Tag: vegan

  • Healing Herb & Vegetable Broth

    Healing Herb & Vegetable Broth

    Healing Herb & Vegetable Broth

    When you’re looking for a soothing and nourishing recipe that can help boost your immune system and provide comfort, a healing herbal vegetable broth is the perfect choice.

    Packed with a variety of vegetables and aromatic herbs, this broth not only tastes delicious but also provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want to warm up on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

    Elisa Franco

    Healing Herb & Vegetable Broth

    This healing herbal vegetable broth is a kitchen staple that you'll want to keep on hand year-round. Its nourishing properties make it a go-to when you're feeling unwell, and its delicious taste makes it a versatile addition to various recipes. Sip and enjoy the benefits of this homemade broth and share it with your loved ones. Store extra in the freezer to have at the ready.
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    Servings: 4
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 carrots chopped
    • 2 celery stalks chopped
    • 1 onion peeled and quartered
    • 6 cloves garlic smashed
    • 1/2 whole lemon washed thoroughly
    • 1 leek cleaned and sliced
    • 1 red or green pepper chopped
    • 1 parsnip chopped
    • 1 small bunch of fresh parsley or cilantro
    • 1 sprig of fresh thyme, or 1 tsp dried
    • 1 sprig of fresh rosemary, or 1 tsp dried
    • 1 bay leaf
    • 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
    • 1 tsp coriander seeds
    • 1 tsp fennel seeds
    • 1 tsp turmeric powder or a small piece of fresh turmeric root
    • 1-inch knob of ginger sliced
    • 1 small handful of dried shiitake mushrooms
    • 12 cups water
    • salt and pepper to taste
    • 3 jalapeño slices optional, for heat
    • 1/2 cup sliced reishi mushroom, or 2 tbsp powdered optional, for immune boost
    • 1 piece kombu optional, for immune boost
    • 1 tbsp dried astragalus optional, for immune boost

    Method
     

    1. Gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables as indicated.
    2. In a large soup pot, dry-toast the coriander seeds and fennel seeds over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. This step enhances their flavors.
    3. Add all of your ingredients, except the water, to the pot. Stir to combine.
    4. Pour 12 cups of water into the pot, covering all the ingredients. Slowly bring the mixture to a soft boil over medium high heat.
    5. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the broth simmer for about 1.5 to 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to release their goodness. Add salt and pepper to taste during this time.
    6. After simmering, carefully strain the broth into another pot or large bowl. Discard the solids or save them for compost.
    7. Your healing herbal vegetable broth is ready to serve. Sip it as a comforting and soothing drink or use it as a base for soups, stews, or any recipe that calls for broth. It's a wonderful way to nourish your body and support your immune system.
  • Eggplant Rounds

    Eggplant Rounds

    Eggplant Rounds

    It’s the tail end of the season for many of our summer favorites. This is more of a no-recipe recipe. Take eggplant, slimmer brighter Asian varieties or traditional purple globe eggplant and roast sliced rounds. Then you have a tasty base for all sorts of toppings that is keto, vegan, gluten-free, and more!

    Print Pin

    Eggplant Rounds

    Servings 16

    Ingredients

    • 2 large eggplants
    • ½ cup olive oil
    • 1 tbsp dried oregano
    • 1 tsp sea salt
    • 1 tsp ground black pepper

    Instructions

    • Preheat oven to 400° F. Cut eggplant into half-inch thick slices and place on a parchment lined baking sheet.
    • Brush olive oil on both sides of rounds and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
    • Bake rounds for 30-40 minutes, flipping them halfway, until they are golden in color.
    • When rounds have cooled, place on a serving platter and serve with hummus, tabouleh, olives, feta, radishes, crackers, etc.

    Recipe Provided by INFRA

  • Spicy Mango Beverage

    Spicy Mango Beverage

    Spicy Mango Beverage

    Is it a smoothie? Is it a mocktail? The only thing we care about is that it’s delicious! This spicy mango drink is the perfect blend (pun intended!) of sweet, spicy, and savory. Don’t skip the salted rim! 

    Print Pin

    Spicy Mango Beverage

    Servings 4

    Ingredients

    • 2 large ripe mangoes
    • ½ cup lime juice
    • 16 oz ginger beer
    • ¼ cup flake sea salt plain or smoked
    • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

    Instructions

    • To make the mango puree, peel ripe mango and remove pit. Place fruit in a blender and bend on high until smooth. This makes enough puree for approximately four beverages.
    • To assemble, combine salt and cayenne pepper on a small plate. Dip the rim of four glasses in water then into the salt mixture.
    • Combine 1/3 cup mango puree, and 2 tablespoons lime juice in each prepared glass. Add ice and top off with ginger beer. Garnish with mint, lemon balm, or a jalapeño slice and serve.

    Recipe Provided by INFRA

  • Are our kids getting enough?

    Are our kids getting enough?

    Are our kids getting enough?

    If you’re a parent, you’ve probably spent plenty of time worrying—about all manner of childhood issues, including whether your kids are eating enough to keep them healthy. Because it can be such a worry, we explore how nutrient deficiencies can affect our kids, how to spot them, and, also, how to prevent them. Remember, always check with your health care practitioner before giving your child a new supplement.

    Vitamin Bs

    Collectively, B vitamins are essential to many aspects of brain function, energy production, and our body’s ability to build and repair muscle mass. Deficiencies in B vitamins are most often seen in vitamin B12 (especially for vegan and vegetarian kids) and B9 (folate).

    Signs of deficiency

    • fatigue
    • weakness
    • anemia
    • loss of appetite, weight loss
    • failure to thrive and grow
    • difficulty with memory and concentration

    Vitamin C

    With critical roles in our immune system, wound healing, bone health, and antioxidant protection, it’s especially important for our kids to get enough in their diets. Luckily, there are plenty of vitamin C-rich foods that’ll help keep intake up and their diet fun.

    Signs of deficiency

    • irritability
    • poor appetite
    • bleeding gums
    • easy bruising
    • dry skin
    • slow wound healing

    How to get more

    • bell peppers
    • citrus fruits
    • berries
    • kiwi fruit
    • Brussels sprouts, dark green veggies

    Supplements: powders, drops, chewable tablets, gummies, multis

    Vitamin D

    Also known as the sunshine vitamin, this fat-soluble essential vitamin aids in the regulation of calcium and phosphorous in our bodies. Because of this, vitamin D plays a very important role in building and maintaining our bones and teeth.

    Signs of deficiency

    • bone pain
    • muscle aches
    • fatigue
    • mood changes
    • dental problems

    How to get more

    • fortified dairy products
    • fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines)
    • egg yolks

    Supplements: capsules, drops, gummies, multis

    Calcium

    Bone calcium stops increasing in young adulthood, so getting off to a healthy start is critical to strong bones later in life.

    Signs of deficiency

    • muscle cramps or weakness
    • numbness or tingling in fingers, lips, feet
    • poor appetite
    • confusion, forgetfulness

    How to get more

    • cheese
    • yogurt
    • dark green veggies (broccoli, kale, spinach)
    • fish (canned salmon, sardine—with bones)
    • almonds

    Supplements: (often with vitamin D) chewable tablets, capsules, liquids, powders

    Magnesium

    Magnesium is also crucial for activating vitamin D, which has long been recognized as essential for a healthy immune system. Some older children can be more at risk of deficiency of this important mineral.

    Signs of deficiency

    • loss of appetite
    • nausea/vomiting
    • fatigue
    • weakness

    How to get more

    • leafy green veggies (spinach, kale)
    • nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)
    • cheese
    • yogurt
    • whole grains
    • avocado

    Supplements: capsules, tablets, liquids, multis

    Potassium

    The fact that kids consume far more sodium than is healthy for their long-term health is concerning, since the combination of too much sodium and too little potassium in our diet is associated with higher blood pressure.

    Signs of deficiency

    • muscle weakness
    • cramps
    • constipation
    • fatigue
    • confusion

    How to get more

    • dried fruit (apricots, prunes)
    • winter squash (acorn, butternut)
    • potato/sweet potato
    • banana
    • beans, lentils
    • yogurt

    Supplements: fizzy dissolving tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, multis

    Iron

    Children need a steady intake of iron to fuel their rapid growth and development. It’s especially important for teenage girls to replenish the iron that their bodies lose during menstruation.

    Signs of deficiency

    • weakness, fatigue
    • shortness of breath
    • dizziness, headache
    • irritability
    • feeling cold
    • pale skin

    How to get more

    • meat, poultry, seafood (beef, turkey, shrimp)
    • leafy green veggies (spinach, kale)
    • nuts and seeds (almonds, pumpkin seeds)
    • legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
    • whole grains
    • soy (tempeh, tofu)

    Supplements: tablets, liquids, multis

    Zinc

    Zinc is important for growing kids’ brain development, sensory processing, memory, and cognition. It’s also an important element in immune function.

    Signs of deficiency

    • loss of appetite
    • hair loss
    • diarrhea
    • weight loss
    • delayed wound healing

    How to get more

    • chicken, turkey
    • whole grains
    • pumpkin seeds
    • cheese
    • eggs

    Supplements: chewable tablets, gummies, lozenges, liquids, multis

    Content courtesy of Alive Magazine

  • Superfood Kale Salad

    Superfood Kale Salad

    Superfood Kale Salad

    This superfood kale salad is like getting
    to eat a whole bowl of guacamole without sharing—and without feeling guilty

    Think of this recipe as the perfect canvas. You can enjoy the subtle nuttiness of sunflower seeds and hemp hearts. Add it to wraps or sandwiches that could use a boost. Top with your favorite protein for a more substantial meal. Grilled tofu will keep things plant-based. You can also add some grilled shrimp, cotija cheese, diced ripe mango, and a bit of your favorite salsa for a shrimp taco salad. The canvas can take anything you throw at it, so don’t sleep on this superfood kale salad!

    Superfood Kale Salad

    This superfood kale salad is full on savory goodness with nutritional yeast, seeds, and of course avocado. By massaging kale, you can overcome the sometimes-fibrous nature of this nutritional powerhouse.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 bunch green kale
    • 1 large ripe avocado peeled and pit removed
    • 2 large garlic cloves minced
    • 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1/2 tsp sea salt
    • 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds
    • 2 tbsp hemp hearts

    Method
     

    1. Remove stems from kale and chop leaves into bite size pieces. Set aside.
    2. In a large mixing bowl place avocado, garlic, olive oil, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and salt. Fork through the mixture to mash avocado and to blend ingredients.
    3. Add kale and mix thoroughly with both hands, massaging until kale is fully coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    4. To serve, garnish with sunflower seeds and hemp hearts.
    5. Enjoy!

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Peach-Thyme Compote

    Peach-Thyme Compote

    Peach-Thyme Compote

    This peach-thyme compote is easier than making jam, but you can use it anywhere you’d use jam or jelly. Toast? French toast? Cheese boards? Ice Cream?!? It does it all!

    While stone fruit season runs throughout the summer months, August is National Peach Month. If you’ve got a small bounty of peaches, try making this peach-thyme compote. With just four ingredients and a bit of water, you can make an elevated spread that captures the essence of summer.

    Thyme adds complexity while the acidity of lemon juice tames the sweetness. You can switch different herbs and get creative. Since you’re not canning a jam, you don’t need to worry about straying from the recipe basics. Want to mix stone fruit or other seasonal goodies? If it grows together, it goes together!

    Peach-Thyme Compote

    Use the compote in sweet or savory applications. Grilled cheese sandwiches, as a glaze for organic chicken, with crepes, on a biscuit, or as an ice cream topper, this compote will complement your meals for the rest of the summer! 
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    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 2 lbs ripe, firm peaches
    • 1/4 cup organic sugar
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
    • 1 thyme sprig

    Method
     

    1. Bring a medium pot of water to a simmer.
    2. Drop in peaches for 15-30 seconds then remove from simmering water and place in cold water.
    3. Remove skins once cool enough to handle.
    4. Chop peaches, remove stones, and place in a medium saucepan. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a hard boil.
    5. Cook for 5-8 minutes or until peaches are cooked.
    6. Spread cooked peach mixture on a rimmed backing sheet for rapid cooling. Discard thyme sprig.
    7. Store cooled peach compote in a sealable container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    Whether you’re hitting the trails or embarking on a summer road trip, having a convenient and nutritious snack on hand is a must!

    That’s where these Cacao Superfood Trail Bars come in.

    Packed with all the goodness of trail mix, including nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, these bars are the perfect fuel for any adventure. Plus, they’re super easy to make and can be customized to your liking. One of the best things about these bars is their portability. Simply pack them in a reusable container or wrap them in wax paper for a grab-and-go snack that’s perfect for hiking, camping, or any outdoor activity. And because they’re made with whole ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit, you’ll feel satisfied and energized for hours.

    Not only are these bars convenient and nutritious, but they’re also affordable. Making your own snacks at home is a great way to save money, and these bars can be made in large batches to last you through multiple adventures. You can also get most of the ingredients from the bulk section, so you can avoid the single-use packaging that normally comes with granola bars.

    Next time you’re gearing up for an outdoor adventure, don’t forget to make a batch of Cacao Superfood Trail Bars!

    Cacao Superfood Trail Bars

    If you're looking for a delicious and portable snack that's perfect for your summer adventures, look no further than these Cacao Superfood Trail Bars!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 8
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Cup gluten-free rolled oats
    • 1/2 Cup dry roasted almonds roughly chopped
    • 1/3 Cup cacao nibs
    • 1/4 Cup dry roasted pecans roughly chopped
    • 1/2 Cup roasted sunflower seeds
    • 1/4 Cup hemp seeds
    • 1/4 Cup sesame seeds
    • 1/4 Cup currants
    • 1/2 Cup raw honey or syrup sweetener of choice
    • 1/3 Cup creamy peanut or almond butter
    • 2 Ounces dark chocolate chopped
    • 1/4 Teaspoon olive oil

    Method
     

    1. Preheat oven to 350° F. In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine oats, nuts, cacao nibs, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, sesame seeds, and currants.
    2. Heat peanut or almond butter and honey or syrup sweetener in a small saucepan and stir until very warm. Pour over oat mixture and stir until well blended and everything is coated.
    3. Line a 9'x9" baking pan with parchment paper. Add mixture to the pan and with wet hands, press mixture flat.
    4. Bake for 15 minutes. Allow bars to cool before removing from the pan. Cut into eight bars and place on a cooling rack.
    5. Fill a medium-sized pot with two inches of water and place a heatproof metal or glass mixing bowl on top. You want it to fit snugly without touching the water. Bring the water to a simmer over medium-low heat. Add the chocolate and olive oil to the bowl and stir until melted and combined.
    6. Drizzle the chocolate over the cooled bars.
    7. Enjoy!

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Mango Relish Dogs

    Mango Relish Dogs

    Mango Relish Dogs

    The combination of sweet and savory flavors from the mango chutney paired with the smoky and satisfying taste of plant-based hot dogs creates a truly delicious and satisfying experience.

    Give a new flavor profile to the folks sitting around your table—whether they be picky kids or adventurous eaters, experienced in plant-based or just experimenting with alternatives. There are many reasons to enjoy plant-based mango chutney hot dogs.

    Looking for another way to spice things up? Customize your mayo with a touch of sriracha and black pepper or lime zest and chopped cilantro.

    Whether it’s for the unique flavor, nutritional benefits, or ethical considerations, these hot dogs are a delicious and satisfying choice for any occasion. Plus, you can have a meal ready to go in less than 20 minutes! You can have more time to enjoy time outside after warming up the grill.

    Mango Relish Dogs

    These are perfect for those who love a little bit of sweetness and tanginess in their hot dogs. Plus, it's vegan and plant-based!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 6
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    Mango Pickle Relish
    • 1 Cup sweet pickle relish
    • 1/2 Cup mango chutney
    • 1 Teaspoon rice vinegar
    • 1 Teaspoon dry mustard powder
    • 1 Teaspoon chili flakes
    • 1/2 Teaspoon curry powder
    Hot Dogs
    • 6 plant-based classic smoked hot dogs
    • 6 hot dog buns
    • 1/2 small red onion julienned
    • 1/2 Cup plant-based mayo

    Method
     

    1. Combine all relish ingredients in a bowl and adjust seasoning to taste.
    2. Butterfly hot dogs and sear each side in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden crisp, approximately three minutes per side. Alternatively, grill hot dogs.
    3. To assemble, place hot dogs in buns then fill with relish. Drizzle on mayo and garnish with red onion.

    Recipe Courtesy of INFRA

  • Elderflower Lemon Spritz with Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides

    Elderflower Lemon Spritz with Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides

    Elderflower Lemon Spritz with Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides

    The Elderflower Spritz is a refreshing pick-me up mocktail for that 3pm slump.

    Everyone has the same number of hours in a day, but sometimes you just don’t feel like using those hours for sleeping. Sometimes you feel like watching one too many episodes of your favorite reality TV show. Made with green tea, lemon juice, mint leaves, and elderflower tonic water, this fizzy and floral drink is the perfect mocktail recipe. 

    But what really sets this mocktail apart is the addition of Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides. With just one serving, you can add the collagen that you love with a lemony flavor you’ll love even more.

    Go ahead and indulge in a delicious drink that’s also good for your daily dose of collagen. Make it squeezier.

    Elderflower Lemon Spritz

    A refreshing, relaxing, and nourishing mocktail!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Servings: 1
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 Serving Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides
    • 4 Ounces green tea or water
    • 3 Ounces Elderflower tonic water
    • 2 Ounces Lemon or grapefruit juice
    • Mint leaves or rosemary sprig as a garnish

    Method
     

    1. Add Vital Proteins® Lemon Collagen Peptides, green tea (or water) and lemon (or grapefruit) juice to a glass and mix using a frother or spoon
    2. Add ice
    3. Top with Elderflower tonic water
    4. Add mint leaf or rosemary sprig for garnish
    5. Enjoy!

    Recipe courtesy of Vital Proteins

  • Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    On a hot summer day, nothing beats the sweet, juicy goodness of watermelon.

    Imagine that refreshing flavor transformed into a delightful frozen treat: watermelon popsicles! These vibrant and mouthwatering popsicles are incredibly easy to make and will keep you cool all summer long.

    Bursting with natural sweetness and hydration, they are perfect for both kids and adults alike.

    So let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe and get ready to savor the essence of summer in every bite.

    Nicole Catenaro

    Refreshing Watermelon Popsicles

    These delightful watermelon popsicles are a cool and healthy way to beat the summer heat. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the refreshing taste of watermelon popsicles! So gather your ingredients, get creative with your molds, and let the sweet flavors of this frozen treat transport you to a sunny paradise. Enjoy!
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Ingredients Method

    Ingredients
      

    • 4 cups Fresh watermelon chunks (seedless)
    • 1 tablespoon Freshly squeezed lime juice
    • 1-2 tablespoons Honey or sweetener of choice (optional, adjust to taste)

    Method
     

    1. Start by cutting the watermelon into small chunks, removing any seeds if necessary. Ensure the watermelon is ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
    2. If you're using wooden popsicle sticks, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from splintering during freezing.
    3. Place the watermelon chunks into a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth and liquid consistency.
    4. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the watermelon puree. Lime juice enhances the overall flavor and adds a tangy kick.
    5. Taste the watermelon mixture and assess its sweetness. Depending on the natural sweetness of the watermelon, you may choose to add a little honey or sweetener of choice.
    6. If desired, gradually add the sweetener of your choice, blending again until well combined. Remember, watermelons are already sweet, so add sweeteners sparingly to maintain a balanced taste.
    7. Carefully pour the watermelon mixture into popsicle molds or small paper cups, leaving a little space at the top for expansion during freezing.
    8. Place the popsicles in the freezer and let them set for about 30 minutes to an hour, or until they become partially frozen.
    9. Once partially frozen, insert the popsicle sticks deeper into the molds or cups to secure them in place. This will help the sticks stand straight when the popsicles are fully frozen.
    10. Return the popsicles to the freezer and allow them to freeze completely for about 4-6 hours or overnight.
    11. When ready to enjoy, remove the popsicles from the molds or peel away the paper cups. If the popsicles don't easily release from the molds, run the bottom of the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen them.
    12. Serve the watermelon popsicles immediately and relish in the refreshing taste of summer. They are perfect for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues, or simply as a guilt-free dessert.