This delicious and nutritious dip was inspired by the bounty of beautiful seasonal zucchini. A quick, and simple take on ‘hummus’ that can be enjoyed with veggies as a snack, or as a spread on sandwiches or toast – providing plenty of flavour and nutrition. Feel free to use any varieties of zucchini you can find at the market – or are growing at home!
A different take on the classic energy bar I typically make, featuring mineral-rich dried figs instead of dates! This recipe also includes pomegranate molasses – adding a bright, slightly tart note. Delicious and nutritionally-balanced, these bars offer whole (unprocessed) plant-based protein from the almonds, and omega-fat rich walnuts. Composed of a few nourishing ingredients, enjoy […]
I used a high-powered Vitamix (for extra creaminess!) but if you don’t have one – opt for a food processor, and scrape down the sides as you mix. Top your edamame hummus with toasted sesame seeds or za’atar (Middle-eastern thyme/sesame spice)! While regular chickpea hummus is always delicious and nutritious, this edamame rendition is a […]
This nutritionally balanced and complete recipe offers fiber-rich carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and heart-healthy unsaturated fats. These bars serve as a sweet snack, pre or post-workout bite, or healthy dessert! Making our own nourishing and delicious bars, using whole (unprocessed) ingredients, is a simple, and healthy choice compared to store-bought bars – which are often high […]
My whole food plant-based version of smoked salmon and cream cheese, featuring carrots and silken tofu! This light and tasty healthy snack, or appetizer provides a balance of fiber-rich complex carbohydrates, plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is also simple and easy to prepare! The shaved carrot ‘lox’ requires a quick marinade, using hickory liquid smoke, fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper. This mixture tenderizes the root vegetable, and provides a smoky, briny flavor. The soft silken tofu is blended in a food processor with ‘cheesy’ nutritional-yeast, and umami-rich white miso – offering a smooth and savory schmear. Mary’s crackers serves as the base of this recipe, made from a handful of wholesome, nutritious ingredients – this is one of the few packaged products I recommend. However, one can also use another whole grain, unrefined cracker or bread instead. Classically paired with ‘smoked salmon’, the fresh dill is an important component to this recipe (not just garnish), as it brightens the dish and brings all the flavors together!
These delicious and nutritious cookies are made from whole unrefined ingredients, with no added processed sugars, oils, flours or animal products. The rolled oats and peanuts provide plant-based protein, fiber-rich complex carbs, and good fats – for steady energy. Instead of using processed sweeteners, I used whole dates and a little maple syrup – both optimally healthy options. Creating your own ‘flour’ using whole rolled oats and peanuts, offers more nutrition, and results in a lower-glyemic dessert. No need for added oils in this recipe! just natural peanut butter, which is packed with nutrients and rich flavor. While these cookies are meant to be enjoyed as a special dessert, these cookies ARE healthy enough to have for breakfast or as a snack. They may taste indulgent, but they are much healthier than any store-bought cookies!
These whole food, plant-based delicious donuts (or muffins) are composed of only real, nutritious ingredients – with no added sugars or oils. They are packed with fiber-rich complex carbohydrates – offering steady energy! The applesauce acts as an oil replacer, making it a low fat recipe. The applesauce and carrots also add natural sweetness, so you don’t have to use much maple syrup – a minimally processed, lower glycemic option. The tahini and hemp seeds are a source of protein, minerals, and Omega 3’s. The whole family will enjoy these satisfying, healthy baked goods for breakfast, snack, or dessert! Also a nutrient-dense pre-workout option, instead of processed granola bars for example.
These sweet/salty, chewy/crunchy seed bars are a delicious and nutritious whole food, plant-based snack! Offering a full spectrum of amino acids/protein, unprocessed energy/carbs from the dates, plenty of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. A great back-to-school item for kids attending nut-free schools and otherwise. A healthier option compared to the packaged store-bought bars, made with processed sugars, refined oils, and preservatives. These DIY bars are made from just a handful of real, nutrient-dense ingredients. Quick and simple to make, this recipe requires no baking, just the use of a handy food processor – my go-to kitchen tool!
This is one of my weekly staple meals, and a recipe idea I typically suggest to my clients – as they transition towards a whole food, plant-based diet. Making a big platter of roasted vegetables and sauce to enjoy throughout the work-week, is one of the ways I encourage people to make healthily eating more efficient. Washing and chopping vegetables takes time and energy, so you may as well do it in bulk! This allows you to quickly assemble a healthy, delicious, plant-based meal – without having to start from scratch each day. Choose any combination of vegetables you enjoy, and try to purchase as much seasonal, local produce as possible.
This spring pea spread or dip is a delicious and nutritious alternative to hummus. Protein and fiber-packed green peas are more easily digested than chickpeas, which makes this recipe appropriate for those with digestive issues. Given their inherent sweetness, kids love green peas too! You can make bean dip/hummus out of any legume, and often I encourage my clients to experiment with different beans, lentils, and peas – to get a wider spectrum of nutrients, and prevent sensitivity developing from over-consuming one type of food (chickpeas!). Customize your legume dips with any fresh herbs, spices, citrus zest, and aromatics you enjoy. Eat this dip with raw or roasted veggies as a snack, or spread it onto a whole grain wrap or sandwich for lunch. These crostinis were made for a catering event I did, but can easily be made at home for dinner parties and gatherings for friends and family!