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! 

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. 

World's Creamiest (Vegan) Strawberry Vanilla Smoothie. Secret Ingredient Revealed!

So I was going to save this one for The Fit Vegan Ginger Cookbook...but I can't do that to you guys. I love you too much...and I love this SMOOTHIE too much! Oh my goodness gracious. Talk about delicious...this smoothie is literally so creamy you will collapse in your seat (although I hope you don't because then you might knock it over and waste the goodness...)! And you will NEVER BELIEVE my secret ingredient...are you ready for this?! CAULIFLOWER!!!! Yup, I went there. And boy--are you gonna be glad. Enjoy, darlin's 😄

    World's Creamiest Strawberry Vanilla Smoothie. 

There's a reason creamy and dreamy rhyme...

World's Creamiest Strawberry Vanilla Smoothie. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 2 cups frozen strawberries 

2. 4 oz. raw cauliflower, steamed and cooled completely (chilling in the fridge wouldn't hurt if you have the time!)

3. 15 drops vanilla flavored stevia

4. 1/2 tsp vanilla powder

5. 1 cup vanilla unsweetened almond milk 

Method 

1. In your vitamix, combine frozen strawbs, chilled

Cauli, vanilla, stevia, and milk. Blend low to high until silky smooth and luscious looking. 

2. If you can resist drinking this straight from the blender, pour into a tall glass and enjoy!

Healthified Raisin Bran Cereal.

When I was little, one of my favorite cereals of all time was raisin bran. Hotel breakfasts were a highlight of vacation because I could stock up (for FREE!) on snack size boxes of my beloved crunchy best friend. However, when I got a little older and realized how secretly UNhealthy this "health claiming" cereal is, I was shocked...and heartbroken. Now that I'm vegan, I've started getting very good at making what I peevishly call "copycat recipes": vegan makeovers of non-vegan fave foods. This is one of those such makeovers! And it couldn't be simpler. An added bonus?! High in protein, only 3 ingredients, AND grain free. Looks like someone's having a NOT SO BORING bowl of cereal in the morning :)

             Healthified Raisin Bran. 

      Crunchy. Raisin-y. YUMMMMMY!

Healthified Raisin Bran Cereal. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1 cup TSP (textures soy protein) flakes*

2. 3 T raisins

3. 1/2 packet stevia

4. Plant based milk of choice 

Method

1. In a medium size bowl, combine tsp, raisins, and stevia. Mix well to coat with stevia. Add milk and serve! So simple and delish. 

*TSP is different than TVP. For this specific recipe, you want to make sure you use TSP FLAKES, by granules. I use NOW Foods brand (sold on Amazon). 

Peach Cobbler Smoothie with Cinnamon Crumble gRAWnola.

It's the season...peaches! Aka HEAVEN in the form of a luscious little fruit. Super easy and quick to make, this nutrition packed smoothie bowl is sure to please even the non-vegans 👌 

Peach Cobbler Smoothie with Cinnamon Crumble gRAWnola. 

The whole package. YUM ALERT Y'ALL!

                   NOMMMMMMMMMS. 

Peach Cobbler Smoothie with Cinnamon Crumble gRAWnola. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 3 cups frozen sliced peaches

2. 5 oz. silken tofu

3. 1 cup cashew milk (almond works well here, too)

4. 1/2 cup raw tvp granules

5. 2 T flaxseed

6. 1/2 tsp cinnamon

7. One packet stevia

Method

1. In your vitamix, blend peaches, tofu, and milk of choice. Pour into large bowl. 

2. Mix tvp, flax, cinnamon, and stevia in a medium size bowl. Top smoothie with gRAWnola crumble and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Chilled Cucumber Soup.

Spring means green food...naturally! This springy soup is sure to please any critic--sweet, refreshing, super quick...a perfect addition to any salad and sandwich meal. 

           Chilled Cucumber Soup. 

                            Yum. 

                  And oh so lovely! 

Chilled Cucumber Soup. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients 

1. One large cucumber, chopped

2. 2 cups raw spinach leaves

3. 1 cup almond milk

4. 6 oz. silken soft tofu

5. Two fresh basil leaves

6. 10 drops watermelon flavored liquid stevia

7. 10 drops coconut liquid stevia

8. "Nogurt" and dried basil for topping

Method

1.  Blend all ingredients in your high speed blender until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to eat. Ssrve chilled, garnished with Nogurt (previous post) and dried basil, if desired. Enjoy!

A soup for spring (well, sorta spring...): Chilled Cantaloupe Banana Soup.

Soup is probably one of my favorite things in the world to make. Soup of all kinds--hearty, silky, light, hot, cold, spicy, sweet, chunky, you name it...I love it! Ever since I got my vitamix last February, I've been kind of obsessed with its blending powers...thus, and increased obsession with homemade soups! 

We've had pretty wacky weagher this week here in central Va...it was 60 degrees AND SUNNY on Monday! But I'm not complaining--bring it ON! Needless to say, I was feeling super springy after my run Monday morning, and craving a nice light and cold breakfast. So...soup for brekkie? Yup. You guys shouldn't be surprised...I'm pretty traditional after all, right?! 😂😜 Enjoy!

   Chilled Cantaloupe Banana Soup. 

             Yes. I think yes indeed. 

Chilled Cantaloupe Banana Soup. Vegan, gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 2 cups fresh chopped cantaloupe 

2. One large frozen banana (freeze SLICED!)

3. One cup light coconut or coconut-almond combo milk 

4. 10 drops coconut stevia

5. 6 oz. silken soft tofu

6. Chopped mint for garnish

Method

1. Combine first 5 ingredients in your vitamix or other high speed blender. 

2. Starting on low, slowly work up to high speed, blending until perfectly smooth. If you prefer a thinner soup, add water through the top spout as you blend. 

3. Pour into large bowl and garnish with chopped mint. YUMM!

Sweet 'n Spicy Banana Bread Oatmeal!

Will this winter ever end?! It really feels like not....😭😭😭 I'm cold-natured (which is precisely why I'm a figure skater...? Haha! I'm so silly!), so this weather is literally killing me: today is the first day ALL WEEK that the temps have been above 22 degrees. NO I AM NOT KIDDING. YES I STILL LIVE IN VIRGINIA...aka the SOUTH where it's supposed to be WARM. Lol. 

Needless to say, I've been making a TON of warm food. You guys know I am primarily (80%) raw, but I've had to make an exception this week--BRING ON THE HEAT BABY! And boy, does this hawt oat bowl ever! Sinlessly delicious, super easy, and will have you sweating (I'm serious...I DID! True story.) in no time 🔥👌 enjoy, my little snow bunnies! I'm off to make tea...❄️😂 

      Sweet 'n Spicy Banana Bread Oatmeal. 

     Topped with PB...but of course!

       Ooey-gooey-spicy GOODNESS! 

Sweet 'n Spicy Banana Bread Oatmeal!; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup old fashioned oats

2. 1 cup almond milk

3. 1 overripe banana, sliced 

4. 1/4 tsp (less if you're a spice wimp) cayenne

5. 1/2 cup water

6. 2 T Peanut Butter (optional, but OH SO HIGHLY recommended!)

Method 

1. In a small pot on the stove, bring your almond milk to a boil. Remove from burner, reduce heat to medium, stir in oats, and return to heat. 

2. When beginning to thicken, add sliced banana, cayenne, and water. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened to desired consistency. 

3. Top with PB and EAT! Serve with water hehe...🔥😳😋

Cinnamon Turmeric Spice Latte.

I am in the midst of a SNOW DAY today! And boy, is it--we got a whopping 10 INCHES! Yucky haha. Although I'm not into snow or cold weather, I AM into warm and comforting drinks like this Cinnamon Turmeric Spice Latte...mhmm...and snuggling into the couch with this latte and a good book?! Sounds like a perfect day to me...whether there's snow on the ground or not! Enjoy lovies!

     Cinnamon Turmeric Spice Latte. 

Cinnamon Turmeric Spice Latte; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1 cup almond milk

2. 1/4 tsp cinnamon

3. 1/8 tsp turmeric

4. 10 drops coconut stevia 

Method

1. In a small pot on the stove, combine all ingredients over high heat and whisk vigorously. 

2. Bring to a boil, whisk well, and pour into mug. Enjoy!

Holiday Oats!: Valentine's Day Oatmeal.

Are you ready to fall in looooove?! And yes, I realize that was very corny...😂 but in all seriousness: you will fall in love with this delicious oat bowl. Chocolate-y, creamy, oatmeal goodness...steaming and comforting! And just like always, super quick and easy. Serve this to your sweetie and they will forever be yours ❤️👌 

            Valentine's Day Oatmeal. 

                     Ooooooh yeah. 

Valentine's Day Oatmeal; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients 

1. 1/2 c oats of choice

2. 1 c almond milk

3. 1/2 cup water 

4. 1 T carob powder (or cocoa)

5. 10 drops liquid coconut stevia 

6. Two large strawberries, sliced

7. 1/2 tsp shredded coconut, unsweetened 

Method

1. Combine oats and carob/cocoa in a bowl and mix well. 

2. In a small pot, bring a mind milk to a rolling boil. When boiling, reduce heat to medium, and add oat/carob mix off of heat. Whisk vigorously. 

3. Return to hear and add water and stevia. Stir frequently, cooking until desired consistency is reached. 

4. Top with sliced strawberries and coconut shreds.  Serve hot. Enjoy!

Vegan Chai Latte.

Yes I've really done it this time, friends. If you went vegan and sugar free and thought you would never again taste a legit chai latte...think again loves. I've saved the day...again 😊😜 enjoy!

                    Vegan Chai Latte. 

 Just look at that foamy goodness!

Vegan Chai Latte; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

2. One chai tea bag, steeped in 1 c boiling water for at least 10 minutes 

3. 5-7 drops liquid coconut stevia

Method 

1. In a small soup pot, combine almond milk, steeped tea, and stevia. 

2. Bring to a soft boil, remove from heat and quick well pour into tall mug and enjoy. (Top with cinnamon if desired!)

Chocolate Banana Bread Overnight Oatmeal.

Ok you guys. This jar of oats is about as close to heaven on earth as you can get! Ohhhhh boy are you in for a treat! I dare say this breakfast might make you become a morning person...!

      Chocolate Banana Bread Overnight      Oatmeal. 

Chocolate Banana Bread Overnight Oatmeal. Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup old fashioned oats 

2. 1 cup almond milk 

3. One VERY overripe banana

4. 1 T carob powder (can use cocoa)

5. 2 T salt-free PB

6. Cinnamon, optional

Method 

1. Combine oats and carob in a jar. Secure kid and give it a good shake to combine. 

2. In a separate bowl, mash your naner. 

3. Add mashed banana to jar and pour almond milk over. Mix well. 

4. Cover and place in fridge at least 24 hours. In the morning, top with PB and optional cinn. DEVOUR!!!! 

Note: you can hear in the microwave if you want, but I think these are better left chilled. 

Smoothie Cereal!

Yes I'm aware it's October...but my run this morning was HOT AND SWEATY! It's been veeeerrrryyyy rainy here for about 10 days now and the humidity levels have SKYROCKETED. Boy was I a wet mess this morning! 

Naturally, I wasn't in the mood for a hot a billowing oatmeal creation...I was craving a smoothie! But I was feeling creative too...thus, "Smoothie Cereal" was born...and has quickly become a new fave. Enjoy guys! 😋😋

                   Smoothie Cereal. 

                          Close up. 

           All mixed up! Mmmmmm!

Smoothie Cereal!; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients 

1. 2 cups frozen berries of choice (I used strawberries)

2. One scoop protein powder of choice (j used vega)

3. 1++ cup almond milk

4. 1/2 cup TVP granules

5. 1/4 tsp ground ginger 

6. Stevia to taste

Method

1. In a medium size bowl, stir together dry TVP, ginger, and stevia powder. Set aside. 

2. In your vitamix, combine frozen berries, ️protein powder, and almond milk (you might need to add more during blending to thin out--this smoothie is THICK!). Blend until smooth, pour into large bowl and sprinkle with TVP cereal. Stir and eat! Delicious!

My favorite chia pudding: Coconut-Beetroot Chia Pudding.

I love chia pudding. I love chia seeds in general! I mean, what's NOT to love?! A mere 1/4 cup provides 6 grams of protein, 11 grams of healthy fats (HELLO OMEGA 3's!), and only 180 calories. I thought I had died and gone to vegan foodie heaven when I learned of all the incredible uses of chia seeds. ESPECIALLY when I discovered my beloved chia pudding. Chia puddings are definitely a go-to quick breakfast for me. Chia gives me so much energy-perfect to power me through a run or skate! 

This particular chia pudding is definitely a new fave. Beets (another of my favorite things!) and coconut go great together, if you're never tried that combo. Quick, easy, ridiculously filling. What are you waiting for?!

      Coconut-Beetroot Chia Pudding. 

             Even better? It's PINK! 

Coconut-Beetroot Chia Pudding; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients 

1. 1/4 cup black chia seeds

2. 1 cup almond milk

3. 1/2 cup steamed, sliced beets

4. 10 drops coconut flavored stevia

5. Shredded unsweetened coconut for garnish, optional 

Method 

1. Place chia in a LARGE bowl (do not underestimate bowl size...this expands drastically!). 

2. In vitamix or other high speed blender, combine beets, almond milk, and stevia. Blend until smooth. Pour over chia and stir with spoon. 

3. Cover and place in fridge overnight. When ready to eat, garnish with shredded coconut if desired. Enjoy! You will..!

Copycat "Wendy's" Carob Frosty.

Ahhhh, summer is finally here. And you all know what that means...swimming, vacation, relaxing, and of course, frozen goodness! 

I used to LOVE those "Frosty" desserts that Wendy's used to serve. Of course, I haven't had one in YEARS (Like maybe 8 years?!) but I remember exactly how they taste, nonetheless! Cool, rich, and utterly satisfying, I have fond memories of summer nights eating these while watching the sunset...after a day at the pool of course! 

This veganized version of my all time fave is as close to the real thing as you can get. Give it a go! You will love it! 

      Copycat "Wendy's" Carob Frosty. 

                 Frosty deliciousness!

Copycat "Wendy's" Carob Frosty; Vegan, Gluten-free. Serves one. 

Ingredients 

1. One frozen chopped pear 

2. One frozen chopped banana

3. 1 T carob powder

4. 1/3 cup almond milk

5. 1/3 cup plus 1/8 cup cold water, divided

Method 

1. Place banana, pear, carob powder, almond milk, and 1/3 cup water in your vitamix or high speed blender. Blend slowly from low to high. While blender is running, add 1/8 cup water through the top. Use plunger to get things moving of necessary. 

2. Blend until smooth. It will be thick--don't think smoothie, think more ice cream. Serve in a tall "frosty glass" and enjoy!