Tag Archives: appetizer

May 2, 2013

Vegan Ceviche

Phew, let me tell you, it is so weird to be home again. But, definitely a relief. After a month of working my butt off in the windy, hot desert that is Coachella Valley, and not blogging at all, it is nice to be sitting comfortably at my desk and hanging out with my pups. I won’t lie, though, being forced to have a break from the internet was actually a good thing and eventually I just had to live with the fact that I would have no time to blog, etc. Before April, I was already having a hard enough time juggling my work with my personal life, and now I have to really re-access what my priorities are, but still reach my goals. Such is life!

Here are a few photos from my trip!

Pre-Coachella Show Day

Dust Storm Hellish-ness Weekend 1

About to watch Local Natives

Messin’ around in the Boutique Photo Booth

Some of our Inventory team on the last day!

One of the recipes that I made before I left, is something that I’m really excited about; especially since Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner! I had ceviche a few times in my life before I went vegan, and only once after that. The vegan version that I had was weird and involved fake shrimp which always gives me the heebie-jeebies, so I decided that I would make my own recipe!

This dish is more of a side, but may just steal the spotlight with how refreshing it is and its great flavors. Plus, it is REALLY easy to make. Once of the sneaky ingredients in it are oyster mushrooms, they have a slightly fishy scent/taste which makes this a well-rounded vegan ceviche. You can bring it to a party, serve it with a meal, make it whenever! I prefer to eat it with some salted tortilla chips and a beer. ;)

I can’t forget to mention that my mom loved this so much that she brought it to a get together with some of her quilting friends; and they all enjoyed it, too!

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March 3, 2013

Mini Pizza Pies!

It’s Sunday, and I am worn out. I feel like that’s pretty common amongst most people, though. Work during the week, get other things done on the weekend, then end up tired at the end of it all before you have to start on the Monday grind, again. Kind of dreadful, huh? Although, today I’ve been working on a delightful little recipe for you all, so I can’t complain too much about being tired!

But first, I would just like to mention that I went sailing for the first time, on Saturday. It was super last-minute, but a very fun experience, that makes me feel extremely lucky to live where I do. We had a hot weekend in Southern California, which I honestly was pretty bitter about (I like cool weather!), but the winds made for a perfect sailing situation. It did get a little chilly when the sun was going down, but it was pretty terrific and the scenery and sunset were gorgeous.

Which is why I may have procrastinated on creating a recipe that I wanted to get done yesterday, oops. Never the less, I am really excited to share with you these delectable morsels that I have dubbed Mini Pizza Pies. Plus, I’ve tried out something new with my cashew spread! I have made it even healthier, by substituting a good amount of cashews with steamed cauliflower; and I assure you, nothing has been lost in this switch. The texture is pretty incredible and still very creamy and rich, success!

These little pizzas would be great served as an appetizer at a party, or even just served as dinner. They’re a fun, little dish that is very kid-friendly, and even more adult-friendly. ;) The fluffy, homemade crust can’t be beat!

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February 8, 2013

Mexican Twice Baked Potatoes

Truth be told, I made these amazing potatoes for Super Bowl Sunday. Of course, now it’s a little late to post it, but is it ever too late to enjoy an awesome appetizer or side? I think not! I know that Cinco de Mayo is still a ways away, but these would be great for a themed party along those lines. There are a couple of components to the recipe, but it all comes together in a tasty way that won’t disappoint.

First, you have your potato. Who doesn’t like potatoes? Crazy people, that’s who. (JUST KIDDING, kind of) Baked, scooped, mashed and baked again; then drizzled with a savory queso sauce, topped with crunchy coconut bacon and some fresh pico de gallo. It’s like nachos in a potato, but slightly less crunchy and definitely easier to share. Maybe next time I’ll mash some black beans in with the potato for an extra nacho-y experience. Then, add a squeeze of lime and a few drops of hot sauce for some acidity, at least, that’s how I like it.

Of course, I had my nifty helper, Trevor there for some prep and to take care of the coconut bacon for me. I’m surprised that I was able to top any of the potatoes with it, seeing as how we couldn’t stop snacking on it! I used Fettle Vegan’s recipe as a base and added some smoked paprika, and extra liquid aminos, plus a pinch of cayenne pepper.

So, while I watched Beyonce do her incredible thang on stage for the half-time show, I munch on a couple of these potatoes and felt second-hand exhausted from watching her dance around like crazy for 15 straight minutes. I won’t lie, I was a little excited when that quick Destiny’s Child reunion happened; I loved them when I was younger! Maybe next time I’ll do jumping jacks while watching people dance on my TV, or maybe not. ;)

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February 2, 2013

Cheezy Soyrizo Bean Dip

Here is my warning to you: This dip in insanely addictive and not for the faint of heart. This is not a healthy dip, although it could be much worse; but it is absolutely perfect for parties, get-togethers and any other occasion in which you would need an awesome appetizer. I know first hand that this dip pairs well with Mexican lagers and margaritas!

I will say, this was not a completely original idea from myself. This started with my mother and her crazy bean dip that she’s made for at least the past 10 years. Ever since I went vegan, I was smell the dip and get a tad bitter that I didn’t want to eat any. This past week, I figured it was time for my own (vegan) version, and my parents and I agree that this is definitely a good match! Not to mention it was gone within a night between 4 people. Oops.

Melted Daiya Pepperjack shreds paired with the salty, well-seasoned soyrizo and an added kick from some pickled jalapeños means that this filling dip packs a punch when it comes to flavor. The TVP and black beans add some texture and protein to the mix, and (vegetarian) refried beans make up another part of the base. This dip is super easy to make, so it’s great for a last-minute dish to bring to a party; maybe one of the Super Bowl variety, since that’s tomorrow?? ;)

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