Candle 79 Vegan Live Lasagne Recipe for Healthy Eating

Vegan cuisine has evolved tremendously over the years, offering bold flavors and creative dishes that even non-vegans adore. One of the standout dishes that has captured hearts worldwide is the Candle 79 Vegan Live Lasagne.

Originating from the renowned New York City restaurant Candle 79, this raw and living lasagne recipe is a testament to how delicious and nourishing plant-based food can be. With layers of marinated vegetables, rich cashew cheese, and hearty zucchini “noodles,” this lasagne is a perfect combination of texture and taste, all without baking or cooking over heat.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about raw food recipes, this dish will impress you with its fresh ingredients and complex flavors. It’s also a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal that feels indulgent yet light.

Ready to dive into a vibrant, wholesome lasagne? Let’s get started with this amazing recipe that brings the magic of Candle 79 right to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Candle 79 Vegan Live Lasagne recipe is a celebration of freshness and wholesomeness. Unlike traditional lasagne, it’s completely raw, meaning none of the ingredients are cooked, preserving all their natural enzymes and nutrients.

The layers of zucchini ribbons replace pasta sheets, making it gluten-free and lighter on the stomach.

The creamy cashew-based cheese adds a dreamy richness while keeping the dish entirely plant-based. You’ll also love how the sun-dried tomato marinara bursts with robust flavor, creating perfect harmony with the other ingredients.

It’s an excellent choice for those interested in raw food, anyone seeking a detox-friendly meal, or simply those who want to try something unique, delicious, and beautiful on the plate.

Ingredients

• 3 medium zucchinis (sliced thinly lengthwise to make “noodles”)
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water (or as needed for blending)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan pink salt
• 1 1/2 cups sun-dried tomatoes (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• 2 medium tomatoes (roughly chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup walnuts (soaked for 2 hours)
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup spinach leaves
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor (for cashew cheese and marinara)
• Mandoline slicer or sharp knife (for slicing zucchini)
• Large mixing bowls
• 9×9 inch glass baking dish (or similar size for layering)
• Spatula (for spreading layers)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for draining soaked nuts)

Instructions

1. Prepare the zucchini noodles: Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, carefully slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin ribbons approximately 1/8 inch thick. Set aside on a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.
2. Make the cashew cheese: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender with nutritional yeast, lemon juice, water, garlic, and Himalayan pink salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides and add a little more water to reach a spreadable consistency.
3. Prepare the sun-dried tomato marinara: Drain the sun-dried tomatoes and add them to the blender with fresh tomatoes, red bell pepper, basil leaves, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture resembles a chunky sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Create the walnut pesto layer: In the food processor, combine soaked walnuts, spinach, shredded carrots, a pinch of salt, and a splash of water. Pulse to create a coarse, green pesto-like mixture.
5. Assemble the lasagne: In your glass baking dish, start with a thin layer of the sun-dried tomato marinara sauce. Then add a layer of zucchini noodles, followed by a generous spread of cashew cheese. Next, spread a layer of the walnut pesto. Repeat the layering process (marinara, zucchini, cashew cheese, walnut pesto) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cashew cheese on top.
6. Let it set: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best) to allow the flavors to meld and the lasagne to firm up.
7. Serve and enjoy: Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or cracked black pepper if desired.

Tips & Variations

To enhance the texture, lightly press the zucchini slices with a paper towel before assembling to remove extra moisture.

For a nuttier twist, substitute walnuts with pecans or macadamia nuts in the pesto layer.

If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

This lasagne is fully raw but if you want to warm it slightly, serve it at room temperature or gently warm in a dehydrator or very low oven (below 115°F) to preserve raw qualities.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant vegan live lasagne shines as a main course but pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy textures perfectly.

For a refreshing contrast, serve with a chilled cucumber mint water or a sparkling herbal iced tea. If you’re looking to expand your dinner menu, try pairing it with one of our delightful vegan appetizers like the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes.

For dessert, something light and citrusy such as our Lemon Straws Recipe would round out the meal perfectly.

Conclusion

The Candle 79 Vegan Live Lasagne is a stunning example of how raw, plant-based ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to explore vegan raw cuisine or add a refreshing, healthy meal to their repertoire.

This recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, from the creamy cashew cheese to the tangy sun-dried tomato sauce and the crisp zucchini noodles. With its ease of preparation and no-cook approach, it’s a fantastic option for warm days or when you want something light but satisfying.

Don’t forget to explore more exciting recipes like our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the savory Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes. Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant, healthful lasagne!

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