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

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Frugal

Cinnamon Apple Raisin Breakfast Rice

September 13, 2013 by Holly Yzquierdo 30 Comments

Do you need a cheap and easy breakfast idea? If you have an intolerance to oats or can’t handle the sticker shock of quinoa this may be the perfect whole grain breakfast rice for you.

As the mornings grow colder and the aroma of cinnamon and spices fills the air, there’s no better way to start the day than with a warm and comforting bowl of breakfast rice. Cinnamon apple raisin breakfast rice is a delicious twist on classic oatmeal, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that transform ordinary rice into an indulgent morning treat. This plant-based breakfast option is perfect for those who love starting their day with something hearty, healthy, and full of fall flavors.

The Perfect Fall Breakfast

There’s something magical about the combination of cinnamon, apples, and raisins. This trio is synonymous with fall and winter, evoking memories of apple picking, holiday baking, and cozy mornings spent indoors.

  • Cinnamon, known for its warming properties, has been a staple in traditional medicine for centuries. It’s believed to help stabilize blood sugar levels, making it a great addition to breakfast dishes.
  • Apples bring a natural sweetness and slight tartness, adding freshness and balancing the spices. They are also rich in fiber, particularly pectin, which supports healthy digestion.
  • Raisins add a burst of sweetness and a chewy texture, complementing the softness of the cooked rice. They are high in natural sugars and provide a quick energy boost, making them a perfect ingredient for breakfast.

These ingredients come together in a symphony of flavors, creating a dish that tastes delicious. This has been a family favorite for weekend breakfasts for about a decade. But if your family is used to Fruit Loops they may need a little more sweetener than this recipe includes. I love that I can make this with pantry staples.

I say this was a weekend breakfast because it takes about 45 minutes to cook brown rice. Now we will make a large pot and reheat leftovers quickly. Even my 4 year old who has been very picky lately LOVES this. I also have an Instant Pot version for a more hands off approach!

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Raisin Breakfast Rice

Ingredients

  • 2 cups brown rice (I prefer short grain)
  • 4 c water
  • 1-2 cups plant milk
  • 1 Tbsp cinnamon
  • 1 diced apple
  • 1/4 cup raisins (or other dried fruit)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Cook Rice

Pour rice, water and cinnamon into large sauce pan and cook over medium heat set timer for 45 minutes.

Step 2 – Add Apples and Raisins

When there is 15 to 20 minutes left add 1 cup plant milk, diced apples and raisins then give it a good stir. Once the timer goes off the rice should be soft, most or all of the liquid will be absorbed and the apples will be soft.

Step 3 – Serve

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, stir in extra plant milk if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon apple raisin breakfast rice can be served in various ways to suit different preferences:

  • Classic bowl: Enjoy it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top and a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
  • On-the-go option: For busy mornings, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it throughout the week. Store it in individual containers for a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
  • Dessert-style: Turn leftovers into a cozy dessert by serving them chilled with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.

Breakfast Rice Variations to Try

One of the joys of breakfast rice is its adaptability. Once you master the base of cinnamon, apples, and raisins, the possibilities are endless:

  1. Nutty Delight: Add a handful of toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra crunch. Nuts not only enhance the texture but also provide healthy fats and protein, making the dish more filling.
  2. Berry Twist: For a burst of color and flavor, try adding fresh or dried berries. Cranberries, blueberries, or strawberries can introduce a tangy note that contrasts nicely with the sweet raisins.
  3. Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices. Cardamom, nutmeg, and ginger can add depth and complexity, giving the dish a unique twist.
  4. Coconut Dream: Sprinkle some shredded coconut on top for a tropical flair. Paired with coconut milk, this variation can transport your taste buds to a sunny beach, even in the middle of winter.
  5. Creamy Indulgence: For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of plant-based yogurt or a splash of cream just before serving. This adds richness and makes the dish feel extra indulgent.

Cinnamon apple raisin breakfast rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and warmth to your morning routine. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet weekend or preparing it for a busy weekday, this dish offers a nourishing start to your day. It’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something special.

More Plant Based Breakfast Ideas

If you love this recipe, you’ll love these breakfast ideas too:

  • Chocolate Chip Breakfast Cookies
  • Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats
  • Baked Oatmeal Bars with Fruit
  • Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
  • Oatmeal Cups
Yield: 4 Servings

Cinnamon Apple Raisin Breakfast Rice

Cinnamon Apple Raisin Breakfast Rice

Start your day with a warm, comforting bowl of cinnamon apple raisin breakfast. A cozy, plant-based delight full of sweet apples, juicy raisins, and aromatic spices.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups brown rice (I prefer short grain)
  • 4 c water
  • 1-2 cups plant milk
  • 1 Tbsp cinnamon
  • 1 diced apple
  • 1/4 cup raisins (or other dried fruit)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pour rice, water and cinnamon into large sauce pan and cook over medium heat set timer for 45 minutes.
  2. When there is 15 to 20 minutes left add 1 cup plant milk, diced apples and raisins then give it a good stir. Once the timer goes off the rice should be soft, most or all of the liquid will be absorbed and the apples will be soft.
  3. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving, stir in extra plant milk if needed.

Notes

Add a little liquid when reheating leftovers.

Did you make this recipe?

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

© Holly Yzquierdo

Filed Under: Allergies, Breakfast, Daniel Fast Recipes, Frugal, Recipes Tagged With: Breakfast, Frugal, gluten free, Plant Based Diet, Recipes, Vegan

Unfried Black Beans

August 6, 2013 by Holly Yzquierdo 19 Comments

Vegan Oil-free refried black beans

Do you like black beans? How about refried beans? Then you have to try unfried black beans!

Unfried black beans are cooked black beans that are seasoned and served without frying. Black beans are loaded with nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. By avoiding frying, you eliminate the need for oil. I’ve cut oil out of my diet completely and don’t miss it at all.

Easy Unfried Black Beans

This recipe highlights the natural flavor of black beans that can be incorporated into a variety of meals. Serve them with tacos, burritos, salads, wraps or empanadas. The adaptability makes unfried black beans convenient for quick meals when cooking for one or a large crowd.

Of course unfried black beans are great as a stand alone side dish too. They are also ideal for meal prepping and can be eaten hot or cold. I like to make a batch on Sunday to eat in various dishes throughout the week.

unfried black beans

Ways to Eat Unfried Black Beans

Here are a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating unfried black beans into your meals. Get creative!

  1. Tacos: Fill soft or hard taco shells with unfried black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and the rest of your favorite taco toppings.
  2. Burrito Bowl: Create a customizable burrito bowl by layering unfried black beans with cooked rice, sautéed vegetables (such as bell peppers and onions), shredded lettuce, diced avocado, and a drizzle of chipotle sauce.
  3. Soup: Blend unfried black beans with vegetable broth, garlic, onions, and spices (such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika) to make a creamy and comforting soup. Serve hot with a garnish of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
  4. Quesadillas: Spread unfried black beans onto a tortilla, top with diced onions, and sliced jalapeños if desired. Place another tortilla on top and cook in a skillet until golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and guacamole.
  5. Dip: Blend unfried black beans with garlic, lime juice, cilantro, and your favorite spices to make a flavorful dip. Serve with tortilla chips, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for dipping.
  6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with a mixture of unfried black beans, cooked quinoa or rice and diced vegetables. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
  7. Avocado Wrap: Spread mashed avocado onto a whole wheat wrap, top with unfried black beans, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of hot sauce or your favorite dressing. Roll up tightly and slice into pinwheels for a nutritious lunch or snack.
  8. Sweet Potato Hash: Sauté diced sweet potatoes, onions, and bell peppers until tender, then add unfried black beans and season with spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.

Unfried Black Beans Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked black beans
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt (optional)
  • 1/8 to 1/4 cup water (as needed)

Instructions

Step 1 – Add to Food Processor

Put beans and spices in food processor or Blendtec.

Step 2 – Blend

Process 15 to 20 seconds. Scrape down the sides and process until beans are smooth. Add water and blend again as needed.

Step 3 – Serve

Once cooked, you can serve the unfried black beans immediately, or allow them to cool for a firmer texture. They are delicious both hot and cold.

Can I Use Canned Black Beans?

If you only have canned beans, drain and rinse them. Then follow the recipe as instructed. Most cans only contain about 1 1/2 cups of beans, so you may want to reduce the spices and omit the salt entirely.

Storage

Store unfried black beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

More Versatile, Plant Based Mexican Recipes

If you like this recipe, you’ll love these versatile, Mexican inspired meals too:

  • Instant Pot Refried Beans
  • Rice Cooker Cilantro and Lime Rice
  • Instant Pot Mexican Rice
  • Plant Based Nachos
  • Instant Pot Mexican Casserole
Yield: 2 Cups

Unfried Black Beans

unfried black beans

Skip the oil but not the flavor with unfried black beans. This dish is great alone or served in burritos, tacos, wraps, salads, and more.

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

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked black beans
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt (optional)
  • 1/8 to 1/4 cup water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Put beans and spices in food processor or Blendtec.
  2. Process 15 to 20 seconds. Scrape down the sides and process until beans are smooth. Add water and blend again as needed.
  3. Serve hot or cold.

Notes

To use canned beans, drain and rinse them. Then make continue with the recipe as instructed. Most cans only contain about 1 1/2 cups of beans, so you may want to reduce the spices and omit the salt entirely.

Did you make this recipe?

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

© Holly Yzquierdo

Filed Under: Back to School, Daniel Fast Recipes, Mexican Food, Recipes, Side Dishes Tagged With: Back to School, Beans, Black Beans, Frugal, gluten free, Mexican Food, Plant Based Diet, Unprocessed, Vegan

Easiest Plant Based Taco Salad

June 12, 2013 by Holly Yzquierdo 10 Comments

Give the traditional taco salad a vibrant, plant based taco salad makeover! Not only is it visually appealing, but it also combines a variety of textures and flavors that make it a favorite among the whole family.

You probably have everything you need to throw this salad together on a busy weeknight. It has versatile flavors that are easy to swap out for individual preferences and dietary needs. This also makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to create a unique salad each time.

Meal Prep Friendly

To make meal prep easier, consider batch-cooking quinoa and beans ahead of time. You can chop vegetables and store them separately to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to eat, simply toss everything together with your dressing for a quick and nutritious meal. This not only saves time but also encourages healthy eating habits throughout the week.

A Balanced Meal

A plant-based taco salad with quinoa is not only a feast for the eyes but also a balanced meal that can help you feel satisfied and energized. It provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. The combination of high-fiber ingredients keeps you feeling fuller for longer, making it less likely that you’ll reach for unhealthy snacks later.

Family-Friendly

This plant-based taco salad is also a great option for families. Kids often love the colorful presentation and the opportunity to build their own salads. Allowing children to customize their meals encourages them to try new ingredients and develop healthy eating habits. You can set up a salad bar with various toppings and dressings, making mealtime interactive and fun.

How to Make Taco Salad

Ingredients

  • Lettuce ( prefer a mix of greens and romaine)
  • Cooked Beans (I use pinto, black beans or Taco Lentils)
  • Cooked Grains (I use leftover Mexican Rice, quinoa or Quinoa Tacos)
  • Cooked Corn (I just buy organic frozen corn)
  • Pico de Gallo or salsa
  • Avocado, sliced
  • Lime Juice
  • Crispy Corn Tortillas* or Tortilla chips (Optional)

Instructions

Step 1 – Layer Ingredients

Layer all ingredients into a large bowl (I use a serving bowl for me) except the tortillas/chips.

Step 2 – Toss

Toss the salad so everything is well mixed and add a few chips for crunch.

*To make Crispy Corn Tortillas use soft corn tortillas, sprinkle with life and seasonings of your choice. Cut tortillas into thin strips and bake for about 10 minutes at 350° or until crisp.

Step 3 – Serve

This is an easy “buffet night” dish. It can be made quickly with leftovers or canned/packaged ingredients. If you are traveling with this for a potluck, add the salsa, avocado and lime juice just before serving.

More Plant Based Salads

If you like this recipe, you’ll love these salad ideas too:

  • Chopped Asian Salad
  • Vegan Potato Salad
  • Oil-Free Cowboy Caviar
  • Quinoa-Lentil Salad
  • BBQ Chickpea Salad

Plant Based Taco Salad

Plant Based Taco Salad

Savor a delicious plant-based taco salad packed with fresh veggies and quinoa. The vibrant meal tastes as good as it looks!.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • Lettuce ( prefer a mix of greens and romaine)
  • Cooked Beans (I use pinto, black beans or Taco Lentils)
  • Cooked Grains (I use leftover Mexican Rice, quinoa or Quinoa Tacos)
  • Cooked Corn (I just buy organic frozen corn)
  • Pico de Gallo or salsa
  • Avocado, sliced
  • Lime Juice
  • Crispy Corn Tortillas* or Tortilla chips (Optional)

Instructions

  1. Layer all ingredients into a large bowl (I use a serving bowl for me) except the tortillas/chips.
  2. Toss the salad so everything is well mixed and add a few chips for crunch.
  3. *To make Crispy Corn Tortillas use soft corn tortillas, sprinkle with life and seasonings of your choice. Cut tortillas into thin strips and bake for about 10 minutes at 350° or until crisp.
  4. Serve.

Notes

If you are traveling with this for a potluck add the salsa, avocado and lime juice just before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

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

© Holly Yzquierdo

Filed Under: Daniel Fast Recipes, Mexican Food, Recipes, Salads & Wraps Tagged With: Frugal, gluten free, Healthy, Mexican Food, Plant Based Diet, Recipes, Taco Salad, Vegan

Taco Potatoes

May 22, 2013 by Holly Yzquierdo 11 Comments

taco Potato

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:

  • Quinoa-Lentil Tacos
  • Vegan Pad Thai in Less Than 30 Minutes
  • Sheet Pan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Tacos
  • Vegan Sushi Bowl
  • Instant Pot Mexican Quinoa

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

Filed Under: Daniel Fast Recipes, Frugal, Main Dish Recipes, Mexican Food, Recipes, Side Dishes Tagged With: Dairy Free, Frugal, gluten free, Healthy, Plant Based Diet, Quinoa, Recipes, Vegan

Meal Plan Monday: Back to Mexican Food (What we thought of the purchased meal plan)

May 6, 2013 by Holly Yzquierdo Leave a Comment

brownies, garden HC grilled avocado 160 (45)

My adoration of Mexican food has been greatly documented here! We enjoy it a few times a week, except last week. I had purchased a meal plan from Happy Herbivore as an experiment. I love her recipes and her cooking style is very similar to mine so I thought I’d give it a try.

Happy Herbivore Meal Plan Review

I knew going in that there was no Mexican food, she actually lists many of the recipes so you know what you are getting before you purchase it. The Happy Herbivore Meal Plans include a calendar with each meal planned out, a complete shopping list, and instructions for every recipe. It is very easy to follow. There are individual and family meal plans available for a low price.

What I liked

I thought the $5 price was reasonable, especially for busy people who don’t have time to sit and plan. The shopping was easy because everything was on the list. We were able to try new things we wouldn’t have picked on our own. The meal plan is mostly gluten and soy free but can easily be adapted and gives instructions for those substitutions. As already mentioned these plans are very easy to follow and takes most of the work out of preparing for dinner, of course you still have to shop and cook.

What I didn’t like

We had a few problems with the meal plan. First, it was too much food for us. I don’t cook a new dish for every meal. Second, I also spent about twice as much as I typically would. That really surprised me, I think it is because I bought wraps/crackers that I wouldn’t normally buy often. Also, the list included produce that was more expensive than I would typically choose, like frozen mango. Third, some of the recipes just weren’t our thing. If you follow me on Facebook, you heard that we had a bad experience with the Red Lentil Dal, BLECK! My kids weren’t very receptive to most of the dinner recipes, we gave them small amounts to try then ended up making them something else.

The Verdict

To be fair, we still have a lot of those groceries left because I didn’t follow the meal plan exactly. You could pick and choose which recipes work for your family. This weeks meal plan has plenty of Mexican food. I think the Happy Herbivore Meal Plans are a good idea for a lot of people, especially if you are open to trying a lot of different types of recipes and wanting to maintain a low calorie diet. If you are new to plant-based eating and want a no fuss plan for eating healthy then give these a try.

– – –

Our Meal Plan

This week I’ll be getting back to normal, sort of. This is Healthy Cravings week so my cooking schedule will be a little different. On the plus side, it is a potluck so I don’t have to do all of the cooking. I’ve had smaller than normal RSVPs so I think the potluck part is a little intimidating for some.

You’ll notice that I don’t plan all of our meals. I try to cook large enough amounts that we have leftovers and my kids will often eat sandwiches for lunch. Sometimes I pull out a variety of raw veggies and salad dressing and we call that a meal. This work for our family better than a highly structured plan.

Breakfast Quinoa

Breakfast

I don’t like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen in the mornings so we will likely eat:

  • Oatmeal (I’m working on some new summer worthy combinations)
  • Fruity Quinoa
  • Nut Butter and Apple Slice Toast
  • Breakfast Tacos

 

Lunch

We often eat leftovers for lunch, most of these dishes are easily built with leftover ingredients.

  • Veggie Wraps with greens, bell peppers, sliced carrots, and cucumbers
  • Black Bean and Quinoa Bowl with avocado
  • Baked Sweet Potatoes
  • Taco Salad

Snacks

We regularly have morning and afternoon snacks depending on our schedule. I try to focus on fruit and veggies most of the time. The kids love anything they can dip.

grilled avocado 160 (47)

Dinner

  • Spicy Black Bean Sliders
  • Quinoa Tabbouleh
  • Avocado Grillers with Spicy Black Beans and Cilantro-Lime Rice
  • Layered Mexican Taco Casserole made with Unfried Beans, Mexican Rice, Quinoa-Lentil “Taco Meat,” tortillas, Creamy Avocado Dip, fresh salsa and tortillas. I may add Faux Cheese Sauce between the layers too.
  • Garden Veggie Pasta Salad

Is there one type of food you eat over all the others? Have you purchased a Meal Plan? Tell us about your experience!

Filed Under: Frugal, Meal Plan Monday, Uncategorized Tagged With: Frugal, gluten free, Happy Herbivore Meal Plan Review, Meal Plans, Menu Plan, Plant Based Diet, Recipes, Unprocessed, Vegan

Sweet & Tangy Salad Dressing (oil-free)

April 30, 2013 by Holly Yzquierdo 47 Comments

OIl-Free Sweet and tangy salad dressing

A sweet and tangy salad dressing is the secret to getting my kids (and myself) to eat mounds of greens. This recipe is oil-free, simple and versatile for a variety of uses.

I make this salad dressing with pantry staples so it’s inexpensive and lasts a long time. Did I mention it’s oil-free, gluten-free and vegan? This is a recipe you can feel good about serving and eating.

Easy Tangy Salad Dressing

When I say this dressing is easy, I mean it! Just throw everything in a blender for a few seconds, and it comes out perfect every time. You can’t mess it up.

Of course you can add the sweet and tangy dressing to a traditional green salad, but don’t be afraid to get creative. It is a great addition to wraps, noodles and grain salads too.

Best Tangy Dressing

As the name suggests, the flavors in this dressing are both sweet and tangy. You can adjust the ingredients to suit individual preferences, but my family loves the balance of the original recipe.

Balancing the opposing flavors also makes it easier to accommodate all kinds of dishes from salads to grains to noodles. It truly goes with everything!

How to Make Sweet & Tangy Salad Dressing

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 3 Tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/8 tsp dried paprika
  • 1/4 tsp dried dill
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 oz water
  • 1/4 tsp xantham gum

Instructions

Add all ingredients and blend in a blender for a few seconds. Allow the dressing to rest before using to give it time to thicken. Told you it was easy!

Serving Suggestions

I love this dressing on a big salad or a wrap. It is also fantastic in noodle or grain salads. My boys (2 and 4) LOVE it. They beg for salad and salad dressing. It also makes a great dip for cut up veggies.

Storage

Store any leftovers in the jar or another airtight container and refrigerate.

The spices settle at the bottom of the jar, so shake before pouring and serving again.

More Plant Based Salad Dressings

If you like this sweet and tangy salad dressing, you’ll love these recipes too:

  • Homemade Vegan Ranch
  • Raspberry Vinaigrette Salad Dressing
  • Oil-Free Blueberry Vinaigrette
  • Creamy Italian Salad Dressing
Yield: 1/2 cup

Sweet & Tangy Salad Dressing

Sweet & Tangy Salad Dressing

This plant based, sweet and tangy salad dressing will have everyone eating their veggies.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Additional Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 3 Tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/8 tsp dried paprika
  • 1/4 tsp dried dill
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 oz water
  • 1/4 tsp xanthan gum

Instructions

    1. Add all ingredients and blend in a blender for a few seconds.
    2. Allow the dressing to rest before using to give it time to thicken. 

Notes

  • Serve on a bed of greens, wrap, noodle or grain salad.
  • Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container.

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© Holly Yzquierdo

 

Filed Under: Frugal, Life with Kids, Recipes, Salads & Wraps, Sauces, Dips, and Salad Dressings Tagged With: Dairy Free, Frugal, gluten free, oil free, oil free salad dressing, Plant Based Diet, plant-based salad dressing, Recipes, salad dressing, Vegan

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