Dining In - Kale Salad with Chickpeas & Spicy Tempeh Crumbles

Kale Salad with Chickpeas & Spicy Tempeh Crumbles

I was looking for a quick, healthy dinner recipe that I could make for my boyfriend and that wouldn't require buying a ton of new ingredients at the grocery store. I also wanted to find something that would fill us up with more protein than say a vegan pasta dish, that we often feel the need to eat 2-3 servings of! I found this on a list from Buzzfeed, "23 Vegan Meals With Tons Of Protein." The full recipe can be found here.

It had a few more steps involved than a regular tossed salad, but I loved the crunchy tempeh bits and the kale was very tender after being blanched in boiling water. This has a lot of fiber-filled ingredients, I mean a lot, so just a warning! :)

Serves 3-4 (or in my case 2!)


Tempeh Bits:
8 oz. package of tempeh (I used Trader Joe's brand)
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon lemon pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Sea salt

Salad: 
1 pound of kale, chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
15.5 oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Dressing: 
1/3 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger


To Prepare Salad:

Boil a large pot of salted water and blanch kale for 30 seconds. Run under cold water and drain, squeeze out excess water, and set aside.

Blanched Kale

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mixed Spices for Tempeh Bits

(Optional step: To reduce bitterness of tempeh, you can steam it, by using a small pot and steamer basket for about 20 minutes, while prepping the salad). 

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl for tempeh bits. Pour vegetable oil in a separate, small bowl. Cut tempeh into thin strips then dip into oil and arrange strips on the baking sheet. Sprinkle each piece with the mixed spices, flip if desired and coat both sides, though not necessary.


Bake for 20  minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Tip: check on them around 15 minutes in, I noticed some pieces started to burn. 

Baking Seasoned Tempeh Slices

In a glass jar or a bowl with a whisk, combine all dressing ingredients and blend or shake well. 

Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Add dressing and toss together. Top it with the tempeh bits broken into crumbles. Add additional salt and pepper to taste. 


Enjoy!

Dining In - Creamed Spinach

Creamed Spinach - Chloe's Vegan Italian Kitchen

I'm actually swooning over spinach after tasting this. It's unbelievably delicious! I'm definitely making this again and will add to the holiday menu next year. This simple, gluten-free dish was certainly creamy, like its name suggests, and with a pinch of salt it had the perfect flavor. It only took about 15 minutes to prepare and as soon as I was done I caught myself eating almost half of it before I could serve it for dinner! Oops. Luckily my non-vegan boyfriend shared my sentiments, but sadly we devoured it all within minutes. I blame myself for serving up significantly less than the original batch, but this just means it will be bookmarked for future meals. With a bit of olive oil and raw cashews it serves up some healthy fats that go so well with sweetened cooked onion, fragrant garlic, and wilted spinach. This recipe is from Chloe Coscarelli's latest cookbook Chloe's Vegan Italian Kitchen (buy yourself a copy here to fully enjoy!).

1/2 cup raw cashews
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
10 oz. fresh spinach
Ground black pepper
Sea salt
Pinch of ground nutmeg (I left this out and didn't think the dish was missing anything)


Start by blending the raw cashews and water together on high speed in a blender for about 1 minute. It will resemble a white milky liquid when done. Tip: boil cashews with the water for 10 minutes first or use hot water to get a creamier consistency. I still ended up with some larger pieces of cashews because my blender is not the best, but I actually really liked that texture in the dish. 

Heat olive oil in large skillet on medium heat and add in onions. Cook until onions are softened and then add in spinach. Watch as the spinach shrinks down and turns a dark green color, stir occasionally. It will take about 5 minutes to cook the spinach. Once done add the garlic and cook for another minute, while stirring. Next add in the cashew cream and continue cooking for a minute or 2 more so it's heated throughout. 

Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper (and nutmeg if you so choose) and do a taste test, but don't get carried away like I did :) Add more seasoning, as needed.

Dining Out in Chicago - LYFE Kitchen

Art's Unfried Chick'n - LYFE Kitchen

I visited Chicago on a last minute trip for work this month and unlike my usual trips, for work or pleasure, I tend to research vegan spots beforehand. I didn't have much time to plan for this one, but I still found a couple places I was interested in mainly for the convenience of where I was for the evening. LYFE Kitchen happened to be next to the bar I was going to and although I could have and did have enough appetizers to count as dinner, I still walked over after for a full vegan meal. The interior of LYFE - Love Your Food Everday - is modern, trendy, and clean. It's quick and casual dining, but you can certainly sit and enjoy your meal here and pick from vegan, gluten-free or non-vegan menu items, which span from smoothies, salads, breakfast entrees, vegetable sides, desserts and a kid's menu. I didn't realize until later that this restaurant is a chain with additional locations in Texas, Colorado, and California. It's not an all-vegan eatery, but reminds me of Veggie Grill from the coloring of it's logo and menu to it's use of Gardein and Daiya to turn things vegan while maintaining the flavor.

*Pardon the photos on this post - Had to use my iPhone to get these shots!

Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie - LYFE Kitchen

Going off of Yelp reviews, as I usually do, I ordered Art's Unfried Chicken (or Chick'n for vegans) served with roasted brussels sprouts, butternut squash and dried cranberries served with a cashew cream dijon vinaigrette. I really enjoyed this dish. The breaded Gardein patty was crispy and yummy and the sauce served with it was amazing.

When presented with the option, I have to get dessert, so I brought home a chocolate chip cookie. It was hands down the best vegan chocolate chip I've ever had. Even after two years of knowing vegan food can be as good, if not better than non-vegan versions, I questioned if it was really vegan because of how buttery it tasted. Thankfully all of the desserts listed on the menu were vegan. 

A pro and con of their menu is that they list out calorie count and sodium - I appreciate it for the most part, but sometimes ignorance makes the food taste better! They have an eco-friendly focus and the interior space even looks and feels that way. For takeout, the food was packaged in compostable containers. They also offer catering and the option to order online.

If there was a LYFE Kitchen near me in New York City I would frequent it. The prices were very reasonable and the food seemed healthier than some vegan fast food spots in city. 

LYFE Kitchen

413 North Clark Street

Chicago, IL 60654

LYFE Kitchen Website 

Dining Out in Portland - Veggie Grill

B-Wing Salad - Veggie Grill

Childishly, I wanted to dislike this place because it's such a great idea that I kick myself for not going out there and making it happen. Someone else had to and these guys are doing it well. In all of my dining while staying in Portland I have to admit this was one of the places I wish I had gone back to. I could have eaten here everyday! The service is quick, the menu is huge, and the one meal I had there was perfect. They are expanding rapidly with at least four more locations coming soon along the West Coast. 

My co-workers and I stopped into the downtown Portland location for a quick dinner before heading to a Trail Blazers basketball game. I had read about the B-Wing Salad in another blog post so I decided quickly that was what I'd try. The staff was very friendly and there is a higher level of service here than at your typical fast food joint. They bring your order to your table, check on you while you're eating, and clear your table when you're done. 

B-Wing Salad - Veggie Grill

My meal was fantastic. It was a huge serving so I couldn't finish it all, but I came pretty close! I haven't had a salad like this since before I was vegan. It is served with Gardein buffalo wings, chopped romaine lettuce, avocado, celery, roasted corn salsa and creamy ranch dressing. The colors even match their logo! The buffalo "chicken" wings were extremely close to the real thing (also noted by my non-vegan co-worker) and the creamy dressing was amazing. I'm not a fan of celery so I would ask for less next time, but it's to be expected with buffalo chicken; I can't knock them for it. My co-worker tried the Cauli-Mashed Potatoes and Gravy side dish. Another dish that is rarely served vegan, but still tasted good and fairly close to the real thing. It was prepared with cauliflower blended with mashed potatoes, porcini mushroom gravy, and fresh rosemary. It wouldn't have been my first pick, but that's because I also had my heart set on trying the Mac-n-Cheese. 

Cauli-Mashed Potatoes & Gravy - Veggie Grill

This is what I would consider vegan junk food based on the soy-heavy products, but they do offer soy-free and gluten-free options on their menu. I didn't have a chance to try any of their desserts, but just reading the description on the menu for the Grilled Cookie left me with a strong craving. 

I can't wait to go west again and try more of the menu!

Veggie Grill

508 SW Taylor Street

Portland, OR 97204

Check out their website for a full list of locations and others coming soon!

Dining Out in New York City - 'sNice

Curried Cauliflower Wrap - 'sNice

This artsy, hipster cafe that feels more like a relaxed coffee shop, devotes a majority of its menu to vegan food. The menu includes a variety of sandwiches, wraps, salads, baked goods, and coffee. Though the staff isn't overly friendly, I found it to be an otherwise pleasant dining experience. This is a good spot if you're looking for a more laid back, quiet atmosphere to grab a cup of coffee and a delicious vegan meal. It's like a Starbucks (I'm sure they would hate to hear that) in that a number of people had "set up camp" with their laptops at the larger communal tables. 

Smoked Tempeh Wrap - 'sNice

When I went to the West Village location for the first time, I ordered a wrap to go - the Smoked Tempeh Wrap. It's a favorite on Yelp and I agree with the positive comments. With a generous portion size you get smoked tempeh, with avocado, mixed greens, cilantro, tomatoes, and a spicy, creamy chipotle dressing (which I didn't find to be that spicy) bundled up in a whole wheat wrap. I wolfed this down in a matter of minutes! I loved the hearty, filling tempeh and the creamy dressing and avocado worked well to compliment the spice. When you dine in they serve the wraps with a small side salad and dressing, which is a nice touch. I went back with my friend a few days later. We ordered the Curried Cauliflower Wrap with chickpeas, brown rice and mango chutney and the Bueno Burrito Wrap with black beans, rice, avocado, tomatoes, salsa verde, and salsa rojo. My friend enjoyed the Bueno Burrito, but commented that it was pretty darn spicy. The Curried Cauliflower had great, fresh flavor while still being mild. Again, you get a large serving so it will definitely fill you up. I've heard good things about the vegan baked goods, but haven't tried them yet. I'm sure it won't take me long! I'm also excited to try a few other vegan entrees on the menu - the Meatball Sub with vegan cheese, and the Vegan Panini with smoked tofu. 

Bueno Burrito - 'sNice

'sNice has 3 locations throughout the city

'sNice Website

'sNice

45 8th Avenue

New York, NY 10014

150 Sullivan Street

New York, NY 10012

315 5th Avenue (at 3rd Street)

Brooklyn, NY 11215

Dining In - Marinated Kale Salad

Marinated Kale Salad - The Chalkboard Mag

Here was yet another fabulous find on Pinterest. This was a simple and delicious salad. Anytime I can prepare raw kale and make it taste this good it's a win! It reminded me of the Green Goddess dish from Life Alive, but without the creamy dressing. It is wholesome, flavorful, filling, and gluten-free. It got the stamp of approval from the non-vegan boyfriend, as well! This would work well as a lunch or served as a side dish for dinner. You can find the full recipe online at The Chalkboard Mag

I'll be making this again!



1 bunch kale, torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 avocado, sliced
2 lemons, juiced
1/3 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt (I recommend reducing this slightly)
2 cups brown rice, cooked (I use Trader Joe's frozen variety)
1/2 cup almonds, toasted, chopped or sliced


Put all ingredients into a large bowl, except for the almonds. Toss together until evenly distributed. When serving, top with the toasted almonds. 

That's it! How easy was that?

Dining Out in Boston - Root

Root Burger with Herbed Fries - root

My belly is full and my taste-buds are happy as I write this. I stopped in to the newly opened "root" in Allston and brought my parents along for what turned out to be a delicious vegan meal.

Inspired by Yelp reviews, we started with an order of Sweet Corn and Jalapeño Hushpuppies served with housemade ketchup and garlic aioli over a bed of arugula. They were mildly spicy, which I preferred, and fried to a nice golden crisp. I really liked the dips they were served with.

Sweet Corn & Jalapeño Hushpuppies - root

 Po' Boy with Side of Dressed Greens - root

For entrees, my parents both ordered the root Burger with Herbed Fries on the side, served with a yummy housemade ketchup. The burger is made of black beans and quinoa served with Boston lettuce, tomato, crispy onions and garlic aioli on a bun. It was hearty with great flavor. I ordered the Po' Boy - a huge sandwich with crispy cauliflower, sweet pickles, tomato, lettuce, and a spicy housemade remoulade. It was much spicier than I had expected, especially since the menu made no mention of "spicy" or "hot," but I managed to get through it...slowly. It was all served on a fresh Iggy's bun. I would have enjoyed it more with less bread and the heat turned down a notch. I ordered it with a side of greens since I was sharing stealing the fries from my parents' plates. The salad was fresh with a tasty light dressing.

The atmosphere is modern with an industrial, earthly feel. Though small, you can still have a nice casual dining in experience. The tables are copper with wooden benches. You can serve yourself water in mason jars and your food order is brought to your table. The staff was friendly and helpful, just like at their sister spot FoMu. Other items on the menu include salads, juices, and other sandwiches. If you want dessert just walk a few doors down and grab a delicious scoop of dairy-free ice cream.

I'll be back to try some of the other recommended items. This one is good in my book!


Photos of the Restaurant:

       

root Restaurant

487 Cambridge Street

Allston, MA 02134

root Website 

Dining Out in Boston - Clover Food Lab

BBQ Seitan Sandwich - Clover Food Lab

Chickpea Fritter Sandwich - Clover Food Lab

Food truck turned brick and mortar restaurant! I like when that happens, it's inspiring. Clover Food Lab, originally a vegetarian food truck that started at MIT and spread to multiple locations around Boston, now has restaurants (four and counting..). For whatever reason there was never a truck near my office so I missed out on Clover's yummy vegan lunch options. I tried the food once when I happened to be on vacation and spotted a truck when wandering the city. I was impressed. Serving local and often organic food, I felt good about my choices there. They have some delicious beverages, too. When I learned a restaurant was opening up close to where I live in Brookline, I was thrilled! 

BBQ Seitan - Vegan Version

So far I have taste-tested two sandwiches, rosemary fries, and iced coffee. The Chickpea Fritter sandwich is essentially a falafel in a pita, but it's fresher-tasting than most Mediterranean joints. It comes with a handful of chickpea fritters, a generous helping of hummus, diced cucumber and tomato, shredded carrots and red cabbage, pickles, and tahini sauce in a warmed pita pocket. The seasoning in the chickpea balls is a tad different than falafel, but certainly not in a bad way. The other sandwich I've enjoyed here is the BBQ Seitan sandwich. This one comes with cheese and mayo so make sure you request it without, to make it vegan! It also comes with romaine lettuce and sliced tomato (you can tell how fresh the produce is by the bright colors!). I'm a fan of seitan on occasion for its high protein. This sandwich did not disappoint. I really enjoyed the sweet BBQ sauce and although it was lacking a couple ingredients, it felt like a complete sandwich to me. 

Give this place a try! Whether it's by truck or restaurant, Clover seems to be in a growth stage with good changes coming. I just saw a new sandwich on the menu - the Pepper Relish, I'm not sure how I feel about that one, but it's nice to see them experimenting and expanding!

Clover Food Lab

6 Harvard Street

Brookline, MA 02445

Clover Food Lab Website

Dining Out on Cape Cod - Earthly Delights

Fakin' Bacon Tempeh Sandwich - Earthly Delights

Tofu Scramble - Earthly Delights

I've been summering on the Cape my whole life. It's got a special place in my heart for it's natural beauty and fond memories of many fun summers. I'm lucky to still have a place to visit to escape the city on weekends and spend time at the beach. 

When I became vegan last year I "rediscovered" a great little natural foods eatery right next to my house called Earthly Delights. I knew it existed years ago, but never visited until last year because it seemed a little too healthy and too hippie (think sprouts and granola). I now go multiple times in the course of a weekend! It's very small and usually very busy during the summer, but it's worth the wait. You'll be entertained looking around at the enormous collection of quirky, humorous magnets, signs, and cards covering every inch. The owners, Tom and Mary are awesome! They work their butts off running that place all by themselves and I give them credit. You can tell that many people are fond of them by the Yelp reviews. I even ran into Tom at Trader Joe's stocking up after a long day and he recognized me right away, very good memory!

Menu at Earthly Delights

In addition to breakfast and lunch items they also sell some packaged natural foods. Though not 100% vegan, it is very vegan-friendly and many items on the menu can be made vegan in addition to the handful that already are (for instance, they only use non-dairy mayo). A couple of my favorites: Fakin' Bacon Tempeh, best when served in a wrap in my opinion, comes with tempeh lightly brushed with olive oil and cooked to golden brown, served with lettuce, tomato, and dairy-free mayo. Another is the Tofu Scramble, which isn't actually on the menu! My boyfriend went out and picked up breakfast early one morning while I was busy sleeping and came back with a delicious breakfast wrap filled with marinated tofu, tempeh bacon, tomatoes, spinach, and Daiya cheese in a whole wheat wrap. I ordered it again just a day later :) He also brought me back a yummy vegan Oatmeal Raisin cookie. It fell apart right away, but it didn't stop me from wolfing it down. I've also tried their smoothies, which are quite popular. The mango smoothie is so refreshing on a hot summer day! They also offer fresh juices and shots of wheatgrass, if you're into that sort of a thing. 

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie - Earthly Delights

It's very difficult to find vegan-friendly restaurants on Cape Cod, so I'm thankful to be right next to this gem! I recommend you give it a try and get to know Osterville a little bit better.

Earthly Delights

15 West Bay Road

Osterville, MA 02655

Earthly Delights Website