something nutritious and delicious to the table quickly when you are tired and hungry and are tempted to order take-out. If you can't find chard you can substitute spinach and cook it for less time or kale and cook it for closer to 20 minutes.

Swiss Chard

Zucchini, Mushroom and Taleggio Tart

2007-07-31T13:16:00.000-05:00

Try making this light appetizer with the wild mushrooms that are gaining popularity at farmers’ markets around the country. If you can’t find Taleggio cheese, use a soft goat cheese instead. Serves 8.

Ingredients:
* 2 Tbs. olive oil
* 1 lb. zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch rounds (about 3 cups)
* 10 oz. mushrooms, sliced (about 2 1/2 cups)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp.)
* 1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
* 2 Tbs. Madeira wine
* 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed (1/2 17.3-oz. pkg.)
* 3 oz. Taleggio cheese, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Heat 1 Tbs. oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of zucchini and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Transfer to paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat with remaining zucchini. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

2. Add remaining olive oil to skillet. Sauté mushrooms 7 to 10 minutes, or until browned and liquid has evaporated. Stir in garlic and thyme, and cook 1 minute. Add Madeira, and sauté 1 minute more, or until liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat.

3. Place puff pastry on prepared baking sheet. Prick dough all over with fork, leaving 1/2-inch border on all sides. Spread mushrooms over pastry inside border. Lay zucchini and cheese over mushrooms. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and cheese has melted. Let stand 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Zucchini, Mushroom and Taleggio Tart

Rustic Plum Tart

2007-07-25T16:18:00.000-05:00

Take advantage of another fruit in peak season: Substitute unpeeled nectarines for the plums. Serves 10.

Filling
1⁄4 cup chopped walnuts
2 lbs. ripe plums
1⁄4 cup unbleached flour
1⁄2 cup sugar
3 Tbs. red currant jelly

Pastry crust
1 1⁄2 cups unbleached flour
2 Tbs. sugar
1⁄2 tsp. salt
1⁄3 cup walnut oil
3 to 6 Tbs. ice water

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 425F. Lightly coat baking sheet with cooking spray.

2. To make Pastry Crust: In medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Using fork, slowly stir oil into flour until mixture is crumbly. Stir in enough ice water so dough will hold together. Press dough into flattened disk.

3. Roll dough between sheets of wax paper into rough circle, 14 to 15 inches in diameter and approximately 1⁄16 inch thick, patching where necessary. Remove top sheet and invert dough onto prepared baking sheet. Cover and refrigerate while preparing filling.

4. To make Filling: Spread nuts in pie pan and toast in oven until lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Let cool.

5. Meanwhile, quarter plums, discarding pits. In food processor, combine walnuts, flour and 1⁄4 cup sugar. Process until finely ground.

6. Spread flour-nut mixture over pastry, leaving 11⁄2-inch border around edge. Arrange plums, resting on their sides, in concentric circles, over nut mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1⁄4 cup sugar. Fold pastry border over plums.

7. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 375F and bake until crust is golden and juices are bubbling, 30 to 40 minutes.

8. Using long spatula, loosen warm tart from baking sheet and slide onto serving platter. Let cool.

9. Heat jelly in small saucepan over low heat until melted, then brush sauce over plums before serving.

Rustic Plum Tart [Vegetarian Times]

Rice Noodle Salad with Pineapple Dressing

2007-07-17T13:17:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
7 oz. thin rice noodles
2 tsp. vegetable oil
1 cup finely diced red bell pepper (1 small)
1 cup grated carrots (about 2)
1⁄2 cup chopped cilantro
1⁄2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
1 medium head Boston lettuce, leaves separated
1 lime, sliced in half moons, for garnish

Dressing:
1 cup pineapple juice
1⁄2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1⁄3 cup coarsely chopped fresh ginger
1⁄4 cup rice vinegar
2 Tbs. vegetable oil
3 to 4 tsp. vegetarian Thai green curry paste
2 tsp. brown sugar
6 medium cloves garlic, minced

This delicate and refreshing salad is guaranteed to perk you up on a hot summer’s day. The generous amount of fresh-tasting, tangy dressing is enough to moisten the salad and pass the remainder as a dipping sauce. You could also serve rice paper wrappers alongside and use the noodle salad and lettuce as a filling for spring rolls. Dip rice paper wrappers in warm water 10 to 20 seconds to soften before filling.

Directions:
1. Bring large pot of water to a boil.

2. Make dressing: In blender or food processor, combine all dressing ingredients; process until well blended. Set aside. (Dressing can be made up to 4 days ahead and refrigerated.)

3. Put noodles into large bowl. Pour boiling water over noodles and stir to immerse and separate strands. Let soak 5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Drain again, shaking colander. Return noodles to bowl, drizzle with oil and toss to coat.

4. Add bell pepper, carrots, scallions, 1⁄4 cup cilantro and 1⁄4 cup mint to noodles in bowl. Add half of the reserved dressing and toss to coat. Line platter or shallow serving bowl with lettuce leaves; top with noodle salad. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro and mint and garnish with lime. Serve, passing remaining dressing separately.

Rice Noodle Salad with Pineapple Dressing [via Vegetarian Times]

Almost Totally Tomatoes

2007-07-05T10:03:00.000-05:00

This showy main-course pasta salad gets its visual impact from a mix and match of tomato shapes and colors. Serve with grilled or toasted Italian focaccia drizzled with olive oil. Serves 4.

1 9-oz. pkg. fresh fettuccine, preferably spinach
1 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. lemon juice
2 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for sprinkling
2 Tbs. chopped oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
2 tomatillos, thinly sliced
1 plum tomato, diced
1 heirloom tomato, cubed
1 cup grape tomatoes
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup pear tomatoes
Sun-dried tomato vinaigrette as desired
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water and drain again. Put into large bowl, and toss with oil, lemon juice, 2 Tbs. Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.

2. Combine tomatillos and all fresh tomatoes in large mixing bowl, and toss with vinaigrette. Arrange pasta in individual bowls, top with tomatoes, and sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and remaining Parmesan cheese. Serve.

PER SERVING: 310 CAL; 12 G PROT; 9 G TOTAL FAT (2 SAT. FAT); 48 G CARB.; 45 MG CHOL; 60 MG SOD.; 4 G FIBER; 3 G SUGARS

Almost Totally Tomatoes [via Vegetarian Times]

Grilled Sweet Potato Salad

2007-06-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Grilled sweet potatoes require close attention�but the results are worth it. Slice them too thick, and they won�t cook through; slice them too thin, and they�ll char quickly. So slice carefully, and keep an eye on the grill. Serves 4.

Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette
1 tsp. grated or minced lime zest
3 Tbs. fresh lime juice
1 Tbs. white wine vinegar
2 Tbs. chopped cilantro
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Sweet Potatoes
2 lb. sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced 3/8-inch thick
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 scallions, white and tender green parts, sliced
3 Tbs. orange, mango or pineapple juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare medium-low charcoal fire, or preheat gas grill (or broiler).

2. To make Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette: Combine lime zest, juice and vinegar in large bowl. Whisk in oil until completely blended. Stir in cilantro, garlic and salt.

3. To make Sweet Potatoes: Add potato slices to vinaigrette, and let marinate a few minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer potato slices to grill. Turn occasionally, basting with remaining vinaigrette, and cook until tender when pierced with fork, 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Return grilled potatoes to vinaigrette. Add red pepper, scallions, juice, salt and pepper; toss gently. Serve immediately.

Grilled Sweet Potato Salad [Vegetarian Times]

Cool Cucumber Sauce

2007-06-20T09:06:00.000-05:00

This salsa-like condiment is the perfect topping for the Spicy Peanut Stew.

1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts
1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded and diced (about 1/2 cup)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 jalapeño pepper, stemmed, seeded and minced, optional
2 Tbs. lime juice
1 Tbs. grated fresh ginger
1/2 tsp. salt

1. Toss together all ingredients in small bowl. Serve with Spicy Peanut Stew.

PER TABLESPOON: 19 CAL; 1G PROT; 1.5G TOTAL FAT (0G SAT. FAT); 1G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 49MG SOD; 1G FIBER; 1G SUGARS

Vegetarian Times: Cool Cucumber Sauce

Spicy Peanut Stew

2007-06-20T09:03:00.000-05:00

The basis of all African meals is a soupy stew served with a starch,” explains Jessica B. Harris, culinary historian and author of The Africa Cookbook: Tastes of a Continent. This West African version gets its distinctive taste from creamy peanut butter and chile-laced chopped tomatoes.

2 Tbs. olive oil
1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
1 celery stalk, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
1 Tbs. grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tsp.)
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks (about 2 cups)
1 14.5-oz. can diced tomatoes with chiles
1 lb. butternut or acorn squash, cut into 1-inch chunks (about 3 cups)
1/2 lb. cauliflower florets (about 4 cups)
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
6 cups cooked brown rice
1 head watercress, stems removed

1. Heat oil in large pot over medium low heat. Add onion and celery, and cook 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent, stirring occasionally. Stir in ginger and garlic, and cook 5 minutes more, or until vegetables are soft.

2. Add potato and tomatoes. Increase heat to medium, and cook 5 minutes, or until sauce is thickened, stirring occasionally.

3. Stir in 2 cups water, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer partially covered, 10 minutes. Add squash and cauliflower, and cook 15 minutes more, or until vegetables are tender.

4. Whisk together peanut butter and 1/2 cup warm water in small bowl. Add to stew, and cook 4 minutes, or until thickened, stirring constantly. Spoon over rice, and top with watercress.

PER SERVING: 204 CAL; 6G PROT; 10.5G TOTAL FAT (2G SAT. FAT); 25G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 768MG SOD; 6G FIBER; 7G SUGARS

Vegetarian Times: Spicy Peanut Stew

Cheese Ravioli with Grape Tomatoes

2007-06-12T15:48:00.000-05:00

A cheerful pasta dish, this entrée builds on several basic ingredients for a quick-cook meal. Serve with a tossed green salad, brownies or blondies and fruit juice. Serves 4.

9 oz. fresh cheese-filled ravioli
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 bunch spinach, rinsed and stemmed
2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes
1 Tbs. onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 Tbs. grated Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil over medium-high heat, and add ravioli. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until ravioli float to surface and are tender. Remove from heat, drain, and set aside.
2. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat, and add spinach, tomatoes, onion powder, salt and pepper, and sauté 5 to 7 minutes, or until spinach and tomatoes wilt. Stir in ravioli, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes more. Remove from heat.
3. To serve, spoon equal portions onto individual plates, and sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese.

PER SERVING: 270 Calories, 12g Protein, 13g Total Fat (4G Saturated Fat), 28g, Carbohydrates, 30mg Cholesterol, 260mg Sodium, 5g Fiber, 4g Sugars

Cheese Ravioli with Grape Tomatoes

Couscous with Asparagus, Snow Peas and Radishes

2007-06-12T15:46:00.000-05:00

Feel free to substitute different vegetables as they come into season throughout the summer.

1/2 lb. asparagus, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds (about 1 3/4 cups)
1/4 lb. snow peas, sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch strips (about 1 cup)
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
3 2-inch strips lemon zest
1 10-oz. pkg. couscous
3 radishes, thinly sliced (about 1/3 cup)
3 Tbs. lemon juice
2 Tbs. chopped chives
2 Tbs. chopped parsley
1 Tbs. chopped mint

1. Cook asparagus and snow peas in large pot of boiling salted water 2 to 3 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.

2. Bring broth and lemon zest to a boil in large pot. Put couscous in bowl, and stir in broth. Cover, and let stand 10 minutes. Discard lemon zest.

3. Fluff couscous with fork, and stir in asparagus, snow peas, radishes, lemon juice, chives, parsley and mint. Season with salt and pepper.

Serves 6, 30 minutes or fewer
PER SERVING: 203 CAL; 7G PROT; 0.5G TOTAL FAT (0G SAT. FAT); 42G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 237MG SOD; 4G FIBER; 2G SUGARS

Couscous with Asparagus, Snow Peas and Radishes

Carrot and Coriander Soup

2007-06-08T10:45:00.000-05:00

1 tbsp oil
2 onions, chopped
3 tbsp ground coriander
2 tbsp marjoram
6 cloves of garlic, minced
3 large carrots, chopped
1 sweet potato, chopped
8 cups vegetable stock
1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1. Heat oil in pot and saute onions until soft, about 5 minutes
2. Add coriander, marjoram and garlic and stir for about a minute.
3. Add carrots. sweet potato and stock. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until carrots and potato are tender, about 30 minutes.
4. Add cilantro, salt and cayenne pepper.
5. Puree using an immersion blender, or in batches in a food processor. [Serves 4]

TreeHugger Recipe of the Week: Carrot and Coriander Soup

Green Coconut Curry

2007-06-06T11:15:00.000-05:00

Prepared Thai curry paste is available in the Asian section of most supermarkets. If you can’t find green, feel free to use red or yellow. Since the paste is quite spicy, taste a little before you add it and use more or less as preferred. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and cilantro if desired.

1 cup reduced-fat coconut milk
1 tsp. green curry paste
1 1/2 lb. frozen mixed Asian vegetables (mixes with peas are good here)
2 Tbs. teriyaki sauce
4 cups cooked brown rice

1. Combine coconut milk and curry paste in wok or large saucepan over medium heat, and bring to a boil. Stir in frozen vegetables. Simmer over medium heat 10 minutes. Stir in teriyaki sauce, and serve over rice.

PER SERVING: 376 CAL; 10G PROT; 7.5G TOTAL FAT (3G SAT. FAT); 66G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 889MG SOD; 6G FIBER; 8G SUGARS

Serves 4 - Vegan - 30 minutes or fewer
Green Coconut Curry

Penne with Butternut Squash and Pesto

2007-06-06T11:13:00.000-05:00

Cubed butternut squash is a recent addition to most frozen food sections—and a welcome one since it eliminates all the peeling, scraping and slicing that go with fresh squash. (Fresh butternut squash will also work, though.)

1/4 cup prepared pesto, divided
1 cup chopped frozen onions
1 1/4 lb. frozen diced butternut squash, about 4 cups
2/3 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
3/4 lb. whole-wheat penne

1. Heat 1 Tbs. pesto in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onion, and sauté 6 minutes, or until softened. Stir in squash and broth. Cover, and cook over medium low 10 minutes, or until squash is tender, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, and divide among 4 bowls. Swirl remaining 1 Tbs. pesto into sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Spoon sauce over pasta, and use remaining pesto to garnish each serving.

PER SERVING: 489 CAL; 16G PROT; 9.5G TOTAL FAT (2G SAT. FAT); 87G CARB; 5MG CHOL; 332MG SOD; 10G FIBER; 7G SUGARS

Serves 4 - 30 minutes or fewer
Penne with Butternut Squash and Pesto

Greek Zucchini Salad with Crumbled Feta

2007-06-06T11:09:00.000-05:00

Fresh mint, feta cheese and zucchini are a favorite summer salad combination in small tavernas throughout the Greek Isles. For a more colorful salad, use one zucchini and one yellow squash. Serves 6.

3 Tbs. lemon juice
2 tsp. grated lemon zest
1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)
1/3 cup olive oil
2 medium zucchini, peeled into thin ribbons (about 4 cups)
1 medium sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 green onions, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
1 Tbs. chopped fresh mint
1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley

1. Whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest and garlic in large serving bowl. Gradually whisk in oil. Season with salt and pepper. Add zucchini and onion, and toss to coat. Cover and marinate overnight, or up to 2 days. Sprinkle with feta, green onions, mint and parsley just before serving.

PER SERVING: 149 CAL; 3G PROT; 12G TOTAL FAT (3G SAT. FAT); 9G CARB; 11MG CHOL; 252MG SOD; 2G FIBER; 5G SUGARS

Greek Zucchini Salad with Crumbled Feta: from the May-June '07 issue of Vegetarian Times

Orzo Casserole

2007-05-18T09:50:00.000-05:00

The small, rice-shaped pasta known as orzo is very versatile. Cubed eggplant cooks quickly and with the accompanying sauce and cheese, contributes to the heartiness of this entrée. Offer a bean soup or an Italian-style minestrone to start, and serve Italian ice for dessert (Serves 8).

2 cups uncooked orzo
1 eggplant (about 1 lb.), unpeeled
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 cups primavera-style spaghetti sauce
1 Tbs. garlic
1 large tomato, cubed
Red pepper flakes to taste, optional
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
3 cups shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese
3 Tbs. Parmesan cheese for garnish, optional

1. Preheat oven to 450F. Spray 2- to 3-quart ovenproof baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Bring pot of lightly salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook orzo according to package directions. When just tender, drain, rinse and drain again. Set aside.

3. Cube eggplant. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add eggplant, and sauté for about 5 minutes. Add 1 cup sauce, garlic, tomato, red pepper flakes (if using) and salt and pepper. Continue cooking 4 to 5 minutes more.

4. Meanwhile, scoop half orzo into baking dish. Layer eggplant on orzo. Sprinkle eggplant with 2 cups mozzarella cheese. Layer remaining orzo on cheese. Spread remaining cheese and 1 cup sauce on orzo.

5. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until cheese melts and bubbles. Remove from oven, and sprinkle with Parmesan (if using). Serve hot.

PER SERVING: 380 Calories, 18g Protein, 15g Total Fat (5G Saturated Fat), 42g Carbohydrates, 25mg Cholesterol, 450mg Sodium, 5g Fiber, 8g Sugars.

Orzo Casserole: Vegetarian Times (Daily Recipe - May 15, 2007 )

Arugula Salad with Figs And Walnuts

2007-05-16T09:20:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
4 cups loosely packed arugula leaves
2 cups quartered fresh figs
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons walnuts
4 teaspoons raspberry vinegar
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Method:
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and gently toss.

Arugula Salad with Figs And Walnuts

Wilted Beet Greens with Baby Red Potatoes

2007-05-16T09:19:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
1/2 pound small red potatoes
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 bunch beet greens, tough stems discarded and remainder washed well and dried

Method:
In a medium saucepan bring potatoes with salted water to a boil and simmer 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain potatoes in a colander, let cool, and cut each potato in half. In a heavy skillet, heat butter and oil over moderate heat and cook potatoes, cut sides down, until golden, about 5 minutes. Loosen potatoes from bottom of skillet. Add garlic and cook, stirring, until garlic is pale golden. Add greens and cook, covered, 3 minutes, or until greens are wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir until combined well.

Wilted Beet Greens with Baby Red Potatoes

Miso Soup with Baby White Turnips, Snap Peas and Scallions

2007-05-16T09:18:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
4 cups water
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 cup kombu
1 small onion, diced 1/4'
1 clove garlic, diced
1 bunch Japanese turnips, sliced thinly 1/4'
1/2 cup snow peas
2-3 tablespoons miso
2 scallions, sliced thinly

Method:
Heat oil in bottom of small pot, add onion, garlic, and kombu and cook for about a minute stirring frequently. Add water and bring to a boil over a high flame. Add turnips and cover. Reduce heat to low and simmer twenty minutes. Drop snowpeas into soup and simmer three to four more minutes. Turn off heat and dissolve miso in 1/2 cup water and add to pot. DO NOT BOIL again once miso has been added. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.

Miso Soup with Baby White Turnips, Snap Peas and Scallions

Three Onion-Asparagus Soup

2007-05-14T19:04:00.000-05:00

Serve this delicate soup hot or chilled, in large bowls for a luncheon entrée or in soup cups or mugs as a first course (Serves 4).

2 Tbs. butter
4 scallions, trimmed and chopped
1 large leek, white part only, well washed and chopped
1 lb. asparagus, trimmed and chopped
1/2 lb. potatoes (1 large), peeled and cubed
4 cups vegetable stock
Salt to taste
1 Tbs. lemon juice
1/3 cup crème fraîche, sour cream or plain yogurt
12 to 16 chives, sliced
4 radishes, thinly sliced

1. Melt butter in large pot over medium heat. Stir in scallions and leek, and cook about 8 minutes, until very soft, stirring often. Add asparagus, potatoes and stock, and increase heat to high. When soup reaches a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 20 minutes.

2. Remove from heat, and let cool for about 5 minutes. Purée soup in batches in food processor or blender until very smooth. Return soup to clean soup pot.

3. To serve, reheat soup to a simmer just before ladling, and season to taste with salt and lemon juice. Ladle soup into bowls, and top with dollop of crème fraîche and sprinkle of chives and radishes.

PER SERVING:200 Calories, 5g Protein, 11g Total Fat (6G Saturated Fat,)24g Carbohydrates, 25mg Cholesterol, 550mg Sodium, 4g Fiber, 7g Sugars

Tofu-Carrot Cacciatore

2007-05-14T19:03:00.000-05:00

Tomatoes and carrots grow better when planted side-by-side in the garden—and they taste great together too (Serves 6).

2 Tbs. olive oil
2 medium-size onions, coarsely chopped (about 2 cups)
1 large green pepper, cut into 1 1⁄2-inch strips
3 large cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)
1 28-oz. can diced tomatoes
2 8-oz. bags baby carrots, halved diagonally
1 8-oz. pkg. Italian-flavored baked tofu, cut into cubes
1 Tbs. rubbed dried sage
1 bay leaf
12 oz. linguine or other pasta

1. Heat olive oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onions and pepper, and cook 5 to 7 minutes, or until softened, stirring often. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more, or until fragrant.

2. Stir in tomatoes, carrots, tofu, sage and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Cover, reduce heat to medium low and simmer about 1 hour, or until carrots are tender. Remove bay leaf.

3. After cacciatore has simmered about 45 minutes, cook pasta according to package directions. Serve cacciatore over pasta.

PER SERVING: 211 CAL; 12G PROT; 8.5G TOTAL FAT (1G SAT. FAT); 216G CARB; 0MG CHOL; 512MG SOD; 5G FIBER; 11G SUGARS

Vegetarian Times: Recipe from May-June '06 issue

Italian-Style Roasted Vegetables

2007-04-24T12:15:00.000-05:00

This version is dressed with Italian seasonings. Select at least four different vegetables, or follow the combination below. To speed preparation, parboil the harder, longer-cooking vegetables, such as sweet potatoes and potatoes, before roasting them. Serves 4 to 6

Roasted Vegetables
2 potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks or cut in half lengthwise and sliced crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick semicircles
2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks or sliced as above
2 carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks or cut on diagonal
1 large onion, cut into wedges
1 medium-sized zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks or cut on diagonal into 1/2-inch-thick slices
2 bell peppers, cut into 1-inch chunks

Italian Dressing
4 tsp. olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
6 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
3 Tbs. minced fresh rosemary
1 Tbs. minced fresh oregano
1 tsp. salt

To make Roasted Vegetables: Preheat oven to 425F.
Parboil potatoes, sweet potatoes and carrots in boiling water to cover for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, and drain well. In large bowl, combine parboiled vegetables with onions, zucchini and bell peppers.
To make Italian Dressing: Place ingredients in bowl, and whisk together or purée in blender.
Toss vegetables with dressing, and place in single layer on large unoiled baking tray.
Bake vegetables, stirring every 15 minutes, until tender, about 45 minutes.

PER SERVING: 180 Calories, 4g Protein, 3g Total Fat, 35g Carbohydrates, 410mg Sodium, 4g Fiber, 11g Sugars.

Italian-Style Roasted Vegetables (Recipe of the day: April 24, 2007)