Savor the Season: Plant-Based Recipes for Summer

Blog Post by Chef Lisa Brown of Free Flowing Health

Summer is the perfect time to rejuvenate and nourish your body with fresh, vibrant foods. Today, I’m excited to share three delightful plant-based recipes that are perfect for any summer gathering: Spiced Walnut Meat Tacos, a zesty Cabbage Slaw with Cilantro Lime Crema, and a refreshing Lemon Basil Bliss Mocktail. These recipes not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide a nutritious boost to keep you energized throughout the sunny

days.

Spiced Walnut Meat Tacos

Ingredients:

• 2 cups walnuts

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, soaked and chopped

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

• Corn tortillas

• Toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado slices, shredded lettuce, and your favorite salsa

Instructions:

1. Soak the walnuts in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse well.

2. In a food processor, combine the soaked walnuts, sun-dried tomatoes, soy sauce or tamari, lime juice, nutritional yeast, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Pulse until the mixture resembles ground meat.

3. If you prefer your walnut meat cooked, transfer the mixture to a skillet and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.

4. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.

5. Fill each tortilla with a scoop of walnut meat and your desired toppings.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy these delicious, protein-packed tacos!

Cabbage Slaw with Cilantro Lime Crema

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head of green cabbage, thinly sliced

• 1/2 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced

• 2 carrots, julienned

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup lime juice

• 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, vegan mayonnaise, olive oil, and minced garlic until smooth.

3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve as a side dish or as a topping for the Spiced Walnut Meat Tacos.

Lemon Basil Bliss Mocktail

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)

• 3/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar

• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 6 cups sparkling water

• Ice cubes

• Lemon slices, cucumber ribbons, and basil sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, muddle the basil leaves, mint leaves, cucumber slices, and strawberries until the ingredients are well mashed and the flavors are released.

2. Add the lemon juice and maple syrup or agave nectar to the pitcher and stir well.

3. Add the sparkling water and stir gently to combine.

4. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour in the Lemon Basil Bliss Mocktail.

5. Garnish with lemon slices, cucumber ribbons, and basil sprigs. Enjoy this refreshing and fancy mocktail on a hot summer day!

Embrace the Flavors of Summer

These three recipes are not only simple to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

For more plant-based inspiration and holistic wellness tips, don’t forget to check out my website and tune into The Free Flowing Health Podcast on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Happy cooking and stay vibrant!