WRAP WEDNESDAY!: Vegan "Honey" Mustard Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Black Bean Spaghetti.

Happy Hump Day y'all! :)
I don't know about you, but Wednesdays are usually pretty busy for me. Between work, classes, homework, and extracurriculars, I'm worn out by the time I get home in the evening! That said, a girl's still gotta eat dinner...no matter HOW hectic the day's been! That's the best part about these Vegan "Honey" Mustard Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Black Bean Spaghetti...they're delicious, healthy, well-rounded and filling (packing a whopping 45 GRAMS of plant-based protein!)...and ready in a little over 10 minutes. SAY WHA?!?!?!? For real. Even better?! They both look AND taste good enough (and complicated enough!) to serve to your friends for a quick dinner party option.
Without further ado, enjoy, guys!

Vegan "Honey" Mustard Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Black Bean Spaghetti.

Juicy, sweet, and tangy!

Healthy and delicious!

Vegan "Honey" Mustard Tofu Lettuce Wraps with Black Bean Spaghetti. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one.


Ingredients
1. 3 oz. water-packed extra-firm tofu, cubed
2. 1/3 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
3. 1 T dijon mustard
4. 1 T vegan "honey" substitute (see below for my fave brands!)
5. 1/8 tsp each onion and garlic powders
6. Cayenne pepper, to taste
7. 1/2 tsp soy sauce (or Bragg's liquid aminos)
8. 2 oz. dry black bean spaghetti noodles (purchase them below!)
9. 2 Romaine lettuce leaves
10. Precooked brown rice

Method
1. Fill a small soup pot 3/4 full with water and bring to a boil. Add spaghetti noodles and let simmer 10 minutes. Drain water and set aside to cool.
2. Combine dijon mustard, "honey," spices, and soy sauce in a small/medium-sized bowl and whisk well. Add tofu cubes and toss to coat. Add sliced tomatoes and toss.
3. Fill lettuce leaves with black bean spaghetti and top with "honey" mustard tofu mixture. Serve over brown rice.

Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Cookie Dough.

Have you ever been in a breakfast rut? Come on...y'all know what I'm talking about: cereal, oatmeal, tofu scramble, avo toast, repeat. The end. Boring, right? Yup, agreed. Sometimes you're tastebuds are just hankering for a change...and my Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Cookie Dough delivers: not only is it packed with vitamins and healthy fats, but it literally tastes like you're eating dessert for breakfast. Even better?!: it takes about 3 minutes to make...IF THAT. Now if THAT doesn't make you wanna jump out of bed on Monday mornings, I don't know WHAT will...enjoy, guys! 

  Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Cookie Dough. 

Peanut Butter Banana Breakfast Cookie Dough. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1/2 overripe banana, mashed

2. 1/3 cup old fashioned oatmeal

3. 1 T powdered peanut butter

4. 3 T all natural peanut butter

5. 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional, but recommended)

6. Toppings of choice (delish with fresh raspberries!)

Method 

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium sized mixing bowl and stir well. 

2. Scoop cookie dough into a small serving bowl and top as desired. Serve! 

"Throw-It-Together Thursday". What to fix when you're too tired to think! (BONUS: TWO recipe this week!)

I think we all have that one night per week when we simply just don't want to cook. Or at least, we don't want to spend a long time thinking about WHAT to cook. Maybe you have a weekly after-work activity, late afternoon study group that always ends later than you expect it will, or an impromptu mandatory staff meeting...whatever it is for you, it's making you not wanna cook. We've all been there. For me, that day of the week is Thursday. I have to be at work very early on Thursdays, and get off just in time to head to ballet, which don't end until 9:30. You can probably imagine that by the time I get home on Thursday nights, I'm ready to eat and go to bed! So what are my favorite quick, healthy go-to meals and meal ideas? 

Wraps.

Wraps are one of my very favorite "go-to's." All you need is a gorilla or wrap of your choosing and whatever happens to be in your fridge! I've done sweet, savory, crunchy, warm, gooey, you name it...I've probably done it (I may or may not have done a sweet and savory combo wrap...don't knock it till you try it!). Let's take yesterday, for example:

Spinach Tomato "Ricotta" Wrap.

This was super simple and quick, but so so good! I simply took a gluten-free, spinach wrap, filled it with fresh spinach (you could also do steamed), topped it with my Vegan Ricotta Cheeze for my cookbook, and added fresh Roma tomato slices. I served it with some steamed carrots and asparagus, fresh fruit, and homemade tomato basil soup. Delish! And super quick.

What's your favorite type of wrap or tortilla?  Mine would have to be these guys...

My all-time favorite wraps...wRAWps!

I'm totally obsessed with wRAWps. They're gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, oil-free, sugar-free, AND 100% raw! They have tons of different flavors to choose from, perfect for whatever type of wrap you're craving! They even have pizza crusts, too!

Salads.

A big 'ol salad is ALWAYS a good idea, but ESPECIALLY on a "fast-food" night! Many times, I will make a big salad in the morning and leave it in the fridge so it's ready to go when I get home! And like wraps, salads don't require much thought, either: just use what you've got in your fridge...I have to say I've never eaten a gross salad! :) And in the winter, when you don't necessarily want a cold salad? I love doing WARM SALADS--simply steam or sauté all the veggies you would normally use raw! Steam spinach for your base, and add sautéed onions, tomatoes, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add some canned chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with cooked brown rice on the side. BOOM. So good.

Easy Asian Salad with Peanut Ginger Dressing. (recipe below!)

Easy Asian Salad with Peanut Ginger Dressing.

Ingredients

1. 1 cup fresh snap peas, chopped

2. 1 cup chopped red cabbage

3. 1/2 cup sliced white button mushrooms

4. 4 oz. water-packed extra firm tofu, diced

5. 2 T peanut butter of choice

6. 1/4 tsp ground ginger

7. 1 tsp soy sauce (or soy sauce substitute)

8. 1 1/2 T water

9. 1 tsp fresh lime juice

10. Pinch of stevia (or sweetener of choice)

11. Cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl and toss to mix.

2. Combine peanut butter, ginger, soy sauce, water, stevia, and lime juice in a small ramekin and whisk until thoroughly mixed. 

3. Drizzle dressing over salad and garnish with cilantro, if desired.

Bagels. 

Ooooooooh, who doesn't love a good old bagel?! Bagels are literally one of the most comforting foods on the planet, in my opinion. And they're such a great option for a quick evening meal: carbs are proven to help you sleep better, so they're great if you have to eat a late dinner! And they're super versatile: again, you can get totally creative with a bagel. Sweet or savory! 

Toasted Gluten-free bagel with Homemade Veggie Cream Cheezeless.

Casseroles.

Ahhh, the casserole. Another one of those things you can literally throw everything into a giant mixing bowl, mash it up, bake, and hey--you've got a delicious dinner! Even better? You can cook them ahead of time, store in the fridge, and warm back up in the microwave/oven when you get home late. Whoever invented the casserole, I love them. 

Here's a fun little casserole I created the other night, sort of inspired by...A CHILI DOG. Yes, I'm serious. (The recipe is still vegan of course, and TOTALLY healthier than even a vegan chili dog!). It combines loads of plant protein, gut-healthy probiotics from sauerkraut, tomatoes which pack a healthy dose of lycopene, and tons of flavor. I drizzled my casserole with my "Rockstar Ranch Dressing" for my cookbook, but get creative! Mustard would be delish too.

"Meaty" Sauerkraut-Tomato Casserole.

"Meaty" Sauerkraut-Tomato Casserole.

With toppings, of course.

Ingredients

1. 1 cup sauerkraut

2. 1/3 cup TVP granules

3. 1/4 tsp each onion and garlic powders

4. 1/2 tsp chill powder

5. Salt, to taste

6. 1/3 cup water

7. 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained

8. 2 T panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free, if needed)

9. Toppings/dressing of choice (ketchup/mustard, etc.)

Method

1. Combine TVP, spices, and salt in a medium-sized bowl and mix well. Add water and microwave 2 minute.

2. Add TVP, sauerkraut, and tomatoes to a large bowl and mix very well. Spoon into small casserole dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Bake, uncovered, at 350 for 25 minutes.

3. Remove from oven, let cool 10 minutes, and drizzle with toppings of choice. Serve warm, with a side salad, homemade potato chips, and fresh fruit.

USE YOUR IMAGINATION!

Other than my ideas above, use your imagination...and whatever is in your fridge! It's truly amazing the flavor combinations and tasty creations you can come up with by using fresh veggies and fruits. You really can't go wrong! The best thing you can do is experiment...and enjoy! :)

Until next time, guys. Enjoy! 

--Anna,

"The Fit Vegan Ginger" :)

Super Simple Salsa Chili.

I absolutely LOVE the book The China Study, by T. Colin Campbell. I discovered it not long after I went vegan, and fell in love with both his method, AND the cookbook that went along with the plan. Being a new vegan, I was an avid recipe follower, and perused cookbooks daily searching for a recipe that intrigued me (this was obviously before I started experimenting with MY OWN creations...and TFVG was born!). The China Study Cookbook was my very favorite of ALL the vegan cookbooks I ever had...and one recipe in particular really sticks in my mind...er, my tastebuds. It was a hearty vegetable stew recipe that has a secret ingredient to add a flavor punch: JARRED SALSA! Yes, you did, in fact, read that correctly. Good 'ol tex-mex style salsa. No, I'm not kidding. (Don't knock it till you try it, people.)

Although I don't remember the exact recipe for this bomb-diggity delicious stew, I've frequently thrown some salsa into my pot when I feel like it's lacking some flavor...and I have yet to be disappointed! So here's one of my favorite chili recipes that uses salsa as the main flavor booster--it's super simple and only takes about 10 minutes, start to finish...and depending on the heat of the salsa you use, this comforting bowl of goodness can pack QUITE the punch! Enjoy, my dears. :)

Super Simple Salsa Chili.

Super Simple Salsa Chili. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1-2 cups vegetable broth (more or less, depending on how thick you want your chili)

2. 1/2 cup TVP granules, cooked in 1/2 cup water

3. onion and garlic powders, to taste

4. 1 cup frozen broccoli florets

5. 1/2 cup jarred salsa, heat of choice 

Method 

1. Combine TVP and water in a medium-sized microwaveable bowl and nuke for 1 1/2 minutes. Remove from microwave and set aside. 

2. Combine veggie broth, TVP, and broccoli in a small/medium-sized soup pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and stir in salsa. Simmer 10-15 minutes for flavors to mingle. 

3. Remove stew from heat and stir well. Pour into large bowl and serve hot, with crusty bread for dipping. 

My Favorite Weeknight Dinner: Savory Oatmeal!

If you're one of those people who think oatmeal is strictly a breakfast food, prepare to have your world rocked....in a GOOD WAY! Savory oatmeal is the new thing, people. Seriously. If you've never tried it before, this is a great recipe to start with--quick and simple and loaded with flavor and nutrition. Add a simple side salad and some fresh fruit and BOOM--"Dinn in 10"! Enjoy, guys!

Roasted Garlic  Savory Oatmeal.

Roasted Garlic Savory Oatmeal. Vegan, Gluten-Free. Serves one.

Ingredients
1. 1/2 cup old-fashioned oatmeal
2. 1 cup unsweetened cashew milk
3. 1/4 tsp garlic powder
4. Onion powder, salt, and black pepper, to taste
5. Toppings of choice (I used a tossed medley of grape tomatoes, lentils, corn, green peas, and chopped carrots, with a drizzle of dijon mustard...delicious!)

Method
1. Place milk in a small soup pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and whisk in oats and spices OFF OF HEAT.
2. Return pot to heat and whisk well. Cook, stirring regularly, until thickened.
3. Pour into bowl and let sit 5 minutes. Top as desired and serve!

WORKOUT WEDNESDAY POST: My favorite HIIT workout!

So a few days I told you guys I was going to start writing some posts about fitness and health, in general, instead of just posting recipes. This is one of the ways in which I meant that! Every Wednesday will be "Workout Wednesday": I'll post a new workout sequence that I've developed and enjoy doing in my own exercise routine!
And what better type of workout to start with than HIIT, aka "High Intensity Interval Training." HIIT combines short bursts of very high intensity cardio with periods of low intensity cardio or rest. HIIT is a great option for when you're in a time crunch, but still want to get a thorough workout in: because  it's interval training, it's up to 60% more effective at burning calories than steady cardio...perfect for when you're in a hurry! Additionally, if you're like me and have to be completely DRENCHED in sweat to feel like you got a good workout, then fear not: you will be DRIPPING by the end of a HIIT session!
When I first started HIIT training 3 years ago, I looked to different websites and fitness sources for workouts. But the longer I HIIT trained, the more confident in my own ability to create my own specialized HIIT workout! And when I got my Personal Training certification in Summer 2014, I had no reason NOT to create my own! I've found I like making up my own sequences even BETTER than finding ones to do online--I can personalize them in such a way that they target the muscle groups I need to work on in particular, and focus less on the things that are already my strengths.
Convinced? HIIT really is quite fun, and an awesome workout. Try out my short sequence to test out the HIIT waters, and then get creative and start making up your own routines! I guarantee you'll have fun and get a great workout at the same time! :)

When I'm pressed for time and don't have time for my usual 1-hr cardio sash, I love HIIT workouts!

           

My Favorite HIIT Workout

Directions: Set an interval timer with a 50 second interval and a 10 second interval. Do each move (listed below) for 50 seconds, followed by 10 seconds of rest. Repeat sequence 3 times, for a 15 minute workout.

1. BURPEES (also called squat thrust)
2. Crunches *TFVG FIT TIP--keep your chin off your chest, to protect your neck!*
3. Switch jumping lunges (stand in a lunge position and bend knees deeply into a lunge. Spring up powerfully and change legs, finishing with opposite leg in front. Repeat.)
4. Oblique Twist Crunches/Butterfly Crunches
5. Mountain Climbers (Brace yourself in pushup position and alternate bringing one knee into chest and switch, bringing opposite knee into chest as if you are "running" in pushup position.)


There ya go, guys! Your very first HIIT workout. Hope you enjoy!
~TFVG

Snowstorm Stew!

So, if you haven't noticed, it's snowing outside. ;)
I have to admit--this is probably the most snow I've ever seen in my life...and the "stormiest" snow episode I've ever lived through! Being from Central Virginia originally, I didn't grow up used to seeing "snowmaggedons" every winter...the most snow I ever remember getting as a child was 10 inches! But this?! This is actually frightening. Yes, you read that correctly. I am actually scared as I sit here and type this while I simultaneously watch the snow blowing wildly outside. *sigh*
Anywho, this is a really quick and yummy stew that's PERFECT for a snowy day like today--warming from the inside out and chock full of nutrient-rich veggies, this stew is certain to make it on your "fave recipes" list. Enjoy! And stay warm :)

Snowstorm Stew!

Snowstorm Stew! Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one.

Ingredients

1. 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

2. 1 cup no-salt-added vegetable broth

3. one small zucchini, chopped

4. one small carrot, peeled and chopped (or 6 baby carrots)

5. 1 cup frozen florets

6. 1/2 cup canned, no-salt-added diced tomatoes

7. 1/3 cup frozen corn

8. 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

9. herbs and spices of choice

10. salt, to taste

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized soup pot and stir well. 

2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and boil for 5 minutes.

3. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring regularly, for 10-15 minutes for flavors to mingle.

4. Scoop into a LARGE bowl (this makes A LOT!) and serve. (I topped mine with ground golden flaxseed for texture--delish!)

Flax 'n Protein Power Balls!

If you have followed me or my recipes for any length of time at all, you already know that I'm pretty much OBSESSED with flaxseed. I'm also pretty obsessed with protein powders...and the only thing better than these two things enjoyed separately, is these two things COMBINED! All you need is rice protein, ground flaxseed, stevia, water, and 5 minutes prep time (and a few hours in the fridge)...then BAM! Just like that, new fave recipe. That was easy.

Flan 'n Protein Power Balls!

"I'm so cute."

Flax 'n Protein Power Balls!
Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one.




Ingredients
1. 1/4 cup rice protein (brown rice or regular)
2. 2 T ground flaxseed
3. one packet stevia powder
4. 3-4 T water


Method
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix protein powder, flax, and stevia.
2. Add water 1 T at a time until you get a workable consistency--don't add so much as to make them gummy...you just want them pliable.
3. Divide dough into 6 small sections and roll into balls.
4. Place power balls on a small plate, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour or more, to firm up a bit.
5. Remove from fridge and enjoy!

Spicy Pumpkin Pinto Burger.

Ok you guys. Of all the bean-based vegan burgers I've made, this one is undoubtedly the best one of them all. And it LITERALLY takes 10 minutes TOTAL! No blending, no smashing, none of that craziness. So simple and SO delish. Get ready to wow yourselves ;)

         Spicy Pumpkin Pinto Burger. 

Spicy Pumpkin Pinto Burger. Vegan, gluten free. Serves one.

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup pumpkin purée

2. 1/2 cup canned pinto beans, drained and rinsed

3. 1/2 tsp cumin

4. Onion and garlic powders to taste

5. 1/8 tsp chipotle powder

6. Vegan hamburger bun

7. Burger toppings of choice (I used my "Basic Cheeze Sauce" on the blog and broccoli sprouts)

8. 1 T flax seed, ground

Method

1. In a medium size bowl, mix pumpkin, beans, spices, and flax until combined. 

2. Form into large patty and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. 

3. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. 

4. Remove and let cool before enjoying!

Whipped Potatoes with Lentils and Parsley.

It's potato season...mashed potato season, I mean. And these go a step beyond...these are whipped potatoes people. And oh boy are they good...enjoy!

Whipped Potatoes with Lentils and Parsley. 

Whipped Potatoes with Lentils and Parsley. Vegan, gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. One large russet potato, peeled and chopped

2. 2 tsp apple cider vinegar

3. 1/8 tsp each onion and garlic powders

4. 1/2 T nutritional yeast

5. 1/2 cup Canned lentils, drained and rinsed

6. Dried parsley flakes, for garnish

Method

1. Place shopped potatoes in a small soup pot and cover with water. 

2. Bring to a boil and boil until fork tender. Drain, reserving about 1/4 cup of cooking water. 

3. Place potatoes and remaining cooking water in food processor with spices, vinegar, and nooch. Blend, scraping sides and adding more water as necessary until smooth. 

4. Spoon into bowl and top with lentils. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. 

Peanut Butter "SauerSPROUT" Sushi! (And my new #TFVGSushisunday contest!)

So I'm starting a new thing..."Sushi Sunday"! Every Sunday I'll be eating sushi for one meal out of the day...I'm going to try and see juuuuuust how many sushi combos I can come up with!! Why?? Simple. If you've read my "About Me" page, you already know that I have thyroid disease, and had to start taking thyroid medication at age 13. After years of up and down blood levels, from too much medication to not enough, my levels finally stabilized when I went vegan (#plantpower!). As amazing as this is, I want to take it a step further: I don't want to have to take artificial thyroid hormone replacement medicine anymore! I want to be wholly healthy--no foreign substances in my body...this is all fine and dandy and sounds super terrific, but for someone with thyroid disease, if you just up and quit your medication, it's disastrous. 

So what's the natural solution, you ask?! One (magical!) word...IODINE! Iodine is a vital nutrient that our bodies need, but are unable to produce on their own. Iodine is not found in many foods at ALLLLL, so most people opt to take it in supplement form. But real food is always better, as you all know! Which is where this monologue comes to a point, finally...nori, kelp, dulse, and other sea vegetables are the ONLY natural, vegan, supplement-free way to get iodine! So, basically, this is the reason behind my "Sushi Sunday" theme...I hope you'll all join me in sushi creating (not only on Sundays!), and that you enjoy the recipes I'll be sharing. Happy sushi-ing! 

    Peanut Butter "SauerSPROUT Sushi. 

    Maybe not the prettiest roll I'll create...but it was dang goooooood!

Peanut Butter "SauerSPROUT" Sushi. Vegan, gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. One nori sheet

2. 4 T peanut butter of choice 

3. 1/2 cup sprouts

4. 1/4 cup sauerkraut

5. 1/2 tsp ground ginger

Method

1. One of the best things about sushi, besides the taste? Fill. Roll. Cut. Eat. Done! It's so simple! For this roll, simply spread your PB over the nori sheet and top with WASHED and dried sprouts (wash carefully! Sprouts are known to carry bacteria--buy organic if possible). 

2. In a small bowl, mix sauerkraut with ground ginger, and add on top of sprouts. 

3. Time to roll it up! Slice before serving. And yes. You have to use chopsticks ;) 

Pumpkin Pie in a Bowl!

This is literally the easiest thing ever. It's also the yummiest thing ever! Don't you just love those recipes that you just throw together, hope it turns out good, and it turns out INCREDIBLE?! Yeah...this is one of those. Enjoy, friends :)

     Pumpkin Pie in a Bowl. 

     Look at that swiiiiiirrrrrl!

    I added flax for texture. Delicious!

Pumpkin Pie in a Bowl! Vegan, gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 3/4 cup canned pumpkin purée

2. One packet stevia powder

3. 7 oz. silken tofu

4. One packet stevia

5. 1 T apple cider vinegar

6. Optional toppings: cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, flaxseed, gRAWnola, etc. 

Method

1. In a medium sized bowl, mix pumpkin and stevia packet. Set aside. 

2. Combine tofu, stevia, and ACV in food processor and blend until smooth. 

3. Spoon both pumpkin blend and Nogurt into serving bowl. Garnish with toooongs of choice, if desired. Serve!

Tuscan Spiced White "Beananini".

This is the simplest and best recipe ever. I eat one of these almost every week! They're so so good--perfect combo of plant based protein and healthy carbs...even add some spinach or other light greens before toasting and get some veggies in there too. Get creative! (I do these in sweet flavors as well...!) and as always, enjoy. :)

    Tuscan Spiced White "Beananini". 

Tuscan Spiced White "Beananini". Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 2 slices whole grain vegan bread of choice (use gluten free if needed)

2. 1/2 cup canned navy beans, drained and rinsed

3. 1 T water

4. 1 tsp braggs liquid aminos

5. 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning 

6. Onion and garlic powders to taste

7. Oil and sugar free marinara sauce for dipping (I use Engine 2 brand from whole foods!)

Method

1. Combine beans, spices, aminos, and water in mini food processor and blend until smooth, scraping sides as you go. 

2. Spoon out and spread onto one slice of bread. Place second slice on top. 

3. Toast sandwich over medium heated nonstick skillet for about 3 minutes per side, or until desired level of "toastiness" is reached. Serve warm with dipping sauce. 

Caramelized Red Onion Sandwich with Balsamic Cream Dip.

Ever had a craving? And I don't mean a craving for something...normal, like popcorn or nice cream. I mean a weird craving. Like a...date I say it...PREGNANCY CRAVING. And before your eyes jump out of your face, I can happily assure you that I AM DEFINITELY NOT PREGNANT. Or plan on being ANYTIME SOON. But I swear...sometimes the things I crave make me wonder. Take this little sammie into account. Really Anna?! An onion sandwich?! And yep, a delicious, caramelized, ooey-gooey luscious onion sandwich. Complete with tangy balsamic cream for dippage. Holy. 

    Caramelized Red Onion Sandwich with          Balsamic Cream Dip. 

Caramelized Red Onion Sandwich with Balsamic Cream Dip. Vegan, gluten-free option. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. Two slices vegan bread of choice (use gluten free, if needed)

2. One small red onion, sliced into thin strips

3. 3 T water

4. 2 tsp braggs aminos

5. 1/2 tsp dried thyme 

6. 5 oz. silken tofu

7. 1/8 tsp each onion and garlic powders 

8. 1 T balsamic vinegar

Method 

1. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Test the heat of your pan by adding a drop of water. If it sizzles of, congratulations: your pan is heated! 

2. Add 3 T water and aminos to pan. Toss in your sliced onions and sprinkle thyme over top. Fold continuously with spatula, adding more water if needed, until caramelized. Set aside off of heat and let cool. 

3. In your food processor, combine tofu, balsamic, and onion/garlic powders. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Spoon into small ramekin. 

4. Place onions on top of bread, toasted if desired, and serve with cream on the side. Enjoy!

Quick Lemon Pepper Chili.

My daily lunch consists of a salad. ALWAYS and without fail! But on my days off from work--when I can actually fix lunch instead of pack lunch, I go wild. Now don't get me wrong--salads are wonderful. I love my salads...like, MEGA LOVE. But when the weather gets chillier, there's nothing more perfect than snuggling into a steaming bowl of delicious soup as you watch your favorite movie. In your pajamas and slipper socks, of course ;) enjoy guys!

           Quick Lemon Pepper Chili. 

   Now come on--HOW DELISH IS THIS?

Quick Lemon Pepper Chili. Vegan, gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 2/3 cup tvp granules

2. 2/3 cup water

3. 2 tsp braggs aminos

4. 1/8 tsp each onion and garlic powders

5. 1 cup no salt added (or low sodium) vegetable broth

6. 1 cup frozen broccoli

7. One large tomato, chopped 

8. 1/4 tsp black pepper

9. 1/2 lemon, juiced 

10. 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Method

1. This chili can be made in 10 minutes y'all. Start to finish! Ready, set, go! Okay, combine tvp with onion and garlic and mix. Add water and aminos and pop in the microwave for 2 minutes. 

2. Once cooked, scoop tvp meat into a small soup pot and add all ingredients EXCEPT TOMATO. Bring to a boil over high heat. 

3. When at a rolling boil, reduce heat to medium and add chopped tomato. Stir well and cook over low heat for 7 minutes. 

4. Pour into a large soup mug and devour. Just don't scald your mouth like I did. :P 

Lazy girl's "Unsauteed Squash."

You guys know those days. Those days when you're simply just TOO EXHAUSTED to even THINK about turning the oven on, much less standing at the stove sautéing fresh squash. Yeah that was me the other night...long shift + short night ahead of me = good food in a flash...and another quick and easy recipe for you guys! Enjoy my dears :)

      Lazy girl's "Unsauteed Squash."

Lazy girl's "Unsauteed Squash." Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. Two small (or one medium-large) yellow squash, sliced lengthwise then sliced into half moons 

2. Approximately 2 tsp braggs liquid aminos

3. Generous sprinkling of spices of choice (I ised onion, garlic, black pepper, and poultry seasoning...it was Delish!)

Method

1. You're not gonna believe how easy this is...it's too good to be so simple! Ok. Just combine your squash moons in a medium size microwave safe bowl with the aminos and spices of choice. 

2. Mix well with a spoon to throughly season veg, and microwave on high power for 2 minutes and 30 seconds. THAT'S IT GUYS! Use as desired and enjoy....but that lady part's a given...

Overnight Chocolate Protein Fudge Bars.

Yep, it's the recipe I teased you all with yesterday morning via Instagram...behold: the best thing you will ever eat. Enjoy! 

Overnight Chocolate Protein Fudge Bars. 

I topped mine with pomegranates and coconut! Delish!

Chocolates, fudgy goodness. 

  AHMYGOSH ITS SO GOOOOOOOOD!

Overnight Chocolate Protein Fudge Bars. Vegan,  gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. Two scoops chocolate protein powder (I used a blend with pea protein--pea is ESSENTIAL! Vega is a great choice.)

2. Two teaspoons agar powder 

3. 1/2 cup water

4. Stevia (optional-omit if protein is already sweetened)

5. Toppings/mixins of choice

Method 

1. Mix protein powder and agar I'm a medium bowl. Add water and mix well until a dough forms. 

2. Form two "bars" and place on a plate. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Top as desired in the morning and enjoy!

Almost Instant Apple Pie Oatmeal Casserole.

Almost Instant Apple Pie Oatmeal Casserole.

As much as I ADORE the season of fall, it does mean one thing I'm NOT so fond of...colder weather...specifically, colder mornings. I THOROUGHLY enjoy my 85 degree and humid July morning runs...all the heat, all the time, baby ;) So when the weather starts cooling down during the day, the temps in the morning get QUITE chilly. This week is a perfect example--I was still running in tank tops last week...and then woke up Monday to a 51 degree 7 mile run! Quite a shock to the system. Anyway....long story short (well, not really...sorry guys...I know you're all just like "GIMME THE RECIPE!" I'm getting to that...hehe), these chilly mornings (i.e. chilly morning RUNS) have got me craving warmer breakfasts, infused with those comforting autumn flavors we all love so dearly. Now this craving for cooked brekkies isn't a bad thing at all...except on the days I OPEN at work. This Saturday was one such day. I arrived back at my apartment after a brisk 5 mile, 5 am run FAMISHED (as usual, lol) and craving a big warm bowl of apple pie style oat. I knew I didn't have time though--I had to be at work at 8:15! So that's when the wheels started a turnin'. I decided to try and make my fave apple pie oats IN THE MICROWAVE, since I was pressed for time on this particular morning. I honestly wasn't sure what to expect...nothing beats a good bowl of stovetop oats...mmmmm. But this little guy really delivered! Not to mention it took 5 minutes to make...SCORE, ANNA! Enjoy, guys. :)

Almost Instant Apple Pie Oatmeal Casserole. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one.

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup oatbran
2. 1 cup almond milk
3. 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
4. one very small apple, chopped
5. 1/4 tsp cinnamon
6. 1/8 tsp ginger
7. pinches of nutmeg and allspice
8. one packet stevia

Method

1. Mix dry ingredients in a medium size bowl. Add almond milk, apple, and applesauce and mix well. 
2. Microwave on high for 3 minutes. Let cool and enjoy! 

Harvest Protein Stuffed Peach.

September is a weird month, food wise...for me at least. I'm always ready to dive in to fall foods (this winter squash, pumpkin, dark leafy greens, etc...), but summer produce is still in season! It's quite the dilemma, honestly. And then I thought "why not MIX THE TWO?! SUMMERY HARVESTY GOODNESS!" And that, my friends, is how this luscious mess was created. Behold...the Harvest Stuffed Peach. Enjoy!

    Harvest Protein Stuffed Peach. 

                 Deeeeeelish galore. 

        Oh yeah. That's the stuff. 

Harvest Protein Stuffed Peach. Vegan, gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. One XL peach, preferably overripe

2. One scoop vanilla protein powder (a protein with pea protein works best)

3. 1 tsp raw unsalted pumpkin seeds

4. Cinnamon for garnish 

Method

1. Slices around top of peach and scoop out inside and pit using a spoon.  

2. Place protein powder in a small bowl and mix with water until a "frosting" forms. Spoon into hollowed out peach. 

3. Top peach with pumpkin seeds and sprinkle with cinnamon. DONE! Easy peasy! 

Tangerine Spice Oatmeal.

No into to this one because it's so good YOU NEED TO GO MAKE IT THIS INSTANT. Convincing enough?! Enjoy, guys. 

          Tangerine Spice Oatmeal. 

                       So creamy. 

              OHHH EMMM GEEEE. 

Tangerine Spice Oatmeal. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients 

1. 1/2 cup quick instant oatmeal

2. 2 T raisins

3. 1 cup almond milk or other plant based milk

4. One packet stevia

5. 1/4 tsp allspice

6. One small tangerine, sectioned

Method 

1. In a large microwave safe bowl, mix oats, allspice, and stevia. Add plant based milk and raisins and stir well. 

2. Microwave for 1:30-2 minutes, depending on the consistency you want for your oats (I wanted mine a little soupier, so I added a little more almond milk and opted for a little less time in the micro.). 

3. Stir and let sit approximately 5 minutes, for top to harden slightly. Place tangerine slices around edges of bowl and serve.