For us vegan, plant-based eaters, what’s equally as mouth-watering and filling as a baked Christmas ham or turkey? You’d probably never guess it would be a tart, but once you get your lips on Chef Rich’s Savory Spinach & Tomato Tarts (they’re even festively colored), the perfectly crispy, warm and heavenly bites may become part of your year-round rotation. See what Chef Rich has to say about his healthy, hearty, red and green holiday staple.
Q: Many people think “unhealthy” (but delicious) when they think of tarts. How do these tarts stack up against their traditional counterparts?
What makes this tart unique is that you have a rich, luscious, flavor-packed entrée that's completely raw and full of live enzymes and nutrients. Spinach and tomatoes, as we all know, feed the body with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which are known to benefit the body in many ways, from reducing the risk of chronic disease to improving your complexion. Trust me, you definitely won’t be compromising on flavor! Plus, these tarts are relatively easy to whip up, as most of the recipe involves blending.
Q: What makes spinach and tomato such a classic duo?
Simply put, they taste great together. But, like I mentioned, they also make a powerhouse of a nutritional team. Also, you can’t ignore how beautifully they add vivid color to any dish!
Q: Why do you need to dehydrate the tomatoes in this recipe?
Dehydrating the tomatoes concentrates the flavor and really brings out their sweetness. I call it "droasting" because it gives the tomatoes the flavor of being roasted, without cooking out any of the nutrition.
This kid-friendly gingerbread treat contains buckwheat flour (which is actually a seed, not a wheat, so it’s completely gluten-free). It’s also an excellent source of fiber and protein to help you stay full and keep your digestive system in check. Ginger, of course, is amazing for your health, as it’s super anti-inflammatory, great for your heart and can even help with nausea.
The holidays aren’t the same without the sound of clinking glass and the tingle of a fizzy drink! Avoid hangovers and sugar-laden alcoholic drinks with Chef Rich’s virgin Pomegranate Apple Spritzer—so your whole family can enjoy it, even the kids. The juice of apples are extremely rich in important phytonutrients, which have potent antioxidant benefits that are linked to lowering the risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Pomegranates, referred to as the “Jewel of the Winter” in parts of the country, are powerful superfoods that also possess anti-cancer properties.
Whipped up a dish you fell in love with? Share your vegan or plant-based recipe with your fellow healthy eaters! Your recipe may be featured on myHDiet.com and in the Fall In Love Again With Food Again newsletter.
