The Best Easy Meatless Main Dishes – WellPlated.com https://www.wellplated.com/category/recipes-by-type/meatless-mains/ Recipes for a Wholesome Life Tue, 13 Jun 2023 10:02:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.wellplated.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/cropped-favicon-268x268.png The Best Easy Meatless Main Dishes – WellPlated.com https://www.wellplated.com/category/recipes-by-type/meatless-mains/ 32 32 The Only Zucchini Fritter Recipe You Need This Summer https://www.wellplated.com/zucchini-fritters/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/zucchini-fritters/#comments Tue, 13 Jun 2023 10:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=96337 Zucchini Fritters

a stack of crispy zucchini fritters on a white plateCrispy, perfectly browned, and oh-so-cheesy, these easy zucchini fritters are one of the best recipes to make with an abundance of zucchini!

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Zucchini Fritters a stack of crispy zucchini fritters on a white plate

Figuring out what to do with a mass influx of zucchini is a challenge I relish every summer. These cheesy, crispy Zucchini Fritters are a sensational seasonal solution! A savory zucchini pancake, they’re crisp outside, tender inside, and great for a side or even brunch!

a stack of crispy zucchini fritters on a white plate

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Recipe

  • Tasty Way to Use Zucchini. Because whether you grow zucchini, have neighbors who share their wealth, or (like me) go wild at the farmers market with dreams of Healthy Zucchini Muffins dancing in your head, at one point or another this summer, you are going to end up with Way. Too. Much. Zucchini.
  • Fritters Are a Little Something Different. Zucchini is a fantastic fast, healthy side dish, but by the time you’ve eaten multiple rounds of Grilled Zucchini, Sautéed Zucchini, and Roasted Zucchini, it’s time for something new.
  • They’re Everything You Want in a Fritter. Each zucchini fritter is crispy on the outside, and tender and cheesy inside. Soggy and bland? Never! (See Potato Fritters for another tasty savory fritter recipe!).
  • Zucchini Fritters Are Versatile. These zucchini fritters go well with just about any protein to make it a full meal, from Grilled Salmon in Foil to Air Fryer Chicken Breast. Or, top zucchini fritters with a runny egg and avocado and serve them as a meatless main dish.
  • This Recipe Is Fail-Proof. Have you been victimized by zucchini fritter recipes in the past? This one won’t let you down! The fritters won’t fall apart when you flip them and they have perfect crispy, golden brown exteriors.
Easy zucchini fritters on a plate

5 Star Review

“Loved these zucchini fritters. I’ve been making something similar for years, but this recipe is my favorite now. Less oil, less messy, great flavor and they don’t fall apart.”

— Gail —

More About These Zucchini Fritters

To make zucchini fritters, combine shredded zucchini with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices to make a savory, pancake-like batter that crisps on the stove.

I like to give my zucchini fritters an Italian twist with herbs and an Italian cheese like mozzarella or fontina, but you can play around with this recipe.

Zucchini fritters with feta will give it a Mediterranean flair; cheddar cheese is scrumptious and lends a classic all-American vibe.

Toss in a side of Baked Bacon in the Oven and you can even have zucchini fritters for breakfast.

Zucchini fritters with dipping sauce

How to Make Zucchini Fritters

The Ingredients

  • Zucchini. Zucchini is mild and slightly sweet, making it the perfect veggie to star in these tasty fritters. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, zucchini is healthy too.

Market Swap

All varieties of summer squash have a similar texture and taste, so if your CSA box drops some pattypan squash on you or you couldn’t resist zephyr squash at the farmers market, you can swap those in for the zucchini.

  • Green Onions. For a hint of onion flavor.
  • Eggs. Helps hold the fritters together.
  • Flour + Breadcrumbs. These two ingredients give the fritters their shape and texture. I used Italian seasoned whole wheat breadcrumbs for a flavorful, healthy option.
  • Spices. A simple mix of basil, garlic powder, a teaspoon salt, and pepper are all these fritters need.
  • Lemon Zest. Adds brightness and accentuates all the other flavors.
  • Cheddar. Melty, flavorful cheese adds richness to these wholesome fritters. Any cheese on the outsides of the fritters crisps up deliciously, and the cheese in the middle stays gooey.

Substitution Tip

You can use any melty cheese you enjoy, such as cheddar, mozzarella, fontina, or gruyere.

  • Toppings. Our favorite zucchini fritter toppings are Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chives. Also could use sour cream, fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese.

Dietary Note

To Make GlutenFree. If you want to make these fritters gluten-free, you can try swapping oat flour for the whole wheat flour, using gluten free breadcrumbs, and adding an extra pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

The Directions

  1. Prepare. Dry the zucchini with kitchen towel or paper towels.
A blend of ingredients in a large mixing bowl
  1. Combine. Add the zucchini, green onions, eggs, breadcrumbs, flour, spices, and baking soda to a bowl.
Zucchini fritter batter in a bowl
  1. Mix the Fritter “Batter”. Then fold in the cheese to the zucchini mixture. Form into patties.
Four zucchini fritters being cooked in a skillet
  1. Cook. In a large skillet or cast iron skillet, cook the zucchini fritters in oil until golden brown. After 4 minutes, flip the fritters and cook for 3 minutes more.
  2. Serve. Season the cooked fritters with salt. Serve with lemon juice, yogurt, and chives. ENJOY!
A stack of zucchini fritters on a plate

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate leftover zucchini fritters in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of olive oil to crisp them back up and to prevent sticking. You can also rewarm leftovers in the microwave, but note they will be a little soggy. 
  • To Freeze. Freeze cooked fritters flat and separated with sheets of parchment paper in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above.

What to Serve with Zucchini Fritters

Healthy zucchini fritters with dipping sauce
  • Non-Stick Skillet. Ideal for making these fritters.
  • Food Processor. Use a grating blade for an easy, quick way to grate your zucchini—although the large holes of a box grater work too.
  • Cheese Grater. Grating your own cheese is worth the extra step.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Dry the Zucchini Super Well. The difference between bland, soggy, fall-apart zucchini fritters and the best zucchini fritters you’ve ever had is all about wringing out as much liquid as you can from the shredded zucchini. Press the zucchini until it’s dry to the touch, or wrap it in a kitchen towel and squeeze it over the sink to remove the excess moisture.
  • Use Small or Medium Zucchini. It has smaller seeds and a more pleasant flavor than those baseball-bat-sized zucchini you find after a week or two of neglecting your garden.
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Use Your Hands. You’ll be able to mix the ingredients more evenly if you ditch the wooden spoon and get in there with your hands. Just go for it!
  • Use a Non-Stick Skillet. This helps avoid the problem of having half your zucchini fritter come up with the spatula and half remain sticking to the pan.
  • Adjust the Heat as Needed. If you notice the fritters are browning quickly before the inside has a chance to cook through, lower the heat a bit.
  • Season After Cooking. A sprinkle of salt right after the fritters are done in the skillet will help give their flavor a boost.
a stack of crispy zucchini fritters on a white plate
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Zucchini Fritters

Crispy zucchini fritters are one of the best recipes to make with zucchini! Golden, cheesy, and never soggy. Serve as a side or top with an egg for breakfast.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 12 fritters
Calories 81kcal

Ingredients

  • 5 cups shredded zucchini* about 21 ounces or 3 medium; no need to peel
  • 3 green onions finely chopped
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup Italian seasoned whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup white whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus additional for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Zest of 1 small lemon reserve fruit for serving
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated, melty cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, fontina, or gruyere
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
  • Plain nonfat Greek Yogurt for serving
  • Chopped fresh chives or green onions for serving
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice from lemon above

Instructions

  • If you’d like to keep the fritters warm between batches, preheat your oven to 200℉. Spread the shredded zucchini onto a clean kitchen towel and press out as much moisture as possible, changing the towel once or twice as needed.
  • Place the zucchini in a large bowl, then add the green onions, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, flour, basil, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and baking soda.
    A blend of ingredients in a large mixing bowl
  • Mix with a fork until completely combined, switching to use your fingers if needed to make sure all of the ingredients are evenly distributed. Fold in the cheese.
    Zucchini fritter batter in a bowl
  • In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil over medium heat. Scoop a scant 1/4-cup portion of the fritter batter onto the frying pan and flatten into an even layer.
    Vegetable patties in a skillet
  • Cook until golden on the first side until dark golden, about 4 minutes, then flip and continue cooking until the second side is golden as well, about 3 minutes more. Depending upon your skillet, you may need to adjust the heat as you go to ensure the pancakes cook all the way through but still get crisp on the outside without burning.
    Four zucchini fritters being cooked in a skillet
  • As soon as they come off of the skillet, season the freshly cooked fritters with an additional pinch of kosher salt. Repeat with the remaining pancakes, keeping batches warm in the oven as desired. If excess liquid collects in the bottom of the bowl, discard it. Serve warm, topped with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, Greek yogurt, and chives as desired.

Video

Notes

  • *To quickly grate zucchini, trim off the ends, then use the grater blade of your food processor.
  • *Be sure to measure the shredded zucchini. If you use a different amount than called for in the recipe, the fritters may not hold together.
  • TO MAKE GLUTEN-FREE: I have not tried this recipe gluten free, but I believe you could swap oat flour for the whole wheat flour and gluten free breadcrumbs, plus a pinch of extra salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for the seasoned breadcrumbs.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of olive oil to crisp them back up and to prevent sticking. You can also rewarm leftovers in the microwave. 
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze cooked fritters flat and separated with sheets of parchment paper in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 12), without yogurt | Calories: 81kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.004g | Cholesterol: 46mg | Potassium: 173mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 241IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 56mg | Iron: 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my Zucchini Fritters Falling Apart?

If your zucchini fritters are falling apart, it’s likely because the batter was too wet or the fritters are sticking to the skillet. Make sure you thoroughly dry your zucchini before preparing the batter so the binding agents (flour, egg, and breadcrumbs) can hold the fritters together. You’ll also want to use a non-stick skillet and oil to make sure the fritters don’t get stuck to the pan.

Can I Swap the Zucchini for Yellow Summer Squash?

If your surplus of summer produce leans more towards yellow squash than zucchini, you can swap the two in this recipe.

What Dips Pair Well with Zucchini Fritters?

While we enjoy our fritters with Greek yogurt, there is a myriad of dip options you can use. Try serving your fritters with marinara (especially tasty if you use mozzarella cheese), Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip, or the basil dipping sauce from this Zucchini Fries recipe.

More Zucchini Recipes

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Your Cheapest and Fastest Ticket to Thailand: Coconut Curry https://www.wellplated.com/coconut-curry/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/coconut-curry/#comments Thu, 18 May 2023 10:04:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=24464 Coconut Curry

the best coconut curry recipe in a bowlAn easy and healthy recipe for coconut curry. A vegan recipe packed with flavor and nutrient-dense ingredients.

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Coconut Curry the best coconut curry recipe in a bowl

This creamy, lightly sweet and spicy Coconut Curry recipe is inspired by the curries I ate during our trip to Thailand a few years ago. This version is made with easy-to-find ingredients, packed with rich Thai flavor, has a lovely creamy texture, AND is vegan too!

the best coconut curry recipe in a bowl

Why You’ll Love This Easy Curry Recipe

  • Warm, Bold Flavors. Thai food is complex and aromatic, with sweet, spicy, and tangy notes from ingredients like chilis, citrus, garlic, and fish sauce or soy sauce. From Shrimp Pad Thai to Panang Curry, we LOVE it!
  • Fast + One-Pot. This is a 30-minute meal and if you discount the rice, it’s also a one-pot meal. Meaning less time washing dishes and more time eating the best-ever coconut curry!
  • Pantry Ingredients. The ingredients in this recipe are streamlined and easy to find, no matter where you live! Keep Thai red curry paste (which is widely available in grocery stores throughout the U.S.), a can of chickpeas, canned coconut milk, and a bag of frozen veggies on hand, and you can whip up this recipe (or Massaman Curry!) anytime.
  • Saucy. The sauce is one of the best parts of curry. Creamy coconut milk tames the heat and makes curry sauces extra yummy over brown rice or sopped up with bread.
  • Healthy. This vegetarian coconut curry is packed with vegetables, plant-based protein, and is even dairy free (so yes, it’s vegan!).
  • Adaptable. No chickpeas on hand? Take a note from my Tofu Curry and swap cubed sautéed or Air Fryer Tofu. Swap the veggies here for whatever is in your crisper drawer.
easy coconut curry with red curry paste

5 Star Review

“I’ve made this a bunch of times and it’s now in my regular rotation. Really easy, delicious, healthy, and quick.”

— Jen —

How to Make Coconut Curry

In Thailand, most of the coconut curries we tried were made with chicken (like this Thai Chicken Curry), but to keep this recipe extra super-duper speedy, I turned it into a Thai vegetable curry by using chickpeas instead.

The Ingredients

  • Chickpeas. The chickpeas’ mild flavor meshes well with the bolder spices in the easy curry sauce, and their pleasantly chewy texture is a nice contrast to the sauce’s creaminess
  • Red Curry Paste. The star of the show that packs flavor and punch into every bite of this healthy vegetarian curry with chickpeas. Craving variety? Pick up green curry paste and use it for a Green Curry!

Tip!

Note that every curry paste is a little different in terms of flavor and heat (some are SPICY others are more on the mild side.) Take some time to explore to find your favorite red curry paste.

  • Coconut Milk and Coconut Sugar. Infuse this dish with coconut goodness and make it rich, creamy, and slightly sweet.
  • Soy Sauce. For some good old-fashioned umami flavor.
  • Rice Vinegar. Balances the dish and lends it some vital acidity.
  • Vegetables. I used bell peppers, onions, carrots, and peas, all of which I found in my coconut curry bowls in Thailand at one point or another.
  • Ginger + Garlic. An essential duo of dynamic spices that give this recipe some extra zip.
  • Rice or Quinoa. For serving. Brown rice (I love to make brown rice in the Instant Pot) or cooked quinoa are my favorites to add some bulk and additional plant-based fiber to this recipe to make it more filling. You can also use white rice.
thai coconut curry recipe with red curry paste in a pot

The Directions

sauteeing onions for coconut curry
  1. Saute. I like to use coconut oil but canola oil or avocado oil work too.
red curry paste for coconut curry
  1. Add the Aromatics. Garlic, ginger, and the curry paste bloom with flavor over the heat.
vegetables cooking for coconut curry
  1. Add the Veggies. Feel free to play around with your vegetables of choice.
chickpeas in healthy coconut curry
  1. Add the Coconut Milk and Chickpeas. Stir it all together.
  2. Simmer. In 10-15 minutes, your curry will thicken.
healthy easy coconut curry recipe simmering in a pot
  1. Add the Finishing Ingredients. Soy sauce and rice vinegar, plus frozen peas if you like (they’ll thaw immediately).
added seasonings to coconut curry
  1. Serve. Over rice or quinoa, garnished with fresh cilantro, or borrow from Indian curries and dip with Homemade Naan. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
  • To Reheat. Warm in a skillet over medium heat until steaming. You can also microwave in a covered microwave-safe container until heated through.
  • To Freeze. I do not recommend freezing, as I have not had the best luck freezing sauces with coconut milk bases.
coconut curry in a bowl ready in 30 minutes
  • Dutch Oven. (This one is outstanding. This is another excellent, more economical option.)
  • Instant Pot. I cook brown rice in my Instant Pot, and it’s perfect every time. (You can, of course, cook rice in a regular saucepan too!)

It’s comforting to know that while I might not be able to sneak back to Chiang Mai to bathe an elephant anytime soon, at least I can relive the experience via this easy vegan coconut curry recipe.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Use Your Favorite Veggies. Feel free to swap in different vegetables to suit your tastes and what’s in your fridge—cauliflower, broccoli, pea pods, bok choy, sweet potatoes, eggplant..it’s all fair game! Keep in mind the cooking times may need to adjust since some veggies will cook faster or longer than those selected for the original recipe.
  • Invest in a Few Thai Ingredients. It truly is amazing how many more recipes you can make when you have fish sauce, a jar of red curry, and a can of coconut milk. See these Asian-inspired recipes for even more ideas and add them to your grocery cart!
  • Taste, Taste, Taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the sauce to suit your tastes as you go. Add additional soy sauce (for more saltiness), coconut sugar (for more sweetness), or red pepper flakes (for more heat). This recipe is versatile to suit different palettes.
the best coconut curry recipe in a bowl
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Coconut Curry

This creamy vegan coconut curry with chickpeas is full of flavor. Ready in 30 minutes, it's a cozy dish that's equally healthy and satisfying.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 519kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or substitute extra-virgin olive oil or grapeseed oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger or in a pinch, 2–3 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste plus 2 teaspoons
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 6 small/medium carrots peeled and cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds (about 2 cups)
  • 2 large red bell peppers cored and sliced
  • 2 cans light coconut milk (14-ounce cans)
  • 2-4 teaspoons coconut sugar brown sugar, or turbinado sugar
  • 1 can reduced-sodium chickpeas (15 ounces), rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce plus 2 teaspoons, or tamari to make the recipe gluten free
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for serving
  • Prepared brown rice or quinoa for serving

Instructions

  • Heat a large pot such as a Dutch oven over medium. Once hot, add the coconut oil and onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until slightly softened.
    sauteeing onions for coconut curry
  • Add the garlic and ginger and let cook 30 seconds, then add the red curry paste and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and let cook 1 additional minute. Add the carrots and bell pepper and stir to coat with the spices and curry.
    vegetables cooking for coconut curry
  • Stir in the coconut milk, 2 teaspoons sugar, and chickpeas, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to low and continue cooking (uncovered) for 10 to 15 minutes, until slightly thickened and the vegetables are crisp-tender.
    chickpeas in healthy coconut curry
  • Stir in the soy sauce and rice vinegar. Taste and add additional soy sauce (for more saltiness), sugar (for more sweetness), or red pepper flakes (for more heat) as desired. Stir in the peas and let cook for 3 additional minutes. Serve warm over rice or quinoa, garnished with fresh cilantro.
    added seasonings to coconut curry

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Warm in a skillet over medium heat until steaming. You can also microwave in a covered microwave-safe container until heated through.
  • TO FREEZE: I do not recommend freezing, as I have not had the best luck freezing sauces that have a coconut milk base.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4), with 1/2 cup prepared brown rice | Calories: 519kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 17g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Potassium: 785mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 15362IU | Vitamin C: 127mg | Calcium: 114mg | Iron: 4mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Coconut Curry Be Made Gluten Free?

Yes! For those with dietary restrictions, this vegan curry recipe can easily be made gluten free. You will need to swap the soy sauce for gluten-free tamari and also should check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure you select those that are gluten free and manufactured in a gluten-free certified facility.

Is There A Lot of Sodium in Coconut Curry?

While I don’t calculate my recipes’ exact sodium content for many reasons, curry recipes are generally not the best for those trying to watch their sodium. Both soy sauce and red curry paste tend to contain a lot of sodium. However, there *are* lots of homemade curry paste recipes out there that would help you control the sodium level as much as you’d like. Some brands offer lower-sodium varieties of these ingredients too.

Is Coconut Curry Thai or Indian?

While both Indian and Thai cuisine have curries that include coconut milk, this coconut curry recipe is more reminiscent of those you would find in Thailand or at Thai restaurants around the world.

Related Recipes

Don’t miss these other Asian-inspired recipes:

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This 10-Minute Salad is Your Little Black Dress https://www.wellplated.com/anytime-arugula-salad/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/anytime-arugula-salad/#comments Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=31954 Arugula Salad

the best arugula salad recipe in a bowlEveryone needs a fresh, fast side they can toss together in minutes, and this is mine! Peppery arugula with big shavings of Parm and a bright balsamic dressing, this salad is easy, elegant, and goes with anything.

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Arugula Salad the best arugula salad recipe in a bowl

Let’s take it easy with a quick, healthy side like this Arugula Salad with lemon balsamic dressing. This flexible recipe goes with just about anything (chicken, seafood, pizza, and even brunch recipes like quiche all taste fab with arugula). It’s simple, endlessly customizable, and the bright dressing makes it the best arugula salad you’ll ever make.

the best arugula salad recipe in a bowl

Why You’ll Love this Simple Salad

  • Timeless. This tasty blend of peppery arugula (plus giant shavings of Parmesan because YUM) is simple but pretty enough to be worthy of the weekend.
  • Easy. I never feel too tired to throw it together, even at the end of a long weekday when my brain is saying hi, I’m done.
  • Fast and Flexible. It takes minutes to pull together and will make you feel both wholesome and creative at the same time.
  • Dream Salad. It’s the sort of salad I wish I could order at every restaurant: lots of green, with a vibrant lemon balsamic dressing that enhances the other ingredients without making the salad wet or soggy.

I’ve made assorted versions of this arugula salad dozens of times over the years.

It’s a back-pocket kind of recipe that gives me a zippy, tasty way to add some green to our plates. I enjoy it every time I make it.

easy arugula salad in a bowl

Why Use Arugula Greens

Arugula is one of my favorite greens to use in a salad because of its signature flavor.

It can stand up to fully flavored dressings, but it’s not *so* strong that it overpowers the plate, hence its ability to pair with so many dishes.

When I need a slam-dunk side dish that can pair with anything, however, today’s balsamic arugula salad never fails.

a large bowl of arugula salad with healthy toppings

Tips to Make a Healthy Arugula Salad

Because of its nutritious ingredients and light dressing, this arugula salad is very good for you.

Arugula is packed with vital nutrients, and it’s low in calories, carbs, fat, and sugar.

You also can add just about anything you like to it.

  • To make the salad even better for you, add extra servings of healthy ingredients, like fresh vegetables or fruit (arugula salad with pears or strawberries would be wonderful). An arugula avocado salad is next on my list.
  • Use more indulgent ingredients, like nuts and cheese, in moderation. These are important to add to make the salad satisfying; just don’t go overboard.
  • Arugula salad recipes with chicken are also a great way to add lean, filling protein. You can easily toss chicken or your cooked protein of choice on just about any arugula salad.
arugula salad recipe in a bowl with toppings

How to Make Arugula Salad

Arugula is a flexible green and the dressing can handle additions.

Have carrots and tomatoes your fridge? Toss ’em in!

I also like to add nuts or sunflower seeds for texture, and any chopped fresh herbs in the fridge that are threatening extinction.

Honestly though, you can serve this salad with only the arugula, lemon balsamic dressing (which tastes completely dynamite with arugula), and Parmesan and call it a day.

Any other ingredients are yummy, but it’s the simple trio of arugula, homemade dressing, and Parm that does the heavy lifting.

The Ingredients

  • Arugula. Despite its appearance, arugula is not a lettuce. It’s actually part of the mustard greens family. You can do so much with arugula besides make a salad, but that’s my favorite way to serve it. It’s tender, fresh, and peppery. Additionally, arugula is rich in calcium and potassium (read more about arugula here).

Tip!

While I adore the black pepper flavor of arugula, if you want to make the salad more mild, you can replace up to 50% of it with baby spinach.

  • Fresh Veggies or Fruit (Optional!). Pick one or two simple additions if you like, or keep this salad simple and skip them. Grated carrots and/or cherry tomatoes add a delicious burst of sweet, juicy flavor and color; or go the fruit route with peaches or pears.
  • Shaved Parmesan Cheese. A critical component of this easy salad. Skip the pre-shredded stuff, and buy a high-quality Parmesan you can shave yourself.
  • Toppings. Sunflower seeds or toasted sliced almonds, pecans, or pine nuts, plus herbs are the perfect final flourish for this salad.
  • Dressing. The arugula salad dressing is a simple combination of fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt. It’s light, bright, and so tasty.

The Directions

making dressing for simple arugula salad
  1. Make the Dressing. Feel free to double the recipe so you have extra.
arugula in a large bowl for a healthy arugula salad
  1. Grab a Big Bowl. Add the arugula greens.
tossing arugula salad in a large bowl
  1. Toss with a Little Bit of the Dressing. You want the salad moist, but not soggy.
arugula salad toppings in a bowl
  1. Top It Off. Parmesan and sunflower seeds are my favorites. Add a little extra dressing if you like. ENJOY!

Dishes That Go Well with Arugula Salad

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

  • To Make Ahead. Prepare the dressing, and store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine the arugula and any vegetables you’d like to add in a large mixing bowl up to 1 day in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing, toppings, and freshly shaved Parmesan just before serving.
  • To Store. Leftover, dressed salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 additional day. The arugula will wilt, but the salad will still taste delicious. I like to toss in some fresh arugula with the leftovers to crisp things back up, as well as drizzle on some additional dressing.
healthy simple arugula salad recipe in a large bowl with toppings

This fresh arugula salad is poised and ready to be your weeknight warrior or elegant dinner party contribution.

It’s a salad everyone will enjoy!

the best arugula salad recipe in a bowl
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Arugula Salad

Simple, perfect arugula salad with lemon balsamic dressing and Parmesan. Easy and flavorful! This healthy side goes with any meal and is ready in minutes.
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 122kcal

Ingredients

FOR THE ARUGULA SALAD:

  • 5 ounces arugula  about 5 cups
  • 1/3 cup large Parmesan cheese shavings see pictures—don’t skip this, and the better the quality of the cheese, the better the salad! I like to shave mine right off of the block with a vegetable peeler
  • 3 tablespoons  chopped sunflower seeds or chopped nuts of choice—toasted and chopped walnuts pecans, and pistachios are all delicious (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped mild fresh herbs of choice such as chives, parsley, or tarragon (optional)

FOR MORE VEGGIES (optional):

  • 4 medium carrots shaved into ribbons (about 8 to 10 ounces) or 1 cup grated carrots (if you’re in a hurry, you can use the pre-bagged grated carrots)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved

FOR THE DRESSING:

Instructions

  • Place the arugula and any optional veggies in a large bowl.
    arugula in a large bowl for a healthy arugula salad
  • In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the dressing ingredients: lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and salt. (Alternatively, you can shake them all together in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid).
    making dressing for simple arugula salad
  • Drizzle enough over the arugula to moisten it, then toss to combine.
    tossing arugula salad in a large bowl
  • Sprinkle Parmesan and any desired nuts or herbs over the top. Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra dressing as desired.
    arugula salad toppings in a bowl

Video

Notes

  • Dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for 3 days, or up to 1 week if you freshen it up with a bit of extra lemon juice.
  • TO MAKE AHEAD: Prepare the dressing, and store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine the arugula and any vegetables you’d like to add in a large mixing bowl up to 1 day in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing, toppings, and freshly shaved Parmesan just before serving.
  • TO STORE: Leftover, dressed salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 additional day. The arugula will wilt, but the salad will still taste delicious. I like to toss in some fresh arugula with the leftovers to crisp things back up, as well as drizzle on some additional dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 6) | Calories: 122kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g

More Fresh Green Salads

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Pantry Staples + 30 Minutes = Chickpea Curry https://www.wellplated.com/chickpea-curry/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/chickpea-curry/#comments Mon, 03 Apr 2023 10:09:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=116431 Chickpea Curry

the best creamy chickpea curryThe easiest Chickpea Curry recipe made with pantry staples liked canned tomatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk and spices. Chickpea Curry is a satisfying vegetarian meal ready in 30 minutes.

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Chickpea Curry the best creamy chickpea curry

Keep the ingredients for this simple, warming Chickpea Curry on hand (not difficult since most of them—canned tomatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk, and spices—are pantry staples) and you’re never more than 30 minutes from a nutritious, super satisfying vegetarian meal.

the best creamy chickpea curry

“Curry” is a catch-all term for a saucy dish with vegetables and some kind of protein stewed together in a rich, aromatic sauce.

This particular tomato chickpea curry is Indian-inspired; it uses dry spices like curry powder and garam masala to build its royal flush of warm flavor, plus aromatics like garlic and ginger.

(Thai curries by contrast use chili pastes for their heat; see Coconut Curry and Green Curry for examples).

Creamy chickpea curry is not too spicy—coconut milk makes the sauce silky and balances the heat—so if you want a spicy iteration, you can add a pinch or two of additional cayenne.

Serve it with rice (try Turmeric Rice or Instant Pot Brown Rice) or sop it up with fluffy Homemade Naan.

a large pot of creamy chickpea curry

How to Make Chickpea Curry

If this is your first time cooking an Indian dish, you’ll need to pick up two important spice blends: curry powder and garam masala.

The small up-front investment is worth it.

Once you have these two in your pantry, it opens a whole world of wonderful Indian-inspired recipes like Potato Curry, Chicken Tikka Masala, and Paneer Tikka Masala.


The Ingredients

  • Chickpeas. Rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins, chickpeas are a nutritious addition to a vegetarian dish like this one. They give the curry texture and have a mild nutty flavor.
  • Onion. It helps build deep flavor right from the start.
  • Spices. Garam masala and curry powder are critical flavor components in this recipe. Both contribute richness and depth of flavor. I also used a dash of cayenne to give the curry a little heat.

Substitution Tip

If you don’t have any garam masala on hand, you can swap it for an additional 1 to 2 teaspoons of curry powder.

  • Bay Leaf. Cuts through the richness of the sauce, adding a lightly citrusy and peppery flavor.
  • Garlic + Ginger. Essential flavor builders in a curry recipe like this one.
  • Crushed Tomatoes. A key component in the curry’s rich coconut tomato sauce. The crushed tomatoes add liquid and flavor.
  • Coconut Milk. Full-fat coconut milk is the move here. It adds better flavor and helps create a luscious sauce.
  • Frozen Peas. Using frozen peas is my favorite, easy way to incorporate more veggies. No need to thaw them first.
  • Lime Juice. Adds a hint of acidity and wakes up all the other flavors.

Substitution Tip

Lemon juice would also work well here.

The Directions

  1. Cook the onion in oil with salt and pepper.
sauteeing onions and curry powder in large pot
  1. Add the bay leaf, spices, garlic, and ginger.
tomato chickpea curry in a large pot
  1. Stir in the tomatoes.
chickpeas in a pot for chickpea curry
  1. Pour in the chickpeas and coconut milk.
coconut milk and chickpea curry in a pot
  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then let simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
frozen peas for chickpea curry in a large pot
  1. Add the peas.
a large pot of easy easy chickpea curry
  1. Remove the bay leaf. Serve as desired and garnish with fresh cilantro. DIG IN!
tomato chickpea curry in a bowl with naan bread

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate curry in an airtight storage container for up to 5 days.
  • To Reheat. Gently rewarm leftovers in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
  • To Freeze. You can freeze chickpea curry. Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Meal Prep Tip

Up to 1 day in advance, chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Store each ingredient separately in the refrigerator.

authentic chickpea curry with naan

Leftover Ideas

Upgrade your leftovers by incorporating some extra veggies. Add Air Fryer Cauliflower, Sauteed Spinach, or even Roasted Sweet Potatoes. Serve with your choice of flatbread or rice (basmati rice would be tasty).

What to Serve with Chickpea Curry

  • Dutch Oven. My go-to tool for preparing curries like this one.
  • Wooden Spoon. Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
  • Measuring Spoons. You’ll love these double-sided, magnetic measuring spoons.

This easy chickpea curry will make you feel like a pantry wizard.

It’s amazing the dinner magic you can work with simple spices, and a little help from canned tomatoes, coconut milk, and chickpeas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a Vegan Chickpea Curry?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as written.

Do You Have to Wash Canned Chickpeas?

You should drain and rinse canned chickpeas before using them in this recipe. Rinsing them first removes the excess sodium and starch.

How Healthy is Chickpea Curry?

With oodles of plant protein and fiber from the chickpeas, nutritious vegetables, and beneficial spices, this chickpea curry is a healthy meal.

the best creamy chickpea curry
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Chickpea Curry

Easy Chickpea Curry recipe made with pantry staples liked canned tomatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk and spices. A healthy, satisfying vegetarian meal ready in 30 minutes.
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil grapeseed oil, or coconut oil
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala or an additional 1 to 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper reduce to 1/8 teaspoon if sensitive to spice
  • 3 cloves garlic chopped
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger from about a 1-inch piece of ginger
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans reduced sodium chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk use regular, not lite
  • 10 ounces frozen peas no need to thaw, optional
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice or lemon juice
  • Prepared brown rice for serving (see Instant Pot Brown Rice)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for serving
  • Homemade naan warmed; optional for serving

Instructions

  • In a large, deep pot such as a Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-low. Once it’s hot, add the onion, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and browned, about 10 to 15 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed so that the onions brown but do not burn.
  • Stir in the bay leaf, garam masala, curry powder, cayenne, garlic, and ginger. Cook, stirring constantly, until the spices are ultra fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
    sauteeing onions and curry powder in large pot
  • Pour in the tomatoes and stir, scraping up any bits that stuck to the bottom of the pot.
    tomato chickpea curry in a large pot
  • Add the chickpeas and coconut milk.
    chickpeas in a pot for chickpea curry
  • Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring from time to time and scraping a wooden spoon along the bottom of the pot to keep the curry from sticking.
    coconut milk and chickpea curry in a pot
  • Add the peas and stir to warm through.
    frozen peas for chickpea curry in a large pot
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired (I add a pinch or two more of salt). Fish out and discard the bay leaf. Serve hot over prepared rice with a big handful of chopped fresh cilantro, and warm naan.
    a large pot of easy easy chickpea curry

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Refrigerate curry in an airtight storage container for up to 5 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Gently rewarm leftovers in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
  • TO FREEZE: You can freeze chickpea curry. Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 4) | Calories: 540kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Potassium: 1075mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 859IU | Vitamin C: 44mg | Calcium: 139mg | Iron: 9mg

Other Curry Favorites

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Here's a Shocker: Potato Leek Soup is NOT Boring https://www.wellplated.com/potato-leek-soup/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/potato-leek-soup/#comments Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=37456 Potato Leek Soup

creamy potato leek soupThis soup is positively bursting with flavor, and you won't miss the meat. Creamy potatoes, buttery leeks, dill, Dijon...potato leek soup will shock you.

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Potato Leek Soup creamy potato leek soup

Any soup with “potato” in it is sure to be royally comforting, and Potato Leek Soup is the queen! This healthy version is ultra creamy (yet made without heavy cream!) and complexly flavored with garlic, green onion, and dill. It’s sure to satisfy even without meat.

creamy potato leek soup

When you taste a bite of this creamy potato leek soup, you’ll be struck by how rich and thick it is (like my favorite Crock Pot Potato Soup).

The potatoes are simmered in the flavorful broth with sautéed leeks, and then blended until thick and smooth.

Instead of heavy cream or sour cream, this lighter recipe uses Greek yogurt for the just-right consistency and creaminess.

a bowl of traditional potato leek soup with no heavy cream

Secrets to the Best Potato Leek Soup

A bowl of potato leek soup may look unassuming, but thanks to a few nuanced touches, this recipe will wow you. It’s anything but bland!

  • Sautéed leeks build the soup’s foundation. An allium, leeks are related to onions and garlic, but are more mild. Be patient when cooking them so that they become rich and mellow.
  • Greek yogurt gives body and a nice tang. Love sour cream on your Baked Potato? You’ll love greek yogurt on your potato leek soup!
  • Dijon mustard + vinegar give a subtle zip. You can’t taste them specifically, but you’d miss them if they weren’t there.
  • Fresh green onions and herbs give the soup freshness, life, and make it memorable.
a large pot of traditional potato leek soup

How to Make Potato Leek Soup

Potato leek soup is a one-pot wonder, and the immersion blender is the all-powerful scepter to create the perfect texture.

Dietary Note

This is a vegetarian potato leek soup as written. If you need this soup to be gluten free, swap the all-purpose flour 1:1 for gluten-free flour. It is made with dairy.

For a vegan version of this recipe, check out this scrumptious Vegan Potato Leek Soup.


The Ingredients

  • Butter. Yes, this is a healthy potato leek soup, but a small amount of butter is needed to build the roux base and provide flavor.
  • Leeks. Leeks are a member of the onion family and provide a sweet, subtle onion flavor.

TIP!

See the post How to Clean Leeks for all-things leek, including how to cut and prepare them, with helpful step-by-step photos. They must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt stuck between the layers.

  • Garlic. Another aromatic to go along with the leek. 
  • Flour. Cooked with the butter-sautéed leeks to create a roux, thickening the soup.
  • Potatoes. Yukon golds are the best type of potato for potato leek soup. They have a naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture, perfect for giving the soup its richness and body. Russet potatoes are starchier and would not yield as creamy of a soup.
  • Broth. Use vegetable broth to keep it totally vegetarian, and opt for low-sodium so you can best control the salt level of your soup. It’s OK to swap chicken broth if the soup being vegetarian is not a concern.
  • Milk. For thinning the soup as needed and adding more creaminess.
  • Plain Greek Yogurt. One of my favorite healthy swaps is Greek yogurt for sour cream. It adds protein to this dish and a tang that fits in perfectly with the rest of the flavors.
  • Vinegar. White wine vinegar is a needed acidy punch to round out the flavors. Without it, something just feels missing.
  • Dijon. My dear Dijon mustard, life would just not be as flavorful without you.
  • Dill. This soup is anything but boring. The dill adds yet another level and layer of flavor.
  • Green Onion. Adds Air Fryer Baked Potato vibes.

The Directions

sauteeing leeks for classic and vegan potato leek soup
  1. Cook leek slices in melted butter until they are very soft.
sauteeing leeks for classic leek soup
  1. Stir in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle over the flour and stir.
making potato leek soup in a large dutch oven
  1. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring.
cubed potatoes in broth for perfect vegan potato leek soup
  1. Add the potatoes and simmer, covered with lid, until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.
immersion blender blending a large pot of potato leek soup
  1. Purée the soup with an immersion blender, adding milk to thin it as desired. If you do not have an immersion blender, purée in batches in a blender.
whisking greek yogurt for creamy potato leek soup
  1. Temper the Greek yogurt in a medium bowl with a few spoonfuls of hot soup.
stirring in greek yogurt to make creamy soup of potatoes and leeks
  1. Stir the yogurt mixture into the soup.
a large pot of healthy leek soup with spices and flavor
  1. Add the vinegar, mustard, and dill.
green onions ina. large pot of potato leek soup
  1. Stir in half of the green onion. Serve hot with green onions sprinkled over the top and a few grinds of black pepper. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

  • To Store: Store leftover potato leek soup in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To Reheat: Gently rewarm soup in a Dutch oven on the stove over medium heat until hot, or in the microwave.
  • I do not recommend saving potato leek soup in freezer as the potatoes will become mealy and the leeks soggy once reheated.

What to Serve with Potato Leek Soup

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

  • Dutch Oven. This Dutch oven is beautiful, will last a lifetime, evenly distributes heat, and can go from stove to oven.
  • Ladle. For serving up all your soups and stews.
  • Immersion Blender. Saves you from having to transfer hot soup into a blender to purée it.

The Best Dutch Oven

My favorite vessel for making soups on the stovetop.

creamy potato leek soup made without heavy cream

This simple potato leek soup tastes anything but. Let it surprise you soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is My Potato Leek Soup Gluey?

Like when making Garlic Mashed Potatoes, potato leek soup requires a delicate hand when pulverizing the potatoes. If they are over-mashed, they will leach gelatinized starch into the broth, making the soup become gummy. It’s best to leave some texture to the potato so as to not over do it, or if you prefer a chunky potato leek soup, you can blend the soup very minimally.

What Part of the Leek Do You Not Eat?

The light green and white parts of the leek are used for the potato leek soup. The tough, dark green leafy part of the leek is removed, but can be used for making stock. See post How to Clean Leeks for even more information on preparing leeks and how to cook and eat them.

Is Leek Soup Fattening?

This potato leek soup is healthy! Potatoes provide fiber, folate, and other vitamins and minerals, and this recipe is lower in fat as it is made with a small amount of butter (especially compared to similar creamy soups!) and NO heavy cream.

Can I Add Bacon to Potato Leek Soup?

This recipe is for vegetarian potato leek soup, but you could easily make this potato leek soup with bacon by adding crumbled Baked Bacon in the Oven or Air Fryer Bacon on top when serving.

Where Does Potato Leek Soup Originate?

The origin of potato leek soup is originally from Wales, though versions of it are popular across Europe, from Irish potato leek soup to Polish potato leek soup, and for good reason. It’s an inexpensive, delicious meal and makes use of the potato, a hearty crop grown all throughout the world. For example, potato leek soup is also popular in Romania and France.

Can Potato Leek Soup Be Served Cold?

When served cold, potato leek soup is known as vichyssoise. Admittedly, I’ve never gotten into the cold version—though I did sneak several bites of this soup cold out of the refrigerator on Tuesday night. It’s so delicious, I needed a bite!

creamy potato leek soup
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Potato Leek Soup

This potato leek soup is rich, creamy, and full of flavor from sautéed leeks, garlic, buttery Yukon golds, and fresh dill.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French, Irish
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 228kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cups chopped leeks white and light green parts only (about 4 leeks; see How to Clean Leeks for step-by-step)
  • 1 large clove garlic minced (about 1 heaping teaspoon)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper plus additional for serving
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes peeled and cut into 3/4-inch chunks (about 4 potatoes)
  • 4 cups low sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/2 to 1 cup 2% or whole milk as needed
  • 1/2 cup plain whole Greek yogurt plus additional for serving (do not use non-fat, as it may curdle. Sour cream can be substituted)
  • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 2 large green onions thinly sliced (about 1/3 cup), divided

Instructions

  • In a Dutch oven or similar large, deep pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the leeks. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are very soft, about 10 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed so the leeks sweat but do not brown.
    sauteeing leeks for classic and vegan potato leek soup
  • Stir in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the top. With a wooden spoon, stir vigorously for 1 full minute. All of the white bits of flour should disappear (this makes the soup thick and yummy).
    sauteeing leeks for classic leek soup
  • Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly and pausing periodically between additions so that lumps do not form.
    making potato leek soup in a large dutch oven
  • Add the potatoes. Increase the heat to high and bring to a steady simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let simmer, covered, until the potatoes are super soft and beginning to fall apart, about 25 to 30 minutes.
    cubed potatoes in broth for perfect vegan potato leek soup
  • With an immersion blender, puree the soup until thick and smooth, adding milk as needed if it is thicker than you would like; if you don’t have an immersion blender, add a few ladlefuls to a regular blender and carefully puree (be careful! hot soup splatters). Stir the blended soup back into the pot; repeat as needed.
    immersion blender blending a large pot of potato leek soup
  • Add a few spoonfuls of the hot soup into a medium bowl. Add the Greek yogurt and stir to combine (this helps temper the yogurt to deter curdling).
    whisking greek yogurt for creamy potato leek soup
  • Stir the yogurt mixture back into the soup.
    stirring in greek yogurt to make creamy soup of potatoes and leeks
  • Add the vinegar, mustard, and dill. Stir in half of the green onions. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Serve hot with the remaining green onions sprinkled over the top and a few grinds of black pepper.
    green onions ina. large pot of potato leek soup

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Store leftover potato leek soup in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Gently rewarm soup in a Dutch oven on the stove over medium heat until hot, or in the microwave.
  • I do not recommend saving potato leek soup in freezer as the potatoes will become mealy and the leeks soggy once reheated.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 6) | Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Potassium: 817mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1175IU | Vitamin C: 38mg | Calcium: 103mg | Iron: 3mg

More Creamy Potato Soups

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Vegan Potato Leek Soup https://www.wellplated.com/vegan-potato-leek-soup/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/vegan-potato-leek-soup/#respond Mon, 06 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=113428 Vegan Potato Leek Soup

A bowl of Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup with breadPotato Leek Soup is filled with humble vegetables and soothing, creamy texture, but is not a heavy-cream-laden iteration you may have tried.

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Vegan Potato Leek Soup A bowl of Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup with bread

This healthy Potato Leek Soup is exactly where we need to be right now: expertly walking the tightrope between rich, creamy comfort and all things bright, wholesome, and nourishing.

A bowl of Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup with bread

Flavors of dill, capers, and chives hit your taste buds and convince you that this soup must be pure bright sunshine served in a bowl.

Another curve ball: this decadently textured potato leek soup recipe contains no heavy cream or milk and is vegan (!!!!).

a bowl of chunky potato leek soup vegan with a spoon and fresh herbs on top

5 Star Review

“This is great. Silky and bright indeed. Simply yummy. Definitely making again.”

— Christi —

Like my dreamy Vegan Potato Soup, this vegan potato leek soup is velvety yet bright, hearty but not heavy.

I love eating it for easy lunches.

Each time I taste it, it surprises and delights me anew.

Today’s recipe keeps what I argue are the best parts of potato leek soup—the humble vegetables and soothing, creamy texture—but is a world apart from the heavy-cream-laden iterations you may have tried.

The secret to a CREAMY potato leek soup is (are you ready for this?)…CASHEWS.

Blended cashews don’t taste like nuts once added to the soup (as in my Instant Pot Carrot Soup with Ginger).

Rather, they turn into a cashew cream that makes soup satisfying and rich without weighing it down.

healthy potato and leek soup without milk or cream in a bowl

How to Make Vegan Potato Leek Soup

This recipe makes clever use of the ingredients themselves and keeps the potato leek soup calories much lower (like my Roasted Carrot Soup).

Not only is this soup rich, creamy, and satisfying, the cashews almost make the soup taste cheesy (as in my Vegan Queso), despite the fact that it is made entirely without dairy.

Dietary Note

This is a vegetarian potato leek soup as written. It’s also vegan, gluten free, dairy free, Paleo (if you don’t mind white potatoes in moderation), and Whole30 compliant. If you don’t have any dietary restrictions, try my classic Potato Leek Soup.


The Ingredients

  • Leeks. A relative of the onion, leeks are mild and delicate. The white part and light green parts of the leek are used for soup (and Spinach Quiche), while the dark green tops are not edible but can be used if you’d like to make stock.

TIP!

To cook leeks for soup, you’ll first want to wash out any dirt that’s hidden in their layers. See How to Clean Leeks for all the details and tricks on cleaning and prepping leeks.

washed and sliced leeks in a collander
  • Celery + Carrots + Garlic. A classic for soup bases (often called mirepoix when combined with onions, but the leeks stand in for the onion here). These ingredients give the soup a depth of flavor you’d miss without them.
  • Yukon Gold Potatoes. Yukon gold potatoes are the potato of choice here, as opposed to starchy russet potatoes). With their naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture, they give the soup incredible richness (without cream or milk) and body. (They’re also the best potato for Oven Roasted Potatoes.)
  • Cashews. The secret to creamy vegan soup success. If you’re concerned about cashews adding too much fat, don’t be. Cashews are loaded with healthy fats and minerals that make this a superfood soup!

Ingredient Note

Be sure to select unsalted raw cashews for this recipe. Roasted cashews may be used in a pinch, but their flavor will be much more pronounced, and they may not blend as smoothly as raw cashews.

  • Vegetable Broth. The liquid base that keeps the soup vegan (vegetable stock may be used too).

Dietary Note

If the soup being vegan or vegetarian isn’t a concern, you can use chicken broth or chicken stock.

  • Artichoke Hearts. Surprising and SO fantastic in potato leek soup. I always have a few cans of artichokes on hand, and they are wonderful here.
  • Dijon Mustard. A spoonful of Dijon cuts through the richness of the cashews and balances the soup. There’s a reason mustard and potatoes are often served together, and it’s ideal here.
  • Capers. The brininess is a lovely foil to the creaminess of the potatoes.

Substitution Tip

If you don’t care for capers, I’d suggest omitting them. You may need to bump up the salt a bit since they do add saltiness to the soup. If you are on the fence, however, please try it! You won’t regret it.

  • Lemon Juice. For a touch of brightness and acidity.
  • Fresh Dill + Chives. Dill and chives lift this soup to the stratosphere. Please do not skip them or be tempted to substitute dried. Fresh is worth it!

Potato Leek Soup with Bacon

If you have some meat lovers in your house, they could top this soup with crumbled Oven Baked Bacon or Air Fryer Bacon, ham, or sausage, though I promise this soup is mighty satisfying without.

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Place leftovers in an airtight storage container in the fridge. Leek and potato soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
  • To Reheat. Gently rewarm soup in a Dutch oven on the stove over medium heat until hot. You can also reheat your soup in the microwave.
  • To Freeze. While I am ALL ABOUT the freezer, this soup is not the ideal candidate for two reasons. First, the cashew base will become less smooth when the soup is frozen. Second, potatoes tend to become mealy when frozen. (For what it’s worth, I froze this Crockpot Potato Soup and didn’t mind the texture change, but it’s good to be aware.)

What to Serve with Potato Leek Soup

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

  • Ladle. The ideal way to transfer soups to bowls and storage containers.
  • High-Powered Blender. Perfect for blending the soup ingredients. (This more economical blender option is great too.) You could also use an immersion blender too.
  • Love and Lemons Every Day. This potato leek soup recipe comes from this wonderful cookbook, the second book written by the ridiculously talented Jeanine and Jack of the blog Love and Lemons. It puts vegetables at the center of the plate and proves how outrageously delicious they can (and should!) be.

The Best Dutch Oven

My favorite vessel for making soups on the stovetop.

a bowl of creamy vegan potato leek soup with dill

This potato leek soup punches well above its weight. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Soak Cashews Before Adding to the Soup?

While cashews often need to be soaked in vegan recipes, this soup is not one of them. Simply add the raw cashews to the blender with the soup when ready to puree. It couldn’t be easier!

Can I Use Walnuts or Almonds Instead of Cashews?

Both walnuts and almonds would have a more pronounced taste and would likely not puree as smooth as cashews, so I’m not sure I would recommend them as a substitute. If you do use almonds, look for ones with the skins removed.

If I Have a Nut Allergy, Can I Omit the Cashews?

I have not tried making this potato and leek soup without cashews, so it would be an experiment. I do think you could try adding 1/2 cup of coconut cream in place of the cashews with good results, however.

A bowl of Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup with bread
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Vegan Potato Leek Soup

This potato leek soup tastes rich and creamy but is completely dairy-free! Blended cashews are the secret to its decadent taste.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French, Irish
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 236kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 leeks white and light green parts thinly sliced and rinsed (3 1/2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup celery chopped
  • 1/2 cup carrots chopped I scrubbed and left the peels on
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus additional to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes chopped I scrubbed left the peels on
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can artichoke hearts 14 ounces drained and chopped
  • 1/2 cup raw cashews
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice divided
  • 1/2 –1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill chopped plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives chopped plus extra for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the leeks, celery, carrots, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, 8 to 10 minutes, turning down the heat if they start to over-brown.
  • Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute more. Add the potatoes and the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the artichokes.
  • Let cool slightly, then transfer half of the soup to a blender, along with the cashews, mustard, capers, and 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice. Puree until smooth, and then pour the mixture back into the soup pot. Stir in the water as needed to reach your desired consistency. (I love a super thick soup, so I used closer to 1/2 cup.) Add the dill, chives, and remaining 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with more dill, chives, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming.
  • TO FREEZE: Avoid freezing (see blog post above for reasons why).
  • TIP: Don’t skip the fresh herbs! They make the soup taste incredibly fresh and are well worth it here.
  • SOURCE: Shared with permission from Love and Lemons Every Day

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 6) | Calories: 236kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Potassium: 724mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 3126IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 3mg
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Budget-Friendly Meal: Old-Fashioned Cabbage Soup https://www.wellplated.com/cabbage-soup/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/cabbage-soup/#comments Mon, 27 Feb 2023 11:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=112916 Cabbage Soup

the best cabbage soup recipe in a bowl with a spoonCabbage soup is extremely flavorful and surprising. With white beans, veggies, and cabbage, this soup will warm and satisfy. Budget-friendly and super filling, cabbage deserves your attention tonight!

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Cabbage Soup the best cabbage soup recipe in a bowl with a spoon

Flavor, comfort, and nutrition come together in one, glorious bowl with Cabbage Soup. Filled with a rainbow of vegetables, warm and smoky flavors, and white beans for protein, this old fashioned cabbage soup recipe is wholesome and easy to make.

the best cabbage soup recipe in a bowl with a spoon

Cabbage soup might not sound too appealing, unless you already know and love grandma’s Cabbage Soup.

You may only think of cabbage as a dish for St. Patrick’s Day, or for use in a slaw or on tacos.

You will be all aboard with all the cabbage after making this simple, filling, and belly-warming soup!

Cabbage is healthy, flavorful, and versatile:

easy and healthy cabbage soup in a large dutch oven

A Budget-Friendly, Delicious Soup

This is a healthy and hearty vegetarian soup, with many complex flavors. 

  • Carrots and onions are slowly sautéed, then flavored with smoked paprika, cumin, nutmeg, and garlic. Taste buds be like, WOW.
  • Broth, fire roasted tomatoes, rosemary, and bay leaf are added for even MORE flavor.
  • The cabbage wilts down and is not overpowering, and honey and apple cider vinegar bring it all together.

Cabbage soup is not boring, folks!

This is a soup made from humble ingredients that is so much more than the sum of its part.

old fashioned cabbage soup in a bowl

How to Make Cabbage Soup

This original cabbage soup recipe is easy and made all in one pot.

It’s packed with fiber and protein to keep you full and will stretch your dollar.


The Ingredients

  • Carrots and Onion. Sauté to build the backbone of the soup and add a little sweetness.

Add Your Favorite Veggies

You can add additional veggies to your cabbage soup, such as celery, chopped cauliflower, or spinach. Harder vegetables would be sautéed along with the carrot and onion, and a softer vegetable such as leafy greens would be stirred in at the end until wilted.

  • Smoked Paprika. There is a distinct flavor difference between paprika and smoked paprika. Poke around in the more gourmet area of the spice aisle and add this to your cabinet!
  • Cumin and Nutmeg. These warm spices create a warm, inviting flavor and marry with the smoked paprika.
  • Garlic. More aromatics.
  • Vegetable Broth. Keeps the cabbage soup vegetarian (you can substitute chicken broth if that’s not a concern). Opt for low sodium.
  • Fire Roasted Tomatoes. Look for fire roasted tomatoes over plain diced tomatoes. This is another ingredient that ups the ante on the flavor game.
  • White Beans. Such as cannellini or Great Northern. These add a nice, creamy texture to the dish along with protein.
  • Cabbage. This old fashioned cabbage soup recipe uses an entire head of cabbage! Cabbage is full of vitamin C, can help with digestion, and inflammation. Further, it can last in your refrigerator for weeks, so stock up when it’s on sale.
easy cabbage soup recipe old fashioned

What Type of Cabbage is Best for Cabbage Soup?

At the grocery store, you will most often see red (or purple) cabbage and green cabbage. 

  • Use green cabbage for cabbage soup. It becomes a bit sweet once cooked. Choose heads that are tightly bound, and discard any exterior leaves that are wilted. Regular green cabbage or savoy cabbage both work well.
  • Purple cabbage has a stiffer texture and is a bit more peppery flavor. It is great for slaws like Winter Slaw, topping tacos like Jerk Chicken Tacos, and mixing in salad like Ramen Salad. You can use it in soup, but it will need to simmer longer. Also, be aware that it will turn the soup red.
  • Herbs. Bay leaf and thyme add a fitting earthiness, with fresh parsley sprinkled on top when serving.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar. Adds acidity to balance the cabbage and prevent it from tasting bitter.
  • Honey. A touch of sweetness rounds out all the flavors.

Dietary Note

Cabbage soup is vegetarian and gluten free. To make vegan, omit the honey or use agave or sugar.

The Directions

sauteeing vegetables for cabbage soup in a large pot
  1. Cook carrots and onion with salt and pepper in a large pot.
sauteed vegetables for cabbage soup recipe
  1. Add spices and cook until fragrant.
ol fashioned cabbage soup in large pot
  1. Add remaining ingredients. Stir together and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and let the cabbage soup simmer, covered, until the cabbage is very tender, about 25 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. Serve hot with a garnish of fresh parsley. ENJOY!
cozy easy cabbage soup in a bowl

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate cabbage soup in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days. 
  • To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You may also microwave if desired.
  • To Freeze. You can freeze cabbage soup in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Meal Prep Tip

Chop all the vegetables up to 1 day in advance, and store them in the refrigerator.

What to Serve with Cabbage Soup

Serve cabbage soup with a thick slice of bread, perfect for sauce sopping.

Recommended Tools to Make Cabbage Soup

  • Dutch Oven. This beautiful pot will last a lifetime, goes from stove to oven, and is easy to clean.
  • Ladle. Perfect for serving up all your soups and stews.
  • Large Cutting Board. A sufficiently large and non-slip cutting board is so helpful for prepping all your vegetables.

The Best Dutch Oven

This Staub Dutch oven is top quality with its smooth enamel interior and perfect heat distribution. It’s one of my longest lasting, most treasured tools in my kitchen. Which color would you choose?

Cabbage is so much more than merely a taco topping or picnic slaw.

Give cabbage a new life and prime spot at the dinner table with this easy cabbage soup recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Make Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?

You can make beef and cabbage soup by adding ground beef into the pot after the vegetables sautéed. Break up and brown the hamburger meat and brown until cooked through, then proceed with the rest of the recipe. You could also use ground turkey or Italian sausage.

Is Cabbage Soup Good for Weight Loss?

You may have heard of the “cabbage soup diet” and cabbage soup described as the “wonder soup.” While I do not prescribe to one particular diet, and any of your dietary questions should be directed to your health professional, I can say that YES this cabbage soup is healthy! It is chock-full of vegetables, low in saturated fat and polyunsaturated fat, and includes protein and fiber to keep you full and away from some potential unhealthy snacking.

Can Cabbage Soup be Made in the Instant Pot or Slow Cooker?

This cabbage soup recipe is prepared on the stove top. It could be adapted but I have not tested it (yet!) specifically. For inspiration, check out my Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup.

the best cabbage soup recipe in a bowl with a spoon
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Cabbage Soup

An easy old fashioned cabbage soup recipe. Yummy and filling! With carrots, tomatoes, onion, white beans, cabbage, and complex flavors.
Course Dinner, Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 4 to 6
Calories 143kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 medium carrots peeled and small diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (about 1 tablespoon)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth divided
  • 1 14.5-ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes in their juices
  • 1 15.5-ounce can white beans, rinsed and drained such as cannellini or Great Northern
  • 1 very small or 1/2 large green cabbage about 1 pound, chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

  • In a Dutch oven or similar large, deep pot, heat the oil over medium. Add the carrots, onion, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften, turn translucent, and take on some color, about 7 to 9 minutes.
    sauteeing vegetables for cabbage soup in a large pot
  • Add the smoked paprika, cumin, nutmeg, and garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, until very fragrant, about 30 seconds.
    sauteed vegetables for cabbage soup recipe
  • Add enough of the broth to cover the bottom of the pot. With a wooden spoon, scrape along the bottom to remove any stuck on bits. Add the remaining broth, diced tomatoes, beans, cabbage, bay leaf, rosemary, vinegar, and honey. Stir everything together, then bring to a boil.
    cabbage soup in large pot
  • Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let simmer until the cabbage is very tender, about 25 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Notes

  • TO STORE: Refrigerate cabbage soup in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days. 
  • TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat. You may also microwave if desired.
  • TO FREEZE: You can freeze cabbage soup. Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 6) | Calories: 143kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Potassium: 438mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 7719IU | Vitamin C: 61mg | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 2mg

More Cabbage Recipes

Cabbage is versatile, healthy, and tasty.

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Green Curry in a Hurry https://www.wellplated.com/green-curry/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/green-curry/#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2023 11:01:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=27950 Green Curry

Easy Thai Chickpea Curry with sweet potato, kale, and coconut milk. Not too spicy, healthy, and made with easy to find ingredients! Super tasty and ready in 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for fast weeknight dinners. Vegan and gluten-free friendly recipes that's great leftover too!This classic Thai dish is chock-full of veggies and flavor (not too spicy). Made in one pan in less than 30 minutes, and all ingredients are at any grocery store.

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Green Curry Easy Thai Chickpea Curry with sweet potato, kale, and coconut milk. Not too spicy, healthy, and made with easy to find ingredients! Super tasty and ready in 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for fast weeknight dinners. Vegan and gluten-free friendly recipes that's great leftover too!

Today’s easy Green Curry recipe is my lightened-up version of the coconut milk curry we love ordering from our local Thai restaurant. With fresh ginger, sweet potato, and kale in a warm (but not too spicy!) coconut green curry sauce, its flavor reminds me of the curries I cooked in Thailand.

Green chickpea curry in a pot with lime wedges

You really only need one ingredient to make authentic-tasting Thai green curry at home: Thai green curry paste.

Green curry paste is a blend of fresh spices, herbs, and aromatics like green chiles, shrimp paste, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, peppercorns, kefir limes, and cumin.

It tastes herbal, citrusy, and warm.

It’s thick like a paste, and a few spoonfuls will allow you to create authentic-tasting Thai recipes in your own kitchen.

Curry pastes are a quite labor intensive to make from scratch; fortunately, they are now widely available in the Asian section of almost any grocery store!

A Bit About Curry

“Curry” is a loose term for vegetables and sometimes meat, tofu, or seafood cooked in a richly spiced sauce. The sauce is often coconut-milk or tomato-based.

For foundational flavor, curry pastes are used most often in Thai curries, like Coconut Curry. Indian curries, such as Potato Curry, use dry spices such as curry powder and garam masala.

Authentic chickpea curry with vegetables and rice

Red vs. Green Curry

While in Thailand, curry paste comes in several colors, here in the U.S. the two easiest to find are red curry paste and green curry paste.

Red and green curry pastes are used similarly in cooking but have very different flavor profiles.

  • The red is more chile-forward, making it strong and spicy (perfect for Massaman Curry).
  • The green has more nuanced citrusy, herbal notes.
  • As you might expect, the two varieties create two differently colored curries: red for red curry paste-based sauces like Thai Chicken Curry, and green for a green curry coconut milk sauce like the one in this recipe (isn’t the color pretty?). In Thailand, you’ll also find yellow curry.

This curry uses green curry paste, but you can swap for the red if you prefer more heat.

A Thai-inspired dish in a pot

5 Star Review

“This is the best curry I have ever had. I can’t believe I made it! It is so flavorful and warm and comforting. I just want to sit on the couch with a bowl and good movie. Also perfect quick delicious dinner for a Monday.”

— Alexis —

How to Make Green Curry

My favorite nickname for this recipe is “green curry in a hurry” because it comes together in less than 30 minutes.

You can swap the chickpeas for just about any protein and use almost any vegetable in your produce drawer.


The Ingredients

  • Green Curry Paste. Green curry paste helps give this authentic green curry flavor. It adds citrus and herb flavors with a little sweetness and spice. Store-bought paste is just fine! You can find it any well-stocked grocery store: Kroger, Target, Walmart, Trader Joe’s…or find it online here.
  • Fresh Ginger. A fresh, zesty addition and key ingredient to curry recipes like this one.
  • Light Coconut Milk. Helps give the curry richness and liquid without watering down the flavors. Using light coconut milk helps add less fat to the dish.
  • Chickpeas. You can make a delicious, satisfying curry with lots of chickpeas. Protein-wise, I love making this green curry with chickpeas because they take exactly zero minutes to prep. Chickpea Curry lets the chickpeas shine!

To Use Meat Instead

If you’d like to make your green curry with meat, you can swap sautéed pieces of chicken breast or chicken thigh for Thai green curry chicken, or use pork. Shrimp would also be a good protein addition.

  • Sweet Potato. Sweet potato pieces add wonderful sweetness, texture, and healthy benefits to the green curry.
  • Kale. Chopped kale blends seamlessly into the green curry and brings oodles of fiber and vitamins. You could make this into a spinach green curry if you prefer a more mild-tasting green.
  • Broccoli. Another delicious and nutritious green veggie addition.

Vegetable Substitutions

The vegetables used in this green curry are flexible. Feel free to swap in your favorites or others you have on hand. Red bell peppers, eggplant, and potatoes are some of our other go-tos.

  • Onion. The second of the aromatics along with the fresh ginger.
  • Lime Juice. Adds brightness and acidity. Squeeze a lime wedge at the end for a finish fling.
  • Fish Sauce. A little fish sauce gives the curry an addictive note of umami and is key to its authentic taste. (It will not make the curry taste like fish!)
  • Coconut Sugar. To balance the curry spice. Brown sugar works too.
  • Greek Yogurt. Helps make this a super creamy green curry without any extra fat.
  • Fresh Herbs. Serve topped with fresh basil leaves.

Dietary Note

If you need to make this a vegan green curry, swap the fish sauce for soy sauce or coconut aminos and use a dairy-free Greek yogurt. You can also omit the yogurt and use full-fat coconut milk.

The Directions

sauteeing onions in skillet for green curry with chickpeas
  1. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and onion in a large skillet over medium heat.
mizing green curry paste and sauteed onions in skillet for healthy green curry
  1. Stir in the green curry paste.
pouring coconut milk into skillet to make green curry
  1. Add the coconut milk.
green curry full of vegetables cooking in large skillet
  1. Add sweet potato, kale, and chickpeas. Let simmer until the tender.
mixing vegetables into vegan green curry with chickpeas
  1. Add broccoli.
greek yogurt added to green curry with chickpeas, vegetables, and cocount milk
  1. Stir in the lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Let cool for a few minutes, then add the Greek yogurt. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • To Reheat. Reheat curry in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat. 
  • To Freeze. Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Meal Plan Tip

Chop the vegetables up to 1 day in advance, refrigerating them in separate airtight storage containers.

A bowl of creamy curry with rice

What to Serve with Green Curry

The Best Dutch Oven

A beautiful Dutch oven like this one is perfect for so many recipes. It’s heavy-duty and will last you a lifetime.

More Thai-Inspired Recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Green Curry Green?

The green chilies in the green chili paste give green curry the hue of its namesake, plus the additional green toppings such as kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil leaves, fresh cilantro, and lime.

Is Green Curry or Red Curry Hotter?

If heat is what you are after, opt for red curry, which has a higher spice profile than green. The coconut milk will help tone down the heat.

Can I Make This Green Curry Recipe with Tofu?

Absolutely! Just as you can add meat, you could opt to include tofu (like this Tofu Curry). Or stir in Air Fryer Tofu or Crispy Sautéed Tofu at the end.


Easy Thai Chickpea Curry with sweet potato, kale, and coconut milk. Not too spicy, healthy, and made with easy to find ingredients! Super tasty and ready in 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for fast weeknight dinners. Vegan and gluten-free friendly recipes that's great leftover too!
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Green Curry

This healthy Thai green curry recipe with chickpeas and coconut milk is not too spicy and ready in 30 minutes. Easy weeknight dinner!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Thai
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings, about 7 1/2 cups
Calories 463kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced (about 4 teaspoons)
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion chopped (about 1/2 cup), or 1 shallot, chopped
  • 5 tablespoons green curry paste (I used Thai Kitchen brand)
  • 2 cans light coconut milk (14-ounce cans)
  • 1 large sweet potato peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice (about 2 heaping cups)
  • 1 bunch kale stems removed and discarded, roughly chopped (about 4 loosely packed cups)
  • 1 can reduced-sodium chickpeas (15 ounces), rinsed and drained
  • 1 small head broccoli cut into florets (about 3 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice from about 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce to make vegan, swap soy sauce or coconut aminos
  • 1/2 tablespoon coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt to make vegan, swap a soy- or coconut milk–based yogurt or simply omit it
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
  • Chopped fresh basil for serving

Instructions

  • Heat a Dutch oven, large saucepan, or deep skillet over medium. Once hot, add the olive oil, garlic, ginger, and onion. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
    sauteeing onions in skillet for green curry with chickpeas
  • Add the curry paste and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
    mizing green curry paste and sauteed onions in skillet for healthy green curry
  • Add the coconut milk. Stir until the sauce is smoothly incorporated.
    green curry in skillet with coconut milk
  • Add the sweet potato, kale, and chickpeas. Increase the heat to medium high and bring to a simmer. 
    green curry full of vegetables cooking in large skillet
  • Let simmer for 5 minutes, until the sweet potato is somewhat tender but still has a bit of chew, then add the broccoli. Simmer 3 to 5 additional minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
    adding broccoli to vegan green curry
  • Stir in the lime juice, fish sauce, and coconut sugar.
    mixing vegetables into vegan green curry with chickpeas
  • Remove from heat and let cool for 3 minutes (this will ensure the yogurt does not curdle and gives the flavors a little extra time to marry). Stir in the Greek yogurt. Serve warm with rice and a sprinkle of fresh basil.
    greek yogurt added to green curry with chickpeas, vegetables, and cocount milk

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Reheat curry in a Dutch oven on the stovetop over medium-low heat. 
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • If you need the recipe to be gluten free AND vegan, use gluten-free tamari in place of the fish sauce (if gluten free is not a concern, you can swap for soy sauce).

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4), about 1 3/4 cups curry and 1/2 prepared brown rice | Calories: 463kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Potassium: 1045mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 19529IU | Vitamin C: 149mg | Calcium: 260mg | Iron: 4mg
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