The Best Healthy Vegetarian Recipes – WellPlated.com https://www.wellplated.com/category/recipes-by-diet/vegetarian/ Recipes for a Wholesome Life Tue, 27 Jun 2023 21:49:12 +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 Healthy Vegetarian Recipes – WellPlated.com https://www.wellplated.com/category/recipes-by-diet/vegetarian/ 32 32 This Burrata Salad Will Be the Hit of Your Next Summer Party https://www.wellplated.com/burrata-salad/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/burrata-salad/#respond Mon, 26 Jun 2023 10:09:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=123795 Burrata Salad

the BEST burrata salad recipe in a large bowlThis caprese-inspired burrata salad pairs rich, creamy burrata cheese with peppery arugula with cherry tomatoes. A light summer dinner!

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Burrata Salad the BEST burrata salad recipe in a large bowl

Burrata isn’t just a cheese—it’s an experience. This Caprese-inspired Burrata Salad balances its sublime creaminess with peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, a sunny lemon dressing, and syrupy balsamic glaze—just add some crusty bread on the side!

the BEST burrata salad recipe in a large bowl

Why You’ll Love This Tomato Burrata Salad Recipe

  • No-Cook Summer Dinner. Like my Italian Chopped Salad and Antipasto Salad, this is a salad you can make into a meal—especially if you pair it with Grilled Flank Steak, Smoked Chicken Breast, or your favorite protein. Best of all, you don’t need to turn on the oven to make it! (Who wants to turn on the oven when it’s 90 degrees out?! Absolutely no one!)
  • One Word: Burrata. It’s literally cheese inside of cheese—a shell of mozzarella with cream and cheese curds inside. Needless to say, it’s a lot on its own, but pairing it with light, fresh ingredients balances that buttery richness. (Can’t get enough burrata? Be sure to try my Burrata Pizza too, or swap burrata for mozzarella in my Caprese Pasta Salad!)
  • A Versatile Recipe. Like all salads, this burrata salad is fabulously flexible. I share some ideas below, but the bottom line is, there’s a lot of room to make this recipe your own.
  • The Quintessential Summer Salad. Seriously, it doesn’t get much better than this. The creamy burrata is balanced by fresh tomatoes, greens, basil, and a citrusy dressing—what more could you ask for? It also transitions from backyard barbecue to potluck picnic or a weeknight dinner on the patio with ease.
  • Made in Minutes. This burrata salad comes together quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy the summer fun.
large bowl with burrata salad recipe with tomatoes

How to Make Burrata Salad

The Ingredients

For the Burrata Salad

  • Baby Arugula. The peppery bite of arugula is ideal for pairing with decadent burrata, but you can go with milder spinach if you prefer.
  • Cherry Tomatoes. Use all red tomatoes for a traditional look, or multicolored for some pizzazz. You choose!

Market Swap

Grape tomatoes will work too, or use colorful heirloom tomatoes fresh from the farmers’ market. You can arrange slices on a large platter over the greens for an artful presentation.

  • Fresh Burrata Cheese. These days, most grocery stores sell burrata. You can usually find it in plastic tubs alongside fresh mozzarella. Burrata can be made with buffalo milk or cow’s milk; use whichever you prefer for this recipe.

Substitution Tip

If you’re in a pinch, you can use fresh mozzarella (the soft kind you use in classic caprese salad) instead of burrata in this recipe.

  • Fresh Basil Leaves. Because basil, tomatoes, and creamy burrata cheese are a trifecta of deliciousness! Save the rest for Basil Pesto.
  • Balsamic Glaze. Buy it or make your own. Some aged balsamic vinegars are thick and syrupy without having to cook them down into a glaze first.
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper. This is also a great opportunity to grab that jar of flaky fleur de sel from your pantry.

For the Dressing

  • Extra-Virgin Olive Oil. Use a fancy one of you have it!
  • Lemon Juice. Lemon brightens up the flavor of this salad, and the acid also brings balance to the rich burrata.
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper. Yep, a little more in the dressing.

The Directions

tomato burrata salad in a bowl
  1. Make the Base. Combine the arugula with half of the tomatoes, half of the burrata, and half of the basil in a large bowl.
burrata salad dressing
  1. Make the Dressing. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or liquid measuring cup.
tossing a large bowl of burrata salad
  1. Dress the Salad. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
easy recipe for burrata salad in a large bowl
  1. Top It Off. Add the remaining tomatoes, burrata, and basil to the salad, then drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Serve with additional dressing on the side and ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

  • Burrata Salad With Fruit. Swap the tomatoes for sliced peaches, nectarines, plums, or a combination of all three stone fruits. Figs would make a luscious addition, as would blueberries. Keep the basil or try mint leaves instead.
  • Burrata Salad With Balsamic Vinaigrette. Instead of the lemon vinaigrette in this recipe, use the dressing from my Balsamic Chicken Salad and skip the balsamic glaze.
  • Burrata Panzanella. Add cubes of toasted crusty bread (sourdough or a baguette will work well!) to your salad.
  • Burrata Prosciutto Salad. Tear slices of prosciutto over the top. This variation. is extra delicious with peaches.
  • Extra-Summery Burrata Salad. Diced cucumbers and fresh corn (or Grilled Corn!) amp up the summery flavors in this burrata salad even more.
easy burrata salad with balsamic glaze

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. (I don’t recommend purposely making this salad in advance to serve later.)
  • To Freeze. This is not a recipe that freezes well. Enjoy it fresh!

What to Serve with Burrata Salad

  • Mixing Bowls. These bowls are my favorite because they do double-duty as mixing bowls and serving bowls.
  • Non-Slip Cutting Board. A cutting board that actually stays in place!
  • Sharp Knife. Dull knives just won’t cut it (pun intended) with tomatoes.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Use the Best Ingredients. When a recipe is simple, that’s when ingredients matter most. Pick up a pint of cherry tomatoes from the farmers’ market, use your best bottle of olive oil, and don’t skimp on the balsamic vinegar. You’ll be able to taste the difference here.
  • Make Sure Your Burrata Is Fresh. Burrata is a fresh cheese that is best used within 48 hours of purchasing. Keep this in mind when planning your grocery shopping.
  • Serve It Right Away. Yes, it will keep in the fridge for a bit, but burrata salad is so much better when served right after assembling. The greens are crisper, the tomatoes haven’t released all their juices into the salad, and everything is just fresher and more delicious.
  • Let the Burrata Come to Room Temperature. Related to the previous point, this is a salad that tastes best at room temperature—you can tear the burrata into pieces while chilled (in fact, it’s easier this way), but it should be room temp when you serve it because this allows you to really appreciate its uniquely creamy texture.
bowl of burrata salad recipe with balsamic dressing
bowl of burrata salad recipe with balsamic dressing
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Burrata Salad

This Caprese-inspired burrata salad pairs rich, creamy burrata cheese with peppery arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze. It's divine!
Course Salad
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280kcal

Ingredients

For the Burrata Salad:

  • 5 ounces baby arugula about 5 cups
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved (about 2 cups), divided
  • 8 ounces burrata cheese torn into rough pieces, divided
  • 1/4 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves chopped or torn into pieces, divided
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze store bought or see notes for homemade
  • Kosher salt and black pepper

For the Dressing:

Instructions

  • Place the arugula in a large bowl. Add half of the tomatoes, half of the burrata, and half of the basil.
    tomato burrata salad in a bowl
  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl or liquid measuring cup with a spout, stir together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spoon lightly over the top of the salad, then toss to combine—you want everything to have a very light coating; about 3 tablespoons should do it.
    burrata salad dressing
  • Scatter the remaining tomatoes, burrata, and basil over the top. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze. Serve immediately, with additional salt and pepper and dressing taste.
    easy recipe for burrata salad in a large bowl

Notes

  • To make balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey. Gently simmer over medium-low heat until thickened and reduced by a little more than half, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. You’ll have a little extra (YUM!)
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. I don’t recommend purposely making this salad in advance to serve later.
  • TO FREEZE: This is not a recipe that freezes well. Enjoy it fresh!

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 4) | Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Potassium: 403mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1897IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 374mg | Iron: 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Burrata Better Warm or Cold?

Neither! Burrata is best enjoyed at room temperature. Cold burrata won’t be as creamy, and while warm burrata is delicious, you can’t really appreciate that unique texture of the center when it’s all melted together.

How Do Italians Serve Burrata?

In Italy, burrata is typically served as a starter course with crusty bread, marinated vegetables, and olive oil, or simply on its own with extra-virgin olive oil and flaky sea salt.

Do You Eat the Outer Layer of Burrata?

Yes, you can eat the outer layer of burrata. The shell is a thin skin of mozzarella, which encases the creamy center made from stracciatella and cream. If you like fresh mozzarella cheese, then you’ll enjoy this outer layer.

Is Burrata More Fattening Than Mozzarella?

Burrata is higher in both calories and fat than fresh mozzarella, although the difference is negligible. The addition of cream in the center makes burrata a little more decadent than mozzarella.

Does Burrata Taste Like Mozzarella?

Burrata has a similar flavor and texture to mozzarella, but it is much creamier and almost buttery. The creamy center of burrata is made from stracciatella—a mixture of cream and cheese curds—which gives it its signature rich flavor and texture.

Related Recipes

Salads are the ideal summer dinner—light, fresh, and no cooking required! Here are some more of my favorites:

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Zucchini Noodles You'll Actually Want to Eat https://www.wellplated.com/zucchini-pasta/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/zucchini-pasta/#comments Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=50683 Zucchini Pasta

Zucchini pasta on a blue plate with tomatoesThis creamy zucchini pasta pairs zucchini "noodles" with lemon, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and an easy Parmesan pan sauce. Bright and healthy!

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Zucchini Pasta Zucchini pasta on a blue plate with tomatoes

Tangles of zucchini noodles wrapped around burst cherry tomatoes in a garlic Parmesan sauce that forms itself right in the pan as the zucchini cooks, this bright Zucchini Pasta is the recipe that convinced me that zucchini noodles can, in fact, be as legitimately satisfying as regular pasta noodles.

Zucchini pasta on a blue plate with tomatoes

Why You’ll Love This Zucchini Pasta Recipe

  • Zucchini Noodles You’ll Actually Want to Eat. Most of the time if you are cooking with zucchini noodles, it’s because you are trying to save calories or keep things low carb. But, like my Healthy Shrimp Scampi, this creamy zucchini pasta is an absolute delight with its bright, summery flavors.
  • Use Up All That Summer Zucchini. Zucchini Muffins and Blueberry Zucchini Bread are great, but if you’re looking for healthy ways to make zucchini for dinner, this zucchini pasta is right up there with my Stuffed Zucchini and Zucchini Pizza Boats.
  • It’s a Versatile Recipe. You can keep the recipe vegetarian as written, or add your protein of choice. See “What to Serve with Zucchini Pasta” below for ideas.
  • Zucchini Pasta Is Ridiculously Easy. 15 minutes of prep plus 10 minutes of cooking time equal an outstanding weeknight dinner option.
Creamy and easy zucchini pasta

5 Star Review

“The best zucchini noodles I’ve made!”

— Cathy —

More About Zucchini Pasta

Zucchini pasta is a bit of a misnomer, because this recipe doesn’t actually include traditional pasta noodles—and no, you won’t find it alongside linguine and bucatini when you’re eating dinner at a ristorante in Italy.

Instead, it uses spiralized zucchini, meaning zucchini that has been cut into long, thin spaghetti-shaped “noodles” using a spiralizer machine.

Spiralizers are not expensive—the one I recommend will set you back around $20, but I know it can feel like a lot to add another appliance to your kitchen. I have a few suggestions for how to make zucchini noodles without a spiralizer below.

While zucchini noodles do not taste exactly like pasta noodles, if you cook them properly (meaning until they are al dente, not mushy), they are surprisingly satisfying.

Zucchini noodles absorb flavors well, you can twirl them around your fork like traditional noodles, and it does feel good to know you are enjoying a hefty serving of veg.

Zucchini noodles can also provide a pasta-like option for those who can’t have traditional pasta for dietary reasons. If you are gluten-free, wanting to reduce carbohydrates, or are following a diet like Whole30, keto, or Paleo, zoodles are a great option (check out these Whole30 Meatballs, by the way).

Healthy zucchini pasta in a skillet with tomatoes and basil

How to Make Zucchini Pasta

The Ingredients

  • Zucchini. Zucchini noodles are a delicious, healthy pasta alternative that make this dish worthy of eating on repeat. They’re gluten-free, low carb, and keto/Paleo/Whole30 friendly.

Market Swap

Other summer squash, like yellow squash and those funky zephyr squash you sometimes find at farmers’ markets, will work here too. Just make sure it’s a shape that can be easily spiralized!

  • Lemon Juice + Cornstarch. The sneaky thickener for our pasta sauce. The lemon juice adds brightness, while the cornstarch helps the sauce thicken without resorting to heavy cream.
  • Butter. While you could use extra-virgin olive oil, I love the flavor that butter adds to this zucchini pasta.
  • Shallot +  Garlic. An iconic duo that creates a scrumptious flavor base for our pasta sauce.
  • Cherry Tomatoes. Juicy, red pops of sweet goodness that flavor the sauce and every bite you take.
  • Red Pepper Flakes. For the ideal amount of heat.
  • Parmesan. Not only does the Parmesan provide salty, cheesy flavor, but it also plays a role in thickening our pasta sauce.
  • Basil. A shower of fresh basil is the perfect finishing touch for this dish.

The Directions

Zucchini noodles in a glass
  1. Prepare. Spiralize the zucchini.
Lemon and cornstarch in a glass bowl
  1. Start the Sauce. Prepare the lemon and cornstarch slurry.
Tomatoes and garlic in a skillet
  1. Cook the Veggies. Sauté the shallots in butter. Add the garlic. Stir in the tomatoes.
  2. Make It Creamy. Pour in the slurry and red pepper flakes.
Zucchini pasta in a skillet with tomatoes
  1. Coat the Noodles. Add the noodles, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
Vegetables and noodles in a skillet
  1. Bring It All Together. Add the cheese. Cook until the noodles are al dente. Keep on tossing the whole time.
Zucchini pasta with tomatoes and basil on a plate
  1. Finish and Serve. Sprinkle in salt and pepper, and add the basil. Top with Parmesan, and ENJOY!

Storage Tips

  • To Make Ahead. Spiralize the zucchini noodles up to 2 days in advance, and store them in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator.
  • To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat. Gently reheat leftovers in a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
  • I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the zoodles can have a mushy texture once thawed.

Leftover Ideas

If you only have a small amount of zucchini pasta left, instead of serving it as a main course, dish it up as a side with a filling main like Breaded Pork Chops or Baked Chicken Parmesan.

What to Serve with Zucchini Pasta

Easy zucchini pasta with tomatoes, basil, and lemon
  • Spiralizer. The easiest way to create perfect zucchini noodles.
  • Tongs. The best way to toss the noodles.
  • Large Skillet. A kitchen tool you’ll use constantly, and it’s perfect for many of these one pan meals.
  • Citrus Juicer. A helpful gadget that’s worthy of a spot in your kitchen.

Keeping Zucchini Noodles from Becoming Soggy

Zucchini has a naturally high water content, meaning that if you aren’t careful, you’ll end up with soggy noodles and a watery sauce.

This zucchini pasta recipe uses the water content of zucchini to its advantage. As the zucchini releases water, we toss the zoodles continuously in Parmesan and a bit of cornstarch.

The cornstarch and Parm bind with the noodles, turning the zucchini liquid into a light, creamy zucchini pasta sauce. I stole the approach from this Pasta al Limone and was delighted to find that it works well here also.

Here are a few tips more tips to make your zucchini noodles not soggy:

  • Wait to Add Salt. Salt naturally draws moisture out of ingredients, so it could make the noodles soggy if added too early. Wait to add the salt until just before serving.
  • Don’t Overcook Them! Once the noodles are al dente, they’re done. Overcooked zucchini noodles can quickly become a mushy, soggy mess.
  • Pat Them Dry. After you’ve spiralized your zucchini, lay the noodles on a towel, and gently press down to remove any excess moisture.

How to Make Zucchini Noodles without a Spiralizer

By far, the easiest and fastest way to make zucchini spaghetti is with a spiralizer. It’s inexpensive and once you own it, you’ll likely find yourself making veggie noodles more frequently.

I like countertop models like this one. You can find many similar models on Amazon and at other retailers too. You can use them for other vegetables in addition to the zucchini.

If you don’t have or wish to purchase a spiralizer, you certainly have options!

  • You can use a handheld vegetable peeler like this one to create long, straight zucchini noodles.
  • Slice your zucchini lengthwise on a mandoline for easy zoodles (I use this technique for my Zucchini Ravioli).
  • If necessary, you can even cut zucchini noodles by hand using a knife. Cut long, thin noodles down the length of the zucchini (though by the time you are done, you may wish you’d bought a spiralizer).
Zucchini pasta on a blue plate with tomatoes
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Zucchini Pasta

This creamy zucchini pasta pairs zucchini "noodles" with lemon, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and an easy Parmesan pan sauce. Bright and healthy!
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds zucchini about 4 medium
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 1 medium lemon
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small shallot finely chopped
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus additional for serving
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves roughly chopped
  • Kosher salt
  • Ground black pepper

Instructions

  • Spiralize the zucchini (see blog post above for tips). Set aside.
    Zucchini noodles in a glass
  • In a small bowl or large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the lemon juice and cornstarch. Set near your stove.
    Lemon and cornstarch in a glass bowl
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and saute until soft, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and cook just until very fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Add the cherry tomatoes and stir to coat. Let cook 2 minutes, just until the tomatoes begin to soften.
    Tomatoes and garlic in a skillet
  • Add the lemon juice mixture and red pepper flakes. Let simmer 1 minute.
  • Add the zucchini noodles. Toss them with the mixture, using a pair of tongs to coat them as evenly as possible with the sauce and to break apart the noodles. At first the mixture will seem dry.
    Zucchini pasta in a skillet with tomatoes
  • Add the Parmesan cheese. Keep tossing and cooking. As the zucchini cooks and gives up its liquid, it will form a sauce that coats the pasta. Continue to cook and toss, until the zucchini noodles are al dente, about 4 minutes.
    Vegetables and noodles in a skillet
  • Add a good pinch of salt and several grinds of pepper, then toss in the basil. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve right away, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.
    Zucchini pasta with tomatoes and basil on a plate

Video

Notes

  • TO MAKE AHEAD: Spiralize the zucchini noodles up to 2 days in advance, and store them in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Gently reheat leftovers in a large skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Potassium: 920mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1510IU | Vitamin C: 75mg | Calcium: 197mg | Iron: 2mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do Zucchini Noodles Taste Like?

Zucchini noodles do taste like zucchini. (Hey, I’m a food blogger, not a magician!) That said, just like pasta, zucchini has a mild flavor that allows it to showcase the ingredients you add to it—in this case, a creamy lemon sauce, herbaceous basil, and plump tomatoes.

Is Zucchini a Good Substitute for Pasta?

Zucchini is a good substitute for pasta in some recipes, but not others. For this reason, I recommend using zucchini noodles only in recipes that were specifically developed for them, otherwise you may have watery results.

Are Zucchini Noodles Supposed to Be Crunchy?

If you’re serving them raw, zucchini noodles can be crunchy, but for a cooked dish like this zucchini pasta recipe, you want them al dente—somewhere between soft and crunchy.

Can Zucchini Noodles Be Boiled?

No, don’t boil your zucchini noodles in a pot like pasta! They’ll end up mushy and unappetizing.

Is Zucchini Pasta Good for You?

Yes, zucchini pasta is healthy! Zoodles are healthier than pasta because they’re lower in calories and packed with vitamin A, antioxidants, and potassium (see more zucchini health benefits here).

Related Recipes

Zucchini is a summertime favorite, and these recipes are my favorite ways to highlight this versatile veggie:

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Rich, Creamy, and Healthy — This Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Has It All! https://www.wellplated.com/instant-pot-mac-and-cheese/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/instant-pot-mac-and-cheese/#comments Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=98661 Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

A bowl of easy Instant Pot mac and cheeseThick and creamy Instant Pot mac and cheese with a healthy twist! This easy, foolproof recipe is great for fast dinners and sides.

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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese A bowl of easy Instant Pot mac and cheese

If you think something sounds too good to be true, you haven’t tried Instant Pot Mac and Cheese yet. (Or rather, you haven’t tried this Instant Pot mac and cheese.)

A bowl of easy Instant Pot mac and cheese

Why You’ll Love This Pressure Cooker Mac and Cheese Recipe

  • It’s Tested, Tried, and True. After having multiple recipe fails on a dish that the internet assured me was foolproof, I can now attest this is the best, creamiest, most (actually) foolproof recipe of them all.
  • You Won’t Believe How Easy It Is. Water, noodles, four minutes of pressure cook time, add the cheese. BOOM. Better-than-the-blue-box bliss is yours!
  • The Silky Sauce. Just like Instant Pot Spaghetti, the starches the pasta releases as it cooks help thicken the sauce and make it extra creamy (you DO need to drain the water for the mac and cheese, heads up!).
  • Whoa, It’s Healthy Too. In Well Plated style, I was determined to come up with a healthy Instant Pot mac and cheese that didn’t skimp on flavor and comfort. (And if you don’t think that is possible, you clearly haven’t tried the Ultimate Creamy Mac and Cheese in The Well Plated Cookbook yet!)
  • It’s Super Customizable. Just like my Cauliflower Mac and Cheese and Gourmet Mac and Cheese, this is a recipe that can be tweaked to your liking by adding mix-ins like steamed broccoli or Sautéed Broccoli, crumbled cooked bacon, and more. Keep reading, because I share some of my favorite ideas below!
A pressure cooker of macaroni and cheese

5 Star Review

“This was delicious and so easy!”

— Amy —

How to Make Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

The Ingredients

  • Pasta. I used whole wheat elbow noodles for an extra boost of nutrition. Whole wheat noodles are better for you thanks to their higher amount of nutrients and fiber, and no one will notice the swap.

Substitution Tip

Whole wheat shells would also work well in this recipe.

  • Cheese. Extra sharp cheddar cheese has the intense, cheesy flavor that mac and cheese needs, and it melts beautifully into the creamy sauce.

Substitution Tip

For mac and cheese, use any flavorful, creamy melty cheese that you enjoy, or try a mix. Cheddar is classic, but feel free to swap or add gouda, fontina, mozzarella cheese, Monterey jack, or gruyere.

  • Butter. For necessary richness to call this a proper mac ‘n’ cheese. Plus, cheese + butter = perfection!
  • Greek Yogurt. Adds tanginess and helps make the sauce creamy without the need for heavy cream. Plus it’s high in calcium and potassium.
  • Spices. Dry or ground mustard adds depth and very subtle tanginess. Cayenne pepper gives the dish a touch of heat. Nutmeg is the secret ingredient that will leave people wondering if you’re a mac and cheese wizard.

The Directions

Noodles in a pressure cooker
  1. Cook the Noodles. Stir the pasta, water, and salt together in an Instant Pot. Cook on HIGH for 4 minutes, then release the pressure.
Noodles in an Instant Pot for mac and cheese
  1. Drain. Pour out all but a thin layer of water.
Butter being stirred into noodles for Instant Pot mac and cheese
  1. Season. Stir in the butter. Add the spices.
Greek yogurt being added to noodles
  1. Add the Yogurt. Don’t use fat free or it will curdle.
Cheese being added to an Instant Pot with noodles
  1. Add the Cheese SLOWLY. If you add it too quickly, it will make your cheese sauce lumpy. ENJOY!
Healthy Instant Pot mac and cheese

Recipe Variations

Creamy Instant Pot mac and cheese

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate mac and cheese in an airtight storage container for up to 5 days. 
  • To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. 
  • To Freeze. Freeze mac and cheese 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 week in advance, shred the cheese. Refrigerate it in an airtight storage container until you’re ready to finish the recipe.

A bowl of mac and cheese made in an Instant Pot

What to Serve with Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

The best Instant Pot mac and cheese

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Shred Your Own Cheese. It truly makes a difference! Pre-shredded cheese is tossed with cellulose, AKA the “powdery white stuff” that coats each shred to keep them from sticking to each other. This also keeps the cheese from melting as smoothly as we’d like.
  • Add the Cheese VERY GRADUALLY. As with Cheese Fondue, if you add too much at once, your sauce will end up lumpy.
  • Skip the Milk. Dairy burns easily in the Instant Pot, so do not use milk when pressure cooking. Instead of making Instant Pot mac and cheese with evaporated milk (or any milk), use water for the liquid, then add the dairy products (including cheese) after the pressure cooking cycle is complete.
  • Vent Quickly. Vent the Instant Pot as soon as the pressure cooker time is up. Called a “quick release” this ensures the pasta remains al dente.
  • Stick With the Winning Formula. I know it’s always tempting to make a recipe your own, but this is the kind of recipe where small tweaks like swapping regular yogurt for Greek yogurt or using milk instead of water can lead to disaster. You can customize your mac and cheese with different add-ins after it’s done cooking, but don’t switch up the main ingredients!
A bowl of easy Instant Pot mac and cheese
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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese

Thick and creamy Instant Pot mac and cheese with a healthy twist! This easy, foolproof recipe is great for fast dinners and sides.
Course Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 504kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces uncooked whole wheat elbow macaroni pasta or whole wheat shells
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt divided
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into 2 to 3 pieces
  • 1 (5.3-ounce) container full fat Greek yogurt do not use fat-free, about 1/2 cup
  • 1/2 teaspoons dry mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese* shredded (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  • Place the pasta, water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker. Stir well. Set to cook on high pressure (manual) for 4 minutes (for elbow macaroni noodles) or 5 minutes (for shells). As soon as the timer goes off, release the remaining pressure.
    Noodles in a pressure cooker
  • Carefully open the lid to the Instant Pot. If it still looks very liquidy, drain off all but a thin layer of the pasta water, reserving any water you drain away. (I used an oven mitt to pick up the Instant Pot insert and drain a small amount of excess water into a liquid measuring cup with a spout.)
    Noodles in an Instant Pot for mac and cheese
  • Stir in the butter until it melts. Then, stir in the mustard, black pepper, cayenne, nutmeg, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
    Butter being stirred into noodles for Instant Pot mac and cheese
  • Next, stir in the Greek yogurt.
    Greek yogurt being added to noodles
  • Add the cheese by small handfuls (a few tablespoons at a time), stirring to completely melt between each addition. Don't rush the process or your mac and cheese will be lumpy (your patience will be rewarded!). If at any point, the pasta cools too much, turn on the Saute function for a minute or two as needed. The mac and cheese should look very creamy and saucy, but if it is thicker than you would like, add a little of the reserved pasta water until your desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Enjoy!
    Cheese being added to an Instant Pot with noodles

Video

Notes

  • *For the smoothest, creamiest mac and cheese, shred your own cheddar from a block. Pre-shredded cheeses are coated with a powdery substance to keep them from flaking and will not melt smoothly. The fastest way to do this (it takes seconds!) is in a food processor fitted with a grater blade.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate mac and cheese in an airtight storage container for up to 5 days. 
  • TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. 
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze mac and cheese 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: 504kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Potassium: 225mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 771IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 472mg | Iron: 2mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Gluten Free Instant Pot Mac and Cheese?

Yes, you can swap the whole wheat noodles in this recipe for gluten-free noodles. Since the cooking time can vary between these two types of noodles, I recommend checking them early and often to ensure they don’t overcook.

Would Regular Cheddar Cheese Work in this Recipe?

While regular cheddar cheese would work, its flavor is not bold enough to really make the dish taste its best. If you can’t find extra sharp cheddar cheese, the next best option is white cheddar.

Can I Double this Recipe?

I haven’t tried doubling the recipe myself, but I think it would work fine. The most important thing is to make sure you don’t fill the pot past the max fill line. Do not make any changes to the cooktime.

More Mac and Cheese Recipes

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Creamy Cauliflower Mac and Cheese https://www.wellplated.com/cauliflower-mac-and-cheese/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/cauliflower-mac-and-cheese/#comments Wed, 14 Jun 2023 10:05:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=123111 Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

baking dish of cheesy easy low carb cauliflower mac and cheeseCauliflower mac and cheese replaces the macaroni with cauliflower florets for a lightened up remake of everyone’s favorite comfort food. This is the yummiest way to eat your veggies!

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Cauliflower Mac and Cheese baking dish of cheesy easy low carb cauliflower mac and cheese

Comfort food that’s healthy too? This time, you CAN have it all with Cauliflower Mac and Cheese! The recipe replaces the macaroni with tender cauliflower florets for a lightened up remake of everyone’s favorite cheesy pasta.

baking dish of cheesy easy low carb cauliflower mac and cheese

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Recipe

  • Bold Statement: Cauliflower Beats Noodles. Let’s be honest, the elbow noodles in traditional mac and cheese mainly serve as a vehicle for delivering cheesy goodness. Cauliflower brings some of its own flavor to the table, and all those nooks and crooks make it even better for holding cheese sauce. (Case in point? My Instant Pot Cauliflower Mac!)
  • It’s Extra Creamy. The addition of Greek yogurt to the cheese sauce gives it a richer, creamier texture, along with a little bit of tang that complements the flavor of sharp cheddar. Having tested a number of different options, I prefer yogurt to cream cheese or heavy cream.
  • Cauliflower Makes It Healthier. Pasta isn’t exactly a nutritional powerhouse, but cauliflower is a great source of fiber and lower in carbs than elbow noodles. Win! For those who need a low-carb or keto diet, this cauliflower mac and cheese is a great option. Be sure to check out this Cauliflower Casserole too.
  • The Flavor Will Wow You. Many mac and cheese recipes are kind of one note, but this cauliflower mac and cheese has some depth to it thanks to the Greek yogurt, sharp cheddar, umami Parmesan, and a toasty whole wheat panko breadcrumb topping.
a bowl of cheesy cauliflower mac

How to Make Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

The Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

  • Cauliflower Florets. You can cut them from two small heads of cauliflower, or save yourself some prep time and buy the ones that come in a bag.
  • Unsalted Butter. Even though this isn’t a traditional cheese sauce, it starts the traditional way: with a roux. That means beginning with butter!
  • All-Purpose Flour. The next component of our roux. Flour thickens the sauce.
  • Whole Milk. Whole milk is best, but you can use 2% if that’s what you have on hand, or substitute half-and-half for a richer sauce. 
  • Dijon Mustard. Mustard gives the cheese sauce a little bit of pep and its acidity balances the richness of the dish. Even if you’re not a mustard fan, it’s a must in this cauliflower mac and cheese recipe.
  • Kosher Salt. Kosher salt is always my choice for cooking.
  • Black Pepper. Just enough to enhance the flavor, without distracting from it.
  • Garlic Powder. There’s a time and a place for fresh garlic, and it’s not in mac and cheese! Garlic powder is garlicky without the pungency of fresh cloves.
  • Cayenne Pepper. Use less if you’re cooking for kids (and those who are heat averse) and more if you’re in the mood to spice things up.
  • Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese. Buy a block and shred it yourself. This is critical!

Substitution Tip

I used sharp cheddar for that classic mac and cheese flavor, but you can swap in another cheese instead (as long as it’s shredded from the block!) or use a combination of two or three different varieties. Just avoid very mild cheeses like mozzarella—you want to use something fairly assertive to get some flavor in your cheese sauce.

  • Full-Fat Greek Yogurt. Our secret weapon for a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce.

For the Topping

  • Unsalted Butter. For some buttery flavor in the topping.
  • Whole-Wheat Panko Breadcrumbs. Use regular panko if you can’t find whole wheat, or leave it out for a low carb option—it adds a nice crispy-crunch, but it’s not absolutely necessary in this recipe.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese. Parm isn’t a good melter, but it has a lot of great flavor—that’s why we use it as a topping!

Dietary Note

To make this cauliflower mac and cheese gluten-free, use your go-to gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute in the sauce and swap in gluten-free panko or crushed Rice Chex cereal for the topping.

The Directions

cutting cauliflower for the best cauliflower mac and cheese
  1. Pre-Cook the Cauliflower. Steam the cauliflower in the microwave until it’s al dente, then drain and pat it dry.
making cauliflower mac and cheese on the stove
  1. Make the Roux. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or saucepan, then whisk in the flour. Once the flour is golden brown, slowly whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
  2. Season. Lower the heat and whisk in all of the seasonings.
adding cheese to cauliflower mac and cheese in a pot
  1. Add the Cheese. Stir in the cheese a small handful at a time.
adding flour to cheese in a pot for cauliflower mac and cheese
  1. Stir in the Yogurt. Remove the pot from the heat and add the Greek yogurt.
mixing cauliflower into cheese in a pot
  1. Fold in the Cauliflower. Gently stir in the cauliflower, then transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
breading mixture for baked cauliflower mac and cheese
  1. Make the Topping. Melt the butter in a small saucepan or bowl, then stir in the panko and Parm. Sprinkle this mixture over the cauliflower mac and cheese.
cauliflower and breading in a baking dish
  1. Bake. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake until the cauliflower is fork tender and the sauce is bubbling up along the edges. Broil if desired, then rest 5 minutes before serving. ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

  • Tex-Mex Cauliflower Mac and Cheese. Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar and replace the panko topping with crumbled tortilla chips. Serve with pico de gallo and sliced green onions.
  • French Onion Cauliflower Mac and Cheese. Swap the cheddar for gruyere and fold caramelized onions into the cauliflower mixture before adding it to the baking dish. Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top when serving.
  • Smoky Cauliflower Mac and Cheese. Instead of making the cheese sauce with cheddar, use smoked gouda.
  • Loaded Cauliflower Mac and Cheese. Add cooked, crumbled Baked Bacon for some protein and bacon-y flavor and serve your cauli mac with an extra dollop of Greek yogurt and chives or green onions on top.
  • Cheesy Cauliflower Rice. Instead of using cauliflower florets, use riced cauliflower. (See my Cauliflower Fried Rice post for how to make cauliflower rice, or use store-bought.) Now that the mac and cheese will be more liquidy with cauli rice.

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can keep them in the casserole dish and tightly cover it with foil.
  • To Reheat. Reheat leftovers in a 350 degrees F oven or microwave until warmed through. 
  • To Freeze. Place leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.

Meal Prep Tip

Prep and steam the cauliflower up to a day in advance to get a head start on the recipe. Simply store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the cheese sauce.

the best low carb cauliflower mac and cheese

What to Serve with Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

  • Chicken. Round out your dinner by serving cauliflower mac and cheese alongside Grilled Chicken Breast or kid-friendly Chicken Tenders.
  • PorkBreaded Pork Chops are a fabulous accompaniment to cauli mac, or make meal bowls with Slow Cooker Pulled Pork.
  • Beef. If you don’t have room in your oven for another recipe, make Air Fryer Steak on the countertop instead!
  • Veggie Sides. Use cauliflower mac and cheese as your main dish and serve it with an easy side like Roasted Asparagus or Air Fryer Green Beans. (Pro-tip: Make extra panko topping and toss it with your vegetable side for some extra flavor and texture. It’s my go-to when I roast a big baking sheet of veggies!)
  • Bread. You’re saving all those carbohydrates by eliminating the noodles, so now you have room for Rosemary Olive Oil Bread or Beer Bread with your cauliflower mac and cheese!
  • Casserole Dish. A quality casserole dish will last for decades, which is why I like simple, classic white. It will never go out of style!
  • Cheese Grater. It’s so important to shred your own cheese for this cauliflower mac and cheese recipe.
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife. For cutting off all those cauliflower florets!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Don’t Use Pre-Shredded Cheese. Yes, store-bought bagged cheese is super convenient, but the white powdery stuff that coats the cheese to keep it from sticking is bad news for your mac and cheese. It’s an anti-caking agent that will keep the cheese from melting smoothly, resulting in a gritty sauce. It’s why I shred my own cheese for Gourmet Mac and Cheese, Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, and Brussels Sprouts Mac and Cheese.
  • Steam the Cauliflower First. Roasted Cauliflower is delicious, but its flavor will make the cauliflower the star instead of the cheese sauce. You also can’t add it raw or it won’t cook through. Steaming it first is essential!
  • Dry the Cauliflower Too. It will release some liquid into the creamy cheese sauce—just enough to give it the perfect consistency. If there’s too much water clinging to the cauliflower when you add it to the sauce, it will end up thin and bland.
  • Use a Large Pot. You’ll need to accommodate not only the cheese sauce, but also 8 cups of cauliflower—and you’ll have to be able to stir it without it spilling over the edges and making a mess on your stovetop!
  • Pour the Milk in Slowly. If you dump it all in at once, you’ll end up with lumps of flour in your cheese sauce. Not good! (While we’re on the subject of the sauce, don’t let it come to a boil either. After adding the milk, you’ll need to cook the sauce over low heat.)
  • Let It Rest. The sauce will thicken after a quick rest once you pull your cauliflower mac n’ cheese out of the oven. 
baking dish with cauliflower mac and cheese recipe
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Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower mac and cheese replaces the macaroni with cauliflower florets for a lightened up remake of everyone’s favorite comfort food.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 6 servings
Calories 355kcal

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Mac and Cheese:

  • 8 cups 1-inch cauliflower florets about 2 small heads or 28 ounces florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk 2% also works; use part half-and-half for a richer flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 6 ounces FRESHLY SHREDDED extra sharp cheddar cheese about 1 1/2 cups (Do not use pre-shredded! It won’t melt smoothly.)
  • 1/2 cup full-fat Greek yogurt

For the Topping:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs or regular panko
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Set the Greek yogurt out to come to room temperature. Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat to 375°F. Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
  • Place the cauliflower in a large microwave-safe bowl and add 1 inch of water. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave on high power for 4 minutes. Stir, then recover and microwave for 4 minutes more, until the cauliflower is slightly softened but still definitely fairly al dente. Drain into a colander, then spread into a single layer on paper or kitchen towels and pat dry. Let air dry while you make the sauce.
    cutting cauliflower for the best cauliflower mac and cheese
  • In a Dutch oven or large, deep stockpot, heat the butter over medium heat.
  • As soon as the butter melts, sprinkle the flour over the top and cook, whisking constantly, until flour turns light golden brown and smells lightly nutty, about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring continuously to make sure the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom, until the sauce thickens, 3-5 minutes.
    making cauliflower mac and cheese on the stove
  • Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the mustard, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
  • Next, stir in the cheddar by small handfuls, adding it gradually and stirring all the while to ensure it melts smoothly. Make sure each addition of cheese melts before adding the next.
    adding cheese to cauliflower mac and cheese in a pot
  • Remove from the heat. Stir in the Greek yogurt.
    adding flour to cheese in a pot for cauliflower mac and cheese
  • Add the cauliflower, stirring gently to combine. The sauce will seem very thick, but will thin out as water is released from the cauliflower when it cooks. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
    mixing cauliflower into cheese in a pot
  • Make the topping: In a small bowl, melt the butter. Add the Panko and Parmesan. Stir to combine, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the cauliflower mac.
    breading mixture for baked cauliflower mac and cheese
  • Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the cauliflower is just fork tender. If you’d like to crisp the top, turn the oven to broil for a few minutes until golden in spots. Let rest 5 minutes, then serve.
    cauliflower and breading in a baking dish

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Refrigerate cauliflower mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven or microwave until warmed through.
  • TO FREEZE: Place leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 6) | Calories: 355kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 69mg | Potassium: 577mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 766IU | Vitamin C: 64mg | Calcium: 415mg | Iron: 1mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is My Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Watery?

The most likely culprit is that your steamed cauliflower wasn’t dried thoroughly. It’s important to dry it well so it doesn’t water down the cheese sauce. Note that the sauce will also thicken as the mac and cheese cools.

What Does Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Taste Like?

Cauliflower mac and cheese tastes very similar to traditional mac and cheese, but it has a slightly nutty, sweet flavor thanks to the cauliflower.

Can I Use Broccoli as a Substitute for Macaroni Instead of Cauliflower?

While you can substitute lightly steamed broccoli for the cauliflower, broccoli has a MUCH more assertive flavor to it and the bright green color means it’s not a good swap visually either. If you want a cheesy broccoli dish, try this Broccoli Bake.

Related Recipes

 Cauliflower does it all! If you can’t get enough of this healthy multitasking ingredient, here are some more cauliflower recipes to try.

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Effortless Black Bean Salad With Feta and Tomatoes https://www.wellplated.com/black-bean-corn-salad/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/black-bean-corn-salad/#comments Tue, 30 May 2023 21:01:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=52047 Black Bean Corn Salad

Black bean corn salad with feta and tomatoesThis easy black bean and corn salad tastes like summer! Use fresh or frozen corn to make this light, healthy, and delicious summer side.

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Black Bean Corn Salad Black bean corn salad with feta and tomatoes

This Black Bean Corn Salad is so embarrassingly easy to make (no cooking!), summery fresh, and even good for us, it feels 100% like cheating. Let’s get away with it.

a plate with black bean corn salad with feta, tomato, and limes

Why You’ll Love This Corn and Black Bean Salad Recipe

  • Versatile. Have it for work lunch, spoon it over Shredded Chicken Tacos, serve it as a side dish instead of veggies or rice, or scoop it up with tortilla chips—you have options!
  • Customizable. Can’t stop yourself from tinkering with recipes? Oh, then this is the black bean salad for you! Add garlic, diced red onion, jalapeño for kick, red pepper for crunch, or yes, just eat it as-is.
  • Perfect for Summer. Sweet summer corn! No cooking! This easy-peasy salad is made for summertime.
Fresh black bean corn salad with feta and tomatoes

5 Star Review

“Just made this salad tonight as our main course! Absolutely delicious!”

— Ansley —

About This Black Bean Corn Salad

Made with corn, black beans, feta, tomatoes, literally any green herb, and a squeeze of lime (or balsamic vinegar or even apple cider vinegar), this is a no-cook/raid-your-garden-and-pantry scenario, and it totally works.

You can get fancy if you are feeling it—this Grilled Corn Salad with Avocado and Tomato can attest to the elevated smokiness that grilled corn adds to a salad—but it’s not mandatory by any means.

You can even use frozen corn right out of the bag. That will work too.

In addition to being a dynamite summer side, this healthy black bean and corn salad has main dish potential, especially on those hot, humid days when you don’t want to cook and you’re craving something light.

Colorful, fresh ingredients

How to Make Black Bean Corn Salad

The Ingredients

  • Black Beans. Creamy and hearty, canned black beans make this salad more filling. Black beans are healthy too. They’re packed with fiber and potassium. (For extra credit, you can cook them from dried via Instant Pot Black Beans if you like.)
  • Corn. A sweet match for the black beans! While corn can get a bad rap for being starchy, it does offer some wonderful health benefits. Fresh corn is a good source of fiber and contains oodles of vitamins. Plus: the sweetness!
  • Tomatoes. Juicy bursts of sweet tomato flavor are scrumptious with the corn and black beans.
  • Feta. A creamy, salty, cheesy addition, it gives a nod to Mexican street corn. Cotija cheese works too!
  • Herbs. I used a mix of mint and fresh cilantro. The mint is especially surprising and refreshing. Any blend of tender garden herbs will work well.
  • Fresh Lime Juice. Brings brightness and zip to every bite.

Substitution Tip!

Just about any acid will work here. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar are both excellent options. You could also make this a black bean and corn salad with balsamic vinegar (if you use a vinegar, reduce it to 1 tablespoon to start).

The Directions

Vegetables, cheese, herbs, and beans in a bowl
  1. Prep the Veggies. Slice the kernels from the cob and place them in a large bowl with the rest of the salad ingredients (save some of the feta for serving).
  2. Combine. Stir and top with the remaining feta.
  3. Chill. Let set in the refrigerator for a few minutes (if you can resist). ENJOY!

Recipe Variations

  • Black Bean Corn Avocado Salad. For additional creaminess, add 1 diced avocado, either in addition to or in place of the feta. Since avocado can turn brown, wait to add until within 1 hour of serving. This is a great option if you need the salad to be vegan or dairy-free. (The salad is already gluten-free.)
  • Sautéed Corn Black Bean Salad. Heat 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 7 to 10 minutes. (If using canned or frozen, thawed corn, pat it dry first.) Let cool, then add to the salad as directed.
  • Roasted Corn and Black Bean Salad. In a mixing bowl, coat the corn kernels with 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil. Spread the kernels into an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until browned, tossing once or twice throughout (watch carefully at the end so they don’t burn!). Let cool, then add to the salad as directed.
  • Grilled Corn Black Bean Tomato Salad. Lightly char the ears on a grill over medium heat; let cool, and cut the kernels from the cob. Add to the salad as directed.
  • Honey Lime Dressing. For a black bean and corn salad with honey-lime dressing (YUM!), whisk 2 tablespoons of honey into the dressing ingredients. If you love honey dressing, check out this Fruit Salad too!

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Corn and black bean salad with feta on a plate

Leftover Ideas

This recipe is easy to make ahead, and black bean corn salad can last several days in the refrigerator. Try your leftovers in one of these creative ways.

  • As a Burrito or Quesadilla. Warm up the leftovers, then tuck them into a tortilla, and enjoy it as a burrito or pan fry it, quesadilla-style. Add some Grilled Chicken Tenders for additional protein.
  • With Grains. Toss this salad with your favorite cooked grain. Quinoa black bean corn salad sounds tasty, or pair it with farro or classic brown rice.
  • As a Salad. Pile it onto a bed of lettuce for an easy salad variation. Drizzle with extra lime juice and olive oil for a quick dressing.
  • As a Dip. Serve this as a dip with a side of tortilla chips for a spin on black bean and corn salsa.

What to Serve with Black Bean Corn Salad

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Don’t Leave Kernel on the Cob. Make sure when you’re cutting the kernels off the ear, you’re cutting as much as possible the first time, rather than slicing the kernels in half and having to make a second pass to get the rest. You want whole kernels in the salad, not bits of them! Read my tips for de-kerneling corn below.
  • Gently Stir. This keeps the feta from breaking down too much and prevents the tomatoes from being crushed.
  • Let the Flavors Meld. While you can eat this black bean corn salad right away (and you will obviously want to), it’s even better if you let it chill in the fridge for juuuust a bit to let the flavors mix and mingle.

How to Easily Cut Corn from the Cob

Tired of the kernels you cut from the cob flying all over your counter? Here are a few ideas to try.

  • Stand the corn up in a shallow bowl, and very carefully use a sharp knife to cut along the sides of the cob. The bowl will catch all the kernels.
  • Lay the corn on a cutting board, and cut the kernels off one side of the cob. Rotate the cob so the cut (flat) side is down, and cut another side. Continue until all sides are done.
  • Stand the corn up in the hole of a bundt pan, and carefully cut the kernels off of each side. The kernels will fall off the cob and into the bundt pan.
Black bean corn tomato salad on a blute plate

Black Bean Corn Salad Video

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Black bean corn salad with feta and tomatoes
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Black Bean Corn Salad

This easy black bean and corn salad tastes like summer! Use fresh or frozen corn to make this light, fast, and delicious healthy summer side.
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 240kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 cups corn kernels from 4 to 5 ears, or frozen corn kernels*
  • 1 14-ounce can reduced sodium black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint basil, parsley, or cilantro (or a mix!)**
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice from about 1 lime***
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 ounces feta cheese crumbled (about 1 cup), divided

Instructions

  • Place your corn kernels in a large mixing bowl. If using fresh kernels, include any of the milk that comes off the cob. If using frozen corn, you don’t even need to thaw it all the way first.
  • To the bowl, add the black beans, tomatoes, mint, olive oil, lime juice, salt, pepper, and two-thirds of the feta.
  • Stir to combine, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. Sprinkle the final one-third feta over the top.
  • If time allows, place in the refrigerator to set for 15 minutes. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • *For options to roast, grill, or saute the corn before adding it to the salad, see the blog post above. My favorite way to make this (because it’s the ideal meeting point between extremely easy and delicious) is to use corn cut freshly from the cob, without cooking it at all.
  • **My favorite is a blend of half mint, half cilantro. For those who don’t care for cilantro, basil is also wonderful and very summery.
  • ***In place of lime, you can play around with 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or 1/2 to 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (apple cider vinegar is the strongest). If the salad comes out too acidic for your taste with one of the vinegars, drizzle in a little honey or sprinkle on some sugar to balance it.
  • TO STORE: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 6) | Calories: 240kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 17mg | Potassium: 515mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 649IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 131mg | Iron: 3mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Black Bean and Corn Salad Be Frozen?

Technically speaking, it can be frozen, but the texture and flavor will suffer a great deal upon freezing and thawing, so I don’t recommend it.

What Happens If You Don’t Rinse Black Beans?

If you don’t rinse black beans, your dish will be higher in sodium and have a bit more bean-y flavor and aroma.

Which Dressing Works Best With a Bean Salad?

A light vinaigrette made with olive oil and an acid like lime juice or vinegar is best with a bean salad. Spice it up with some cumin or a clove of garlic and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!

More Easy and Healthy Salads

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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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A Healthy Salad Worthy of a Goddess https://www.wellplated.com/green-goddess-salad/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/green-goddess-salad/#comments Wed, 17 May 2023 10:05:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=119996 Green Goddess Salad

a large bowl of green goddess salad viral tiktokThis Green Goddess Salad is full of fresh flavors and texture—crisp, crunchy, and creamy, with a lightened up dressing to bring it all home. You'll want to inhale the whole bowl in one sitting, seriously!

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Green Goddess Salad a large bowl of green goddess salad viral tiktok

Green Goddess Salad is full of fresh flavors and texture—crisp, crunchy, and creamy, with a lightened up dressing to bring it all together. 

a large bowl of green goddess salad viral tiktok

Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Salad

  • Healthy and Nutrient-Packed. This healthified green goddess salad shakes up the classic by taking that creamy, tangy, herbaceous dressing and swapping the mayonnaise with yogurt.
  • No Anchovies! If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you’ll be glad to know I did away with those too—although technically speaking, they are still in the Worcestershire sauce.)
  • Super Green. We keep the lettuce from the original recipe, but then I add all kinds of delicious green veggies, from crunchy broccoli to crisp snap peas. (Of course, you can feel free to customize your green goddess salad with any ingredients you like, green or otherwise.)
  • Versatile. A big portion is filling enough to make a meal, but a smaller portion makes a nice side dish with something a little more indulgent, like Air Fryer Hamburgers or Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
tossing chopped green goddess salad

About this Green Goddess Salad Recipe

You may have seen the viral TikTok green goddess salad all over social media; and it’s for a good reason!

Even just the name green goddess makes you think: Light! Healthy! Fresh!

Now, the original green goddess salad is one of those retro salad recipes that pairs a scant pile of lettuce with a heavy, mayo-based dressing. We’re not exactly bringing the light, healthy, or fresh factor, eh?

So I set out to make a green goddess salad worthy of a goddess.

healthy green goddess salad in a large bowl

How to Make Green Goddess Salad

The Ingredients

  • Snow Peas or Sugar Snap Peas. These deliver some crisp texture to your salad. Celery can be substituted, or if you can’t choose between the two, you can use half the amount of peas and swap in celery for the other half.
  • Broccoli. A small head should work! Not a fan of raw broccoli? Blanch it first!
  • Bibb, Butter, or Romaine Lettuce. Or use a combination of these.
  • Baby Arugula. Arugula adds a nice peppery bite that complements the herby dressing.
  • English Cucumber. Persian cucumbers make a good substitute; garden cucumbers work too, but I recommend scooping out the seeds.
  • Green Onions. Added color, freshness, and flavor.
  • Avocado. Making this for meal prep? Leave the avocado out until you’re ready to eat.
  • Kosher Salt and Pepper. Classics.
  • Green Goddess Salad Dressing. Here’s my Green Goddess Dressing recipe.

Market Swap

Fresh spinach or kale can be substituted for the lettuce. If you use kale, massage it first—you can see how in my recipe for Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad.

The Directions

green goddess salad salad ingredients chopped

1. Prep Your Veggies. Chop the peas or celery and broccoli and put them in a large bowl.

green goddess salad ingredients chopped in a bowl

2. Combine. Add the rest of the vegetables to the bowl.

green goddess salad with homemade green goddess salad dressing

3. Dress. Spoon some of the dressing over the salad, then gently toss to combine.

4. Finish. Season to taste, add the remaining avocado, and serve with extra dressing. ENJOY!

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
  • To Freeze. While the green goddess dressing can be frozen, the salad won’t stand up to freezing and thawing, so enjoy it fresh!

Leftover Ideas

Leftovers can be tucked into pitas or wraps with Grilled Chicken Tenders or another protein for a healthy meal prep lunch. You’ll have extra dressing, too, which is awesome for dipping veggies and tortilla chips or Homemade Naan!

Recipe Variations

  • Add Protein. Add Grilled Chicken Breast, Air Fryer Shrimp, or Instant Pot Boiled Eggs for a heartier meal. 
  • Add Beans. Keep with the green goddess theme and add shelled edamame to your salad, or try Roasted Chickpeas for some extra crunch.
  • Add Seeds, Nuts, or Eggs. Pepitas or pistachios will keep it green, but walnuts, sunflower seeds, cashews, and hemp seeds are protein-packed additions, too. Hard-boiled eggs are a favorite salad topping and would add a punch of protein.
  • Add Cheese. Feta cheese and shaved Parmesan cheese add some salty flavor (and cheesiness!) to your salad.
  • Add More Veggies. Grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, green cabbage, fresh basil leaves, a small shallot, shaved radishes—add whatever you like because the green goddess dressing tastes good with just about everything!
  • Make It Chopped. Swap the arugula and romaine for chopped green cabbage.
  • Green Goddess Cobb. Do your own version of Panera’s Green Goddess Cobb by adding hard-boiled eggs, chicken, and Baked Bacon. Or use the dressing to top my Cobb Salad.
green goddess salad in a large bowl

What to Serve With Green Goddess Salad

  • Sharp Chef’s Knife. You’re going to be doing a lot of chopping, so you might as well invest in a good knife!
  • Mixing Bowls. I love this set of glass bowls because they work for prep and for serving.
  • Salad Spinner. Because soggy salads are a bummer. Bonus for using your salad spinner to help dry off produce when you wash it! We love a two-for-one.
the best green goddess salad recipe

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Prep It Smart. If you’re making this green goddess salad for meal prep, store the salad and dressing separately to extend their storage life. You’ll also need to either skip the avocado or add it just before eating.
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Use Your Hands. The best tool for tossing this salad? Clean hands! I love using my hands because it’s gentler than using salad tongs and it’s also better at making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.
  • Make Sure Your Veggies Are Dry. Any water that’s still clinging to the lettuce or veggies when you put them in the bowl will create a soggy salad and water down your dressing. Not good!
tossing chopped green goddess salad
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Green Goddess Salad

This Green Goddess Salad is full of fresh flavors and texture—crisp, crunchy, and creamy, with a lightened up dressing. Healthy and filling!
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 112kcal

Ingredients

For the Green Goddess Salad:

  • 2 cups snow peas or sugar snap peas or 2 celery stalks
  • 1 small broccoli crown
  • 1 head bibb, butter, or romaine lettuce, cut into bite sized pieces (about 3 to 4 cups)
  • 2 cups baby arugula
  • 1 English cucumber quartered lengthwise, then cut into thin slices (about 2 heaping cups)
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced (about 1/3 cup)
  • 1 ripe avocado cubed, divided
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For the Goddess Dressing:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt nonfat, low fat, or whole
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups roughly chopped mixed fresh tender herbs: parsley, dill, basil, chives, cilantro, tarragon, or mint*
  • 1 garlic clove roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder omit if using chives

Instructions

For the Salad:

  • Thinly slice the snap peas (or celery). Chop the broccoli into fine florets (you will have about 1 1/2 cups). Place in a large serving bowl.
    green goddess salad salad ingredients chopped
  • To the bowl, add the lettuce, arugula, cucumber, green onion, and half of the avocado. Top with several big spoonfuls of dressing. Very gently toss to combine (I find clean hands work best for this). Everything should have a light coating of fressing, and the avocado will break down a bit to make the salad even creamier. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Scatter the second half of the avocado over the top. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.
    green goddess salad with homemade green goddess salad dressing

For the Dressing:

  • In a food processor, place the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, oil, mixed herbs, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
    making homemade green goddess salad dressing in a food processor
  • Blend until smooth and only tiny specks of herbs remain. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as desired. Enjoy on salads, as a dip, over pasta, with meat or fish, and more!
    making green goddess salad dressing in a food processor

Video

Notes

  • *To keep stronger herbs from over-powering the dressing, use a max of 1 cup parsley, 1/4 cup chives, 1/4 cup mint, and/or 2 tablespoons tarragon. Parsley, dill, tarragon, and chives is my favorite combo.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover salad in an airtight container for up to a day.
  • TO FREEZE: While the green goddess dressing can be frozen, the salad won’t stand up to freezing and thawing, so enjoy it fresh!
  • Dressing is my Green Goddess Dressing

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 6) salad only, no dressing | Calories: 112kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Potassium: 657mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1286IU | Vitamin C: 116mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 2mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Green Goddess Dressing Contain?

Green goddess dressing typically contains mayonnaise and/or sour cream, tender fresh herbs like parsley, chives, tarragon, and mint, garlic, lemon juice, and sometimes anchovies. My lightened-up version replaces the mayo with Greek yogurt and the anchovies with Worcestershire sauce.

What Does Green Goddess Salad Taste Like?

Green goddess salad has a bright, fresh, herbaceous flavor thanks to the creamy herb-packed dressing and lots of vegetables. Overall it’s a vibrant, flavorful salad perfect for a light spring or summer meal.

Is Green Goddess Good for You?

With loads of fresh veggies and a Greek-yogurt-based dressing, this green goddess salad is a nutritious meal or side dish. It has healthy fat, protein from the yogurt, and plenty of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. 

Why Is It Called Green Goddess Salad?

According to the New York Times, the San Palace Hotel in San Francisco gained fame for creating the green goddess salad in 1923 in honor of George Arliss, the lead actor in the theatrical production “The Green Goddess.” Several versions of the recipe have been passed down through generations; many of them, such as the one featured in “American Cookery” by James Beard, are based on key ingredients like tarragon, anchovies, chives, and scallions.

Related Recipes

Salads are an easy way to work some extra veggies into your day! Here are some of my favorites:

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Ultimate Guide: How to Make the PERFECT French Omelette https://www.wellplated.com/french-omelette/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/french-omelette/#respond Mon, 08 May 2023 10:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=119163 French Omelette

the best french omelette recipeA French Omelette takes a few ingredients and turns them into an elegant breakfast! It's all about technique, so I'll show you how to make it step-by-step. This is a fun one to learn!

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French Omelette the best french omelette recipe

Oh la la! This French Omelette recipe takes 3 simple ingredients (eggs, salt, and butter) and turns them into a spectacular breakfast. Creamy, rich, and oh-so-French, this is a recipe that’s all about technique—but don’t worry, I’ll show you how to nail it.

the best french omelette recipe

An American omelet is delicious, but there’s absolutely nothing about it that’s chic or elegant.

I mean, for one, there’s the spelling—”French omelette” sounds fancy, while “omelet” sounds positively gauche. 

Then, there’s the fact that it’s almost always over-flowing with eleventy-billion different fillings.

Cheese, veggies, all the meats—an American-style omelet is usually over-the-top, especially if you’re ordering it at the kind of greasy spoon diner with pleather seats and sticky bottles of ketchup on the table.

cutting into shaken french omelette

What Is a French Omelette?

A French omelette has a certain je ne sais quoi—like French Onion Soup, Savory Crepes, and so many other French recipes. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients.

Eggs! Herbs! Butter! (Always with the butter in French cooking, right?) You can add some cheese if you like, but you don’t need to.

Rather than being cooked until they’re browned, French omelettes are cooked until they’re just set, giving them a creamy, custard-like texture completely unlike the American version.

They’re rolled into a log, and they have a glossy sheen that adds to that whole chic appeal they have going for them.

French omelettes have no brown spots and taste lusciously creamy, yet no cream is added. The texture is all about the way you cook the eggs.

You don’t even need to pile it with bacon, sausage, ham, and a full cup of shredded cheese to make it delicious.

classic french omelette on a plate

How to Make a Classic French Omelette

When recipes call for a few simple ingredients, it means two things.

  • First, use the highest quality ingredients you can find—every single one matters. Spring for the fancy European butter; shred your own cheese. This is a recipe where you’ll notice the difference.
  • Second, it means that you’re about to make a recipe that relies heavily on technique and getting the little details right. (Don’t worry, though, I’ve got you covered!)

Tip!

If you have trouble visualizing written instructions, be sure to watch the video below. Once you see how it’s done, the written instructions in the recipe will make a lot more sense!


The Ingredients

  • Unsalted Butter. If you only have salted butter on hand, you can use that; just keep in mind that you’ll want to add less salt for seasoning.
  • Eggs. A French omelette is a fabulous way to use the fancy farm-fresh eggs from the farmers’ market.
  • Cheese. This is optional, but if you like pairing your eggs with cheese, shredded cheddar, gruyere, fontina, or another melty variety is perfection in this recipe.
  • Salt. I use kosher salt or a flaky sea salt, such as Maldon or fleur de sel. Add AFTER cooking the eggs for the best texture.
  • Herbs. Use all chives or a mix of tender herbs like parsley, tarragon, and chives. (Ever wondered what to do with the chervil in your herb garden? A French omelette is the answer!)

The Directions

whisking eggs in a bowl for a classic french omelette

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them with a fork until completely blended (no whites!).

pouring eggs into pan for french omelette

2. Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the beaten eggs.

cooking eggs in a pan for a how to make a french omelette

3. Use a spatula to push the edges to the middle, working in a circular motion.

fluffy perfectly cooked eggs for french omelette

4. Once the omelette is mostly set, use the spatula to spread the remaining liquid over the top to distribute it evenly, then reduce the heat to low.

adding cheese to french omelette on a pan

5. Sprinkle the cheese in the middle, then cover until it melts.

making a classic french omelette on a pan
turning a french omelette on a hot pan

6. Gently loosen the omelette from the skillet, then fold and roll it into a log. 

smooth and perfect french omelette on a pan

7. Plate, butter the top, and scatter salt and herbs over the top. ENJOY!

Tips for the Best French Omelette

  • Use the Right Equipment. You’ll need an absolutely perfect, pristine 8-inch nonstick skillet to keep the omelette from sticking. You’ll also need a rubber spatula to keep that beautiful nonstick skillet pristine—metal will scratch it up!
  • Don’t Whisk Air into the Eggs. You want to beat them enough that the eggs and yolks are fully incorporated, but not so much that air bubbles begin to form. 
  • Know When It’s Done. French omelettes should be pale yellow; they feel smooth on the outside (not dry) and they have a creamy, custard-like interior. There should never be brown spots on a French omelette!

Storage Tips

  • To Store. It’s best to eat French omelettes right away, but if you do have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days.
  • To Reheat. Place the omelette on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave until warmed through.
  • To Freeze. French omelettes do not freeze well.

Storage Tips

Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap before storing them in the refrigerator. This will help the omelette retain its creamy texture.

Leftover Ideas

Cut leftover French omelettes into strips and add them to salads for a boost of protein. You can even use them instead of soft-boiled eggs in Niçoise Salad!

What to Serve With a French Omelette

  • Meat. Eggs always pair well with breakfast meats like sausage and bacon. It might not be French, but I love serving an omelette with Air Fryer Bacon or Baked Bacon.
  • Salad. For a bistro-style brunch, serve your French omelette with a simple salad like my Arugula Salad or Beet Salad.
  • Vegetables. In the mood for cooked veggies instead of raw? Swap the salad greens for Roasted Asparagus or Sautéed Spinach.
  • Something Sweet. I love a little sweetness for balance when I have something savory for breakfast. Keep it light with Fruit Salad or serve your omelette with a fluffy Buttermilk Blueberry Muffin on the side.
  • Nonstick Skillet. Absolutely non-negotiable here! You really need a nonstick skillet to keep your omelette from sticking. This one is affordable and from a well-known brand (which is always a plus on Amazon!).
  • Spatula. A silicone or nylon spatula (as opposed to plastic) won’t melt in a hot pan, nor will it scrape the nonstick finish like metal.
  • Mixing Bowl. I love this glass set because it can be used for prep and for serving.

Whip up this French omelette recipe today and say bonjour to your new favorite breakfast!

classic french omelette on a plate with a fork cutting through

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Different About a French Omelette?

French omelettes are cooked just until set, so they have a creamy, custard-like texture and no brown spots outside. They are rarely filled with anything other than a small amount of cheese, and they’re rolled into a log rather than folded in half for serving.

Do You Use Butter or Olive Oil for French Omelettes?

You can use olive oil, but butter is the traditional French method of making omelettes. It will also give you a richer flavor.

Is a French Omelette Supposed to Be Runny?

A French omelette should not be runny like the yolks in sunny-side-up eggs, but it should be just set so it’s still creamy and custardy; it will look a little wet on the inside.

the best french omelette recipe
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French Omelette

How to make the perfect French omelette. This recipe will show you step-by-step how to achieve a creamy, rich, custard-like French omelette.
Course Breakfast, brunch
Cuisine French
Prep Time 4 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings 1 omelette
Calories 315kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons shredded cheddar, gruyere, fontina, or similar melty cheese, optional
  • Kosher salt or flaky sea salt, such as Maldon or fleur de sel
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh chives or a mix of tender herbs

Instructions

  • Get Ready: Gather all of your equipment and ingredients: You need an 8-inch nonstick skillet that is in PRISTINE CONDITION (the surface can’t be scratched up or the eggs will stick), a sturdy rubber spatula, and the plate you’ll be serving it on. This recipe moves fast and needs your full attention.
  • In a medium bowl, beat the eggs throughly, until no streaks of white remain and the mixture appears homogeneous. This will take 1 or 2 minutes. Try to mix without whipping air into them (a French omelet is not the time).
    eggs in a bowl to make a perfect french omelette
  • In the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, swirling the skillet so that the butter forms a nice, even coating all over the pan. As soon as the butter starts to foam, pour the eggs into the center. The timing is key! You want the pan hot (but not too hot).
    pouring eggs into pan for french omelette
  • IMMEDIATELY use the rubber spatula to continually push bits of egg from all around the edges of skillet into middle. You might not seem much happening at first, but keep on going. You'll feel eggs begin to stick on the bottom as you move the spatula, then stick more and more as uncooked eggs flow to the pan's edges. Run the spatula in a circle around the edges as needed. The goal is to cook the eggs evenly and create a smooth skin on the bottom of the skillet.
    cooking eggs in a pan for a how to make a french omelette
  • Once the eggs are almost cooked but you still have a small amount of liquid egg that can flow when you move the skillet, use spatula to smooth the remaining liquid portion evenly over the top of the set eggs to create a seal. Reduce the heat to low.
    fluffy perfectly cooked eggs for french omelette
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese in a 2-inch-wide strip down the center of the omelet so that the strip is running perpendicular to the skillet handle (this will allow you to roll the eggs around the filling as you shape the omelet). Cover the pan let sit over the lowest heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute—the eggs should still look shiny and a bit undercooked but not so wet that liquid can flow.
    adding cheese to french omelette on a pan
  • Remove the lid and use the spatula to gently loosen the cooked eggs from the surface of the skillet, starting at the edge closest to the handle. Work your way around the omelet to make sure it is completely loose (feel free to sneak a bit of butter under it if needed to help it release).
    making french omelette with cheese on a pan
  • Use your spatula to fold the side of the eggs nearest to the skillet handle over the cheese, as if the omelet were a letter you were folding into thirds. With your fingers (be careful it's hot!) or the spatula, gently roll the omelet away from the handle into a tidy log. When you reach the end, you have two options: scoot the omelet to the far edge of the pan, then tilt it quickly down towards your plate at a 45-degree angle and use the spatula to slide it out of the pan so it lands on the plate in a tidy log with the seam-side down. OR, use the spatula fold to the loose end of the omelet up towards the center to complete the log, press it gently to adhere, then gently transfer the omelet to your plate, placing it seam-side down.
    a perfect french omelette on a pan
  • The omelet should be a beautiful pale golden color with no brown spots, smooth on the outside, and ultra creamy in the middle. Smear the remaining 1/2 teaspoon butter all over the outside of the omelet to make it shiny (and French!). Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and herbs as you please. Enjoy immediately.
    seam side down french omelette sliding off a pan

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: It’s best to eat French omelettes right away, but if you do have leftovers, it can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Place the omelette on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave until warmed through.
  • TO FREEZE: French omelettes do not freeze well.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 omelette | Calories: 315kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 529mg | Potassium: 189mg | Fiber: 0.03g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1194IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 79mg | Iron: 2mg

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