Candle 79 Vegan Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Dishes

Updated On: October 7, 2025

When it comes to vegan fine dining, Candle 79 stands out as an iconic New York City restaurant known for its innovative, wholesome, and utterly delicious plant-based cuisine. Their recipes showcase how vibrant and flavorful vegan food can be, using fresh, organic ingredients and creative techniques that elevate every dish.

Whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply curious about plant-based cooking, recreating some of Candle 79’s vegan recipes at home can inspire your culinary creativity and delight your taste buds.

In this post, we’ll explore a selection of beloved Candle 79 vegan recipes that you can easily prepare in your own kitchen. From hearty mains to luscious desserts, these recipes bring the essence of this celebrated restaurant to your table.

Ready to impress your family and friends with dishes that are both nourishing and gourmet? Let’s dive into the world of Candle 79 vegan cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Candle 79’s vegan recipes are beloved for their rich flavors, satisfying textures, and nutritional balance. What sets these recipes apart is their ability to transform simple plant-based ingredients into gourmet meals that don’t compromise on taste or presentation.

You’ll find recipes that are perfect for entertaining or for a special weeknight dinner.

Each recipe carefully layers fresh vegetables, wholesome grains, and plant-based proteins, often enhanced by herbs, spices, and house-made sauces. This approach keeps the dishes light yet fulfilling, making them ideal for anyone wanting to enjoy a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.

Plus, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to reduce their environmental footprint or embrace a cruelty-free diet. The ingredients are easy to source, and the cooking techniques are approachable, making Candle 79’s vegan recipes a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

  • Organic seasonal vegetables (such as asparagus, zucchini, and baby carrots)
  • Hearts of palm or artichoke hearts
  • Organic quinoa or brown rice
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (such as basil, parsley, and thyme)
  • Minced garlic
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Raw cashews (for creamy sauces)
  • Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
  • Maple syrup or agave nectar
  • Plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
  • Tofu or tempeh (optional for added protein)
  • Chili flakes (optional for heat)

Equipment

  • Large sauté pan for roasting and sautéing vegetables
  • Medium saucepan for cooking grains
  • High-speed blender for sauces and dressings
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Baking sheet for roasting
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk for mixing dressings

Instructions

  1. Prepare the grains: Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Roast the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop 2 cups of seasonal vegetables like asparagus, baby carrots, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sea salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. Make the cashew cream sauce: Soak 1 cup of raw cashews in warm water for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain and blend cashews with ½ cup of plant-based milk, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 garlic clove, 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
  4. Sauté optional protein: If using tofu or tempeh, press and cube 8 ounces. Sauté in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until golden on all sides. Season with salt and chili flakes for a little kick.
  5. Assemble the dish: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and sautéed tofu or tempeh. Drizzle generously with the cashew cream sauce and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs like parsley and basil. Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

“Using seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also supports local farmers and sustainability.”

Feel free to swap quinoa for brown rice, farro, or millet depending on your preference. To add more depth, try roasting the vegetables with a splash of balsamic vinegar or smoked paprika.

If you’re looking to make this dish more protein-packed, add cooked chickpeas or black beans. For a savory twist, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds on top for crunch.

For an extra layer of flavor, try the Cajun Ranch Wing Sauce to drizzle over your veggies. If you want to explore more vegan ideas, check out the delightful Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or the comforting Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 15 g
Carbohydrates 50 g
Dietary Fiber 9 g
Fat 16 g
Saturated Fat 2.5 g
Sodium 320 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a light soup. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.

For a complete meal, serve alongside a crusty whole-grain bread or a simple avocado toast.

If you want to add a touch of indulgence, try the vegan Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe as a side, or finish your meal with a refreshing Huckleberry Margarita Recipe for a festive flair.

Conclusion

Candle 79’s vegan recipes prove that plant-based eating can be elegant, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. By focusing on fresh, organic ingredients and creative cooking techniques, these recipes offer a wonderful way to enjoy gourmet vegan dishes at home.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to nourish yourself with wholesome food, these recipes bring the best of Candle 79’s kitchen to your table.

With flexibility for substitutions and plenty of tips for customization, you can make these dishes your own. Don’t forget to explore other inspired vegan recipes to expand your culinary horizons and keep mealtime exciting.

Happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Candle 79 Vegan Lentil Loaf

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegan lentil loaf inspired by Candle 79's signature dishes. Perfect as a main course for a comforting plant-based meal.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT50M
Total Time: PT1H10M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried green lentils
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated carrot
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Rinse lentils and combine with vegetable broth in a pot; simmer until tender, about 25 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a pan; sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  4. In a large bowl, mash cooked lentils slightly.
  5. Add sautéed onions, garlic, oats, walnuts, carrot, tomato paste, flaxseed mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
  6. Press mixture into a greased loaf pan.
  7. Bake for 50 minutes until firm and golden.
  8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 14 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Marta K

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