Other Favorite Recipes

a few other vegetarian favorites

These recipes (in alpha order) don't contain green chiles, but they're keepers. Enjoy!

ZESTY BALSAMIC SALAD DRESSING

This tangy balsamic salad dressing from A Spicy Perspective is my favorite, hands down. It will definitely make your salads come alive with the addition of honey and dijon mustard, plus a little dried thyme. I use hot honey and add a dash (or two) of cayenne.

Be sure to use quality ingredients for this one, it's worth it. The dressing will keep for a week or a little more. Delicious!

Vegetarian chili

This chili recipe - one of my all-time favorites - is from a cookbook I've had for a long time. I've never been able to find it the recipe online, so I've copied it here, with a few of my own preferred additions. It's simple and delicious. I prefer this recipe "as is," with jalapeno and red peppers, but sub or add green chiles if desired, and add any other veggies if so inspired!

Veggie Stew

Veggie stew doesn't normally sound all that appetizing to me. But I tried this and it's become a staple, especially during the cold winter months. Don't let the main photo on the recipe page frighten you; the one here is a better representation.

Lentil chili

This fantastic recipe from Little Broken is best if you incorporate the "add-in" spices listed. Make sure you load up on the toppings - diced jalapenos and red onions, sour cream, avocado and sharp cheddar cheese, plus a healthy squeeze of lime and a generous amount of cilantro.

Hot & Sour Soup

This recipe, from Gimme Some Oven, is delicious and will warm you up instantly. I double the rice vinegar for some extra tang. Make sure to drain/press and dry the tofu well to avoid mushy soup. Serve with crispy wonton strips.

crispy baked tofu

I came across this recipe for tofu, and it's been a game changer. I absolutely love it with steamed broccoli and rice pilaf (made with shallots and white wine - yum - recipe below.) Be sure to drain/press and dry the tofu well. A secret not shared here is to shred the tofu instead of cut it. It gives the tofu a better texture. Dip in sriracha or other Asian hot sauce.

baked tofu chicken nugget style

I miss good bar food, especially chicken nuggets, but came across this recipe and it could fool more than a few people! (I found it when looking for a Thanksgiving sheet pan dinner, It's supposed to taste like turkey.) The nooch gives it just the right flavor. A tip not included here: add a little bit of corn starch after you coat the tofu. Serve with your favorite roasted or steamed veggies and rice pilaf (see recipe below), or go for a fast food-like experience and get some oven fries!

Rice pilaf

I've been using this recipe - rice pilaf with shallots and parmesan - forever, even before I became a vegetarian. It takes rice to a whole new level with the shallots and white wine, which give it a bit of a pungent taste. Serve with crispy baked tofu or any main dish and veggie side of your choice.