My Plant-Based Family

Eating Whole Food, Plant-Based Diet recipes, On a Budget.

Main Dish Recipes

Plant-Based Tostadas

by 13 Comments

Tostadas are a beloved Mexican dish known for their crispy tortilla base topped with layers of flavorful ingredients. While traditional tostadas often feature meat or seafood, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy this tasty treat in a plant-based form. In fact, plant-based tostadas offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase the vibrant flavors and textures of vegetables, beans, and other wholesome ingredients.

Plant-Based Tostadas are a fun and easy meal idea. Kids love tostadas and they are healthy too.

Gluten-Free, Allergy Friendly Tostadas

I rediscovered the Tostada when we learned my son had a wheat/gluten allergy. Tostadas are made with corn tortillas, so they were safe for him. Always read the ingredient label though!

Plant-based tostadas are incredibly versatile and adaptable to various dietary preferences and restrictions. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or following a specific eating plan, you can easily customize your tostadas to suit your needs. With a wide array of colorful vegetables, flavorful spices, and protein-rich beans at your disposal, the possibilities are endless when it comes to creating plant-based tostadas that are both satisfying and nourishing.

Customization and Variations

  • Get creative with your toppings by incorporating different vegetables, such as grilled corn, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted sweet potatoes.
  • Add protein-rich ingredients like tofu, tempeh, or seitan for added satiety and flavor.
  • Experiment with different salsas, guacamole recipes, or homemade cashew cream for a personalized touch.
Plant-Based Tostadas

We are always changing up our Plant-Based Tostadas! Sure we need a crispy tortilla and beans but sometimes we used Instant Pot Refried Beans and other times we use Refried Black Beans. Lettuce and tomatoes are usual staples but sometimes we add Pico de Gallo, when the garden is growing we will make Oven Roasted Salsa. Another fun addition is Mango Salsa!

Anything goes! Just use what you have.

Plant-Based Tostadas

Ingredients

  • Soft Corn Tortillas (or buy the crispy tostada tortillas)
  • Unfried Pinto or Unfried Black Beans (store-bought refried beans can be used but read the label)
  • Shredded Lettuce
  • Dice Tomato
  • Salsa (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat Oven

If using soft corn tortillas, preheat oven to 350° and place tortillas on cookie sheet (I use parchment paper on my cookie sheet).

Step 2 – Bake Tortillas

Bake tortillas for 15 minutes then remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes until you can handle them. They may not feel crisp but they will get crispier as they cool. Leftover tortillas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Step 3 – Add Toppings

Spread beans onto tortillas. Top with lettuce, tomato and any other toppings you prefer.

Step 4 – Serve

These are great as an afternoon snack but also good for lunch or dinner. If serving as a meal I highly recommend making Mexican Rice to go with them. Tostadas are so simple that many kids could assemble them without much help, and they would also be a fun party food.

Plant-Based Tostadas

More Easy Plant Based Meal Ideas

If you like this recipe, you’ll love these plant based meals too:

Plant-Based Tostadas

Plant-Based Tostadas

Plant-Based Tostadas are an easy and family-friendly recipe to add to your plant-based meal plan! They can be customized to meet any allergy-friendly needs too.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Additional Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • Soft Corn Tortillas (or buy the crispy tostada tortillas)
  • Oil-Free Refried Beans
  • Shredded Lettuce
  • Diced Tomato
  • Salsa, peppers, your favorite toppings (optional)

Instructions

  1. If using soft corn tortillas, preheat oven to 350° and place tortillas on cookie sheet (I use parchment paper on my cookie sheet).
  2. Bake tortillas for 15 minutes then remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes until you can handle them. They may not feel crisp but they will get crispier as they cool. Leftover tortillas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
  3. Spread beans onto tortillas in a thick layer.
  4. Add lettuce, tomato, and any other topping you will enjoy.

Notes

You can use canned beans to save time. One 15 ounce can of fat free refried beans is enough for about 4 people or 8 tostadas. You may need to add some water to the canned beans to get them smooth enough to spread.

Did you make this recipe?

We'd love to see it! Tag us and use #MyPlantBasedFamily!

© Holly Yzquierdo

Crock Pot Mexican Casserole

by 85 Comments

Dairy-free, gluten-free, taste-full and made in a crock pot!? This recipe is definitely a keeper. The savory flavors develop so well that I come back to this meal over and over again.

The colorful ingredients of Mexican cuisine combined with the convenience of a slower cooker result in a dish that is not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare. I found it so flavorful that I didn’t even want to add salsa or guacamole. It’s that good!

Slow Cooker Mexican Casserole {Plant Based}

One of the best aspects of preparing a Mexican casserole in a crock-pot is the convenience it offers. With just a bit of chopping and assembly, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic while you go about your day.

Slow cooking allows flavors to meld together over time, resulting in a dish that’s rich, complex, and utterly satisfying. As the ingredients simmer gently, the aroma from your kitchen will tantalize your taste buds and build anticipation for the delicious meal that awaits.

crockpotmexicancasserole

Vegan Mexican Casserole Recipe Variations

As always, make this recipe your own. Need more protein? Add it! Don’t have black beans? Use pinto beans! There are many easy swaps and additions that can make the perfect Mexican casserole for you. Mix it up to keep your meal rotation exciting. This staple recipe is an easy place to start.

  • Add veggies – Feel free to customize the casserole with additional vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
  • More protein – For extra protein, add cooked lentils or tofu to the mixture.
  • Spice variations – Experiment with different spice blends and seasoning combinations to suit your taste preferences.
  • Make it spicy – If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the ingredients.

Crock Pot Mexican Casserole

This recipe doubles and triples really well if you are feeding a crowd. The photo above is a triple recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked brown rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 8 oz can of tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp salt (optional)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 2 cups cooked beans (or 1 can drained beans) – pinto or black beans work well
  • 1 cup corn (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Dump and Stir

Pour all of the ingredients into your slow cooker and stir gently.

Step 2 – Slow Cook

Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.

Step 3 – Serve

This is delicious served on its own but would be incredible wrapped in a warm tortilla or with organic tortilla chips. It really doesn’t need anything else.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer-term storage. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

More Plant Based Mexican Recipes

If you like this recipe, try these other plant based Mexican dishes:

Yield: 6 Servings

Crock Pot Mexican Casserole

Crock Pot Mexican Casserole

Let your crock pot slowly meld all these rich flavors together to form a savory Mexican casserole.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked brown rice
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 8 oz can of tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp salt (optional)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 2 cups cooked beans (or 1 can drained beans) - Pinto or black beans work well
  • 1 cup corn (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour all of the ingredients into your slow cooker and stir gently.
  2. Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer-term storage. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

We'd love to see it! Tag us and use #MyPlantBasedFamily!

© Holly Yzquierdo

One-Pot Pizza Pasta (Gluten-free and Vegan)

by 16 Comments

This gluten-free and plant-based Pizza Pasta is just what you need for a quick and easy dinner!

Who loves pizza? Let’s see a show of hands!

We love pizza too but if you are trying to eat gluten-free it’s a little tough. Gluten-Free Pizzas are expensive and usually tiny. It is difficult to find one without egg and dairy too. I could make my own GF crust but I live in Arizona where the high temperatures are still over 100° so I’m not really interested in turning on the oven. What’s a girl to do?

Easy and delicious gluten-free and plant-based Pizza Pasta!

How about add all of our favorite pizza toppings to pasta instead!

Pizza Pasta Ingredients

One-Pot Pizza Pasta

Ingredients

  • 1 package (16 oz) Gluten-Free Noodles (you can use wheat noodles)
  • 1 diced bell pepper
  • 2 diced roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 c diced onion
  • 4 diced baby Portobello mushrooms (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cups cooked lentils (optional)
  • 1 jar pasta sauce
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • Your favorite ingredients

Do

  1. Bring water to boil and add noodles. Cook according to package directions.
  2. As noodles begin to cook chop all veggies and set aside.
  3. Add veggies to boiling noodles half way through their cooking time and cover with a lid.
  4. Once noodles and veggies are soft, drain well then add lentils (optional), sauce, and nutritional yeast (optional) then stir well.

Serve

Serve the dish along side a green salad and Sweet & Tandy Oil-Free Salad Dressing! This is an easy dish to make and reheats well.

If it is still warm where you live try these try these Chocolate No-Bake Bites!

Easy and delicious gluten-free and plant-based Pizza Pasta! Don't stress about dinner!

What is your favorite Pizza topping?

Yield: 4 Servings

Pizza Pasta

Easy and delicious gluten-free and plant-based Pizza Pasta! Don't stress about dinner!

All the flavors of pizza in a pasta, and it's gluten free!

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 package (16 oz) Gluten-Free Noodles (you can use wheat noodles)
  • 1 diced bell pepper
  • 2 diced roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 c diced onion
  • 4 diced baby Portobello mushrooms (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cups cooked lentils (optional)
  • 1 jar pasta sauce
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • Your favorite ingredients

Instructions

  1. Bring water to boil and add noodles. Cook according to package directions.
  2. As noodles begin to cook chop all veggies and set aside.
  3. Add veggies to boiling noodles half way through their cooking time and cover with a lid.
  4. Once noodles and veggies are soft, drain well then add lentils (optional), sauce, and nutritional yeast (optional) then stir well.

Notes

Add any of your favorite pizza toppings.

Did you make this recipe?

We'd love to see it! Tag us and use #MyPlantBasedFamily!

© Heather Mayes

Faux Cheezy Black Bean Quesadillas (Gluten-Free)

by 4 Comments

backtoschool1 copyGraphics by Melodee Fiske

Looking for something for your kiddos lunch box? Look no further!

quesadillas Forget the boring sandwich and give these babies a try!

Faux Cheezy Black Bean Quesadillas

Ingredients

Do

  1. Spread beans on half of tortilla then add cheese sauce on top of beans.
  2. Fold in half then heat on griddle or in a skillet until brown.
  3. Cut into easy to hold triangles

Serve

We Loved these quesadillas! I served them with Mexican spiced quinoa, salsa, guacamole, and coconut milk plain yogurt. They are the perfect size for a lunch box and can be eaten quickly.

lunchbox copyGraphics by Melodee Fiske

What’s in your kid’s lunch box?

Taco Potatoes

by 11 Comments

She shoots, she scores! Yes, this recipe was a huge success in our house. I’ve made it many times but never shared it with you. Well, today is your lucky day. This recipe was inspired by Laura at Heavenly Homemakers and her recipe for Taco Potatoes. She includes meat, heavy cream and cheese in her recipe, so I’ve adapted it to make it plant-strong!

Combining potatoes with the vibrant, bold flavors of tacos results in a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting: taco potatoes. This delightful fusion offers a new way to enjoy the essence of tacos while embracing the heartiness of potatoes.

Toppings and Garnishes

Just like traditional tacos, the topping possibilities for taco potatoes are endless. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

Salsa: Fresh salsa, whether it’s a classic tomato salsa or a fruity mango salsa, adds a refreshing burst of flavor and juiciness.

Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado or guacamole brings a smooth texture and a hint of luxury to the dish.

Jalapeños: For those who love a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños are the perfect addition.

Cilantro and Lime: Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice add brightness and elevate the overall flavor profile.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Taco potatoes are a surefire way to please a crowd, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a family dinner, or simply treating yourself to a flavorful meal. Their customizable nature allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences easily.

Family-Friendly Kids and adults alike will love taco potatoes. The fun, interactive nature of building your own taco potato with various toppings can make mealtime more enjoyable for everyone. It’s also a great way to introduce new flavors to picky eaters.

Perfect for Entertaining When entertaining, taco potatoes offer a convenient yet impressive option. Set up a taco potato bar with various toppings, and let guests create their own culinary masterpieces. This interactive setup not only ensures everyone gets exactly what they want but also adds an element of fun to the meal.

How to Make Taco Potatoes

Ingredients

  • Cooked Baked Potatoes (1 per person)
  • 2 cups Quinoa “Taco Meat” OR Quinoa-Lentil Tacos
  • 2 cups of cooked black beans OR 1 can of drained and rinsed beans (optional)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1/2 cup plain plant-based yogurt (optional)
  • guacamole (optional)
  • 1/2 cup corn

Instructions

Step 1 – Cut Potatoes

Cut cooked potatoes in half and scoop out some of the potato. I just cubed the potato for my kids.

Step 2 – Fill

Fill the void with beans and quinoa.

Step 3 – Add Toppings

Top with your choice of fresh salsa, plant-based yogurt (for a tangy topping reminiscent of sour cream), guacamole and corn.

Step 4 – Serve

My husband and I LOVED this! Our two year old mostly wanted to eat all of the fresh salsa but he did finish his potato and quinoa. The 4 year old probably would have done better if all of the food was separated, but he ate it. I call that a win!

Serving Suggestions

One of the great things about taco potatoes is their versatility in serving. They can be enjoyed in various forms, making them suitable for different occasions and preferences.

Loaded Taco Potato Skins Potato skins are an excellent way to serve taco potatoes as an appetizer or party snack. The potatoes are halved, scooped out, and then filled with a flavorful taco mixture. Topped with cheese and baked until crispy, these loaded potato skins are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Taco Potato Bowls For a more substantial meal, taco potato bowls are a fantastic option. Start with a base of roasted or sautéed potatoes, then pile on your favorite taco toppings. This creates a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Taco Potato Casserole A taco potato casserole is a great way to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Layers of seasoned potatoes, taco meat or a meatless alternative, cheese, and other toppings are baked together to create a comforting, flavorful dish.

Taco Potato Breakfast Who says tacos are only for lunch or dinner? Taco potatoes can make a delicious and hearty breakfast option. Add some black beans and avocado for a filling morning meal.

More Plant Based Dinner Ideas

If you like this simple recipe, check out these meal ideas too:

Taco Potatoes

Taco Potatoes

Taco potatoes are a delicious and innovative way to enjoy the beloved flavors of tacos with the comforting, hearty goodness of potatoes.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • Cooked Baked Potatoes (1 per person)
  • 2 cups Quinoa "Taco Meat" OR Quinoa-Lentil Tacos
  • 2 cups of cooked black beans OR 1 can of drained and rinsed beans (optional)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1/2 cup plain plant-based yogurt (optional)
  • guacamole (optional)
  • 1/2 cup corn

Instructions

  1. Cut cooked potatoes in half and scoop out some of the potato. I just cubed the potato for my kids.
  2. Fill the void with beans and quinoa.
  3. Top with your choice of fresh salsa, plant-based yogurt (for a tangy topping reminiscent of sour cream), guacamole and corn.

Notes

Mix and match any toppings you'd like to accommodate a range of taste and dietary preferences.

Did you make this recipe?

We'd love to see it! Tag us and use #MyPlantBasedFamily!

© Holly Yzquierdo

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie for the Virtual Vegan Potluck

by 39 Comments

 

Today I’m taking part in the Virtual Vegan Potluck. I’ve participated before, “bringing” Gluten-Free Apple Muffins and Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins (with or without chocolate chips.) Now I’m branching out a bit with a main dish, trust me you will LOVE it!

 

You can start at the beginning of the potluck at Vegan Bloggers Unite or simply pick the category that most interests you. There are 169 bloggers participating so it may take a while to make your way through. The potluck was designed so you can seamlessly click from one blog to the next.

shepherd pie VVP

This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie has a lot of steps and a lot of ingredients but it is EASY to make. It has gotten rave reviews at several venues, even the Omni’s love it. It is a great holiday meal and perfect for a potluck. My toddler could not get enough.

shepherd's pie

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

Ingredients

Potato Layer

  • 4 large potatoes
  • up to 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • up to 1/2 cup plant milk
  • salt and pepper to taste

Lentil Layer

  • 2 cups cooked Lentils
  • 1/2 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional)
  • salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Veggie/Sauce Layer

  • 2 ribs celery, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1/4 cup onions, diced
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup green beans (I used frozen)
  • 1/2 cup green peas (I used frozen)
  • 2 Tbsp Brown Rice Flour (I use brown rice flour for a GF version, you can use wheat flour)
  • 1 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
  • 1 cup Rice Milk
  • Optional onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste

Do

Potato Layer

  1. Scrub, peel, and cut potatoes into large chunks.
  2. Cover with water and bring to a boil, cook potatoes until they are very soft.
  3. Drain potatoes and mash with a potato masher.
  4. Add salt and pepper, nutritional yeast and about half of the milk. Continue to mash or (whip) until everything is mixed, add more plant milk, nutritional yeast and salt as necessary to get the flavor just right. (Depending on the size of your potatoes this might not be enough seasoning)
  5. Set aside.

Lentil Layer

  1. Place cooked lentils in a pie pan, stirring in Liquid Smoke if desired.
  2. Spread lentils and pack them down into a smooth bottom layer.

Veggie/Sauce Layer

  1. Cook carrots, celery, and onions in a skillet, adding small amounts of water when veggies begin to stick.
  2. As the veggies begin to soften add mushrooms, green beans and peas.
  3. Once all veggies are soft, sprinkle in flour and nutritional yeast then give it a quick stir.
  4. Add 1/2 cup of the plant milk and lightly stir. Keep your eye on this and add more plant milk as it thickens, continuing to stir.
  5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper to your preference.
  6. Once the sauce is like a thick gravy pour the veggie/sauce over the lentils.

Spoon potatoes over Veggie/Sauce Layer and smooth out. Put in the oven and broil for 10 minutes. Check often to make sure the top is browning and not burning.

– – –

This dish is great for a potluck, a family holiday dinner or to take to a family who needs a little bit of blessing. It reheats beautifully and could be frozen for a future meal.

I hope you ENJOY!

If you want to make your way through the potluck you can got back to On the Path to Zen or forward to Veghotpot to check out what they brought.

I hope you take some time to make your way through the potluck.