If you’re passionate about plant-based living and crave recipes that are both wholesome and bursting with flavor, then Aine Carlin’s Keep It Vegan Recipes are exactly what you need. Aine has expertly crafted a collection of vibrant vegan dishes that prove eating green can be exciting, nourishing, and downright delicious.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just dipping your toes into the lifestyle, these recipes are approachable and crafted to inspire your kitchen creativity.
From hearty mains to scrumptious snacks, Aine emphasizes whole foods and simple ingredients that celebrate nature’s bounty. You’ll love how these recipes deliver satisfying textures and bold tastes without compromising on nutrition.
Plus, each dish is thoughtfully designed to keep your meals colorful, fresh, and brimming with essential nutrients.
Ready to dive into a world of plant-powered goodness? Let’s explore some of Aine Carlin’s most popular vegan recipes that will keep your taste buds dancing and your body energized.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Aine Carlin’s vegan recipes are beloved for their balance of simplicity and sophistication. The dishes are:
- Nutritious: Each recipe is packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein to keep you fueled.
- Flavorful: Bold herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients create layers of taste that satisfy every craving.
- Accessible: Ingredients are easy to find, and the instructions are straightforward for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile: Many recipes can be customized with your favorite veggies or grains, perfect for seasonal cooking.
Plus, these recipes align perfectly with a conscious lifestyle, promoting sustainability and mindful eating.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Chickpeas | 1 can (15 oz) | Rinsed and drained |
Quinoa | 1 cup | Rinsed |
Spinach | 3 cups fresh | Chopped |
Avocado | 1 medium | For creaminess |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Extra virgin preferred |
Garlic cloves | 2 | Minced |
Fresh lemon juice | 2 tbsp | For brightness |
Cumin | 1 tsp | Ground |
Sea salt | To taste | |
Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved |
Equipment
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander or strainer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or food processor (optional, for avocado dressing)
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the chickpeas and spinach: While quinoa cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chickpeas: Stir in the rinsed chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to warm through and allow flavors to meld.
- Wilt the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Make the dressing: In a blender or small bowl, combine the avocado, lemon juice, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of water if needed to thin out.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpea-spinach mixture, and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to mix.
- Serve: Drizzle the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a refreshing cold salad.
Tips & Variations
“Feel free to swap out quinoa for brown rice or couscous for a different texture. Add toasted nuts or seeds for crunch, or toss in some roasted sweet potato cubes to boost the sweetness and heartiness.”
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a smoky kick.
- Greens swap: Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a more robust flavor.
- Protein boost: Add tofu cubes or tempeh for extra plant protein.
- Dressing options: Try a tahini-based dressing or balsamic vinaigrette for variety.
- Meal prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Protein | 12 g |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Dietary Fiber | 10 g |
Fat | 12 g |
Saturated Fat | 1.5 g |
Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Vitamin A | 60% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant quinoa and chickpea salad pairs beautifully with a light soup or fresh bread. Serve alongside a crisp cucumber and mint salad for a refreshing summer meal.
For a heartier dinner, enjoy it with oven-roasted vegetables or vegan stuffed peppers. If you want to add some zest to your brunch, try pairing with a refreshing Blueberry Mule With Blueberry Vodka Recipe or a soothing Blue Spirulina Smoothie Recipe.
Looking for other vegan delights? Check out these flavorful options: Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes and Zucchini Peppers Onions Tomatoes Recipe.
Aine Carlin Keep It Vegan Recipes: A Listicle of Top Picks
Creamy Avocado Chickpea Salad
This recipe (detailed above) is a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures with wholesome quinoa and vibrant spinach. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
Zucchini, Peppers & Onions Stir-Fry
A simple stir-fry full of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, this dish showcases Aine’s love for colorful, easy-to-make vegan dinners. Check the recipe here.
Blackstone Lo Mein
This vegan twist on classic lo mein is packed with mushrooms, tofu, and crunchy veggies tossed in a savory soy-ginger sauce. It’s a quick weeknight winner.
Find the recipe here.
Bobo’s Lemon Poppyseed Oat Bars
For a sweet treat, these oat bars are nutrient-dense, naturally sweetened, and perfect for on-the-go snacking. Aine’s recipe can be found here.
Blackberry Juicing Recipes
Discover refreshing and antioxidant-rich juice recipes featuring blackberries, perfect for detox or an energizing boost. Explore them here.
Conclusion
Aine Carlin’s Keep It Vegan Recipes offer a wonderful gateway to delicious, nutritious plant-based cooking. These recipes emphasize fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and vibrant flavors, making vegan meals exciting and accessible to everyone.
Whether you want to whip up a quick lunch or prepare a wholesome dinner, Aine’s recipes provide flexible and tasty options that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Adopting a vegan diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction — these dishes prove that with the right ingredients and a bit of love, plant-based meals can be truly irresistible. Try incorporating some of these recipes into your weekly rotation, and don’t forget to explore complementary recipes like the Breakfast Wellington Recipe or Bread And Gravy Recipe for even more culinary inspiration.
📖 Recipe Card: Aine Carlin Keep It Vegan Salad Bowl
Description: A vibrant and nutritious vegan salad bowl packed with fresh vegetables and plant-based protein. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal that keeps you energized.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
- Combine quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, spinach, carrots, and avocado in a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 50 g
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