July 4, 2023

Almond Blueberry Gelatin Parfaits

The flavors and colors of the almond and blueberry gelatins play off each other beautifully in this dessert. Blueberries rank very high in their ability to fight free oxygen radicals that damage cells. They also contain vitamin C and antibacterial elements called anthocyanosides, which are great for maintaining vein health and your immune system. Almond milk is an excellent source of antioxidants. SERVES 6 Ingredients For Blueberry Gelatin 2 cups blueberry juice 2 envelopes (1 oz. each) unflavored gelatin ¼ cup brown sugar 1 tsp. lemon zest ½ cup chopped fresh blueberries For Almond Gelatin 2 cups almond milk 2 […]
May 22, 2023

Velvety Vegan Chocolate Mousse

Chocolatey, rich mousse is a perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day or any time of the year, really. Heart-healthy compounds abound in cocoa, so a lightened-up, vegan version of this classic recipe will benefit you and the ones you share it with. Many mousse recipes use chocolate chips for flavor, but this one features pure baking cocoa for an antioxidant punch and tangy bitterness to balance the sweetness of the syrup. Using vanilla almond or soy milk as well as vanilla extract offers depth in flavor aside from pure chocolate. Be sure to garnish with fresh strawberries or cherries for texture, […]
May 10, 2023

Soy Soba Buddha Bowls Are Nutritious

Fresh ginger, baby bok choy, dry-roasted edamame, yellow bell pepper and nutritious soba noodles make these vegan Buddha Bowls an easy (and delicious) win for lunch or dinner. Ingredients: 1 (12- to 18-ounce) package firm or extra-firm water-packed tofu ¼ cup finely chopped shallots 4 Tbs. toasted sesame oil, divided 2 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce (organic) 1 Tbs. minced fresh ginger ¼ tsp. crushed red pepper 4 heads baby bok choy, halved lengthwise 1 yellow bell pepper; stemmed, quartered and seeded 4 ounces dried soba noodles ½ cup coarsely shredded carrot ½ cup dry-roasted edamame 1 Tbs. sesame seeds, toasted […]
July 30, 2022

North African Freekeh

Ancient grains are trending, so you have probably heard of the roasted young (green) wheat called freekeh (pronounced free-kuh). This grain and the dishes made with it are from North Africa. In this recipe, I’ve combined it with savory garlic, fresh lemon, mint, sweet dates and nourishing chopped kale for a well-rounded side-dish full of flavor. Freekeh can be found in Whole Foods and other health-food stores or online. Benefits: Freekeh is packed with fiber and protein, so it will keep you full and satiated for hours. It also has vitamin B for energy, heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and manganese […]
June 7, 2022

Dark Chocolate Mousse

It’s hard to imagine, but this vegan version of chocolate mousse offers the same satisfaction as its richer, less healthy sibling. Contributed by my colleague Dr. Lynn Blair, it has all of the same creaminess, the satiny, melt-in-your-mouth pleasure, and the full, no-holds-barred taste you expect from a dense and rich chocolate mousse. And if that’s not enough, just add plenty of great health benefits. Soy contains isoflavones, which help preserve bone density, lower your risk of certain cancers, and may alleviate menopausal symptoms. Dark chocolate has catechins, which are neuroprotective, and theobromine, which improves blood flow and lowers blood […]
October 3, 2021

Spicy Candied Walnuts

Nothing spices up a meal like a candied nut treat perfect for complimenting a salad or side-dish. Candied nuts are often made of melted white sugar but there are other more natural options. Maple syrup adds a complex flavor. Purchase 100% pure, organic maple syrup when you can. The grades of maple syrup indicate the richness of color, but not the quality. A pinch of salt and spicy cayenne pepper offer an unexpected pop of flavor. Enjoy the healthy omega-3 fats in crunchy walnuts for anti-inflammatory benefits. YIELDS 2 Cups Ingredients 2 cups raw walnut halves 1/3 cup pure maple […]
May 24, 2021

Moroccan Brownie Bites

You won’t believe these brownie bites are completely raw, vegan, and fruit-based! This recipe blends Medjool dates from Morocco with walnuts and cocoa powder to create a rich, chocolate treat that’s perfect for a special occasion, party, or holiday. Roll these bites in nuts or other toppings if you do not care for coconut—the possibilities are endless. Benefits: Dates contain fiber, which lowers blood cholesterol, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and is an important electrolyte. Walnuts contain fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E, which supports healthy brain function. Cocoa is full of catechins that can […]
February 15, 2021

Potato Kale Soup

This Balkan-inspired recipe has clean, bright flavors that go well together. Kale is an excellent source of vitamins A and C. It’s also part of the cabbage family, so it has cancer-fighting compounds. If you can’t find caraway powder, grind caraway seeds in a mortar and pestle, an electric spice grinder, or even a coffee grinder. For a milder version of this soup, omit the caraway and marjoram and season with sea salt and ground pepper. SERVES 4 Ingredients 1 peeled and cubed Idaho potato or 2 rose potatoes ½ tsp. kosher salt dissolved in 4 cups water ½ tsp. […]
February 2, 2021

Chocolate Goji Berry Smoothie Bowl

This decadently rich chocolate smoothie bowl tastes like an indulgence, but it’s actually a rich source of energy-promoting carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and healthy fats. Cacao powder is similar to cocoa powder, but has no sugar, milk, or cocoa butter in it. It is simply ground cacao pods or beans, not treated with alkali powder. Cacao nibs are a larger grind of the pod. Serve these smoothie bowls for breakfast or dessert and feel free to use your own favorite toppings! Goji berries are packed with beneficial antioxidants and anthocyanins that help protect our cells from damage, inhibit the growth of […]