Tag: Eat a Rainbow

SapnaLeave a comment

One Pan Baked Salmon and Rainbow Veggies

This one pan salmon is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.  Ready in 15 minutes, it’s a nutritious meal the whole family will enjoy!

I love the idea of using just one pot or a pan.  Not only is cleanup easy but you don’t spend forever in the kitchen cooking after a long hard day of work.  Don’t get me wrong, the kitchen is my happy place.  But weeknights are crazy when the kids are hungry and don’t have the patience to wait for me to cook an elaborate dinner.

My favorite part is that the girls eat the rainbow veggies I add on the side.  The colors look so pretty and the girls love their rainbows as much as I do.  Chopping the veggies and seasoning them doesn’t take very long and adding that glaze on the salmon with a little honey and mustard mix is perfect to brighten up the salmon.

I kept the seasoning for the veggies pretty simple – salt, pepper, and a little dried oregano.  Why?  Because I want the salmon to shine too.  The veggies have their color that attracts you to them so the salmon should have something too, right?  The glaze is very easy to make.  Just mix a little dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and of course fresh squeezed lemon juice.  Brush it on to the salmon and voila!  All that is left to do is bake!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious One Pan Salmon with Rainbow Veggies!

One Pan Baked Salmon and Rainbow Veggies

One Pan Baked Salmon and Rainbow Veggies
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
March 26, 2021
by Sapna
Category Meats
Persons
3
Serving Size
1 filet
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 salmon filets
  • 1 c cherry tomatoes
  • 1 bunch asparagus spears, chopped into 1" stems
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced into 1" half moons
  • 1 orange bell pepper, sliced into 1" cubes
  • 1/2 purple onion, 1" slices
  • 1 Tbsp Olive or Avocado Oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp dried oregano

For the glaze:

  • 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 Tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Line up all the veggies on a sheet pan as well as the salmon filets.
  3. Drizzle the oil over all of the veggies, and then season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Gently mix to make sure the seasonings have evenly coated the veggies.
  4. In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the glaze and whisk well to emulsify.
  5. Using a pastry brush, brush the glaze onto the salmon (if you are using skinless salmon, make sure to brush both sides of the salmon).
  6. Bake for 13-15 minutes in the oven then remove.
  7. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Notes:
*I prefer to use fresh salmon for this recipe, however, if you are using frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it at room temperature to allow for even cooking time.  
*If you would like a crispy crust, stop baking 1-2 minutes early, change oven setting to broil and keep in oven for another 2-3 minutes after the baking time is over.  Watch carefully so as not to burn.  


Tags

15 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
Kid Friendly,
nut free,
Paleo,
Protein,
Quick and Easy,
Veggies,
weeknight meals
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used for this recipe:

 

Sapna1 Comment

Roasted Rainbow Veggies

Roasting vegetables is one of my favorite ways to eat any vegetable.  Having several different colors and cooking them together is the best in my book!  You get plenty of vitamins and minerals and the different colors are just so pretty to look at!  These Roasted Rainbow Veggies are the perfect way to serve your veggies for adults and kids, making them fun, easy, and healthy.

Rainbows have always been popular in our home,  with me always telling my girls to eat their colors and the girls loving anything to do with rainbows, unicorns, and princesses.  Roasting the veggies in a rainbow on a sheet pan is about the easiest recipe I have ever made.  The vast array of vitamins and minerals that we get to eat with our dinner makes this one of my healthiest recipes.

For my colors, I chose beets, carrots, yellow squash, asparagus, and purple potato.  You don’t have to stick to those same colors.  Honestly, go for what you find in your fridge.  Here are a few ideas to get you started for your own Roasted Rainbow Veggies:

RED: beets, tomatoes, red bell pepper
ORANGE: carrots, butternut squash, acorn squash, pumpkin
YELLOW: yellow squash, yellow bell pepper, golden beets, yellow onions
GREEN: zucchini, broccoli, asparagus, brussels sprouts
BLUE/PURPLE: purple sweet potatoes, purple carrots, eggplant, purple onions

So now that you have options, how do you make your own Roasted Rainbow Veggies?  All you need is a good chopping board, a sharp knife, and a sheet pan.  As to the flavors, my standard is to add a little dried oregano for taste with salt, pepper, and olive oil.  Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes (times do vary based on the type of veggies you choose), and serve it up with any dinner.

I can’t wait to see what veggies you chose to make your rainbow.  Be sure to let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram or Facebook!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy these quick, delicious, and healthy Roasted Rainbow Veggies!

Roasted Rainbow Veggies

Roasted Rainbow Veggies
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
March 17, 2021
by Sapna
Category Appetizers
Persons
4
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 large beet, peeled and chopped in 1" cubes
  • 3-4 med sized carrots, peeled, sliced in rounds
  • 1 yellow squash, chopped in half moons
  • 1 bunch asparagus, chopped in 1" pieces
  • 1 purple sweet potato, peeled and chopped in 1" cubes
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Arrange all the veggies on a sheet pan, then drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  3. Give the veggies a quick toss to incorporate the oil and seasoning.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Tags

30 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fiber,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
heart healthy,
Kid Friendly,
Quick and Easy,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian,
weeknight meals
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used for this recipe:

 

Sapna3 Comments

Springtime Lentil Salad

Spring is almost here.  I can feel it in the air and I’m so excited!  It’s one of my favorite seasons when all the flowers bloom, the grass is luscious green, and the weather is perfect!  This amazing lentil salad is a nod to that feeling and to welcome spring in my life because I cannot wait a moment longer.

Perfectly cooked, tender lentils, crisp and juicy bell peppers, fresh mint, sweet pomegranates, sharp onions, the crunchy cucumbers all drizzled with a fresh basil vinaigrette.  How can you say no to that?  While the lentils are cooking, you can chop the veggies and make the vinaigrette so all you have to do is toss the salad together when the lentils are done.  Make this on the weekend as part of your meal prep, have it for lunch, or even serve it for dinner as a side.  It’s so versatile, quick, easy, and delicious.

Not only does this wonderful lentil salad taste good and is quick to make, it is packed with protein and nutrients.  Check it out:

  • Great source of protein – 13 gm per serving
  • 23% DRI of Fiber
  • 30% DRI of Iron
  • 24% DRI of Phosphorous
  • 77% DRI of Vit. C
  • 127% DRI of Folic Acid
  • 60% DRI of Vit. K

In addition to how nutrient dense this salad is and delicious it is to gobble up, I love how versatile it is.  Add in some goat cheese for a little decadence, change out the mint to parsley if the mint is too strong for you, add in a few more veggies for more crunch or even toss in some nuts if you please.

So… try out this delicious Springtime Lentil Salad and welcome the new season with me!

Springtime Lentil Salad

Springtime Lentil Salad
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
March 10, 2021
by Sapna
Category Salads
Persons
4
Serving Size
1 Bowl
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Lentils:

  • 1 cup lentils uncooked, french green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 3 c water
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Salad:

  • 1 c English cucumber, finely diced
  • 1 c red onion, finely diced
  • ¾ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped, loosely packed
  • 1/4 c pomegranate arils
  • 1 c orange bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Basil Vinaigrette

  • 1 c basil packed
  • ¼ c white wine vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp agave
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
  • ½ c olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

For the Lentils:

  1. In a medium sized saucepan, combine the lentils, water, and salt together. Bring to a boil on high heat then reduce to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, combine all of the ingredients for the vinaigrette in an air tight jar and shake vigorously until emulsified.
  3. When the lentils are done, drain any excess water and transfer the lentils to a large bowl. Add in chopped veggies, pomegranate, and mint and toss well. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top right before serving and give it a good toss to combine with the salad.
  5. Enjoy!

Tags

30 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
Kid Friendly,
make ahead,
Protein,
Quick and Easy,
spring recipes,
springtime,
summer recipes,
Vegan,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used to make this recipe:

 

Sapna5 Comments

Brussels Sprouts Grain Bowl

If you have been following me then you know how much I love my bowls.  Experimenting with different flavor profiles, playing around with new dressings, and oftentimes using whatever vegetables are left in the fridge waiting to be saved from their last moments are the best part of creating my new bowl.

My brussels sprouts were facing a similar fate as mentioned above.  I had enough left that I could create a whole new dish with just them, but so few that I didn’t want to waste them either.  Grain bowls are perfect for these types of situations especially if you are using a variety of different ingredients.

This one turned out so delicious that I actually went out and bought more brussels sprouts even though I am trying to move on to spring veggies!  We’ve now had this bowl 4 times in the last 2 weeks and no one in my household minds – in fact, they love it !

I added in some sweet potato for a little starch, sweetness, and fiber, and avocado for protein.  As for the dressing, keeping it simple was the best route.  I made a honey dijon dressing that worked wonders.  The tang from the dijon and the sweet honey are a perfect balance to the bowl.

So…what are you waiting for?  Try this delicious Brussels Sprouts Grain Bowl and become a fan too!

Brussels Sprouts Grain Bowl

Brussels Sprouts Grain Bowl
Your rating: 5
|
1 ratings
Sapna
March 5, 2021
by Sapna
Category Salads
Persons
4
Serving Size
1 Bowl
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1lb Brussels Sprouts, halved (quartered for larger ones)
  • 2 med sized Sweet Potatoes, peeled, cubed
  • 1 Avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 c cashews, dry roasted, roughly chopped
  • 1 tsp Everything Bagel seasoning
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil

For the quinoa:

  • 1/2 c quinoa, uncooked
  • 1 c water
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoon Honey
  • 4 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment or silicone mat.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, turmeric, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground ginger. Add in the oil and mix well until combined.
  4. Add in the brussels sprouts and sweet potato and toss to coat completely.
  5. Transfer to the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
  6. Meanwhile, rinse the quinoa thoroughly. Transfer to a medium sized saucepan and add the water and salt. Bring to a boil on med high heat, then reduce to simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes.
  7. Remove quinoa from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  8. On the side, add all of the ingredients for the dressing into an airtight jar/container. Shake vigorously until all of the ingredients have emulsified.
  9. When the veggies are done, assemble the bowl.
  10. Divide the quinoa equally into 4 bowls followed by the veggies. Add the sliced avocados and chopped cashews. Drizzle the dressing and garnish with the Everything Bagel seasoning.
  11. Enjoy warm!

Tags

30 minute meals,
Avocado,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Grain Bowl,
Healthy,
Protein,
Sustainable,
vegetarian,
weeknight meals
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used for this recipe:

 

Sapna3 Comments

Sprouted Moong Beans Sabzi Gujarati Style

Growing up, my Mom would make these sprouted moong beans for dinner often.  I remember my brother and I were not big fans and would hate eating them.  Now that I’m an adult, maybe a switch has flipped?  I don’t know but I definitely love this recipe and could easily eat this dish 2-3 times a week.  Thanks Mom!

WHAT ARE SPROUTED MOONG BEANS?
Sprouted moong beans are basically moong beans that have been soaked in water then left in a warm place to germinate.  They are very popular in Indian and Pakistani cooking though many people across the globe are starting to embrace this food more and more.
Some of the more popular ways to eat sprouted moong beans is to add them in to salads and sandwiches, however, some of the more traditional ways to make them is to make a curry, a sabzi, and even dosas out of these delicious babies.

WHY SHOULD I EAT SPROUTED MOONG BEANS?
Because they are a powerhouse of nutrients.  These legumes are one of the best sources of plant based protein providing ~14gm in 1 cup cooked.  Take a look at some of these other benefits:

  • Fiber: 15.4 grams
  • Folate (B9): 80% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI)
  • Manganese: 30% of the RDI
  • Magnesium: 24% of the RDI
  • Vitamin B1: 22% of the RDI
  • Phosphorus: 20% of the RDI
  • Iron: 16% of the RDI
  • Copper: 16% of the RDI
  • Potassium: 15% of the RDI
  • Zinc: 11% of the RDI

WHERE CAN I GET SPROUTED MOONG BEANS?
Moong Beans are easy to sprout at home (I love this method provided by Piping Pot Curry) or you can find them at your local Indian or Asian grocery store.

So now that you know what I know about these delicious and nutritious legumes, let me tell you how to make them.  This particular recipe is my mom’s (I’ve not made a single change to it because it’s so perfect the way it is!) and I love the simplicity of it as it carries a depth of flavor too.

There are two methods of making this dish.  One is in the instant pot and the other over the stove.  I’ve given both versions in the recipe card below so feel free to try both to see which you prefer!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy these Sprouted Moong Beans as much as we do!

Sprouted Moong Beans Sabzi Gujarati Style

Sprouted Moong Beans Sabzi Gujarati Style
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
March 1, 2021
by Sapna
Cuisine Gujarati
Category Indian
Persons
4
Serving Size
1 cup
Prep Time
2 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Total Time
7 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 c sprouted moong beans
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, chopped in halves
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp hing (asafoetida)
  • 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili / cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2/3 c water
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp oil, divided
  • 1 serrano pepper, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp Cilantro, chopped, to garnish

Instructions

For Instant Pot Method:

  1. Start the saute mode and let the pot heat up.
  2. Add in 1 Tbsp oil and cumin seeds. When the cumin seeds start to splutter, add in the garlic and let it roast for a good 30-45 seconds.
  3. Add in the turmeric, hing, and cayenne pepper and give it a quick stir to help bloom the spices.
  4. Add in the moong sprouts and water. Mix well with the spices.
  5. Finally add in coriander powder, sugar, and salt.
  6. Turn off saute mode, seal Instant Pot in sealing position and set to Manual Cook for 5 minutes.
  7. When the timer beeps, release the pressure immediately.
  8. On the side, in a small tempering pan, heat oil on medium heat. Add in the green chilies and let it roast for 30 seconds. Add these in to the moong sabzi and give it a good stir.
  9. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with Roti.

For Stovetop Method:

  1. Add the sprouted moong beans in a pressure cooker with salt and water and cover the lid. Let it cook for 2 whistles then remove from heat. Release the pressure and open the pressure cooker.
  2. On medium heat, in a nonstick pan, heat 1 Tbsp oil and add cumin seeds. Add in the garlic and green chilies. Roast for 30 seconds to let the flavors build.
  3. Add in the turmeric, hing, and cayenne pepper and give it a quick stir to help bloom the spices.
  4. Next add in the cooked sprouted moong beans, coriander powder, and sugar. Mix well and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Turn off stove, garnish with cilantro and serve hot with Roti.

Notes

**Note: the cook time given is for the Instant Pot Method.  Stovetop takes and additional 3-4 minutes in my experience but overall, this dish takes less than 15 minutes to make.

Tags

10 minute meals,
Clean Eating,
dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
gujarati,
Healthy,
Indian Food,
Keto,
Kid Friendly,
make ahead,
nutrient dense,
Plant Based,
protein packed,
Quick and Easy,
Sabzi,
Sprouted Moong Beans,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used to make this recipe:

 

Sapna4 Comments

Rosemary Caprese Skewers with a Balsamic Glaze

These skewers are by far one of my favorite snacks!  Often times, if I am hosting a party, they usually make an appearance.  The best part, my girls love to eat them too (minus the basil and glaze)!  Super easy to assemble, healthy, and 5 simple ingredients.  You really can’t beat that!

For the skewers, I kept the Basil in the caprese, but the addition of rosemary gives it a little boost.  Rosemary can be strong which is why just the hint from the skewers is perfect here.  Bite sized, creamy mozzarella, tangy grape tomatoes, sharp basil, the sweet balsamic glaze finished off by fresh rosemary is definitely going to be one of the best foods I eat today!

Making the balsamic glaze is pretty simple too!  I used to be nervous about making the glaze because it seemed too daunting.  Then one day, I figured, I’ll try it and see what happens.  I can’t believe I was ever so nervous!  Literally I’m boiling balsamic vinegar with a little brown sugar and that’s pretty much it!   Oh.My.God. It tastes so good, I could drizzle this glaze on pretty much anything!

So what are you waiting for?  Try out these delicious skewers and impress your guests with a fancy-ish appetizer!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy these Rosemary Caprese Skewers with a Balsamic Glaze.

Rosemary Caprese Skewers with a Balsamic Glaze

Rosemary Caprese Skewers with a Balsamic Glaze
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
February 9, 2021
by Sapna
Category Appetizers
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 15-20 sprigs of fresh rosemary
  • 1 c cherry or grape tomatoes
  • 1 c mozzarella pearls
  • 1/4 c fresh basil

For the Balsamic glaze:

  • 1 c Balsamic Vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

For the Balsamic Glaze:

  1. Combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until it has reduced by half.
  2. Remove from heat and let it cool then transfer to a squeeze bottle or jar and store in a dry, cool place.

To assemble the skewers:

  1. Remove all but the top 1 inch of the rosemary sprigs.
  2. Skewer the tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and repeat. The order doesn't matter so have fun and get creative.
  3. Right before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top.
  4. Enjoy!

Notes

**Optional Add-ons:  Add some olives, slices of meats, or even veggies.
**If I'm in the mood, I sprinkle some coarse salt and red chili flakes before I drizzle the balsamic glaze.  Try it!

Tags

Appetizers,
Caprese Skewers,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
Kid Friendly,
make ahead,
Quick and Easy,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Sapna4 Comments

Middle Eastern Vegan Protein Bowl

Looking for a healthy way to get protein without compromising flavor?  Well, you’ve come to the right place.  This Vegan Protein Bowl has hints of spicy, tangy, herby, and definitely brings a Middle Eastern vibe in each bite!

Simple to make and ready in just 30 minutes, you have got to try this delicious bowl.  So let me tell you a little bit about the ingredients I chose.  For my grain, I used quinoa because it packs more of a protein punch but you can definitely use any other grain.  Bulgur or Farro would be excellent substitutes to keep in line with the Middle Eastern food theme.

For added protein and crunch, I used garbanzo beans.  I love snacking on these so I actually made double the amount and the girls ended up eating most of them!

As to the veggies, I used a few different ones as I wanted to get the colors in.  To give it some warmth, I roasted the cauliflower with the garbanzos and to keep a cool factor, I made a salad of tomatoes, avocados, cucumbers, and fresh herbs.

So it’s not just what ingredients I use but how much nutrition this delicious bowl provides.  In addition to almost 20 gm of protein, you are also getting:

  • Half of your daily recommended intake (DRI) of Fiber
  • 40% of DRI Iron
  • More than the recommended intake of Folic Acid
  • Meeting at least 20-50% of most of your Vitamins and Minerals DRI

The best part of making this recipe is that even though there are several different steps and techniques, you can multitask and get them all done at once without chaos in the kitchen!   Roast your veggies, while your quinoa cooks and you are making the Avocado Salsa!  So simple and easy!

Last but not least, I added a hummus dressing to pull it altogether.  I love making my own dressings and there is no way I would leave one out of a bowl this delicious.  And to be honest, I really think the hummus dressing really marries all the flavors together so perfectly.  So what are you waiting for?!  Try this recipe out and let me know what you think.  Leave a comment below, give it a star rating, or tag me on Facebook or Instagram!

From my kitchen to yours, I really hope you enjoy this delicious Middle Eastern Vegan Protein Bowl!

Middle Eastern Vegan Protein Bowl

Middle Eastern Vegan Protein Bowl
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
January 6, 2021
by Sapna
Category Vegetarian
Persons
4
Serving Size
1 Bowl
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 c quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 c water
  • 1 14-oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 2 c cauliflower florets
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 c cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
  • 1 avocado, chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 c fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 c fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 lemon, half juiced and the other half cut in wedges
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 2 1/2 tsp salt, divided
  • 2 tsp black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger

For the Hummus dressing:

  • 1/2 c garlic hummus
  • 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • 2 Tbsp water

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Make your spice blend by combining cumin, paprika, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, turmeric, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ginger in a bowl. Mix well to make sure all the spices are well incorporated. Set Aside.
  3. In a bowl, add cauliflower, 1 Tbsp Olive Oil and half of the spice blend. Toss well to make sure all of the florets are coated evenly. Transfer to one side of a baking sheet lined with a silicone mate or parchment paper.
  4. In the same bowl, add the garbanzo beans, 1 Tbsp Olive Oil, and the remaining half of the spice blend. Toss well to make sure all of the beans are coated evenly. Transfer to the other side of the same baking sheet used for the cauliflower. Bake for 30 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, in a medium sized saucepan, combine the water, 1/2 tsp salt, and rinsed quinoa. Bring to a boil on high heat, then lower the heat to medium high and cook for 15 minutes or until the water has evaporated. Remove from heat and cover to steam.
  6. While the quinoa is cooking, in a bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, red onions, parsley, and mint. Add to this the remaining 1 Tbsp of Olive Oil, juice of half a lemon, the remaining 1 tsp salt, and remaining 1 tsp black pepper. Toss well to combine. Set aside.
  7. For the hummus dressing, in an air tight jar, combine the hummus, dijon mustard, lemon juice and water. Seal the lid and shake vigorously to combine. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add water 1 Tbsp at a time and shake until you have your desired consistency.

To assemble:

  1. Divide the quinoa evenly into 4 bowls. Add about 1 cup of the avocado salsa, 1/4 of the cauliflower and 1/4 of the garbanzos in each bowl. Top off with the hummus dressing.
  2. Serve warm!

Tags

Clean Eating,
Eat a Rainbow,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
Kid Friendly,
Middle Eastern flavors,
Protein,
Quick and Easy,
Vegan,
vegetarian,
weeknight meals
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used:

Sapna8 Comments

Herb Roasted Acorn Squash with Pomegranates and Pistachios

my foodgawker gallery

This fall and winter season I have been obsessed with acorn squash and pomegranates.  It only made sense that I find a way to combine the two together.  The girls love the rainbow shape this takes on when cut so I wanted to create something fun for them too.

The great thing about acorn squash is that it is a little sweet naturally but it will still take on any flavor you give it.  If you haven’t tried them yet, I made some Fire Roasted Poblano Tacos recently with acorn squash part of the filling.  It took on the spices really well so I wanted to go on the opposite spectrum this time and season it with something a little more mild.

I chose mostly fresh herbs that would bring out the more earthy flavors.  To help give it a little crust, I also added a little Parmesan.

Anyways, here are a few fun nutrition facts about acorn squash:

  • A nutrient dense food, acorn squash is loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber yet is comparatively low in saturated fat, sugar and salt.
  • Great source of phytonutrients, particularly carotenoids which have antioxidant properties.
  • Acorn squash is a starchy fruit, however, because it is so nutrient dense, there’s a good balance to eating this squash. The high fiber content slows down digestion which helps you stay full longer and slows down the release of glucose in your blood.  This process helps in maintaining weight and stabilizing your blood sugar.

So now that you know about my favorite squash this season, let’s move on to my favorite fruit of the season.

Pomegranates!

  • Pomegranates are known as one of the healthiest fruits on Earth!
  • High in fiber (7gms in 1 cup of arils), they also contain an impressive amount of protein (3gm in 1 cup of arils), and 16% of DRI of Folate (also in 1 cup of arils)
  • A great source of antioxidants which help with anti-inflammatory properties.
  • they improve exercise performance by delaying fatigue and increasing blood flow.

Basically, this is one healthy dish that you can have this winter season and enjoy every bite of it!  Try it out and tag me on Instagram @bitofspice146.

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this delicious Herb Roasted Acorn Squash with Pomegranates and Pistachios.

Herb Roasted Acorn Squash with Pomegranates and Pistachios

Herb Roasted Acorn Squash with Pomegranates and Pistachios
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
December 15, 2020
by Sapna
Category Appetizers Vegetarian
Persons
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 med acorn squash, de-seeded and sliced in 1" half moons
  • 1/2 c shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 Tbsp fresh Thyme
  • 1 Tbsp fresh Rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh Marjoram, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried Basil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 Tbsp Olive Oil

To garnish:

  • 1/4 c pomegranate arils
  • 2 Tbsp pistachios

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.
  2. In a bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, marjoram, basil, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and oil. Add in the squash and toss well to evenly coat each piece.
  3. Line on the baking sheet and use any remaining mixture to top off the acorn squash.
  4. Bake for 22-25 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, on medium heat, dry roast the pistachios until they release a nutty aroma and are lightly golden.
  6. When the squash is baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes.
  7. Transfer to a platter and garnish with toasted pistachios and pomegranate arils.
  8. Serve warm.

Notes

** I have added a minute amount of salt as the Parmesan cheese is already salty.  If you want to make this vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese and increase the amount of salt to 3/4 tsp. 

** Cutting squash can be tricky as they have a very hard exterior.  Slice off the bottom of the squash and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes to soften it before chopping to make the process easier.  

**Make it Sustainable.  Save the seeds, wash them and dry them out.  You can plant your own acorn squash or roast them with spices and have a healthy snack! 


Tags

30 minute meals,
Acorn Squash,
Appetizers,
Clean Eating,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
High Fiber,
Kid Friendly,
nutrient dense,
Pomegranates,
Quick and Easy,
Sustainable,
vegetarian,
Winter Foods
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools I used to make this dish:

 

Sapna4 Comments

Tinseltown Tostadas

I think hands down, these are one of my favorite holiday foods.  I’ve had so many and I don’t think I can tire of them.  Snacking is one of my favorite activities.  These delicious tostadas make it so much easier as they are low in calorie, healthy, and guilt-free.

High in fiber, antioxidants, a good source of protein, and rich in vitamins and minerals, these delicious Tinseltown Tostadas definitely pack a punch!

Between the Serrano peppers and the watermelon radish, there were some strong flavors.  I knew I wanted to use the pomegranate arils to give it a sweet note (and make it look pretty).

But it needed depth so I played around with a few options before settling on the hummus and avocado.  And yet the radish was still giving off a bit of a pungent taste and therein comes the smear of pesto.

There are so many random flavors that they work despite wanting to prove the opposite.

Make these delicious Tinseltown Tostadas this holiday season and you won’t be able to stop eating them.  From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy them!

Tinseltown Tostadas

Tinseltown Tostadas
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
December 11, 2020
by Sapna
Category Appetizers Vegetarian
Prep Time
15 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 watermelon radish , washed and trimmed
  • 2 Tbsp pesto
  • 1/3 c hummus
  • 1 avocado, diced into small chunks
  • 2 Serrano peppers, sliced (remove seeds for a less spicy option)
  • 1/4 c pomegranate arils

Instructions

  1. Using a mandolin, thinly slice the watermelon radish to the thickness of a penny.
  2. Arrange the radishes in a platter.
  3. Using a small spoon, smear a little of the pesto across the middle of the radish.
  4. Drop about a 1/2 tsp dollop of hummus on top of the pesto.
  5. Add a couple of small chunks on top of the hummus.
  6. Top off with a slice of Serrano pepper
  7. Garnish with pomegranate arils
  8. Serve right away

Tags

Appetizers,
Clean Eating,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Holiday flavors,
Keto,
party food,
Vegan,
Watermelon Radish
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

The tools I used for this recipe are:

Sapna3 Comments

Tandoori Gobi (Cauliflower) Zucchini Boats

I’ve made zucchini boats a few times so far.  Each time has been to use up leftovers from our Skinny Skillet Enchilada the previous night.  They turn out really good and Sanaya loves them but it’s the same flavor profile so as much as I love it, I still crave something a little different.

I knew I wanted to create a different filling and haven’t done much with Indian food lately so I played around with my options.  I kept circling back to this one idea of Tandoori Gobi as the stuffing.  I’m not sure where I thought of it but it wouldn’t go away so I decided, ok, let’s give it a try.

I have a great Tandoori marinade recipe that I have been using with chicken so I decided, to use the same for the cauliflower.  I treated the cauliflower as the chicken substitute and marinated it overnight also.

The cooking part was a little tricky as I didn’t want a soggy Zucchini Boat and the marinade definitely looked like it would promise a lot of liquid.  Simple trick, I baked them separately, then stuffed the zucchini with the cauliflower and broiled it on high for 5 minutes to get a good char.  Can I just say, Oh so delicious!

Also, please don’t throw out the flesh of the zucchini when you scoop it out to create the cavity for the cauliflower.  Let’s be sustainable here and make some Zucchini Bread out of it!

One more thing I love about this recipe is that it is totally a weeknight meal.  So the time on the recipe card may be a little daunting, but it’s the ease of it.  And most of the time you spend is waiting for the flavors to marinate.  It really takes maybe 15 minutes to put the marinade together, then the next day, 5 minutes to shell out the Zucchini and the rest of the time, you are waiting for it to finish baking.  Honestly, it can’t get any easier for a weeknight meal.

Serve this delicious boat with a cooling Mint-y Pomegranate Raita to finish it off.

From my kitchen to yours, we hope these Tandoori Gobi Zucchini Boats rock your world!

Tandoori Gobi (Cauliflower) Zucchini Boats

Tandoori Gobi (Cauliflower) Zucchini Boats
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
December 7, 2020
by Sapna
Cuisine Indian Fusion
Category Indian Vegetarian
Persons
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Wait Time
8 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whip yogurt to a creamy texture.
  2. Add in the lemon juice, ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Mix well to combine all of the spices.
  4. Toss in the cauliflower florets and stir to make sure each floret is coated completely.
  5. Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours and preferably, overnight.
  6. When you are ready to bake, preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  7. Trim ends of zucchini and slice in half. Scoop out flesh and save to make Zucchini Bread.
  8. Rub oil over all 4 Zucchini boats, then season with the remaining 1 tsp salt and 3/4 tsp black pepper.
  9. Bake separately but at the same time, the cauliflower and zucchini boats for 30 minutes.
  10. Remove from oven and stuff the Zucchini Boats with the Tandoori Gobi.
  11. Broil on high for 5 minutes or until you get a slight char on the cauliflower.
  12. Remove from oven and sprinkle chaat masala over the the boats.
  13. Serve hot with your favorite raita!

Notes

**Bake the cauliflower and zucchini boats in separate baking sheets if possible.  When you stuff the boats and return the baking sheet to the oven to broil, the remnants of the tandoori paste will burn on the pan if you are using the same pan.

Tags

Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Indian Fusion,
Keto,
Meatless Monday,
Prep ahead,
Sustainable,
Tandoori Nights,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

SapnaLeave a comment

Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad

Warm foods during the cold winter days just makes so much sense.  And I don’t just mean temperature but the actual foods and their properties.

When you eat warm foods, they take longer to digest because they are higher in healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates which in turn results in increased body temperature (thermogenesis).  Root veggies, fruits such as coconut and apples, and herbs and spices are a few examples of these types of foods.

This Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad is a great combination of many of those warm foods and the fact that it’s filled with flavor, texture, sweet, and spicy makes this that much more of a delicious dish.

This is perfect to make as an entree or a side dish, or serve it up in mini bowls/plates as an appetizer.  A small amount will take you a long way as the salad is very filling.

I honestly think this is one of the most nutrient dense recipes I have.  Here are a few healthy benefits from this one:

  • Rich in Fiber and Protein
  • Packed with antioxidants
  • Boosts Immune System
  • Good source of Vit. C, E, and B6
  • Good source of Calcium, Iron, and Folate
  • Good source of omega 3 and carotenoids which have anti-inflammatory effects beneficial to all types of arthritis (Butternut Squash)
  • Boost in energy level (Lentils)

The list can literally go on about how healthy this salad is, which only adds to the deliciousness of it.

From my kitchen to yours, I really hope you enjoy this Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad.

Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad

Butternut Squash and Lentil Salad
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
December 4, 2020
by Sapna
Category Salads
Persons
4
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 c green lentils
  • 1 pound Butternut Squash, cubed
  • 1 lb, brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 1 Avocado, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 red apple, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 c feta crumbles
  • 1 c pomegranate arils
  • 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1/4 c salad topping mix or a combination of pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries
  • 1 tsp minced ginger
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 2-3 sprigs thyme
  • 5 Tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 shallot, finely chopped
  • 3 tsp salt, divided
  • 1 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.
  2. For the lentils, bring to boil 4 c water. Add in 1 tsp salt, ginger, onion, turmeric, thyme sprigs, ground coriander, and cinnamon. stir well to combine. Add in the lentils and give it a good stir. Cover and reduce heat to medium low and let simmer for 40 minutes.
  3. When the lentils are cooked, remove branch of thyme, and drain any remaining water. Set aside.
  4. Line the baking sheet with the squash and brussels sprouts. Drizzle 2 Tbsp oil, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, and paprika. Gently massage through to make sure all the veggies are coated evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix together dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, shallot, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk until emulsified.
  6. To assemble, toss the brussels sprouts and butternut squash with the lentils. Add in the dijon dressing and toss gently.
  7. Divide evenly in bowls. Top with apples, avocados, salad topping, feta, and pomegranate arils.
  8. Serve warm!

Notes

**Salad topping mix is available in most grocery stores.  If you are not able to find any, don't stress.  Replace it with 2 Tbsp pumpkin seeds and 2 Tbsp craisins. 


Tags

Butternut Squash,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Keto,
lentils,
nut free,
Nutrient Dense Recipes,
Salad,
Vegan
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

SapnaLeave a comment

Ratatouille

The year was 2013, I had been married only a couple of months and was hosting this grand Thanksgiving for my in-laws.  My mother-in-law is vegetarian as am I and so I wanted something special for a veggie dish at the table instead of roasted veggies.

No offense to roasted veggies, I love them.  In fact I eat them all the time and therein lies the problem.  I wanted something “fancy”, something different that I don’t have on any given night.

So I scoured the internet and landed upon this gorgeous picture of Ratatouille and thought, I can make this!   And I did.  It didn’t look so pretty but hey, that’s ok, I hoped it would taste delicious though.  It was bland.  There literally was no flavor profile to it and safe to say, both my mother-in-law and I were disappointed.

She was nice enough to pretend it was good but I couldn’t even do that!

So ever since, I’ve been on a mission to create a Ratatouille that has layers and dimensions of flavor.  Safe to say, I think I found it!

Here’s the secret!

  1. Make a sauce that keeps everyone wanting to lick it off the plate
  2. Season the top of the veggies and not just with salt and pepper!  With actual herbs!
  3. Make enough sauce so that veggies are half drenched in it and the rest will cook in the steam of the boiling sauce in the oven.

I have been playing with the recipe for a while now and when I made the final version, I was satisfied aesthetically.  The question was, would my girls eat the eggplant in it?

Recently, they’ve become very finicky eaters and it can be a real struggle to feed them even their favorite foods sometimes.  But they both ate all the veggies and I couldn’t have been a prouder Mama!

Try this out for your next Holiday dinner, weeknight surprise, or Sunday dinner.  It’s easy to make ahead, stores in the fridge and freezer well and is fairly simple to make!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this delicious Ratatouille!

Ratatouille

Ratatouille
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
November 23, 2020
by Sapna
Cuisine French
Category Entree Vegetarian
Persons
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
60 minutes
Total Time
1 hour, 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Veggies:

  • 1 long Japanese eggplant, sliced in thin rounds, set in cold water to prevent browning
  • 1 zucchini, sliced in thin rounds
  • 3 Roma tomatoes, sliced in thin rounds
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced in thin rounds
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 Tbsp dried Basil
  • 1 Tbsp dried Oregano
  • 1 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 Tbsp dried Parsley
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 3 Tbsp Avocado or Olive Oil

For the pasta sauce:

  • 1 carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, deseeded and diced
  • 1 orange bell pepper, deseeded and diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 c fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F

For the Pasta Sauce:

  1. On medium flame, heat oil in a deep saucepan.
  2. Add in the onions, carrots, and bell peppers and saute for about 7-8 minutes or until tender.
  3. Add in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  4. Add in the salt, pepper, turmeric, cayenne pepper and Italian seasoning. Mix well and cook an additional minute.
  5. Add in the tomato sauce, and mix well to combine all of the elements.
  6. Remove from heat, add in the basil and mix.
  7. Transfer the sauce to an oven safe casserole dish.
  8. In an alternating pattern, layer the veggies on top of the sauce from outside edge to inner, until the dish is completely filled with veggies.
  9. In a bowl, combine the oil with garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, dried Italian seasoning, dried parsley, salt and pepper. Mix well.
  10. Using a pastry brush, coat the top of the veggies with the herb seasoning.
  11. Bake for 45 minutes or until the veggies are fork tender.
  12. Serve hot with your favorite bread!

Tags

dairy free,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Gluten Free,
Grain Free,
Healthy,
Kid Friendly,
make ahead,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

The tools that I used to make this recipe are:

Sapna3 Comments

Sweet & Spicy Harvest Bowl

The weather is still pretty warm out but I am mentally ready for fall!  Especially with all the delicious veggies at the Farmer’s Market that are coming out for the season.  The pomegranates, Brussels sprouts, root vegetables and especially all the squash and pumpkins I’m seeing everywhere!  They’re all so beautiful, colorful and oh so yummy!

I was inspired during my last visit to the Farmer’s Market for this recipe.  I used acorn squash because it is mild in flavor and one of the easiest squash to peel and cut.  The beets added beautiful color and flavor (and lots of nutrition!), and crispy brussels sprouts once roasted are the perfect addition for texture in this bowl.

Here are a few other ingredients I used though, I definitely didn’t roast them:

  • Avocado
  • Red Pears
  • Feta
  • Toasted Pecans
  • Quinoa

As for the dressing, I debated whether to add one or not but in the end, I decided a simple squeeze of lime would do justice without taking away from the other flavors.

I was so excited just roasting the veggies because they looked so bright, bold and beautiful!  The spice that I added to balance the sweet of the beets and pears out was smoky chipotle pepper to the veggies that I roasted.

This is one dish that I think is going to come up often on our table through this season!  Make a big batch for a holiday dinner side, a small batch for a lunch or make it a meal for a weeknight!  It’s simple, healthy, delicious, and you get to eat many of your colors!

Here are some of the health benefits from this yummy bowl:

  • Low Carb
  • High in Fiber
  • High in Protein
  • Vitamins K, C, A, and B-6
  • Good Source of Iron
  • Good Source of Folate

Well!  What are you waiting for?  You have got to try this out!

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this delicious Sweet and Spicy Harvest Bowl!

Sweet & Spicy Harvest Bowl

Sweet & Spicy Harvest Bowl
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
October 15, 2020
by Sapna
Category Salads Vegetarian
Persons
2
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 c Acorn Squash, peeled, deseeded, cubed
  • 1 large Beet, peeled, cubed
  • 1 lb Brussels Sprouts, halved
  • 1 Avocado, cubed
  • 1 Red Pear, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 c crumbled Feta
  • 1/4 c toasted pecans
  • 1/2 c quinoa
  • 1 lime, quartered into wedges
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground chipotle pepper*
  • 1 Tbsp Avocado or Olive Oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees
  2. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat, parchment paper or aluminum foil
  3. In a bowl, add oil, 1 1/2 tsp salt, black pepper, and chipotle pepper. Mix well
  4. Add in the squash, beets and brussels sprouts. Toss well to coat all the veggies evenly
  5. Add the veggies to the baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes
  6. Meanwhile, thoroughly rinse the quinoa to remove the saporins
  7. In a medium saucepan, bring to a boil 1 c water and add rinsed quinoa and 1/2 tsp salt
  8. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until all the water has burned off. Remove from heat and cover for 5 minutes. When ready to use, remove cover and fluff with a fork.

To Assemble:

  1. Add the roasted veggies, quinoa, avocado, toasted pecans, feta, and pears to a bowl.
  2. Serve hot with a lime wedge!

Notes

*Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper according to spice level

Tags

Autumn,
Clean Eating,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fall,
Farm fresh,
Farmers Market,
Fresh Vegetables,
Gluten Free,
Harvest,
Healthy,
Protein,
Raw Foods,
Sustainable,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Sapna1 Comment

Watermelon Radish and Fennel Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing

Ok so I know that the name alone makes this salad sound like an explosion of so many different flavors and it is!  But….. that’s what makes this salad work so well!

Between my obsession for salads and my inclination towards making my own dressings, my salad game is going strong right now.  I’ve been wanting to use watermelon radish for a while now because of it’s flavor and just how pretty it looks!

Here are a few fun facts about watermelon radishes:

  • They are nutrient dense with Vitamins K, A, E, C, and B6.
  • High in antioxidants
  • High in fiber, calcium, potassium, and iron among many other minerals
  • One serving of watermelon radishes has over 1/3 of your daily Vit. C requirements!
  • They’re just so darned pretty


The fennel was added in to balance out the peppery flavor of the radish (though, to be honest, I wasn’t sure how the hubby was going to like it as he is not a big licorice flavored guy.  The best part about eating fennels to me is the licorice!).  Luckily, the fennel taste was mild when combined with the flavors of the salad.

As to the Ginger Lime dressing, adding the hint of ginger balanced with a little honey in the dressing and the lime to brighten up the salad, it was the perfect choice to use this for the salad.

When I think about this salad, it really has a great balance of sweet, spicy and tangy!  So perfect for a lunch meal, side dish, or a Covid free Thanksgiving dinner!

From my kitchen to yours, enjoy this salad!

Watermelon Radish and Fennel Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing

Watermelon Radish and Fennel Salad with a Ginger Lime Dressing
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
October 8, 2020
by Sapna
Category Salads
Persons
4
Serving Size
1 Bowl
Prep Time
15 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 avocado, cubed
  • 1 large fennel bulb, very thinly sliced
  • 2 c arugula
  • 1 watermelon radish, very thinly sliced
  • 1 c fresh mint

For the Ginger Lime Dressing:

  • 1" knob fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 Tbsp honey
  • 1/2 c Avocado or Olive Oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp poppy seeds

Instructions

For the dressing:

  1. Combine all the ingredients into a tightly sealed jar and shake well until all of the ingredients are well emulsified.

To Assemble:

  1. Layer all of the salad ingredients in a bowl and drizzle desired amount of dressing on top.
  2. Enjoy!

Tags

15 minute meals,
Appetizers,
Avocado,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fiber,
Healthy,
nutrient dense,
Quick and Easy,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
weeknight meals
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the tools that I used:

Sapna3 Comments

Fall Nourish Bowl

I love the Autumn season.  The colors, the change in flavors, the hint of crisp air and everything else about Fall is just perfect!

Making this nourish bowl with a hint of Fall flavors was fun.  I decided to roast the veggies with oregano and smoked paprika for some warmth in the taste.

For a pop of spice, I added charred Shishito peppers which made this dish so perfect!

Instead of dressing, I used hummus which becomes smooth and creamy as a dressing when combined with the hot roasted veggies.

This nourish bowl is so filling, try it out for your next lunch or dinner.  You’ll be so satisfied and comforted.

From my kitchen to yours, I hope you enjoy this bowl!

Fall Nourish Bowl

Fall Nourish Bowl
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
October 2, 2020
by Sapna
Category Salads Vegetarian
Persons
2
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
35 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 c spinach
  • 1/2 c quinoa
  • 1 medium sweet potato
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 yellow squash, chopped
  • 1 large beet, peeled and chopped
  • 10 shishito peppers
  • 1/2 c hummus
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp Olive or Avocado Oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp red chili flakes

Instructions

For the quinoa:

  1. Thoroughly rinse the quinoa and mix with 1 c water and 1/4 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat then reduce med-low heat and keep at a simmer for 10 minutes, until all of the water has evaporated.
  2. Remove from heat and cover to steam for 5 minutes.

For the roasted veggies:

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 Tbsp oil, 1 tsp salt, smoked paprika, oregano, and black pepper.
  3. Add in the chopped veggies and toss well to make sure everything is coated properly!
  4. Line on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes.

For the Shishito peppers:

  1. In a cast iron skillet, heat 1/2 Tbsp oil on high flame.
  2. Add in Shishito peppers and roast for 5-10 minutes or until you have a nice char on them.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.

To assemble:

  1. In a wide bowl, add in 1 c spinach to each bowl.
  2. Scoop in 1/2 c cooked quinoa into each bowl.
  3. Divide the veggies in half into each bowl.
  4. Add in the Shishito peppers and sprinkle kosher salt over the peppers.
  5. Top with hummus on each bowl.
  6. Sprinkle with red chili flakes.
  7. Serve hot!

Tags

Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fiber,
Gluten Free,
Healthy,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian,
Veggies
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Here are the cooking tools I used for this dish:

Sapna3 Comments

Spinach Chickpea Stew with Garlic Couscous

I’ve recently learned that my girls like chickpeas in any form.  I used to think it was just Roasted Masala Chickpeas that they gobbled down, but I’ve been paying attention and I’m glad I have!  Watching both of them gobble down this stew was amazing.  They are one of the few girls who also love to eat spinach in any form, cooked or uncooked (I feel blessed) so I knew I was going to use it to give some green to this dish!

I’m totally adding this to my weeknight meal list as it took me only 20 minutes to pull together!  I got the couscous started on the side and takes only 15 minutes to make!

Can you tell I’m ready for the autumn season to begin?  I’ve had a fun summer enjoying the hot weather but between the smoke from all the fires and a broken AC during the multiple heat waves, I am looking forward to the end of the year.  Hot stews are just the thing to warm you up during the cold months and this recipe is a great one where you get to spend more time enjoying the food than making it!

Try it out and let me know what you think.  Tag me on Instagram @bitofspice146 and use the #bitofspice146 hashtag.   I would love to see your versions of my recipes!

From my kitchen to yours, enjoy this delicious stew!

Spinach Chickpea Stew with Garlic Couscous

Spinach Chickpea Stew with Garlic Couscous
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
September 28, 2020
by Sapna
Category Soups Vegetarian
Persons
4
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Stew:

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 white onion, chopped
  • 1 c zucchini, chopped
  • 1 c yellow squash, chopped
  • 2 c spinach
  • 1 1/2 c marinara sauce or your favorite pasta sauce
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 c vegetable broth
  • 1 Tbsp Oil, EVOO or Avo
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon

For the Garlic Herb Couscous:

  • 1 c couscous
  • 1 1/4 c water
  • 1 Tbsp Oil, Avo or EVOO
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

For the Stew:

  1. In a stockpot, heat oil over medium high flame.
  2. Add the onions, garlic, zucchini, and yellow squash. Stir and cook for 3-5 minutes until the veggies are tender.
  3. Add in the red chili flakes, paprika, and spinach. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add in the chickpeas, marinara/pasta sauce, tomatoes, salt, pepper, broth and the zest and juice of a lemon.
  5. Mix all of the ingredients well and bring to a boil on high heat. Reduce heat to medium, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.

For the Couscous:

  1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
  2. Stir in couscous, remove from heat and cover. Let it stand for 5 minutes.
  3. Remove cover and add in the garlic, oil, salt and pepper. Toss gently and set aside until stew is done.

To serve:

  1. Place the couscous in a bowl and top with chickpea stew. Serve hot!

Tags

30 minute meals,
chickpeas,
couscous,
Eat a Rainbow,
Fiber,
Healthy,
make ahead,
Quick and Easy,
Spinach,
Stews,
Vegan,
vegetarian,
weeknight meals,
Zucchini
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Sapna5 Comments

Rainbow Crunch Salad

Bright, crunchy, colorful and easy to assemble with a creamy coconut jalapeño dressing, this salad is a perfect addition to your meal.

Easy to make, this salad has plenty of texture, meets my rainbow requirements, and is quick to pull together for any meal.  A twist on the traditional slaw, the Rainbow Crunch Salad is a healthier version with a low cal coconut jalapeño dressing to finish off a delicious salad.

With school started, life still crazy between Covid, fires, and whatever else you want to throw in there, I want to keep it easy and quick for this salad.  Chopping the veggies doesn’t take very long and the Coconut Jalapeño dressing is blended in less than a minute.

Here’s what you need for the salad:

  • Red Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Colored Bell Peppers
  • Cucumber
  • Edamame
  • Nuts

I’ve used this as a lunch meal, a side salad for fish and chicken dishes, or even a quick afternoon snack if I had some leftovers.

Try it out!  From my kitchen to yours, enjoy!

Rainbow Crunch Salad

Rainbow Crunch Salad
Rate this recipe
|
0 ratings
Sapna
September 16, 2020
by Sapna
Category Salads
Prep Time
10 minutes
Total Time
10 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1/2 med red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 large carrots, grated
  • 1 colored bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 1/4 c edamame
  • 1/4 c mixed nuts

For the dressing:

  • 1 13.5 oz can of coconut cream
  • 2 jalapeños
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Toss all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
  2. In a blender, add all of the ingredients of the dressing and blend for 30 seconds until well mixed.
  3. Pour at least 1/3 of the dressing onto the salad and add more if you like it more creamy.
  4. Enjoy!

Tags

15 minute meals,
Appetizers,
Eat a Rainbow,
Eat your colors,
Fiber,
fresh,
Healthy,
Kid Friendly,
Quick and Easy,
Salad,
Summer,
Sustainable,
Vegan,
vegetarian
Print this recipe
© 2023 Copyright A Li\'l Bit of Spice

Sapna3 Comments

Greek Tortellini Salad

If you’ve been following my blog, you’ll know I’m all about healthy and easy recipes that taste delicious.  With school starting around the corner, remote learning set for us and as new Kindergarten parents, I’m trying to stay ahead of the game and put together meals that take less than 30 minutes so I can focus on my family.
IMG_8012
When Taste Republic and I partnered together to create some delicious recipes with their fresh, gluten free pastas, I knew I was going to hit the spot with all of my cooking goals (it took me about 20 minutes to make this one – also because I kept having to add ingredients that were “disappearing”).  I have been having so much fun trying out all the different ones that they have and their 4 cheese tortellini is one of my favorites!
IMG_8008
The tortellinis are so delicious, light, and filling.  You can taste how fresh they are and they cook in just 5 minutes!  I did add a few twists to this salad which take it to a whole new level.
IMG_8011
Here’s what you need to make this Greek Tortellini Salad:

Cheese Tortellini – fresh gluten free tortellini made by Taste Republic works so well with this recipe but if you don’t have access, you can use any fresh or frozen tortellini.
Grape or Cherry Tomatoes
Cucumbers
Olives
Chickpeas 
Avocados
Fresh Basil – yep, this takes the flavor up to a whole other level
Feta Cheese
Greek Salad Dressing – I added quite a few seasonings and some red chili flakes to mine to give it an additional layer of flavor
IMG_8005
If you have little helpers in the kitchen like I do who eat most of my ingredients as I’m cooking (they call it quality control), then I suggest increasing the quantity.  I’ve lost pretty much every single veggie in this salad to my little munchkins and it makes my heart full that they love eating this salad as much as I do.
IMG_8019
This Greek Tortellini Salad is great to eat right away or even if you refrigerate it and have it at a later time.  It can keep in the fridge for up to 2 days, but if you are planning on eating it later, I recommend adding the feta right before you are ready to eat it.
IMG_8017