Tasty Tomatoes

So you’ve got those delicious, fresh, beginning-of-the-season tomatoes from the Farm Stand or farmer’s market. They’re gorgeously sitting on your counter making your mouth water, and you’ve popped popped one in every time you walk by… now what? You could always make tomato sauce – especially if you freeze it for later, but we’re sure you’ve already got an amazing family recipe for that. We’re here to offer some other options for this flirty nightshade (recipes linked below).

 

  1. Black Bean & Tomato Quinoa – brimming with tomatoes  and scallions, this make ahead quinoa recipe is the perfect answer to your weekly food-prep prayers. It only takes 25 minutes and can be used as a side or base for any meal, any time of day.
  2. Pico De Gallo Salsa – We all have our favorite chip brand, the one we always reach for in the store, so delicious and crunchy and just the right amount of salt… but what to pair it with? This salsa is the perfect companion. Just hot enough, with hints of cilantro and lime, it can last you up to one week in the fridge, and will be a party favorite.
  3. Quinoa Pilaf – We know, quinoa again. But we’re seriously crushing on this ancient grain, particularly because of it’s versatility. This recipe makes use of all that is currently in season – mint, artichoke, tomato, red onions, and bay leaves.
  4. Tomato Pie – When you want to wow you friends for a dinner party during tomato season, this is your go to. A true Southern Style pie made with tomatoes just at their peak, this looks and tastes more challenging than it is to bake – just take your time.
  5. Caprese Salad – This one needs no recipe. The perfect snack on a warm evening, just slice some mozzarella cheese on a plate with tomatoes, olive oil, salt & pepper, and a  drizzle of olive oil. Pair this with a little cured meat and some olives for the perfect seasonal insalata.

Ready to try these out? Let us know how they go! Tag us with #vegoutrfs, #vegout2019  & @r4sfoundation on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!


Dinner In A Minute, Please!

 

You’re exhausted, it’s been a busy day, and you’re tempted to just call for takeout and open a bottle of wine. We get it. But we also know how that’s going to feel tomorrow morning. The good news is, we’ve got some ideas for making your weeknights speedy, easy, and deliciously healthy!

  1. Quinoa – This ancient grain is nutritious, easy to cook, and pairs well with almost everything. It only take 10 minutes from start to finish, then you can combine it hot or cold with whatever protein and veggies you’re having for dinner, and viola!– a delicious meal in minutes.
  2. Casserole – Trust us, they don’t have to be dense, tasteless bakes. There are ways to make this easy prepare-ahead dish delicious. Try a gratin, or layer some leftovers with onions, beans, parmesan, and a few spices and throw it under the broiler.
  3. Salad – This can be a delicious fast dinner, not to mention  light and nutritious to end the day. Clean out the refrigerator and  mix whatever greens you have with a protein and any combination of vegetables and beans, or eliminate greens altogether and mix corn with your favorite Mexican flavors. 
  4. Two Pot Spot – Have some time, but don’t want to do fancy dicing, sifting, or layering? Try something like ratatouille, where you can dump a whole bunch of veggies together on a baking tray, roast them, and serve over quinoa, grits, rice, or even fold into an omelet. You’ll keep the clean up to a minimum and have a dish you can eat in multiple ways.
  5. Stir Fry – While you will need to do a bit of chopping, this delicious dish cooks in under 10 minutes. Using rice you prepared during the weekend, or grating a cauliflower to use as rice, will make dinner prep even quicker.