When it comes to vegetarian cooking, few names shine as brightly as Sara Moulton. A celebrated chef, author, and television personality, Sara has been an inspiration for home cooks looking to create delicious, wholesome, and meat-free meals.
Her approach to vegetarian recipes emphasizes simplicity, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors, making her dishes perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just exploring plant-based options, Sara’s recipes offer a wonderful blend of nutrition and taste that will satisfy everyone at the table.
In this post, we’ll dive into one of Sara Moulton’s favorite vegetarian recipes, sharing everything you need to know to recreate it at home. From the ingredients to detailed instructions, useful tips, and serving suggestions, you’ll find all the guidance to make this dish a new staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sara Moulton vegetarian recipe is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors paired with comforting textures. It balances protein-rich ingredients with seasonal vegetables, ensuring a nutritious and satisfying meal every time.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility — it can be easily adapted for different tastes or dietary needs without compromising on its deliciousness.
Moreover, the recipe is straightforward enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress seasoned cooks. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve guests.
If you enjoy recipes that highlight the natural goodness of vegetables while keeping preparation manageable, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
Yellow onion | 1 medium, diced | Fresh and finely chopped |
Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Adds aromatic flavor |
Carrots | 2 medium, peeled and diced | For sweetness and texture |
Zucchini | 1 medium, diced | Seasonal vegetable |
Canned diced tomatoes | 1 (14-ounce) can | Use quality tomatoes for best flavor |
Cooked chickpeas | 1 1/2 cups (about 1 can, drained) | Protein source |
Fresh basil leaves | 1/4 cup, chopped | For freshness |
Salt | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon (optional) | For a subtle kick |
Equipment
- Large sauté pan or skillet
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener (if using canned ingredients)
- Serving bowls or plates
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Place a large sauté pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil. Allow it to warm up for about 1 minute until shimmering.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced yellow onion to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the carrots and zucchini: Stir in the diced carrots and zucchini. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight bite.
- Incorporate tomatoes and chickpeas: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, stirring to combine. Add the cooked chickpeas and mix well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Season the dish: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Simmer and meld flavors: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10-12 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Finish with fresh basil: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. This adds a bright, fresh note to the dish.
- Serve warm: Transfer the dish to serving bowls or plates and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
“Sara Moulton often emphasizes the importance of fresh ingredients and proper seasoning to elevate simple vegetarian dishes.”
To make this recipe your own, consider the following tips:
- Use seasonal vegetables: Feel free to swap the zucchini and carrots for other veggies like bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms based on what’s fresh and available.
- Add grains: For a heartier meal, serve this dish over cooked quinoa, brown rice, or your favorite whole grain.
- Boost protein: Incorporate some crumbled tofu or tempeh to increase protein content if desired.
- Herb swaps: If you don’t have fresh basil, fresh parsley or oregano can also add lovely herbal notes.
- Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
For more inspiration, check out these other delicious vegetarian recipes:
- Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious
- Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals
- Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Protein | 9 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Carbohydrates | 32 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Sodium | 540 mg |
Vitamin A | 110% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This flavorful vegetarian entrée pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. For a light meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Adding a crusty whole-grain bread or a warm Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
For heartier options, consider serving this dish over Vegan Pearl Couscous Recipe for a Quick Healthy Meal or alongside roasted potatoes. A simple side of steamed greens, such as kale or spinach, complements the meal and boosts its nutritional value.
Conclusion
Sara Moulton’s vegetarian recipes continue to inspire cooks who want to enjoy vibrant, wholesome meals without meat. This particular recipe perfectly encapsulates her philosophy of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create satisfying dishes that are easy to prepare and rich in flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe offers a nutritious and delicious way to celebrate vegetarian cooking.
With its adaptable ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a fantastic addition to any recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and serving ideas shared here to make it truly your own.
And while you’re exploring vegetarian cuisine, be sure to check out more delightful recipes like the Vegan Soul Food Recipe Book: Delicious Plant-Based Meal for even more inspiration.
📖 Recipe Card: Sara Moulton Vegetarian Lentil Stew
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian lentil stew perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with vegetables and protein-rich lentils, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in cumin and smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute.
- Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 35 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 38 g
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