HealthyVoyager

Month

June 2013

11 posts

The Healthy Voyager's New Vegan and Gluten Free Options at Knotts Berry Farm

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Ever go to a theme park and wish you could eat that mouthwatering funnel cake but you’re gluten free? Doesn’t that cheeseburger sound enticing but you can’t or don’t eat cheese? Are you a vegetarian or a vegan who can’t eat anything when enjoying a day at the amusement park? Well, do I have an announcement for you!

This summer, Knotts Berry Farm, America’s 1st theme park, will soon be the first of its kind to offer fully gluten free, vegan and diabetic friendly options throughout the park. And I’m excited to be the driving force in creating the new items around the park that will be rolled out all summer long at both Knotts Berry Farm and its water park, Soak City!

Soon, park goers will be able to enjoy vegan, gluten free and soy free baked mac n’ cheese, vegan and gluten free pizza, vegan “buttermilk” battered “chicken” tenders and tofu scramble for brunch, just to name a few. Along with vegan and gluten free friendly burgers, hot dogs, salads, and yes, their popular funnel cakes, special diet theme park enthusiasts will not only be able to enjoy the rides, but also the plethora of food options, both savory and sweet (did someone say vegan and gluten free funnel cakes topped with vegan whipped cream?)

Knotts Berry Farm is already serving some of the items and will continue to roll out more this summer. Be sure to ask for more details when visiting the park as an official launch will be coming up later in the season.

So if you’re looking to have fun at a theme park as well as enjoy some fun vegan and special diet goodies, Knotts is the place to be!


More information to come at Knotts.com as well as at www.HealthyVoyager.com! Stay tuned!

Jun 19, 2013
#theme park #knotts berry farm #vegan options #gluten free options #healthy voyager #carolyn scott-hamilton
Jun 16, 20131 note
Jun 15, 2013
#vegan #glutenfree
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Jun 13, 2013
#nongmo #vegan #glutenfree
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Jun 6, 2013
Green Gifts for Dad

So, thinking about another tie this year for dad? Why not show him your love and appreciation with a thoughtful, eco-friendly gift that he will love and mother earth will benefit from as well? Outside of planning a fun outdoor activity that gets dad’d heart pumpin’ or cooking up a delicious meal, getting that perfect gift is always a conundrum. Well, check out some of these ideas that aren’t only green, but also budget friendly!

  • Online subscriptions: Keep dad in the know of what goes on in the world, as well as his interests, the digital way! Newspapers and magazines have online versions now so surprise dad with his fave publication to read anywhere, anytime. And hey, splurge on a tablet that makes his whole life easily mobile!
  • Organic Fair Trade Coffee: If dad starts his day with a warm cup o’ joe, make sure it’s an eco-friendly version that tastes great! It goes great with his online subscription.
  • Bike it: A bicycle is the perfect green gift for every dad because unlike a car it doesn’t create pollution. Even if it’s just riding down the street to do a few local errands as opposed to going on an entire trek it allows him to get a little fresh air and exercise during the day.
  • Green cookware: Non-stick pans have always been convenient to cook with because they clean easily but depending on the type of material they are made from they may secrete poisonous chemicals at high temperatures. If dad likes to cook but his non-stick pans fall into this category surprise him with new ones that have a clean bill of health.
  • Soda water machine: Sometimes dads tend to drink a lot of soda consuming ingredients which don’t contribute well to their weight and which can cause other health problems. Alternatively, all those empty bottles add up to a lot of plastic waste, even if most can be recycled. Getting him a soda water machine with reusable plastic bottles and natural flavorings is the perfect substitute for his bubble cravings and help keep hi health in check.
  • Ceiling fan: If you are planning on doing some interior remodeling consider installing a ceiling fan in your dad’s home office or the living room where he likes to sit. It will help with circulation, use less electricity than an air conditioner, and can provide a nice breeze without drying him out.
  • Herbs: An herbal starter kit can go a long way, especially at the beginning of summer. It will have time to grow into a thriving patch that dads can use when they are cooking up a storm with their new pots and pans. Herbs can also be healing when feeling under the weather.
  • All natural Toiletries: Many shampoos, conditioners, aftershaves, and lotions contain chemicals which often get absorbed through our skin and potentially affect a person’s health. Replace dad’s old products with safe ones made form natural ingredients.
  • Vegan Wallet: A wallet made of cork or other recycled materials will keep dad’s money safe and his conscience clean. Oh, and super hip!
  • Home made Father’s Day card: Whatever gift(s) you decide to get your father don’t forget the all important Father’s Day card. It can be made by re-purposing old pictures and be a true piece of art from the heart or a simple card made from recycled paper. Either way the fact its Green minded will help the love shine through.

Whatever you get him, be sure to fill it with love. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there! For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Jun 6, 2013
#green #eco #fathers day #healthy #gifts #ideas #tips #suggestions

May 2013

1 post

Bermuda Bites: Where to Find Healthy And Vegan Options

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Surrounded by jewel like blue waters, this British island is not only picturesque but almost theme park like. With gorgeous, brightly colored, white roofed homes that line the hills and over look the water to the clean yet windy roads that cut through floral lined neighborhoods, it’s incredible to see a country that is so pristine and pleasant. In fact, Bermuda’s residents take so much pride in their land that they’re hospitality mirrors the loveliness of the landscape.

I just came back from an absolutely wonderful trip to Bermuda. Thanks to the lovely folks of the Bermuda Visitor’s Bureau, I was part of a select group of travel writers who was wined, dined and schmoozed in this beautiful island in the middle of the Atlantic.

A country steeped in history yet governed by it’s fantastical geography, there is so much to do and see in Bermuda!

Let’s start with where to stay! I had the pleasure of staying at the Southampton Fairmont Hotel. A global hotel chain that prides itself on being leaders in the green hotel marketplace, they offer everything from green meeting rooms and Audubon certified golf courses to rooftop gardens and  local, organic ingredients in their restaurants. They have ties to international environmental and wildlife organizations that coincide with each of their locations and the Southampton location in Bermuda is no different. Boasting 4 restaurants, inside as well as beach front, the Fairmont was incredibly accommodating to my special dietary needs. I had the luxury of staying on their Gold Floor that featured complimentary food and beverages all day. From breakfast and tea time to happy hour snacks and desserts, every day was a veritable smorgasbord! I devoured fun snacks like cucumber salads and mushroom purses as well as raw red pepper gaspacho and organic oatmeal. At the Waterlot Inn, located at the hotel’s ferry harbor, enjoy local drinks and dishes like Mushroom Risotto or the watermelon granola crumble for dessert! Be sure to ask for their lifestyle cuisine plus menu that offers veg, vegan. gluten free, diabetic and even macrobiotic options!

Additionally, the Fairmont has a fitness center, world class spa and of course, great beach activities such as snorkeling, paddle boarding and more! Stay green, healthy and fit with Fairmont!

Located in the capital city of  Hamilton (no relation, by the way), Muse Bistro is an eatery that showcases international fare with a twist. I had the distinct honor of meeting the chef whose passion for his food, restaurant and the island was exuberant. He told me about traditional Bermudian food along with its influences. I had the spinach onion and garlic bruschetta and was told that many of the dishes, including pasta, could be easily veganized. Yay!

If you’re visiting the Bermuda National Museum at the Royal Navy Dockyard, be sure to dine at Bonefish Bar and Grill overlooking the Great Sound. IWth traditional Bermuda faves such as rock fish and fish chowder, veggies can enjoy italian veggie paninis and more. Don’t forget to have a Dark and Stormy with your meal!

Looking for a neat dining experience? Check out Henry VIII in Southampton for all sorts of cuisine. Offering vegetarian Indian dishes and sushi, to local seafood and beyond, there is something for everyone in your dining party. I had a fabulous seaweed salad, veggie rolls and a pretty killer Indian Vegetable Strudel that was packed with veggies in a mild curry and coconut sauce. Plus, on the weekends, they’ve got a dj, dancing and plenty of drinks!

The Swizzle Inn is an absolute must. Showcasing another Bermudian drink, the Rum Swizzle, it is a fun, kitschy and tasty locale. With lots of veggie options, I had the curry lentil veggie burger and was tempted to veganize the nachos. Super fun vibe along with swizzle and good bar and grill eats, be sure to put the Swizzle Inn on your list. Swizzle in and Swagger Out!

Join me again for more Bermuda bites coming up soon!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

May 7, 2013
#travel #bermuda #vegan #eco #green #healthy

April 2013

1 post

Top 10 Easy Earth Day Activity Ideas

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Earth Day is just around the corner. Have you thought about what you might do to celebrate this big blue and green marble we call home? Well, here are some ideas for some earth friendly activities that you can do with friends and/or family for a fun and green Earth Day!

  • Go Meatless! Combine Meatless Monday with Earth Day for a healthy and environmental 1-2 punch!
  • Join a beach or park cleanup with groups like the Surfrider Foundation
  • Plant a tree – visit the Arbor Day site for more info
  • Check out a Green Drinks event in your area
  • If you have kids, Print out our calendar and draw a green star for each day that you do an activity that helps the earth!
  • Get your green thumb dirty and start a garden. While you’re at it, start a compost pile too!
  • Turn trash into treasure! Refurbish an old sofa, chair or even a garment. Get crafty and creative and you just might produce a work of art ; )
  • Park your car.  Spend the day walking or biking to the places you need to go. If you’re heading somewhere that’s a bit far, try public transporation!
  • Green Spring Clean. Swap our bulbs for energy efficient CFL’s, clean your house with eco alternative products, upcycle and or doante unwanted clothing and household items, etc. Get creative!
  • Cook up a local, organic meal and serve up some organic cocktails! Toast mother earth and yourself too!

Hopefully some of these ideas spark your imagination! Happy Earth Day!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

 

Apr 10, 20135 notes
#earth day #eco #green #tips #ideas #activities #suggestions #vegan #meatless

March 2013

2 posts

Light Eating in Lynchburg

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Just an hour or so south of Nashville, you’ll find the small town on Lynchburg. The reason it’s a place of note is that it’s most famous resident was Jack Daniels, and he chose to start his whiskey operation there. Home to the world famous whiskey’s distillery, it’s a great little small town with a neat historic attraction and adorable town square. So if you’re planning a visit, check out where and how to find healthy, vegan and special diet eats!

Obviously, the big draw to town is the Jack Daniels Distillery. On a beautiful piece of land, complete with a cavern and waterfall (the water from the aquifer is used in Jack!), it’s a super neat day trip. And don’t worry of you’re not a boozer as the distillery is located in a dry town so no drinky drinky o the tour! The tour is neat as it takes you to the spot where Jack’s temper lead to his untimely demise as well as through the entire whiskey making process. It’s quite interesting and a lot of fun. And depending on the time of year, the grounds have great places for a picnic so it might be a good idea to plan ahead and pack a fabulous meal to enjoy at the distillery.

If you don’t get teh chance to pack a meal, the best option for veganizing a meal in town is the Southern Perks Cafe. Offering pizza that is easily veganized by holding the cheese and a southwestern wrap, sans chicken and cheese. Perks also has salads that are simple to customize and all goes well with the southern charm and hospitality. It’s worth a drop in at Miss Mary Bobo’s Boarding House but for vegans, it’s a no go for eating. It’s a family style, set menu of southern comfort food, none of which is vegan. But like I said, it’s the second most popular spot in Lynchburg and worth a peek in if even to visit the gift shop and take a photo in front of the historic building.

And if all else fails, there is a Subway in town. Offering veggie sandwiches and now, veggie patties as a protein substitute. If you’re gluten free, shoot for a salad and pile on the veggies.

While food options might be scarce in Lynchburg, it’s worth a visit if you’re in the area just to take in the history behind it and for a photo opp with good ol’ Jack!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Mar 20, 2013
#lynchburg #tennessee #vegan #gluten free #restaurants #healthy #travel
Healthy And Vegan Options at Disneyland

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Who doesn’t love visitng the happiest place on earth? Well, I would imagine folks on special diets have some trouble at theme parks however, I’ve scoured both Disneyland and California Adventure and found some pretty fabulous options for vegans, gluten free diners and even health counscious park goers. Be you a kid or an adult, you can have the full magical experience with none of the food worries!  Here is what I found on my last visit to the Anaheim parks:

  • California Adventure – Cars Land – Flo’s V8 Diner – Veggie tater bake made with soy crumbles (vegans, order it sans cheese)
  • California Adventure – Starbuck’s – Soy milk beverages
  • California Adventure – Carthay Circle – Veggie risotto
  • California Adventure – Cocina Cucamonga - Veggie burritos and salads
  • California Adventure – Fairfax Market - fresh juices and healthy snacks like hummus and raw veggies
  • California Adventure – Lucky Fortune Cookery - Veggie rice bowls
  • California Adventure – Paradise Garden Grill - Tofu skewars, Mediterranean plates and salads
  • Disneyland - Blue Bayou - Portobello Risotto
  • Disneyland – Near Pirate’s of the Caribbean – Veggie Gumbo
  • Disneyland - Across from the Hanuted Mansion - Veggie Chili
  • Disneyland – Bengal BBQ – Veggie skewers
  • Disneyland – Jolly Holiday Cafe – Grilled veggie and mushroom salad with whole grains and soy milk for coffee
  • Disneyland – Tropical Imports – fresh juices and healthy snacks like hummus and raw veggies
  • Disneyland - Rancho del Zocalo - Veggie burritos and salads

To check out other Disneyland and California Adventure options, check out my theme park round up post! You can also check out options at the Orlando area parks here:

  • Hollywood Studios
  • Animal Kingdom
  • Epcot

Additionally, if you really want to plan your worry-free day at Epcot, make your dining reservations ahead of time and let guest services know of any special diet requests so they can accommodate you accordingly. Contact Disney’s Dining Reservation Center at (714) 781-DINE (3463) to speak with a Cast Member to make your special requests and reservations.

For mroe information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Mar 13, 20136 notes
#disneyland #travel #theme park #healthy #vegan #gluten free #dining #restaurants #options

February 2013

3 posts

Healthy and Vegan Eats in Franklin, Tennessee

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If you are planning a trip to Nashville, be sure to add Franklin to your list of places to visit in the area. Home to lots of civil war and historic battlefields and haunted sites, it’s also home to many musical celebrities and of course, some awesome veggie and gluten free options!

Brixx Pizza is a fun place for friends and family to dine.  And no one is left to starve as they offer vegan cheese and toppings as well as gluten free crust options, available for all varieties of their delicious, wood fired pizzas. They also serve a smorgasbord of salads, sandwiches and more.  I devoured my veggie stacked, vegan pizza and so will you ; ) And, Brixx is steps away from Frankiln’s newest Whole Foods so you can stock up after you dine so you don’t shop on an empty stomach!

For a great cafe atmosphere, check out Olivia’s Good News Cafe. Using all natural, organic, local and even superfood ingredients, Olivia’s is a great option when you’re in Franklin. The vegan love sandwich is awesome as are the quinoa veggie burger sliders! For gluten free folks, be sure to order up the gluten free mushroom pasta! Yum! Pop into Olivia’s and they will take care of you!

If you’re in the mood for a vegan wiener, Music City Dog House is the place for you! With live music and veggie dogs and vegan toppings for days, it’s tough to not leave full and with a smile. Don’t forget to veganize the Tornado Potato!

In search of an ethnic meal? Try Bombay Bistro! They’ve got tons of veggie options, so many in fact, you’ll have ti dine there  more than once! I had 2 kinds of samosas and the Aloo Saagwala and then shared veggie kofta. Mmmm!

Well, if you don’t bump into a country superstar here in Franklin, you’ll keep quite busy stuffing your face!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Feb 27, 20132 notes
#travel #vegan #gluten free #dining #restaurants #tennessee #franklin
Nashville's Healthy Eats

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Nashville, Tennessee. Another city seeded in music, country and country pop oozes from this town. Also known as NashVegas, Music City and of course, The Grand Ole Opry, this town is pulsing with music  and actually, it’s overflowing with flavor too! Follow me to see where to find some great vegan eats in Nashville!

One of the coolest parts of town is the 12 South District. Not far from downtown, it’s a hipster kind of town filled with cool places to shop, dine and sip. Here you will kind Burger Up, and upscale burger joint that doesn’t leave out the green eaters. I have to say that their black bean and quinoa burger makes my top 5 favorite burgers ever. The texture and flavors of the patty are fantastic but what sends it over the awesome edge is the crispy coating, yum!! You can enjoy gluten free buns as well as sweet potato fries and other burger fixins!

Now if it’s Italian you’re looking for, head to West End and check out Amerigo. Consistently winning “Best Of Nashville” awards, this Americanized Italian eatery has lots of great options for vegans as well as gluten free folks. I enjoyed a gluten free pasta with fabulous grilled veggies (mmm, artichoke, sundried tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, etc) along with a tasty glass of pinot noir. Light, flavorful and yummalicious!

In scoping out Nashville for cool places to shop and check out, I stumbled into The Germantown Cafe. Basically downtown in the up and coming neighborhood of Germantown, this joint is chic and mega scrumdidlyumptious! With a seasonal menu that highlights organic and fresh eats, veggies and gluten free diners have no problem here! I started with quinoa and black bean cakes as my appetizer and devoured my “Green Plate” entree that showcases a delectable Portobello mushroom, quinoa, butternut squash and lots of tender veggies that lead you to poner a second helping. A great place for a drink and a perfect place for a healthy and tasty meal!

Of course, I had to find the popular veggie spot and The Wild Cow is just that place in Nashville. Across the bridge, the Wild Cow offers up incredible vegetarian fare that is mainly vegan. Soups, salads, sandwiches and entrees, you can’t go wrong at the cow. I shared the spinach and artichoke dip, scarfed my vegan reuben and shared their insane oreo cheesecake. I also ordered a ton of to-go food for my plane ride home! A definite thumbs up for The Wild Cow!

There is still more to come from Nashville so stay tuned!!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com 

Feb 13, 20131 note
#nashville #travel #tennessee #vegan #dining #restaurants #healthy #gluten free
Budget Friendly Romance

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Wasn’t it just Christmas? Aren’t taxes due soon? This time of year money can be tight so finding the right gift for your sweetie can be tough. However, experiences trump material gifts any day! Why not create a great day or weekend where you get to spend time with your Valentine, showing them just how much you love being with them? Well, I’ve got some ideas that are not only healthy and green but will also make such a statement that your sweetheart won’t care about that diamond encrusted chocolate heart anymore!

  • Morning Glory - Nothing is more romantic than surprising your Valentine with a lavish breakfast in bed! Be sure you plan ahead to make sure you have everything you need to create your tasty menu. Be sure you let your sweetie know that they are the VIP and should lounge until breakfast is served. Perhaps turn on their favorite movie or show, have an assortment of magazines prepared for them and/or start them off with a yummy almond milk latte or fresh squeezed juice until the meal is served.  Try sweet potato pancakes, a fabulous tofu scramble or even decadent cinnamon rolls!
  • Romantic Camp Out - Plan a romantic getaway to your back yard! Pitch a tent and fill it with your fave bedding and bring your wifi enabled tv or tablet for smooth tunes or to cuddle and watch a great flick. Or, if you have an SUV or can borrow one, put down the seats and turn the back into a luxurious bed, park by the ocean, river, or great mountain spot. Either way, don’t forget to bring a great meal, snacks, dessert and/or some wine and bubbly!
  • Al Fresco Dine n’ Hike - If you and your honey are the outdoorsy type, find a hiking trail you haven’t tried out yet. Make a day of it by packing a great picnic so when you reach the perfect spot in the hike, you can relax and enjoy the scenery along with a tasty treat. 
  • Be A Hometown Tourist - Looking to get the juices flowing? Try planning a bike or walking tour of your city. Find an area you would like to explore and plan a bike tour with your Valentine. Roam a new part of town, stop in cute shops or eateries and have fun trying something new together.
  • Kitchen Action- For the foodie couple, try preparing a meal together. Nothing is sexier than cooking an aromatic meal together since you know it’s made with love! Try out a fun new menu from all the way from drinks and appetizers to dessert. Digest by cuddling and watching a great movie and don’t worry about the dishes until later!
  • “Creating” Memories - If you and your love are the creative types, try to start a fun project. Be it a painting you work on together, a piece of furniture or even planting a garden, whatever you create will be a lasting symbol of your special day together.
  • Pampering Powwow- If you are in the mood to pamper and relax, turn your bathroom into a spa! Get your bathroom ready for a luxurious bath by lighting candles, adding floral arrangements having slippers and robes handy as well as some champagne. Give each other spa services such as massages, mani/pedis, body scrubs and more!

The possibilities are endless and ultimately, regardless of budget, spending a special day or weekend together is what’s most important. Get creative, have fun and indulge in love!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Feb 6, 20131 note
#valentine's day #Budget #romance #tips #diy #green #eco #healthy

January 2013

4 posts

Healthy and Vegan Super Bowl Eats in New Orleans

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New Orleans, The Big Easy, Chocolate City…now add Home of Super Bowl 47! Hosting this year’s big game, fans witll be pouring into the city in droves and bringing an appetite. If you happen to be one of those fans and are looking to steer clear of greasy, fattening food, be sure to check out some of these places I found that offer up healthy, vegan and even gluten free options!

If you happen to wander the French Quarter in search of some southern delights, make a pitstop at The Gumbo Shop. This quaint eatery has been around for some time and specializes in southern cajun cooking. But what to do as a vegan? Order up a delicious veganized special ; ) They have a vegetarian special that changes nightly on the menu. It comes with salad and a tasty side (I had this crazy yummy corn dish) with the main dish being a rice an beans stew with some cajun kick. It is fantastic and I highly recommend The Gumbo Shop for veggies and omnivores alike. Great food and sweet southern hospitality!!

Looking for breakfast at dinner? Grab a hearty dinner/breakfast at Slim Goodies Diner. It’s a good 5-10 minutes outside of downtown but in the super cute Garden District. They have something for everyone including the hungry vegan. I had the Garden Slammer – a pile of hash browns, veggie bacon and veggie chili with lots of yummy veggies mixed in. My dude had pancakes ; ) Check out the creative menu at Slim Goodies!!

One thing that is hard to find is something quick and healthy off of Bourbon Street. It’s jam packed with bars, strip clubs and pizza joints but that’s about it. I hunted and I found The Royal Blend on Royal. Just a blockaway from the madness, I got a tasty veggie sandwich that was made completely fresh. They have a cute courtyard, coffee, soups, salads and pastries and is a great place to get a quick and healthy bite while hangin’ out near Bourbon.

A cuisine that you don’t often see is African. And having been to Africa myself, I have to say, it’s delicious! I was so excited to find Bennachin and even more excited when they had vegan options! I indulged in the “KONE NI MAKONDO” which is black-eyed peas in tomato and onion stew served with fried plantains and coconut rice. Awesome! Bennachin is definitely worth the stop!

Latin food is always on my mind so I was excited to stumble upon La Macarena. A latin eatery that features veggie and vegan options! Bringing me back to my childhood were the platanos and yucca tapas. And I thoroughly enjoyed the vegan pupusa! Fabulous for an on-the-go snack during sight seeing ; )

Yet another locale with tropical flair is Carmo Cafe. They LOVE their veggie and gluten free diners as they get to show off their fantastic array of tropical produce. My personal fave is the Esmerelda Salad with a slice of vegan banana bread, mmmmm!

So amidst the booze and beignets and football, New Orleans has a great amount of healthiness to go around ; )

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com 

Jan 30, 20131 note
#vegan #travel #super bowl #new orleans #healthy #gluten free #restaurants
Compassionate Eats in Orland, California

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Not really known for being a hot tourist town, Orland, California is actually quite special. With hundreds of people visiting this small farm town north of Sacramento, the main attraction is Farm Sanctuary. A beautiful farm dedicated to saving farm animals from slaughterhouses and other awful environments, giving them a new lease on life. Though Chico is only 20 minutes away, I was surprised to find some compassionate eats in this sweet, historic, all-American town!

One of the most beautiful places you can visit is Farm Sanctuary. With locations in New York, Los Angeles and in Orland, the opportunity to spend time with rescued farm animals is priceless. Founded by the compassionate vegan, Gene Bauer, Farm Sanctuary is the epitome of ethical vegan locations and if you find yourself getting the vegan munchies, be sure to stop into the gift shop for some goodies! I had the honor of speaking at their annual Celebration for the Turkeys this past Thanksgiving. A wonderful event that celebrates the turkeys, instead of consuming them, and feeds over 200 guests a delicious vegan Thanksgiving meal. It is 1 of 2 big events they do at each of the locations and one that everyone should experience at least once ; )

On the evening before the celebration, I was wined and dined at Farwood Bar and Grill. A historic establishment since 1916, Farwood actually has a secret vegan menu and the chef whips up an incredible vegan gourmet meal if you let them know ahead of time. It was a cold and rainy night and our meal was divine. Chef magic was made with a delicious butternut squash soup, incredible fried avocados, a fabulous seasonal vegetable pasta and awesome ice cream for dessert. Be sure to let you know you’re coming if you’re passing through town and they will hook you up!

For a quick meal, pop into the Soda Shop at 809 4th Street, Orland, for some sweet potato fries and a veggie burger. But if it’s chips, salsa and vegan burritos you’re looking for, be sure to check out La Corona, located at 1002 6th Street in Orland.

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Jan 23, 20131 note
#orland #california #healthy #vegan #vegetarian #restaurants #travel #gluten free
Healthy Eats in Chico

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Known for being a college town surrounded by farmland, Chico is a great little town in California. Just north of Sacramento, Chico has a great downtown area that is packed with cute shops, nice restaurants and an awesome park. It’s a fun place for a little excursion and a fab place to dine as well!

As you may have noticed, I’m always on the hunt for great vegan and gluten free pizzas when I travel and Left Coast Pizza definitely makes the cut! With a new gluten free option and tons of great veggie toppings, just order up a pie sans cheese and you’ve got a delicious meal that suits all your special dietary needs!

Nothing starts a morning right, especially when traveling, like a nice latte and a tasty pastry. Upper Crust Bakery hooks up their vegan and gluten free diners at breakfast as well as during lunch. Lots of delicious sandwiches, soups and salads, and even yummy black bean chili, UCB is a must on your dining card when in Chico ; )

If a nice sit down meal that cooks up healthy, local fare, Leon Bistro is your place. Using fresh, farmer’s market produce, they whip up some awesome vegan meals. You can veganize the wild mushroom wellington, devour their paleo sweet potato chips or savor their flavorful organic veggie platter. Or have them all, yum!

For a quick yet healthy meal, Pluto’s is just the place. Tossing up fresh, made-to-order salads and sandwiches, Pluto’s is perfect for a quick lunch on the go. I love their wide variety of vegan ingredients to create a ginormo yet nutritious bowl of green goodness!

I love Mexican food as it always puts a smile on my face. Tres Hombres is a super fun establishment with lots of great veggie options to help keep your tequila down ; ) Try the veggie fajitas or tacos and be sure to share some guacamole!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Jan 16, 2013
#travel #healthy #vegan #vegetarian #restaurants #california #chico #gluten free
Making Your New Year's Travel Resolution A Reality

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Well, it’s here, the new year. Gone are the holidays, our money and our waistlines and time to get back on track. Sure, everyone has goals and thnigs they want to accomplish this year but is traveling more something you think about every January 1st and never get around to doing? Well, all work and no play makes all of us dull folks. We need to strike a balance in our lives as this way we can be much more content and present in our daily lives. Not only will we be more productive, we will be healthier.  It is essential to have fun and take a load off every now and again and travel is the best way to do so. You’re away from the familiar, the routine, the daily grind. You gain perspective and you come back refreshed. And you don’t even need to be gone to long! You’d be surprised how great you feel even after a couple days away from home.

Check out a few of these New Year’s travel resolutions and se if they help you get off the couch, away fromthe computer screen and out into the world!

  1. Unplug - We are so tied to our gadgets that we never truly break free. Be sure that on your next trip, you take some time to leave the electronics in your suitcase. I know it’s tough but you’ll thank yourself later.
  2. Travel for business? Get out of the hotel! – If even for a few hours, take the time to get out and see the city you’re in. You are bound to be much more productive then if you are trapped in the 4 walls of your rented room the whole time.
  3. Think beyond the cheapest, closest getaway – Ok, finances are tight and so is time but in as long as it takes to drive somewhere, you can fly just a bit further & see something you’ve never seen before.  Do yourself a favor and “go that extra mile” because it will feel a whole lot more like an adventurous getaway.
  4. Cash in your vacation days – If you’ve got vacation days, USE THEM FOR A VACATION! You’ve earned it! Yes, sometimes life gets in the way and you need these days to run errands, etc but for Pete’s sake, live a little!
  5. Don’t wait for a travel buddy – We all make concessions as to why we don’t just get up and leave. One big one is traveling alone. But you’d be surprised how fun it can actually be. Depending on where you are going, you will most likely have a load of fun meeting new people as well as other out-of-towners while having the trip of your life and no strings attached!
  6. Do some good - voluntourism is a fabulous way to see the world while doing some good. It’s cost effective, beneficial and you’ll most likely go where most tourists never think to go. A truly unique experience.

So if you’re idea of getting some R&R is lying on a tropical beach or hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro, make it a point to make the plan and stick to it. You will be glad you did! Here’s to the year of breaking free for some adventure!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Jan 9, 20133 notes
#travel #resolution #tips #healthy #planning

December 2012

2 posts

Merry Eco Christmas

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Christmas is just around the corner and there is still lots to do. Shopping, cooking, parties, and traveling cn take a toll on you and your wallet. But be sure to try some of these easy and fun green tips that will help you be more eco conscious this holiday season and may even save some green from leaving your bank account!

Decor

  • Natural Decor & Scents – Pine cones, tree trimmings, baked goods and seasonal produce (cranberries, gourds, etc) all give the “look” of the holidays without having to buy a bunch of holiday decorations. Simmer cloves and ginger instead of burning candles and use what nature provides toaccent tablescapes and rooms around the house. Rosemary, thyme and sage are all evergreen, wonderfully fragrant and can be used to season recipes all year long. Other fragrant herbs include basil, chamomile, lavender and mint. And small, living evergreen trees can be later planted in your yard for year-round beauty. Using live plants also reduces the fire risks that come with cut greenery, which can often become bone-dry by the end of the holiday season.
  • Green your tree – Ok, so fake trees may save lots of trees from being cut but they are made of very yucky, non-eco friendly materials. And cutting a tree and throwing it out after the holiday is also bad.  So here are your options! Recycle your tree after the holiday or invest in an eco-friendly faux tree!
  • Reusable, not disposable – Paper holiday napkins, placemats and tablecloths offer convenience, but waste resources. Invest in holiday dishes, glassware and cloth napkins that you use every year. They will be a great part of your tradition and can be gifted to your children as well.
  • LED -  The eco-friendly way to light up the holidays! These lights can withstand all kinds of weather and are long lasting and durable as well. When compared to other lights, they are reasonably priced and come in all the different shapes, colors, and sizes to choose from.
  • Last year’s wrapping is this year’s decor - Reuse last year’s holiday items to dress up this year’s celebrations. Cut up old greeting cards to use as gift tags or place cards, or tape the front of old cards to inexpensive, plain-color gift bags. Re-use last year’s ribbons and bows, and frame especially-attractive greeting cards to hang on your walls as holiday accents.
  • Purge & Swap - Find other décor-hungry folks and offer to trade for the season.  Host a party and have people bring their décor items for swap and trade.  You never know what you might get!  Change up your theme tear to year without spending a dime!
  • Get crafty – Use left over materials to make your decorations.  This is great fun with kids too!  Get cloves and cover apples with them for a delicious way to get your house smelling nice, make salt dough decorations, popcorn chains and wreaths, paper snowflakes and more!
  • Wrap it up – instead of splurging on new wrapping paper, get creative. Use newspaper, junk mailers, or left over paper. Decorate it and have fun with it!. Turning paper grocery bags inside out and decorating them is a great green way to wrap ; )

Shopping

  • Make a list and check it twice – Making a list will save you the time, trouble and money you would spend if you just went to the mall willy nilly. List out all the people you need/want to get gifts for, then note some ideas down next to each one along with the total amount you want to spend for that person.
  • You better shop around – Do your homework this year and find the best deals for the items on your list. Don’t just buy the first thing you see just so you can cross it off your list. Deal hunt and also find out store price matching policies along with shipping deals, etc.
  • What’s old is new again – Hit up vintage stores for that on-of-a-kind gift.  You’re find something so unique and great that it will be the most talked about gift for years to come.
  • Give instead of receive -  Purge your house of unwanted items and take them to a consignment store or donate them.
  • Re-gifting, no longer a faux pas -  Why sit on something that you know you will never use. So long as it’s in good shape, it’s better off going to someone who will enjoy it.
  • Map out your shopping days -  Knowing where you need to go and planning your route can help you save time, gas and money. Again, heading to the mall willy nilly can really waste quite a bit of valuable time, money and gas. Consolidate trips to areas where you can get the most done, know store hours, deals, etc.
  • Shop online – Save yourself the agony of driving around, looking for parking, fighting the crowds and not getting what you need as it’s out of stock.  Skip the annoying steps and get right to the giving along with saving yet another trip to the post office to ship the gifts out yourself! Also, find sites that offer green packaging.
  • Rid yourself of the wrap -  So many items are packaged using excess plastic and other packaging materials. Try to avoid items like that as they are simply wasteful. Another great reason for hitting up vintage stores.
  • Not every gift needs to be a store bought one -  Sometimes making dinner, spending some one-on-one time, making a photo album or other personalized gift (a nature wreath, a bouquet of flowers, candle holders, etc) can mean much more than a store-bought gift.

Party

  • Cook once, eat thrice - Cook large batches of food that can be used in a number of items throughout the week. Also, make large batches of sauces and entrees like lasagna that can be frozen and re-heated in a pinch!
  • If hosting a party, opt for reusable dishware. You can even ask guests to bring their own plates, utensils and glasses! But if you’re not in the dish washing mood and want to conserve water, opt for eco-friendly, 100% compostable dishes, napkins and utensils instead.
  • Buy local, organic produce for your salads, snacks and goodies’!
  • Recycle! Beer bottles, soda cans, etc – be wise and have a well labeled recycle bin placed in a convenient location at your party.
  • Make smarter drinking choices like juices with organic liquor, organic wines and beers and most of all, drink responsibly.
  • Opt to make a healthy dish to bring to the festivities. Pre-packaged sides and snacks are full of preservatives and unpronounceable ingredients as well as yucky plastic packaging that fills up our landfills. If you can’t cook, bring organic bagged lettuce, organic dressing, a big bowl and you’ve brought a healthy side everyone will appreciate ; )

Have yourself a greeny little holiday season!!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Dec 11, 20123 notes
#green #eco #christmas #tips #holiday
Eco Hanukkah

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Folks around the country are just about to light the first candle on the menorah this weekend. For 8 nights there will be food, fun and family however, let us not forget to be green! Check out some of these easy tips to have a healthy and green Hanukkah!

Eco-nukkah Decor & Festivities

  • Make your own menorah – Get creative with the centerpiece of the holiday. Recycling and reusing every day materials is a great way to spice up the holiday. After all, conserving 1 night’s worth of oil for 8 nights is the most eco holiday tradition around so why not step it up a notch!
  • Burn eco candles– Cheap and conventional candles are toxic when burned. So keep you and yours healthy this Hanukkah by choosing soy based, natural candles for your menorah and festivities. Or if you are using an electric menorah, choose LED lights
  • Crafty decor – keep the kids busy by having them make dreidels out of milk cartons and Stars of David out of Popsicle sticks. They have fun, you keep them away from the kitchen and they get to keep a holiday souvenir!

Dinner time

  • Instead of having traditional fried potato latkes, try oven-baking them. Also adding in some veggies such as spinach or broccoli. Or better yet, make sweet potato latkes! But if you must fry, opt for coconut oil as it is a much healthier option.
  • As for topping the latkes, swap out sour cream for the vegan version or top with applesauce. Or try a fabulous gourmet jam instead!
  • Lighten up your matzo balls by cooking them with non-hydrogenated vegan butter or lighter oil, perhaps grapeseed ; )
  • Leave out the meat! Serve up meat free dishes that feature fun things like Field Roast, Tofurky, Match Meats or Gardein. See ya cholesterol!
  • Fry your Sufganiot in coconut oil or better yet, bake them.
  • Switch to vegan, fair trade, dark chcocolate gelt.
  • Make traditional pastries and cookies, like hamantashen or rugelach, with whole wheat flour or even gluten free flour.

Gifting

Check out our healthy and eco holiday gift guide for everyone on your list!

And with that, we wish you 8 beautifully healthy and green nights!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Dec 6, 20121 note
#hanukkah #green #eco #tips #healthy #food

November 2012

2 posts

Healthy Holiday Shopping Tips For You And Your Wallet

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If you haven’t already shopped your brains out on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, chances are you will be shop, shop, shopping your way through the holiday season. Outside of the financial strain on your bank account, shopping for hours on end, weekend after holiday weekend can be taxing on your body. This is why it’s important to shop smart both for your wallet and your body so be sure to check out a few of these tips before you make it rain dollar bills at the mall:

  • When heading out to shop, be sure you eat before leaving the house. Nothing kills your wallet and your stomach like fast or food court food.  Walk off your meal, that’s a better option ; )
  • Bring a healthy snack with you so you’re not tempted to snack on trash.  It’s also handy when you find yourself starving in a long line with no end in sight.
  • Wear comfortable shoes! Nothing kills a day of shopping like blisters and a headache. You need supportive and comfy shoes for holiday marathon shopping. Plus it makes it easier to run from sale to sale!
  • If you’re shipping gifts that you are purchasing out and about, bring your address list with you. A lot of the times stores can ship for you directly from the store so it saves you a step.
  • Speaking of shipping, know the cut off dates for packages to arrive on time. If you are a procrastinator, this tip will come in handy ; )
  • When shopping online, be sure that the sites you are shopping are secured sites. You can tell that it is secured if the address reads https: and/or there is a lock icon with a secure company logo on the bottom of your window. If uncertain, don’t make the purchase or you will have a nightmare before Christmas!
  • Be sure to add your coupon and promo codes at the right time before check out. Once you hit submit, sometimes it’s a hassle to get your discount.  Keep a window on your browser open to search for coupon codes of any store you are shopping at – you can save a pretty penny! Just cut and paste the codes into the promo window. Sometimes they don’t work but it’s always worth a shot!
  • Gift giving etiquette – Don’t give a gift you wouldn’t like to receive. Sure, it’s the thought that counts however,  if you re-gift some used, crappy odd n’ end or pick something up from the 99 cent store on your way to a party, maybe it’s best to just get a nice card instead ; )  Words can sometimes be better than a tacky nick knack that screams “gas station gift rack”.
  • Shop all year long – sounds like fun right? Actually, it’s a smart way to ensure that everyone on your list get something they actually want or speaks to their personality.  Ever see something and say “So and so would love that”. If you have the cash, buy it and save it in a special place instead of racking your brains Thanksgiving weekend wondering what you should get that so and so or where that cool thing was that you saw in July.  Think ahead as it will save you time, money and you look like the hero.  Also, keep notes of when the people on your list mention something they like or need – it really comes in handy during shopping season and your giftees will be overjoyed with your thoughtfulness ; )
  • When in doubt, give a gift card!  You can get them virtually anywhere, in any denomination and the person o your list gets to go on a mini shopping spree, thanks to you!

Have a very happy, healthy and green gift giving season!

For more information, visit www. healthyvoyager.com

Nov 28, 2012
#money #shopping #holiday #health #wellness #tips #budget
Healthy Tips On How To Survive The Holidays and Seasonal Travel

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We have made it to the most wonderful time of the year! Or so they say. This time of year, for many, is that mad scramble to shop, fly or drive and be merry. We all spread ourselves a little too thin, grind our teeth in order to not make waves during a family gathering and do our best to dodge illness despite germy flights and malls. Well, below I’ve concoted my list of tips on how to keep up your immune system, lower your stress level and actually have a merry little holiday season. Easy healthy travel tips along with ways to keep the peace during this festive season!

Holiday travel is one of the most stressful things we encounter every year as well as dealing with family members and mingling with all sorts of people either at parties, at work or at the mall. Be sure to use this cheat sheet and easy tips to keep your holiday travel and gatherings healthy and stress free!

Check out  these tips to keep healthy and sane this holiday travel season:

  • Pack patience! Now that the TSA has added heightened security measures and airlines have tacked on more fees, flying can be a beast.  Do your best to give yourself enough time to get through the lines and know that it’s all just part of the experience.
  • Pack  good attitude! Nothing spoils a holiday trip or exacerbates any problems more then a sour disposition. Do your best to make the most of the situation and enjoy the season because it only comes once a year. You never know what great memories you will make if you’re willing to enjoy the holiday!
  • Eat before you leave the house. You should always leave with a full tummy or you will be tempted to nosh on whatever is convenient. And that means expensive junk food that’s bad for you and the trash cans!
  • Know before you go. Know which airports you will be flying in and out of, laying over at, etc. Most have websites that show what dining establishments can be found in each terminal. For instance, I know that the Delta terminal at LAX has a Starbucks (for my soy latte) and a CPK express where I can grab a salad or soup for the flight. Most international hubs have chain restaurants or familiar fast food counters where you can order up a healthy meal for your in flight pleasure. From a veggie salad or sandwich at Quiznos to a black Bean Burger at Chili’s To Go, there are ways to not give in to bags of pretzels and pounds of danishes to keep you from passing out on your flight. The World Travel Guide site will lead you to each city’s airport web site.
  • Stay Hydrated. Seeing as how we cannot bring our own beverages from home anymore, the first purchase to make upon entering your gate is a big bottle of water. Or better yet, pack your favorite glass or BPA-free bottle in your carry on bag and fill it at the airport. This way you save money and you aren’t drinking unhealthy water or contributing to landfill waste. Above all else, staying hydrated during air travel is key to cutting down on fatigue and fighting off the munchies!
  • Take your vitamins & eat your veggies. If you’re running around and not able to eat balanced meals on your travel day, be sure to pack water soluble vitamin packets. In addition, there are many powdered veggie drinks that you can down and get your recommended servings of veggies a day to keep your immune system top notch when sucking in recycled air. My favorite brand for both is To Go Brands Go Greens and Vitamin C packs.
  • Stay away from caffeine. Drinking caffeinated beverages on or before a flight will keep you from relaxing on the plane.  In addition, it messes with your insulin levels and can cause you to overeat.
  • Don’t drink alcohol in flight. Alcoholic beverages have double the effect in the air as they do on the ground,  so you’re definitely gonna feel crappy when you get to your destination. If you need to relax, grab some all natural melatonin to help you sleep along with some soothing tunes.
  • Pack snacks. Stock up on healthy bars, nuts and even sandwiches.  Pack your carry-on with your own goodies so you aren’t spending money at the terminal on expensive, crappy food to be sure and have something on hand when hunger strikes.
  • Sleep well the night before travel. That’s the toughest with the anticipation and stress that comes with flying during the holidays, but it can be done. And if not, invest in a flight pillow, eye mask, earplugs or noise reducing headphones and a blanket. Bring all the comforts of home with you to make your catching ZZZs in the air easier.
  • Plan ahead!. Know where you’re going directly after you pick up your bags at your destination. Home, hotel, family’s house, wherever – map out what is close by in case you need to pick up a snack or a full blown meal so you don’t keel over and start your vacation on a bad foot.

As far as getting through the stressful holidays without any familial or friend tension, here are some good rule of thumb tips for holiday gatherings that will keep the peace during this festive season:

  • While conversation is a must, and can be very enjoyable, over the holiday dinner table, specific topics should not be discussed.  While no one likes to dinner over awkward or superficial chatter, no one likes a meal to turn ugly.  Obviously the biggies to stay away from are politics, religion and sex (unless of course your group enjoys those topics). For the most part, not everyone will agree on such topics and it’s best to leave them alone. In fact, this includes veganism. The holiday table is not a place to stand on your soapbox unless it has been asked of you. In addition, it is not a place for attack on someone who is different.  If a topic comes up that you are uncomfortable with, politely let them know that you do not wish to discuss that particular topic at that time. Shut it down with a smile and offer up a new topic.
  • Never assume that a host will be able to provide everything you need.  Always be prepared. It is impossible to make everyone happy and sometimes folks are left out of certain things.  If you have special dietary needs, be sure to let your host know ahead of time and offer to bring a dish that you can eat and share with the group. Or to be extra safe, eat before you got to the dinner so that you aren’t left starving during the meal.  The holidays are about enjoying the company of others so do your best to focus on that instead of what you can and can’t eat.
  • If you are hosting a meal, be mindful of others. In fact, the best way to have a happy gathering is to share the experience. Potluck dinners are the best way to include everyone and the onus doesn’t fall on you to feed a bunch of folks who may or may not like your taste in food.
  • If you aren’t feeling well or are in a particularly foul mood, admit it. Do what you can to handle your emotions before heading to a gathering. It’s not healthy for you or the other guests if you aren’t up for it or worse, taking it out on them. If you can pull through and try to have a good time, great. Otherwise, we all have bad days so do what you need to do to sort it out because nothing ruins your holiday and others like a foul mood.
  • Nobody’s perfect – try to plan ahead. I know this sounds like common sense, but it’s really important to remember. If you want to have people over and you’re working, don’t go crazy trying to make everything – get some food at the deli or the gourmet shop. A lot of times, people don’t mind bringing a salad or dessert. The point is to get together and celebrate with people, rather than trying to make it perfect.
  • Traditions can be changed. This might be hard for people, but there are a lot of people who actually dread the holidays, and some of that may be due to the way they’re celebrated. Maybe you don’t have to always be at Great Aunt Sue’s house, even though she’s hosted the holiday for years. Think of these things as being fluid and when they’re outmoded or outdated, come up with some new ones.
  • Don’t let the details take over. It’s difficult to find the time to get everything done during the holidays, but it’s the people who are really important to you and those who take care of you, that you must remember. Try not to be so overwhelmed doing things like writing out Christmas cards that you can’t talk to your loved ones. Don’t brush people off because of the holiday madness.
  • Always thank people. Whether it’s in writing or in person, you must put gratitude at the top. There’s never an excuse for not thanking someone for an invite or gift.

Remember that the holidays are about connection with others, understanding and love. The best rule, year round, is to treat others how you like to be treated, and there is no exception to that rule, especially over the holidays ; )

Also, This Thanksgiving, do your best to practice the act of gratitude, regardless of who you are with or where you happen to be this holiday. While the feast seems to take center stage next to football, parades and crazy black Friday shopping, the true meaning of this holiday is to give thanks so make sure that you don’t forget to do so this year!

For more information, www.HealthyVoyager.com

Nov 7, 2012
#healthy #holiday travel #survival tips #vegan #vegetarian #etiquette

October 2012

3 posts

Green Halloween

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‘Tis the season for black, orange and purple but let’s not forget about green! While we are prepping for ghouls, goblins and sinful goodies, be sure to try some of these simple green tips so that the rest of the year doesn’t become an environmental nightmare!

  • Visit and sign up for Green Halloween – it’s a great resource for parents & schools to help make Halloween healthy and safe for our most precious goblins ; )
  • Visit school and community organized Halloween events, pumpkin patches and haunted houses.  It’s a great way to help out your community while having some good clean fun.
  • If you are hosting a party, opt for the weekend after Halloween. This way, you can enjoy the actual Halloween night as well as the competing parties and you have an excuse to wear your costume 1 more time!  It’s also a great way to rid yourself of left over candy and be able to enjoy the fun for a bit longer ; ) Or maybe, celebrate Dia De Los Muertos Day on November 1st with some creepy pinatas and fun Mexican style cuisine!
  • Make creative and healthy treats for your guests as well as opting for home made or recycled decorations. Here are some quick spooky treat ideas
  1. Witch Fingers – Organic pretzel Rods dipped in Organic Chocolate and tipped with a Raspberry Licorice nail
  2. Eyeballs – Peeled red, seedless grapes
  3. Bat wings – chocolate kale chips
  4. Veggie Crudite with Hummus in the shape of a skeleton
  5. Guacamole brains – guacamole served in a manequin head
  • Make your own costumes. Each year Dan & I raid local thrift stores and put together our costumes by just recycling people’s discarded clothes. We not only get great inspiration but we save a lot of moola by not buying pre-packaged costumes. If you or a friend has a sewing machine, you can alter and embellish the garments for a unique disguise. Plus you can avoid hearing, “OMG, we’re wearing the same costume” at any spooky festivities!
  • Use reusable cloth or canvas bags for trick or treating. You can wash them if their is any chocolate meltage and they won’t tear or break saving you from disappointed little goblins ; ) Even better, personalize the bag and designate it as their personal trick or treat bag to use every year!
  • Environmentally conscious Halloweenites may want to bring along an extra bag for trash. Many excited little ghouls may leave behind wrappers and half eaten treats. Be a good witch and pick up what you see along your evening and make up for the naughty little gremlins ; )
  • Practice what you preach and hand out healthy Halloween treats like what they sell at Vegan Essentials and other online vegan stores or even at Whole Foods.
  • If you are hosting a party, make it green:
  1. Feature organic, locally grown pumpkins for carving, apples for bobbing, and other pesticide-free, harvest season foods. Make sure you save the leftover apples and pumpkins to use in pies, soups, or other dishes.
  2. Use dishes, cutlery, napkins and tablecloths that can be washed and reused instead of disposable plastic and paper tableware. Also, look into potato or corn based disposables if you cannot accommodate the party with your personal dishes.
  3. Use recycled and recyclable materials to create your Halloween decorations. Bed sheets hung from the ceiling or tree branches make great ghosts, for example, and can be taken down, laundered, and returned to the linen closet when Halloween is over.

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Oct 23, 2012
#green #eco #halloween #tips #vegan #healthy
Play
Oct 17, 2012
#healthy #tip #video #sick #cold #prevention #illness #iimmune system #sugar free
Vegan Eats in Brooklyn

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Despite having spent so much time in Manhattan, I’m not ready to leave without looking into the delicious, healthy and vegan eats available across the East River in Brooklyn! So many hip neighborhoods and so much good food, let’s get started!

Being in a concrete jungle, amongst all the hustle and bustle, finding serenity is key. And serenity you will find at Boerum Hill’s Tres Belle Petite Medi-Spa, a fully cruelty free and all natural med-spa.  Warm, modern and welcoming, Tres Belle offers fantastic facials with only the best products as well as laser hair removal to rock your cute skirt, worry-free, all year round. They use only the best and most beneficial products for skin and employ only the top in skin care experts. An eco-friendly location that caters to their clients’ every need, a treatment at Tres Belle will be a welcomed break from sightseeing, overeating, walking or work! It’s no wonder they win best spa accolades year after year!

I did cartwheels and squealed with glee when I stumbled upon The V Spot. Why? It’s not only a vegan Latin restaurant, it’s a vegan Colombian restaurant! Being Colombian, I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into vegan versions of food I grew up with. They’ve got all sorts of incredible Latin dishes but I HAD to order the Bandeja Paisa, a typical Colombian variety plate of awesome food! But if you aren’t into Colombian food, they have everything from breakfast to dessert and everything in between, all vegan and plenty of gluten free options. Located in the Park Slope neighborhood, bring cash and a big appetite and enjoy The V Spot! Oh, and they have their own line of products so be sure to stock up!

Having opened their doors only a few short months ago is DunWell Doughnuts, Brooklyn’s fully vegan doughnut shop in Williamsburg (neat Bushwick)! With over 200 doughnut flavors, delicious vegan ice cream and fab coffee, DunWell has quickly become the New York area’s biggest hit. Artisanal flavors, gourmet execution and a hip Brooklyn vibe make this place an absolute must visit when in town. I had to try flavors like Sweet Potato Pie, Rose with Dark Lavender and Maple Bourbon because I knew that no other doughnut shop would ever come close to such culinary coolness! Yum!

Now, if you’re in search of a place to eat with your non-vegan dining mates, FoodSwings is the place. Herbivore tested, carnivore approved. A giant menu filled with burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, salads and shakes, no one will leave this place hungry. They even mock the conventional burger joints by having their own version of an monster burger, The Vegan Heart Attack! Be sure to share some buffalo drumsticks, a ginormous burger (I loved the gyro burger) and save room for a Butterfinger milk shake. Come in for lunch or midnight munchies, but no matter what, find your way to Foodswings in Williamsburg!

Alright, I’m finally heading out of the NYC area. See you next week in a new locale!

For more information, www.HealthyVoyager.com

Oct 10, 2012
#brooklyn #new york #vegan #healthy #dining #gluten free #travel

September 2012

4 posts

Healthy and Vegan New York Eats Part 2

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New York City really is a mecca for foodies so there is no way I could get away with just one post on finding healthy, vegan and gluten free eats here. The city is a hub for creative cuisine as well as eco-friendly places to stay while visiting so without further a due, let’s get going!

First things first, where to stay. While NYC is known for it’s incredible hotels, from chic to posh, trendy to classy, The Barclay Intercontinental Hotel is a city staple. Once part of the Pan Am empire, The Barclay showcases NY class with fabulous progressive green initiatives. Located in mid-town, this historic hotel takes every opportunity to be green. From having their own rooftop bee hive and organic garden as well as doing their own, in-house composting that goes out to local parks to serving local only produce and food and using green lighting in every hotel fixture, The Barclay combines the best of both worlds.

The staff is fabulous and incredibly helpful, the “greeness” of the hotel unmatched. A bit of old school, big city luxury with all the amenities and accoutrements of the hip green hotels. The location is perfect for getting in and around anywhere in Manhattan and surrounding Burroughs in addition to having a comfortable stay and a clear conscience!

Got a hankerin’ for some yummy Asian fusion? Gobo‘s upper east side combines terrific Asian style, vegetarian dishes with some unique international fare. Always fresh and relaxing, Gobo is a hit for all sorts of diners. From omivores to raw foodies, the Gobo menu does not disappoint! I ate a smorgasboard of food that included delicious appaetizers, healthy beverages, awesome entrees and a to-die-for dessert. My personal faves were the crispy spinach & vegan cheese wontons, raw chakra rolls, cashew spinach rolls & the coconut creme brulee! With 2 locations in Manhattan, pop in to either one for brunch, lunch or dinner!

Dessert is eminent when in New York and the premiere place for that is Babycakes NYC. Having expanded to Los Angeles and Disney World Orlando, the original location can be found in Manhattan. A bakery to satisfy every sweet tooth, Babycakes features all vegan treats along with gluten free. Using all natural ingredients, it’s a guilt free indulgence that will put a smile on anyone’s face. I dig their caramel berry donuts and red velvet cupcakes, Mmmm!!

You can’t go to New York without having pizza. And you’d be surprised at the killer places that have it! I found a great all natural pizza joint on the upper west side as well as a killer vegan slice on the upper east side.  Cafe Viva is an all-natural pizza shop featuring all sorts of healthy crusts, including gluten free, as well as a slew a ready made and custom vegan pies. Tons of great toppings and crusts, Cafe Viva is amore! And for a real NY pizza experience that has a great vegan option, check out Mariella Pizza. Order up the Sicilian brushetta pie and be transported to pizza heaven! It’s no wonder Oprah and Gail named it the best pizza in America!

For a few more awesome places to find healthy, vegan and gluten free eats in Manhattan, check out our part 3 post!

We’re not stoppin’ here though! No sleep till Brooklyn (next week!)

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Sep 25, 20124 notes
#vegan #healthy #travel #dining #New York City #Manhattan #gluten free
Healthy and Vegan New York Eats, Part 1

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New York City, The Big Apple, The City That Never Sleeps…So many monikers for this world famous metropolis. One of the greatest cities in the world, a hub for business, entertainment and best of all, food! This island is home to some of the world’s best cuisine. Which is why one post is just not enough! I’ll  start with a few delicious hot spots but keep you wanting more in my next post! Let’s get started, shall we?

While I have past posts that showcase a vast array of healthy, vegan and gluten free locales for city visitors, there are plenty more to report on so let’s get started! (You can read post 1, 2, and/or 3 to see places I popped into on my last visit)

One of my all time faves, anywhere in the world, is Candle Cafe. Since they first opened their doors, they have expanded to Candle 79, a delicious fine dining location and now, Candle Cafe West. With a booming new frozen food line and their always popular Manhattan eateries, there seems to be no stopping the vegan Candeliers ; ) Always a warm welcome and incredible food, the new Candle Cafe West is a great casual spot for some hearty food. It’s a must to start with the seitan chimichurri skewers, perhaps share a tofu and sweet potato sandwich and save room for the decadent chocolate cake! Then of course save time to hit up Candle 79 for a great organic drink and a terrific din din!

A fun place for a quick bite is ‘Snice. With 3 locations spread 2 boroughs (Brooklyn and in the city in Soho and the West Village), if you have a hankering for a great yet casual meal, they’ve got you covered. Serving breakfast and lunch as well as coffee and tea, their sandwiches are the main event. Of course, my eyes focused immediately on the Cuban panini and I fell in love ; ) I also had a bit of hubby’s Philly seitan cheese steak, yum! Eat in or take food to go, either way, it’s always ‘snice ; )

If you’re in the mood for gourmet raw food in a chic locale, Pure Food and Wine is THE place. Home to beautifully presented raw vegan creations, beautiful people and 2 beautiful dining rooms (2 indoor and 1 great outdoor patio), Pure Food is the jam. For a romantic dinner or a fab meal with girlfriends, Pure brings the noise and the funk. The lasagna is hearty and full of flavor but be sure to save room for their insane sundae. And, their juice bar in Chelsea Market and Gramercy Park cannot be missed, along with their fun online products available on their website (including Sarma’s cookbooks, organic pet food and more!)

Now, I can’t go to any city without sampling their vegan dessert options and Lula’s Sweet Apothecary in the East Village does not disappoint. A cool, old-timey themed ice cream parlor with posters of ailment treating drugs from days of yore, Lula’s homemade vegan ice creams rule! Almost all are soy free and gluten free and definitely cured my sweet tooth! Go for a traditional sundae or try out a fun new flavor like cola or cake batter! Awesome any time of the year, make Lula’s a must visit on your list of NY sites.

No one can deny that a trip to the Empire City isn’t nice on the wallet. So for a great place to stay that doesn’t break the bank, Roomorama is the perfect choice for NYC and surrounding area accommodations. Depending on your budget, who you may be traveling with, etc, there is something for everyone at all prices. For couch surfers to room renters to wanting to live large in an NYC loft, they’ve got it. Locations can be found all over town and it’s super simple to book and get what you want. Be budget and Eco-conscious with the fine services of Roomorama, world wide!

Well, I’ll be back because I’ve got more to tell you about in NYC!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Sep 19, 20121 note
#new york #new york city #vegan #healthy #gluten free #travel
Sep 11, 2012
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Sep 5, 20121 note
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August 2012

4 posts

Healthy & Vegan Labor Day Recipes

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It’s time to say goodbye to summer and hello to school, busy schedules, turning leaves and chilly weather. While fall is fabulous, summer is the most relaxing season, one we all tend to feel blue about bidding fond farewell to. But since we’ll have to be squeezing into long pants soon, it’s a smart idea to not go too crazy this last weekend of summer. Sure, let loose and have a great time but try these light and luscious recipes for your final summer soiree so you don’t have to go up a pant size in your fall wardrobe! Enjoy!

Sionara Summer Noodle Salad

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup of rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoon agave

Combine all ingredients thoroughly. Let sit for an hour.

Salad

  • 1 handful of cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 1 handful of basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 green onions, diced finely
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, julienned
  • 1/2 yellow bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 cup of shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup of toasted peanuts
  • 1/2 lb cooked soba noodles

Prepare all the vegetables, set aside. Once the noodles have cooked, rinse with cold water and drain. Once the noodles are cool, add the vegetables and peanuts. Mix the dressing again thoroughly then add to the noodles and vegetables. Stir until well combined and serve.

Tempeh Peanut Satay

  • 1/2 cup grated coconut
  • 2 teaspoon agave
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup tamari
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 lb of tempeh, steamed for 20 min
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1 teaspoon sherry
  • 1/2 teaspoon vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup plain soy yogurt

Marinade:
Puree orange juice with only half of the agave, coconut, tamari and cayenne pepper in a blender. Cut tempeh into 2 cm cubes and add to marinade. Set aside for 1 hour.

Peanut sauce:
Blend remainder of agave, tamari and cayenne pepper together with the peanut butter, sherry, vinegar, garlic powder and soy yogurt. Refrigerate.

Thread tempeh cubes onto 4 skewers. Grill tempeh over medium-hot grill 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Brush kebabs with marinade and sprinkle with remaining coconut. Serve the tempeh kebabs with peanut sauce.

Caipirinha Cooler

  • 1 lime, quartered
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons ginger syrup
  • 1 sprig mint
  • 2 ounces cachaça (or rum if you can’t find cachaça)
  • 1 quarter-sized slice raw ginger

Muddle lime with ginger syrup and mint. Add cachaça, shake and pour over ice. Add a raw ginger wedge for garnish.

Virgin Recipe :

  • 1/2 diced lime
  • 1/2 small diced lemon
  • 1/2 small diced orange
  • 1 sugar cube
  • ginger ale
  • fresh mint

Place the fruit in the bottom of a mixing glass. Add the sugar cube and a dash of ginger beer. Muddle to release the juices. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. Top with ginger beer. Garnish with mint.

Piña Colada Popsicles

  • 1 can light coconut milk
  • 2 cups Pineapple juice
  • 1 banana

Pour ingredients into a blender and puree. Pour into Popsicle molds and freeze at least 4 hours.

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Aug 29, 20123 notes
#labor day #healthy #vegan #vegetarian #gluten free #recipes
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Aug 15, 20122 notes
#vegan #travel #knotts berry farm #theme park #healthy #food #options
Great Vegan Food In Phoenix

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Arizona, the southwestern desert state and home to the Grand Canyon. The largest city in the state, Phoenix, is a growing capital boasting its own baseball team, great outdoor activities and yes, a growing foodie population. I was stoked to see the great variety of healthy, vegan and gluten free places to dine in and around Phoenix and I know you will too!!

My biggest excitement comes from Green Vegetarian. With 2 locations across Phoenix, and hopefully more soon, Green is a fully vegan, healthy comfort food joint with a unique menu unlike any other veggie “fast food” joint I’ve seen. Try these dishes on for size: crab puffs, artichoke gratine, jerk tofu salad…Yum! Fantastic appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pizzas and bowls, you can go super tasty and healthy to still super healthy and naughty! I’m looking forward to hearing about Green’s growth in and around the Phoenix area and beyond!

Directly next door to Green, you’ll find Nami, a fully vegan dessert and ice cream shop! Owned by and operated by chef Damon of Green, Nami, or Tsoynami, rules! Get an insanely delicious blizzard on a hot day or devour a gluten free cupcake with a latte on a cool night. Plenty of seating and so many fabulous options, be sure to save room after Green to go nuts at Nami!

You may have heard me rave about True Food Kitchen in LA but just in case you missed it, you can dine at this chic organic eatery in Phoenix! Located in the Biltmore Fashion Park as well as in Scottsdale, True Food is the brainchild of Dr. Andrew Weil. A menu that is completely organic and focusing on health, there is something for every kind of health nut, even non-health nuts! I live for their Tuscan Kale Salad but this time opted for the kale pizza on gluten free crust. De.Lish! I also treated myself to a divine juice and of course, a vegan chocolate mousse. With indoor and outdoor dining a terrific meal with zero guilt at True Food!

If you’re in search for some pure, clean and peaceful vegan eats, Chakra 4 Herb & Tea House and vegetarian restaurant is the place for you. An incredible herb and tea house with a wonderful raw, vegan and super healthy menu, no dish is a bad choice. I love the healthy versions of traditional vegan dishes such as the noritos (seaweed nachos), raw zucchini linguini with walnut meat balls and “maca”roons. Come for lunch, stay for serenity and tea!

For a fun bar and some live music to go with your food, check out Carly’s Bistro. A full bar and bistro in downtown, Carly’s doesn’t forget about their leaf eatin’ patrons. Goodies like bruschetta or their vegan wrap are tasty and go well with wine and tunes any night of the week. Always fun, full of flavor and plenty to drink and hear!

There is still so much more to phoenix so join me next week for another batch of healthy, vegan and gluten free eats in Sun City!

For more information, visit www.HealthyVoyager.com

Aug 8, 20124 notes
#arizona #phoenix #healthy #vegan #gluten free #restaurants #travel
More Vegan Eats in San Antonio

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So I’m back in Alamo City! This time it was just a quick trip but ling enough to be able to report on some new finds! If you missed my part 1 and part 2 San Antonio write ups, be sure to check those out after you read up on my latest jaunt in ol’ San Antone!

So, I would love to start by giving props to The Toilet Seat Museum. Yes, you read this correctly ; ) As seen in the photo, I’m ecstatic to be visiting with 90 year old Barney, creator and curator of his own off-the-wall museum. If you love kooky Americana and activities that are off the beaten path, this is your place. plus, you’ll fall in love Barney. The sweetest man you’ll ever meet, you’ll want to clear your schedule and spend all day with him! His handmade collection of over 1,000 toilet seats spans 4 decades. The retired teacher and former plumber is a wonderful artist and quite creative in capturing moments in history as well as his life via his art covered toilet seats. I’m holding up his Colombian seat, made in honor of guests who had visited him from there. Being of Colombian decent, he had me sign it ; ) Barney will make you feel like his very special guest but you will leave knowing you have met a very special person! be sure to call him ahead of time so he can open up at his own pace ; )

Opened just after I left San Antonio last time is Vegeria, the first and only vegan restaurant in town. A large menu full of delicious Mexican, southern and all around great dishes, Vegeria is a great place to plant the vegan seed in San Antonio. Fresh desserts are made daily as are fun new specials, come one, come all to vegeria! The noaples tacos and tamales are customer faves (nopales are catus!) and mine were the sweet potato enchiladas and the strawberry shortcake cupcakes!

If you’re looking for chic Mexican food, Paloma Blanca is your place. The menu is chock full of gourmet Mexican fare with a nod to the healthy diner. I LOVE that they offer a skinny margarita made with fresh lime juice and agave, no yucky mix! Their salsa as fantastic and the dishes that can easily be made veggie and/or gluten free are awesome in addition to their on menu listed low fat, low sodium and celiac dishes. I opted for the veganized Enchiladas San Miguel to accompany my skinny marg and finger lickin’ guac!

Lastly, a locale I missed on my previous trip is Green Vegetarian. A staple for veggies in the area, Green offers vegetarian, kosher and vegan dishes. With 2 locations and serving lunch and dinner, as well as Sunday brunch, no one leaves hungry at Green. Soups, salads, sandwiches and entrees galore, it’s hard to choose. But I’ll say my personal fave is their vegan breakfast tacos and their cupcakes!

Well, that’s a wrap for this trip to San Antonio. I’ll be sure to report back next time I’m in Texas!

For more information, visit www.healthyvoyager.com

Aug 1, 20121 note
#san antonio #texas #vegan #dining #travel #healthy

July 2012

3 posts

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Jul 25, 20121 note
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Nutritious Noshing in New Braunfels

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Last time I was in Texas, I got the chance to do a tiny bit of road tripping and I stumbled upon New Braunfels. Just outside of San Antonio in Texas Hill Country, this quaint town was settled by German immigrants in the mid-1800′s. With some real American history that can still be seen in parts of downtown, New Braunfels is best known for being the home of Schlitterbahn, a killer water park complete with water roller coaster! But the best part is that amongst the water flumes and ghosts of America’s past, you’ll find some delicious and nutritious grub!

I’ll start with dessert! 2tarts Bakery is a hip bakery that offers up tasty treats for all sorts of special diet sweet toothers. Conventional baked goods along with vegan and gluten free offerings, 2tarts is a great place to get your sweet on and hang with friends. I love that they are open late, are in the heart of downtown and rock dessert like nobodies business! They even do catering and weddings! I had the good fortune of stumbling upon them and devouring a giant vegan chocolate peanut butter cup! Yumm!! Be sure to stop in and say hi to the baking sisters of 2tarts for a treat.

A really cool place, not far from 2tarts, is Liberty Bistro. Located in the basement of the old city hall building, this all American bistro serves up some neat dishes in a unique setting. Sit in an old vault while sipping wine or in the main dining room while checking out the old photos and don’t forget to delve into their menu. Lots of healthy salads and easily veganizable dishes, it’s a neat environment for a meal. I had a tasty pats with an even more tasty salad and then asked around about ghost stories! And yeah, I got an earful!

If you’re looking for a drink, some more history and some great food, The Phoenix Saloon is your place. Not only is the Phoenix the birthplace of chili, oh yeah, it’s been serving up drinks since 1871. The bar was the first in Texas to serve women and even had an alligator pit for unruly customers. While it graciously serves all kinds of people and unruly customers just get kicked out onto the sidewalk now, the Phoenix has great veggie options. Veggie chili (of course), veggie burgers and fun sides, this historic gastropub is a must visit!

On the lighter side, you’ll find Naturally. A fresh juice bar and bakery, you can grab a sandwich, salad or even a healthy kids meal there too. Lots of healthy options along with vegan and gluten free, Naturally is the perfect place for a light and quick meal or snack.

My time in New Braunfels may have been quick but the experience will last forever. I’m a sucker for history and it’s even better when wrapped in awesome food! Stop in for Schlitterbahn and stay for some food and spirits!!


www.healthyvoyager.com

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Jul 11, 2012
#New Braunfels #Texas #vegan #vegetarian #healthy #travel #gluten free
More Austin Vegan Eats

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Since Austin has so many great places to find healthy, vegan, gluten free and other tasty special diet eats, I thought I’d come back for round 2! Such a great Texas city that combines the hip and cool with great southern charm, check out some other fantastic places to visit when in Austin!

I’ll begin with an Austin staple. An eatery that serves breakfast 24 hours a day and caters to veg heads, gluten free foodies and more. With 5 locations across town, Kerbey Lane Cafe is the place to go for breakfast, lunch, dinner or that oh so mandatory after partying meal at 3 or 4am! Normally, veggies opt for a lame salad or toast at n all night diner but not at Kerbey Lane. Feast on vegan queso, vegan pancake stacks for days or my personal fave, the vegan breakfast platter. Sandwiches, salads and entrees and sweet treats also include us finicky foodies wit dishes like the hippy burger, enchiladas and a daily vegan dessert (I had an insane strawberry lemonade cake!) So no matter the time of day, Kerbey Lane Cafe is your safe haven for awesome veggie comfort food in a hip and cool establishment!

On the opposite end of the spectrum you will find the serene and spiritual Casa de Luz. Located at the center for integral studies and the former home of the Natural Epicurean Culinary School, Casa is a beautiful and peaceful destination for foodies looking for a super healthy, balanced, macrobiotic meal. Serving breakfast through dinner, Casa is like no other restaurant. For a flat rate, customers are served a square macrobiotic meal of soup, salad, tea and a nutritious vegan and gluten free entree. The meal is the chef’s choice, the restaurant tables are set up community style and the outdoor patio overlooks the playground for the on grounds montessori.  If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of town and really enjoy a meal that heals and nourishes, this is the place for you!

A mega cool brewery with an even more mega cool concept is Black Star Co-Op. An eco-conscious and veg-friendly brewery, this hip watering hole is also a fully functioning cooperative. Meaning that the employees all own a piece of the pie as opposed to being “employees”. Additionally, customers can become members who can also own a piece of the pie, vote on policy changes and even be on the board. The co-op is fresh, the menu delicious and the beer variety vast. WHo woukdn’t want to be a part of the biz and keep it running in tip top shape. But now, the food and drink! Drink, lots of gluten free beers, woohoo!! Food, tons of killer vegan fare like the portobello and chips, seasonal grilled veggie sandwich on gluten free bread and veggie chili. Big thumbs up for this forward thinking gastropub!

No trip is complete without finding a local vegan pizza option. Conan’s Pizza, a legend in Austin, does deep dish vegan like nobody’s business. With lots of vegan toppings to choose from, oozy Daiya cheese (vegan and gluten free) and a to die for crust, this pizza parlor will send you back to your childhood. I could imagine filing in their with my friends after a raging roller skating session, talking about Ricky Schroeder and downing slice after slice without a care in the world. The classic Conan The Barbarian artwork along with the fun rock and 80′s memorabilia dishes up nostalgia along with their signature aromatic pizza pies. A must visit when hankerin’ for classic deep dish pizza!

One of the many things that made me fall in love with Austin are the mixed commercial use neighborhoods. Meaning that a coffee shop could move in right next door to your house. Bouldin Creek Cafe is just one of those awesome places. With the feel of home and a keen awareness of the surrounding neighborhood, this coffeehouse is rife with local art, eco love and yummy vegetarian and vegan food for all. I was told to tyr their vegan breakfast tacos and I’m so glad I listened. They rock as did their fair trade organic coffee. I love the vibe, I love the menu and I dig it’s open arms feeling to the community it services.


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Jul 4, 20122 notes
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June 2012

2 posts

Vegan 4th of July Recipes

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It’s time to break out the red, white and blue decorations, dust off the grill and party your swimsuit off! It’s a time to celebrate summer but let’s not forget that it’s a time to party patriotic. Get the coolers and the kitchens prepped for some fun dishes and be sure to find more vegan July 4th recipes on my Patriotic Plates post from last year as well as those from 2010, 2009 and 2008. Enjoy a very happy and healthy fourth with your best summer partying buddies!

Tomatoey Potatoes

  • 18 baby new or fingerling potatoes (about 1 pound)
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • Kosher salt
  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 slice bread, crusts removed, torn into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup coarsely chopped drained roasted red peppers
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 plum tomato, cored and quartered
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons vegan sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Combine the potatoes, 2 of the garlic cloves, the peppercorns and 1 teaspoon kosher salt in a medium pot. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a thin knife, 12 to 15 minutes. Drain and cool until still warm but no longer hot.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Slice the remaining 2 garlic cloves and add to the oil along with the bread pieces. Cook, stirring, until the bread is golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer to the bowl of a food processor and add the red peppers, vinegar, smoked paprika, tomatoes and 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Puree until smooth.

Halve the warm potatoes and scoop out a small bit of the insides using a 1/4-teaspoon measure. Top the halves with a bit of the romesco sauce, sour cream, pine nuts and a sprinkle of parsley.

Dilly Deviled “Eggs”

For the eggs:

  • 2 16-ounce blocks extra firm tofu, pressed, drained and dried
  • Indian black salt

Press and drain the tofu blocks well and slice in half, width wise (hand on top of wide side of the block, slicing under your hand).

Rub the tofu slices with the black salt well, but do not over salt.

With a round cookie cutter, cut tofu into small “egg” circles. Once set, scoop out a well for the filling in each “egg” with a melon baller. Set aside.

For the filling:

  • 12 ounces extra firm tofu, pressed, drained and dried
  • 2 tablespoons Veganaise
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon Indian black salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

Put all ingredients in food processor until well incorporated and smooth. Pipe the filling into the “egg” wells, dust with paprika and serve.

BBQ Banana Splits

  • 4 bananas
  • 1/2 cup melted vegan butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 ounces chopped vegan dark chocolate
  • Vegan ice cream
  • Vegan whipped cream
  • Vegan sprinkles
  • 4 cherries

Cut a small piece off the curved side of 4 unpeeled bananas so they’ll sit level, then make a deep slit down the center of each through the peel; place on separate sheets of foil.

Open the slits and brush the inside of each banana with melted butter, then sprinkle with sugar and 1 ounce chopped semisweet chocolate; fold up the foil.

Grill the packets over high heat until the chocolate melts, 6 to 8 minutes (don’t worry if the peel turns brown). Open the peels and top the bananas with ice cream, whipped cream, sprinkles and a cherry.

Red, White and Mmm Cake

  • 2 sticks (8 ounces) unsalted vegan butter, softened, plus extra for greasing the pan
  • 2 cups cake flour, plus extra for flouring the pan
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 egg replacers, mixed
  • 1/4 cup vegan heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling:

  • 1 pound rhubarb (about 4 stalks), cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • One 16-ounce container strawberries, trimmed and sliced (about 3 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Whipped Cream:

  • 1 1/2 cups cold vegan heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter and dust with flour, tapping out the excess. Set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt.

Beat the butter in a large bowl until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the sugar and continue to beat until very fluffy, about 2 minutes longer. In a small bowl, whisk the egg replacers and cream. Add half the flour mixture and half the egg mixture to the creamed butter and beat until combined. Repeat with the remaining flour and egg mixture. Add the lemon zest and vanilla and beat the batter on medium-high speed for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.

Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan, spread the top evenly and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top sprigs back to the touch, 40 to 45 minutes. Cool in the pan 10 minutes, and then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely.

While the cake bakes and cools, make the filling: Combine the rhubarb with the sugar and 1/4 cup water in a medium pot. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and continue to cook, stirring, until the rhubarb cooks down into a thick puree, 18 to 20 minutes. Cool completely, and then fold in half the strawberries. Stir the sugar into the remaining berries.

For the whipped cream: When ready to assemble the cake, whip the cream with the sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

Using a serrated knife, slice the cake in half horizontally and place the bottom half on a cake stand or serving plate, cut-side up. Spread with 1 cup of the whipped cream, stopping about 1/2 inch from the edge of the cake and top with the strawberry-rhubarb mixture. Place the second half of the cake, cut-side down, over the strawberry-rhubarb filling and spread the remaining whipped cream over top, going close to the edge of the cake. Garnish with the remaining sliced strawberries.


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Jun 27, 20122 notes
#4th of july #vegaan recipes #gluten free recipes #party food
Vegan Father's Day Recipes

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Summer time is synonymous with grillin’ and chillin’. And who does that better than dad? This Father’s Day, give him the day off from the flaming grill and serve him up a dad sized meal that’s fit for a king! We’ve got a great menu below as well as recipes from 2011 and 2010 if you’d like to check those to mix and match your dad’s day feast!

Gingery Beer

Fill a pint glass a little more than halfway with a pale ale, well chilled. Top off slowly with ginger beer.

Spicy Cauliflower “Wings” With Blue “Cheese” Dip

Spicy Wing Sauce

  • 8 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 8 tablespoons vegan butter
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
  • salt to taste

Mix all the ingredients in a saucepan, and over low heat bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and then turn off.

Blue Cheese Dip

  • 1/4 block of firm tofu, pressed, drained and crumbled
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 cup veganaise
  • 1/2 cup vegan sour cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon tahini
  • 1/4 teaspoon yellow miso paste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (add more to taste for desired tang)
  • 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar (add more to taste for desired tang)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dill ((add more to taste for desired flavor)
  • Salt, to taste

Mix all ingredients, minus the tofu, until well incorporated and smooth. Mix in the crumbled tofu and chill until ready to serve.

Cauliflower

  • 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1 cup of flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 1/2 cups of seltzer water
  • Salt, to taste

Combine cauliflower ingredients, minus the cauliflower, until well incorporated.

Pour about 1 inch of a high smoking point oil (safflower, sunflower, etc.) on the bottom of a frying pan or wok and bring up to medium heat. Once oil is hot but not smoking, dip the florets in the batter, making sure they are well coated. Fry them until they are lightly brown, a few at a time, do not crowd the pan. When they’ve cooked, place them on a paper towel lined plate to drain.

Toss cauliflower in Buffalo Sauce, making sure they are coated well and serve with blue cheese dip.

Chipotle BBQ BLT(A)

  •  Chipotle bbq aioli (recipe below)
  • 8 slices sourdough bread
  • 1 package vegan bacon (preferably tempeh bacon)
  • 4 large romaine lettuce leaves, washed and dried
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 large ripe avocado, sliced

Toast the bread and pan fry the vegan bacon until crisp. Slather all bread slices with Chipotle BBQ aioli. Top 4 slices with lettuce, folded if needed to fit the bread slice. Top with vegan bacon, tomoato slices, salt and pepper to taste and avocado slices. Top sandwiches with remaining slices, cut in half and enjoy.

Chipotle BBQ Aioli

  • 1 cup veganaise
  • 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice (to help separation)
  • 2 to 4 ounces extra virgin olive oil
  • 1-2 tablespoons chipoltle pepper adobo sauce (juice from peppers, not the peppers themselves)
  • 1 tablespoons garlic, fresh (minced or pureed)
  • 1-2 tablespoons vegan bbq sauce

Place veganaise in a bowl and whisk in olive oil until blended, add a few drops lemon juice if it starts to separate. Add all other ingredients, blend, and allow the mixture to stand for approximately 30 minutes.

Red Velvet Cheesecake

  • 1 1/2 cups vegan chocolate sandwich cookie tops, crushed (like oreos with creme removed)
  • 1/4 cup vegan butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 3 (8-ounce) packages vegan cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 block of silken tofu, pressed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
  • 1 cup vegan sour cream
  • 1/2 cup vegan buttermilk(1 cup plain soy milk with 1 teaspoon of apple cider or coconut water vinegar, set aside to curdle for at least 15 minutes )
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
  • 2 (1-ounce) bottles organic red food coloring
  • 1 (3-ounce) package vegan cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir together cookie crumbs, melted butter, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; press mixture into bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

Beat 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar at medium-low speed with an electric mixer 1 minute. Add silken tofu and next 6 ingredients (up through food coloring), mixing on low speed just until fully combined. Pour batter into prepared crust.

Bake at 325° for 10 minutes; reduce heat to 300°, and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until center is firm. Run knife along outer edge of cheesecake. Turn oven off. Let cheesecake stand in oven 30 minutes. Remove cheesecake from oven; cool in pan on a wire rack 30 minutes. Cover and chill 8 hours.

Beat 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese and 1/4 cup butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until smooth. Spread evenly over top of cheesecake. Remove sides of springform pan. Garnish, if desired.


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Jun 6, 20127 notes
#father's day #vegan recipes #healthy recipes #ssummer recipess #summer recipes

May 2012

3 posts

Healthy and Vegan Austin Eats

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I left my heart in Austin, Texas! I know the song says San Francisco but Austin is a great American city that is not only the progressive, college and music town state capital, it’s also super health conscious, green and mega vegan friendly. A Texas city like no other, Austin is home to the headquarters and first Whole Foods Market, The University of Texas Longhorns, IBM, Google, Facebook and Apple as well as being the live music capital of the world. In addition to all of the creative goings on, the city is buzzing with youth what with all of the hip neighborhoods that combine living and businesses such as quaint coffee shops, gourmet restaurants and cool bars tucked in all boroughs of the city. Located on the Colorado River (AKA Lady Bird Lake), Austinites enjoy their city, and their health, by biking the river trail, kayaking or even swimming in their city center natural spring.

As one would imagine, a city so vibrant with life and things to do, there is no shortage of incredible places to dine!

I’ll start with one of my most favorite places in the world, Park Lane Guest House. An eco-friendly, vegetarian bed and breakfast, this oasis in the city is a must for any Austin traveler. Nestled in the beautiful Travis Heights neighborhood and 2 blocks from the super cool South Congress strip, Park Lane is prime for sightseeing as well as relaxing.

Basically built from the ground up by owner and “hotelier” Shakti, she has made a cute home as veritable garden of Eden for her guests to enjoy. The bed and breakfasts boasts 3 private cottages as well as 1 single room for folks to enjoy. Eco-friendly is an understatement as not only is each room cleaned with chemical free cleaners, even the mattresses are organic! Each has its own unique style and amenities but all get to enjoy the grounds complete with crystal clear pool and waterfall; gardens rich with flowers, herbs and vegetables; and even a chicken coop with happy chickens!

Each morning Shakti wakes you with the aroma of her gourmet, organic vegetarian and vegan breakfast, all made from scratch and featuring herbs and veggies from the gardens. For vegetarians, the organic eggs come from her happy chickens. Sit and enjoy a delicious breakfast on your private patio while enjoying the wind chimes and waterfall, leaving all of your cares behind. Just make sure that you book in advance and make sure you stay a few days to soak in the beauty and relaxation. Indulge in fine local, organic coffee in the morning, sleep like royalty at night and leave feeling refreshed at Park Lane!

I crave Italian quite a bit so I had to try Asti in Hyde Park. yet another cool hood with tons of dining options for its residents, Asti is not your usual Italian joint. It’s decor is hip and chic and its menu is fresh and innovative. Sure, if you are really in the mood for pizza, pasta or espresso, they have you covered, but if you’re looking for the rest of the flavors of Italy, this is your place. Accommodating special diets is no problem for them as the chef is more then happy to wow you with his vegetable skills. Beautiful risottos, lightly braised veggies, outstanding bruschettas and bean dips, don’t forget about their vast array of vegan friendly sorbets. Top notch food that is light, healthy and beyond tasty, don’t forget to put Asti on your list of must eats!

While Whole Foods Market is the bigwig in town being that Austin is the birthplace of the popular natural food chain as well as having its headquarters located downtown, Austin’s large health conscious community made room for the super neat Wheatsville Co-op. A cooperative market that not only allows its employees and members to benefit from deals, gatherings and even be on the board, Wheastville also showcases a great variety of co-op products as well. Since 1976, the market as stayed ahead of the needs of its ever growing healthy and eco-friendly community by anticipating its every need. From outdoor rainwater receptacles to irrigate its gardens to encouraging folks to bring in their own containers for deli foods, the market has implemented many wonderful programs that help their customers, owners, community and the earth. The deli has a kick ass popcorn tofu po’ boy along with killer kale salads, veggie juices and shakes, an insanely awesome bakery complete with vegan donuts and more. The store lets you know on it’s pricing labels how far each product has traveled so you can gauge the carbon footprint as well as a produce board letting you know how many items are in fact organic as well as local. Come in for lunch, grab some cool specialty products and feel good about your contribution to the earth at Wheatsville ; )

Living in LA, the raw food craze is well engrained in my town. But Beets Cafe is the first of its kind in Austin and is doing a terrific job! the food is not only aesthetically pleasing but it’s hearty and fantastic. Plus the vibe is bright, modern and cool, exactly what Austin needs for its intro to living foods. Creative sandwiches, salads, noodle dishes and decadent desserts, Beets will be a tough act to follow for future raw eateries. Well known for their beet burger, Asian noodle salad and crazy good mint chocolate chip cheesecake (yes, I ate ALL 3), diners must come hungry because this raw foodery will fill you up like nobody’s business!

Seeing as how Texas heat is famous, ice creameries are a smart investment. And Sweet Ritual corners the market on making the smart choice of opening and all vegan ice cream parlor! Located inside the Daily Juice Bar in Hyde Park, Sweet Ritual is sheer heaven. With handmade vegan soft serve, an endless list of extraordinary vegan toppings and made from scratch vegan waffle cones, you have to break your diet for one of the sweet concoctions. No matter your sugary poison, they make shakes, sundaes, cups and cones in all shapes and sizes. So I warn you to caution to the wind and for once, don’t be “good”. Indulge and enjoy, I give thee permission!

Ok, I’m not done so stay tuned for more Austin awesomeness next week!!


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May 30, 20121 note
#vegan travel #healthy travel #austin #texas #gluten free
Healthy and Vegan Memorial Day Recipes

Yippee!! Summer is officially here! Beach time, pool lounging, road trips, movies and outdoor parties! memorial Day marks the start of the “fun in the sun” season so kick it off with an awesome get together and killer food! Check out our fun menu of recipes below as well as some from last year and the year before ; )

Berries and Brew

  • 4 strawberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup blueberries
  • 1/4 cup agave nectar
  • 2 tablespoons grenadine
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 (12-ounce) bottles pilsner beer, cold

In a bowl add the strawberries, blueberries, sugar, grenadine, and lime juice. Stir to dissolve as much sugar as possible. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, stirring a couple of times to agitate and help create juices.

When ready to serve, divide the mixture among 4 low ball glasses. Pour 6 ounces beer into each glass and give a gentle stir. Drink!

Chips and Dip

Dip

  • 1/2  cup vegan heavy cream (1 block of silken tofu (12-ounces) and 1/2 cup of plain soy milk. Blend in blender until thick and creamy and there are no more lumps )
  • 1  8-ounce container vegan sour cream
  • 2  tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup vegan parmesan (recipe below)
  • 2  scallions, finely chopped
  • Pinch of dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

Chips

  • Safflower or coconut oil, for frying
  • All-purpose flour, for dredging
  • 2  medium to large beets (1 red, 1 yellow), peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick
  • Sea salt
  • 1  sweet potato, peeled and sliced 1/8-inch thick

Make the dip: Blend the heavy cream in a blender until slightly thickened. Add the sour cream, lemon juice, vegan parmesan, scallions, dill and garlic powder and pulse to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and chill 2 hours.

Make the chips: Heat 1 to 2 inches vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350 degrees F. Rest a cooling rack on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Spread some flour in a baking dish, add the beet slices and toss. Tap off the excess flour, then fry the beets in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot), stirring occasionally to make sure they don’t stick to each other, 3 to 5 minutes, or until the fizzling around the chips slows down.

Transfer the chips with a slotted spoon to the rack and season with salt. Let cool at least 5 minutes; the chips will crisp up as they cool. Return the oil to 350 degrees F between batches.

Replenish the oil, if necessary, and return to 350 degrees F. Dredge the sweet potato slices in flour and fry in batches, stirring, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to the rack, season with salt and let cool. Serve the chips with the dip.

Vegan Parmesan

  • 1 cup soaked and dried Brazil nuts
  • 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • ⅓ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch nutritional yeast
  • Pinch oregano

Place all ingredients in a food processor with the “S” blade on. Process until well incorporated and the consistency of bread crumbs.

Cool Slaw

  • 2 pounds green cabbage
  • 4 carrots
  • 1 medium yellow onion
  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2-4 tablespoons pickle relish (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Cut cabbage in quarters and remove core. Peel carrots and onion and cut into pieces that would fit through the feed tube of a food processor. Fit food processor with the large-holed grater attachment and push cabbage, carrots, and onions through feed tube to grate. In a large bowl, toss vegetables together.

In another medium bowl, prepare the coleslaw dressing by whisking together the mayonnaise, mustard, cider vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and relish. Toss dressing with the cabbage mixture, and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

BBQ Pulled Jack Sliders

BBQ Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, minced
  • 8 garlic cloves, minced
  • 8 canned chipotle peppers, packed in adobo, seeded and minced
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 cup maple syrup
  • 4 cups vegan chicken broth (from box or make from vegan chicken bullion)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Pulled Jackfruit

  • 2 1/2 cups of “young” or “green” jackfruit (do not add in the water from the can) (about 2 cans (17-ounce), packed in water, not syrup)
  • Vegetable broth, enough to cover the jackfruit in the pot (about a carton)
  • 1/2  cup spicy brown mustard
  • 1/4  cup agave
  • Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 1  tablespoon paprika
  • 3  cloves garlic, minced
  • Olive oil, for sauteeing
  • 1 medium sized white or yellow onion, sliced

Sliders

  • 10 slider rolls
  • Cool Slaw (recipe above)

Making the BBQ sauce: Heat the oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown. Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant. Stir in peppers, ketchup, maple syrup, broth and allspice and bring to a simmer. Season to taste with salt and pepper and continue to simmer until thick and shiny. Stir in lemon juice and remove from heat.

Making the pulled jackfruit: Open the cans of jackfruit and rinse them with cold water to get rid of the brine. Shred it all and set aside. Bring broth to a boil, then add jackfruit; lower heat and simmer, tightly covered, for about 1 hour, or until almost falling apart tender. Add salt to taste, then let “meat” cool in broth at least 3 hours if not overnight in refrigerator. After refrigeration, remove “pork” from broth.

Combine the mustard, agave, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon pepper, the paprika and garlic in a bowl. Toss shredded “pork”, making sure to coat well.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil to medium heat, add shredded “pork” and sauté until it is almost crispy, about 5 minutes. Add onion and cook another 10 minutes or so, until it begins to brown slightly. Remove from heat.

Assembling Sliders: Toss cooked jackfruit pork with the barbecue sauce and season with salt and pepper. Serve on rolls with coleslaw.

Patriotic Parfait

  • 1/4 cup plus 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 box vegan vanilla wafers
  • 1 pound vegan cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 2 cups vegan heavy cream, at room temperature (Double the recipe: 1 block of silken tofu (12-ounces) and 1/2 cup of plain soy milk. Blend in blender until thick and creamy and there are no more lumps )
  • 2  pints blueberries
  • 2  pints strawberries, hulled and sliced

Heat 1/4 cup sugar, the lemon juice and 1/4 cup water in a saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat and stir in the almond extract. Let cool slightly

Toss cookies in the mixture.

Beat the remaining 2/3 cup sugar and the cream cheese with a mixer on medium speed until smooth and light. Add the cream and beat on medium-high speed until smooth and the consistency of whipped cream.

Arrange half of the cake cubes in the bottom of 10-12 parfait glasses. Sprinkle evenly with a layer of blueberries. Next dollop the cream mixture over the blueberries and gently spread. Top with a layer of strawberries. Layer the remaining cookies on top of the strawberries, then sprinkle with more blueberries and top with the remaining cream mixture. Finish with the remaining strawberries and blueberries, arranging them in a decorative pattern. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour.


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May 24, 20126 notes
#memorial day #recipe #vegan recipes #healthy recipes #gluten free recipes #party
Healthy Mother's Day Recipes

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It’s the day we ask mom to stop, relax, kick her feet up and be pampered by the very people she pampers all year long. Be sure you shower her with gifts, take her to be primped at her favorite spa and finish the day with a lovely meal. Check out these healthy and vegan Mother’s Day recipes as well as last year’s brunch menu!

Pink Le-MOM-Ade

  • 10 sliced lemons
  • 2 cups raspberries
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 1/4 cups tequila (optional)
  • Mint, for garnish

Combine lemons, raspberries, and sugar in a large pot. Pound the mixture firmly with a large wooden spoon, extracting as much juice as possible, about 10 minutes. Stir in water. Pour through a sieve into a large bowl. Press the solids until all juice is extracted. Discard the solids, stir in tequila and serve over ice.

Water-Cado Salad

  • 2 avocados, pitted and peeled and cut into small chunks – about 1/2 inch
  • 1 1/2 lbs. watermelon, seeded and cut into small/med chunks – about 1 inch
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 1/2 red onion, peeled and sliced thin
  • 1 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Add all ingredients into a bowl and toss gently.

R & R Risotto

  • 3 quarts water
  • 1 ouncedried porcini mushrooms 
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 stick vegan butter
  • 8 ounces mixed fresh mushrooms, such as porcini, chanterelle, and oyster, sliced if large
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 2 cups Arborio or Carnaroli rice
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup grated vegan Parmesan (recipe below)

Bring water, dried porcini mushrooms and peppercorns to a boil in a medium pot. Reduce heat, and simmer gently for 1 hour. Strain stock (you should have 7 to 8 cups); discard solids. Return to pot; cover to keep warm.

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook mixed mushrooms until tender and slightly browned all over, about 3 minutes; transfer to a plate.

Melt 3 tablespoons butter in saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt. Stir in rice, and cook until coated, 1 to 2 minutes. Add wine, and cook until almost completely absorbed, 3 to 4 minutes.

Ladle 1 cup reserved stock over rice, and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until almost completely absorbed. Continue adding stock, 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly and waiting for each addition to be almost completely absorbed before adding the next, until grains are al dente but not crunchy, about 30 minutes. (You’ll probably only use 6 to 7 cups stock. Add remaining stock to loosen the risotto, if desired.)
Remove from heat, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the vegan Parmesan. Top risotto with sauteed mushrooms (reheat if necessary), and garnish with some more Parmesan.

Vegan Parmesan

  • 1 cup soaked and dried Brazil nuts
  • 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • ⅓ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch nutritional yeast
  • Pinch oregano

Place all ingredients in a food processor with the “S” blade on. Process until well incorporated and the consistency of bread crumbs.

Sweet and Spicy Sorbet Sandwiches

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted vegan butter, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup plus 5 teaspoons sugar, plus more for rolling and flattening
  • 1 egg replacer
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped candied ginger
  • 1 pint vegan strawberry sorbet
  • 1 pint vegan lemon sorbet

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Whisk flour, ground ginger, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl.

With an electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Mix in egg replacer, then add molasses and candied ginger. Reduce speed. Gradually mix in flour mixture. Wrap dough in plastic, and refrigerate until slightly firm, 15 minutes.

Using a 1 1/2-inch ice cream scoop, drop balls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Roll each one in sugar, and return to sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar, press dough to flatten into 3-inch rounds. Bake until edges are golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool completely.

Sandwich one scoop of sorbet with 2 cookies. Repeat, alternating sorbet flavors. Serve immediately, or freeze in airtight containers up to 3 hours.


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May 9, 20123 notes
#mother's day #healthy recipes #vegan recipes #gluten free recipes

April 2012

4 posts

8 Simple Healthy and Green Travel Tips

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This is the year your going to do it, right? You’ve saved, you picked the place and you’ve even set a date. But you want to travel as healthy and green as possible as it will save you money while also being nice to mother nature. Well, here are a few easy tips to help you get to your exotic destination, the healthy and eco way!

1) Carbon offset credits – Flying is one of the biggest fuel guzzling acts anyone can partake in. And unless you have unlimited time and funds, chances are you won’t be sailing across the globe to see it. Flying is a necessary evil but by purchasing carbon offset credits, you can rest easy knowing that the money will be put to good green use!

2) Bring your own bottle -Always, always, always bring your own water bottle. For health and hydration but also to keep plastic bottles out of the landfills. I don’t leave home without my reusable glass bottle!

3) Eco lodging -Do your best to stay at green friendly hotels. More and more, hotels and motels are going green by providing everything from hypoallergenic, organic rooms and bedding, to dual flushing toilets, etc. Many exotic resorts are super green so relax in green luxury, worry free!

4) Drink your veggies - When traveling, being sure to keep your health and immune system in proper working order is key. Sometimes it’s tough to get in a great salad or big plate of veggies so opt to bring a vitamin packed veggie powder that you can mix in water and drink up. My fave is Go Greens by ToGo Brands as each packet, mixed with 8ounces of water, is the equivalent to 6 servings of veggies!

5) When in room – Instead of having housekeeping change your sheets and towels every day, skip a day or 2 to save on the water and electricity it takes them to wash your not-so-dirty goods. Also, make use of your room and prep meals there by keeping left overs on ice and using your coffee pot to heat up food and soups!

6) Eat veg -Depending where you are in the world, eating vegetarian is easier then other spots. But you can always load up on local produce and fruit for snacks instead of opting for packed junk food like chips and cookies! Get to know local foods and cultures by checking out nearby markets and taste testing their goods!

7) Take walking or bike tours – When traveling, it’s fun to do some touristy stuff and take guided tours. Look for walking or biking tours so that you get some exercise in and steer clear of gas guzzling buses. Good for you and good for the planet!

8) Don’t break from your routine - Ok, so you might not be able to hit the gym every day or eat as healthy as you like but letting yourself go completely while away makes it much more difficult to return to normalcy upon your return home. If you can squeeze in some stretching, a brisk walk and most importantly, being mindful of what you eat, you will thank yourself later!

Wherever you go on your next trip, make it healthy and green!


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Apr 25, 20124 notes
#healthy travel #vegan travel #green travel #travel tips
Where To Dine Healthily in Johnson City, Texas

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Johnson City, Texas. Just an hour or so northwest of San Antonio, located in the beautiful rolling hill country, this is the small town that president Lyndon Baines Johnson grew up in. Being a history geek, along with my hubby, we took a day trip up to see LBJ’s boyhood home as well as to see the sprawling acreage at his Texas White House about 20 minutes west of there.

A peaceful area, Johnson City boasts a population of 1,200 people. Yes, you read that correctly. So what was I able to find in this little Texas town you ask? Plenty!

If you’re either making the pilgrimage out to check out some American history or just passing through Hill Country, rest assured that there are some veggie options available in good ol’ JC!

The first is at the Silver K Cafe. Super cute and part of what was an old lumber yard, this cafe is an all American gem. Easily veganizable salads and sandwiches, it’s the perfect place to stop for lunch or grab and go to eat on the road. I loved my fresh focaccia grilled vegetable sandwich and was delighted at the variety of seasonal veggies that they packed it full with. It’s small town America with a progressive and delicious menu!

If it’s an ice cold local beer you’re looking for, check out Pecan Street Brewing Company located in the town square. Grab your draft and order up a cheeseless pizza, salad or be naughty with some sweet potato fries. A hip brewery that overlooks the historic town square makes for a neat evening treat!

Pizza is always welcome after a day of sightseeing, especially when traveling with a group of buddies or family. AJ’s Pizza Shoppe is just the place what with their awesome outdoor stage and giant menu of toppings to make the veggiest pizza ever. AND they offer gluten free crust! Order up a big cheeseless pie, load on the veggie toppings and enjoy your slice under the stars while listening to some local jams. Ah, that’s Texas!

Johnson City is a great little town somewhat frozen in time. But as I just proved, no matter where you might be, metropolitan or not, The Healthy Voyager can always find vegan, gluten free and healthy eats!


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Apr 18, 2012
#Johnson City #Texas #travel #healthy #dining #vegan #vegetarian #gluten free
How to Order Vegan, Gluten Free Or Healthier Options at National Restaurant Chains

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Expanding on last week’s post on healthier fast food finds, I’ve compiled a list of popular restaurant chains that can be found nationwide. You never know when you are heading out for a meal with a group and need to do the best you can with the menu you are given. No matter where you may be in the U.S. (and Canada), you should have no problem finding a decent meal at any of the places on the list below. So fear not my little health conscious foodies, you may eat, drink and be merry in mainstream dining establishments!!! In no particular order:

  • P.F. Chang’s – 3 words, veggie lettuce wraps! OMG, I LOVE these darn things. Tofu sauteed in a delicious soy sauce (gluten free people, have them sautee the tofu in rice vinegar and lemon) served with crunchy rice noodles and crisp lettuce “tortillas”. They are great about offering steaming vs frying, brown rice and lots of veggie dishes. Tofu can be substituted for most of the meat entrees as well. Chow down guilt free at PF Chang’s!
  • Chili’s – I want my veggie meal, veggie meal, veggie meal….Yeah, order up the portobello & steak fajitas and have them hold the steak. They will add extra mushrooms and veggies like broccoli, onions, peppers and more!! Make sure, vegans, to ask for extra fixin’s to make up for the loss of the cheese and sour cream. Don’t forget extra chimichurri! Their black bean burger is also a great veggie and healthy hit, although not vegan. Also opt for their veggie tacos, hold the ranch sauce for a satisfying meal. Their salads are all modifiable but be sure to ask about the dressings as that’s where the naughty ingredients like to hide ; )
  • California Pizza Kitchen -This place rocks for vegans, veggies, gluten free peeps and more! Vegan split pea soup, asparagus soup with no croutons and their grilled veggie salad are to die for!! Their hummus (with neopolitan crust instead of pita) is a winner for any diet type and the guacamole is a hit too. Salads can be modified to fit your special diet, the balsamic vinaigrette is vegan. Pizzas made on neopolitan dough are veganizable when ordered without cheese. I kill for their veggie or tricolor salad pizza!
  • Houston’s -I know, what can you get at a steak house that’s healthy or even vegan? How about the best damn veggie burger ever!! A homemade black bean and brown rice patty smothered in a sweet soy bbq sauce. Order it without cheese and check out one of their vegan sides like steamed veggies or black beans with brown rice. You can also opt for a soy latte, a veggie sushi roll and a side salad. Insane!
  • The Cheesecake Factory – This catalog for a menu always has something for all discerning orderers ; ) Tons of veganizable salads (choose a balsamic or citrus vinaigrette and nix the black beans as they are soaked in beef juice). Naughty fried zucchini, crisp artichoke hearts  and the best, avocado egg rolls. A healthier fire roasted artichoke dip is a great start choice as well edemame and guacamole. That dang bread the serve will come in handy for satiating the carb demon as the pastas and sauces are not vegan. And lastly, the grilled portobella on a bun is yummalicious without cheese and mayo!
  • The Olive Garden - Italian is usually simple enough for a health nut ; ) Their minestrone is vegetarian, make sure they do not garnish it with cheese or throw in to many pasta shells. It’s hearty and tasty when paired with the all you can eat salad. Ask for oil and vinegar as the dressing as the house Italian contains Parmesan. The bruschetta appetizer with no cheese is a doozy too. Gluten free folks can ask for a separate menu that lists acceptable items as it is part of their new garden fare menu for those looking for the lighter side of the garden ; )
  • Applebee’s – Try the veggie patch pizza appetizer with no cheese or spinach (it’s creamy). Change up any salad by omitting unwanted items and tossing it in their balsamic dressing. Go for the chicken portobello sandwich without the chicken with a nice side salad. Those of you on weight watcher’s, they’ve got the points values of everything on their menu so you don’t have to guess!
  • TGIFriday’s – You are pretty much subject to ordering a salad without meat or cheese and going with a vinaigrette. You can indulge in a basket of sweet potato fries though ; )
  • Panera Bread – This is one of my all time favorite spots. Fresh salads, soups and breads that work well on any diet. I always go for the pick 2 and get a vegan soup with the classic cafe salad. Go for an apple as your side and you are good to go! The sandwiches can be veganized with proper direction and its worth it as their bread selections are awesome. Soy lattes and healthy meals are the perfect combo!
  • Ruby Tuesday – Gluten and peanut allergy sufferers can dine happily here along with us greenies. They have detailed menus of what special diets can order without worry. For me, I can chow on a guacamole dip starter. Then I can move on to a salad I make on my own at their salad bar. Perhaps a homemade veggie burger and some brown rice pilaf or steamed broccoli and I’ve just had one vegtastic feast!
  • Fuddrucker’s – If you must, a veggie burger with all of the fixin’s can hold you over. I normally order it protein style, no bread, wrapped in lettuce ; )
  • Chevy’s - I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Mexican is a great way to go for all kinds of special diets. Always make sure of the chips and tortillas are made with lard but usually one or the other is ok! Chevy’s has some kick ass guac and salsa! Their veggie fajitas rock as does their veggie burrito. Just save the sour cream and cheese and you are golden! AT a chevy’s the black beans are vegan and the both tortillas are lard free (with the exception of the El Machino flour tortillas) The salsa vinaigrette and Mexican rice are also perfecto!!
  • Sweet Tomatoes/Souplantation -You can’t go wrong when you make your own salad at a salad bar! Some of the tossed salads are also vegan such as the mandarin spinach with caramelized walnuts, strawberry fields with caramelized walnuts, thai peanut & red pepper, and the thai udon & peanut. Vegan friendly prepped salads are white bean, arugula citrus, red pepper slaw, Asian pepper salad, bean & cilantro, dijon potato & garlic dill, mandarin noodles w/broccoli, mandarin shells w/almonds, green bean & potato, roasted potato & chiplote chili, southwest pasta, summer barley w/ black beans, tabbouleh, citrus & brown rice, tomato cucumber marinade & 3 bean marinade. gain, it’s safe to stick to the vinaigrettes. Lots of soups to choose from as well, providing they are available on the day you pop in like the tomato onion, ratatouille, black bean, veggie harvest, minestrone and lentil. The bakery and pasta bars don’t have much for vegans but you may get lucky with some of the bread or sauteed veggies ; )
  • Hard Rock Cafe – Yep, depending on where you are or who you are with, you just might find yourself at one of these ; ) Fear not as you can grab a tried and true HRC veggie burger, with no cheese or mayo. Have a side salad unless you want to be naughty, then order the fries!
  • Boston Market – Love their market salad with no cheese. It is super fresh and tasty! You can also order a veggie carver and indulge in the apple cobbler, Cinnamon applesauce or fruit bowl.
  • Denny’s – You know you might end up here one night after a show or a long drive! So if and when you do, know that you can consume a veggie burger and a side salad. Or for breakfast, oatmeal with no milk, a veggie patty with dry toast along with some oj and coffee ; )
  • Macaroni Grill – My favorite thing to order here is the create your own pasta in which I ditch the pasta all together and have them saute all of the veggies they have in a garlic and olive oil! Goes down great with a glass of red wine and some of their peasant bread ; ) Vegans can’t do the pasta, pizza crusts or even the red sauce. They are great with food allergies and special diets so don’t fret if you don’t know before you go!
  • Buca di Beppo – Start with some bruschetta (hold any sprinkled cheese) and then split a big ol’ mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette. I mess with the menu by ordering the gnocchi with plain marinara and veggies and I’m sure you can do the same with any pasta dish.
  • Pick Up Stix – You can’t go wrong with Asian cuisine as you can always get some sort of stir fried veggie dish. Here you can do tofu lettuce cups, tofu and veggies, rice bowls and whole slew of lighter fare. Go for the steamed, not fried items if you can swing it, have some salad, and watch out for the soy and teryaki of you are wheat and gluten sensitive.
  • Jason’s Deli - This is a nice spot to pick up fod for a trip or day at the park. Sandwiches and sides for all. Go for the spinach veggie wrap with no cheese or the Mediterranean wrap with no mods.
  • Bennigan’s - The usual American fare can be health-ified by veganizing the salads and keeping an eye on the dressings. Same for the veggie burger ; )
  • Outback Steakhouse – haha, ok. For non veggies, get your meat grilled and get a side salad instead of that damn bloomin onion! For veg heads, get a salad with the tomato dressing, no cheese. You can also pull out all the stops and get a steamed sweet potato! Their veggies are drowned in butter but you can ask for them steamed and dry. No mushrooms either as they are swimming in beef broth ; (
  • Johnny Rockets -Boca burger is your friend here and is customizable to be as fat or as plain as you want it. Fries here are a-ok as they are fried in soy oil. Vegan but not to healthy ; )
  • Z Pizza – This organic pizza joint is a hit! Organic crusts, toppings and even vegan cheese and meatless toppings. Pizzas, salads and sandwiches are all made fresh and taste freakin’ great!!
  • The Habit – It can’t be healthy and again, these places are supposed to be had once in a blue moon. However, if you find yourself here, get the veggie burger (unfortunately not vegan but ok for veggies), no cheese, on grilled sourdough with cucumber, sprouts, avocado and grilled onions. OMG!!! oh, and they have salads too ; )
  • Pizza Fusion – This is what heaven must be like!! Organic salads, sandwiches and VEGAN PIZZA!! Yes!! Gluten free crusts, vegan cheese, a gajillion awesome toppings…Word.
  • Daphne’s – Mediterranean rocks for healthy choices. I love their veggie combo plate with hummus and pita, dolmas, falafel and salad. Filling, tasty and no guilt to wasty ; ) I hold the spanikopitas (cheese) and add more of everything else. falafel pitas and salads are good too!
  • Pomodoro – I really like the selection here. I go light with a mixed green salad and minestrone. Sometimes I do the melanzane penne pasta primavera ; ) They also have some great side veggies, some even organic!
  • Louise’s Trattoria – This place wins for the best minestrone! Ask for it with no sprinkly cheese or crusty cheese bread and it’s still mega tasty! I pair this with a huge Louise’s chopped salad with no cheese and I am elated ; )
  • Mimi’s Cafe -A large menu always has some good options for alternative meals. The salads are veganizable with balsamic dressing as is the veggie ciabata with no cheese or pesto. The vegetarian vegetable is a good choice as is veggie burger.
  • El Torito – oh yeah, tableside guac – the best in the biz! Go for that and some salsa but make room for their veggie burrito as it is chock full of great veggies. Order it with the vegetarian beans and you will be a happy camper! And if you drop the dairy on the veggie enchiladas, you will be full for days!!
  • Acapulco – Similar to el torito, their appetizer guac is pretty good. Check out the veggie fajitas with no cheesey or creamy condiments.
  • Chin Chin – Veggie potstickers and minced veggie lettuce cups every time!! But they do have some great veggie noodle and rice dishes as well as being able to sub tofu for meat on most of the menu items.
  • Claim Jumper – mmm, fire roasted artichoke (ask for it with ponzu sauce) or avocado rolls to start! Veganize any salad by nixing meat and dairy items and sticking to citrus or balsamic vinaigrettes. Also try to produce bar! For a heartier meal grab a veggie sandwich sans cheese with a veggie stuffed baked potato with no cheese ; )
  • El Pollo Loco – I forgot these last 2 guys last week so here they are! If you catch yourself around here, sides are alright. Like a side salad with no cheese, pinto beans and some veggies with no margarine. Slather all your stuff in salsa!
  • Pollo Tropical - I am a sucker for Cuban food so the sides here make me very happy! Boiled yucca in garlic sauce, plantains, and some rice with black beans. They also offer the veggie tropichop which is like a cuban veggie rice bowl. Oh so good!

We’d love to hear about your special diet menu secrets at national chains!


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Apr 11, 20122 notes
#ordering vegan #healthy options #chain restaurants #ordering vegetarian #ordering gluten free #travel
How to Order Vegan, Gluten Free Or Healthier Options at National Fast Food Chains

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So, there are times where despite our best efforts, our only options just might be fast food, especially on vacation or a trip. On a road trip or in a podunk town with little to zero options for a healthy meal, I’ve found ways to navigate the fast food menu. I do not, I repeat, do not, advocate the consumption of fast food except for in a pinch and other compromising situations. So I suggest you print this blog in case of emergency!

Here are some of the biggies:

  • Subway – This one of the most veg and health friendly places if you are in a bind. You can always go with a veggie sub on Italian bread (9 grain wheat contains honey), hold the cheese and mayo, while piling on the veggies, avocado and mustard. You can also get this wrap style or forgo the carbs and chomp on a salad ; ) They do have veggie patties however, if your vegan, it’s a no go as they contain egg. For allergy sensitive folks, stick to the salads.
  • Quizno’s - These guys aren’t far behind Subway. I do love a warm sandwich but Subway has better veggie options. Here I order a veggie sub, no cheese or mayo, add guac and vinaigrette. Toasty yumminess ; ) Also, grab a salad if you’re not doing bread! Again, for allergy sensitive folks, stick to the salads.
  • Taco Bell – You’d be surprised but the Taco Bell menu can be easily manipulated to bring it down to somewhat a’ight ; ) Everything is still full of high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils BUT the menu can be veganized. And again, don’t make this a habit ; ) Ok so, their new Fresco Style menu is easy to change up. Order the tacos or burritos Fresco style and swap the meat for beans and voila, veganized. The crunchwrap supreme can be veganized by tossing the meat, cheese and sour cream and subbing beans and guac. You can also have a 7 layer burrito minus the layers of cheese and sour cream, BAM, vegan 5 layer burrito! So yes, the ingredients in all of these are vegan but certainly not the best thing for you. But like I said, in a bind, it’s fine ; ) Make sure, for allergy sensitive diners, to check the site as each item contains different allergens. Their site is very comprehensive regarding allergens ; )
  • McDonald’s – Oh yes, the golden arches. It can be done if there is no choice. Don’t even think about the fries if you’re vegan as they contain beef and milk. Not even kosher! Although, you can go for a side salad and ask for the cilantro lime as that one, despite being chemically, is still vegan. Or opt for salt, pepper and a lemon wedge. The other salads can be veganized by picking off the croutons and cheese. And you can get their new iced coffees sans milk.
  • Burger King - Well, vegans, no can do on the veggie burger as it contains egg whites but the fries are fried in a separate fryer with no animal products. Not so much for the onion rings, they a cooked in a shared fryer. So allergen diets, beware of the buns as well as the croutons in the salads. I say you’re safest here with a salad and to find out before you drown your greens, what is in the dressings they happen to have available at that store. Again, there is always, salt, pepper and a lemon wedge ; ) I have heard that the french toast sticks are vegan, good in a breakfast time pinch!
  • Jack in the Box - Well, here is a place you have some ok options outside of a salad. The Teriyaki Rice Bowls are veganizable by dropping the meat out and are packed with veggies. Sugary ones, but veggies nonetheless. Sometime you just gotta take what you can get ; ) Go for a taco here by ordering it with black beans instead of meat and leaving off the cheese. Fries and hash brown sticks, while fattening, are vegan friendly and only if you must! In addition, Jack food is all made to order so you’re likely to get a fresher meal here then the burger royalty.
  • Carl’s Jr/Hardee’s – Well, a side salad with no cheese and balsamic vinaigrette seems to be the safest bet here. If you are so inclined to fill your tummy, make sure you share and don’t eat the whole order of fries or hash brown nuggets as those are vegan as well. You can also grab a taco salad without the meat, cheese or sour cream.
  • Wendy’s – oddly enough, they are great to gluten free diners. As for vegans, we can have their side and regular salads so long as we pick of the meat and/or cheese and choose an appropriate dressing. The baked potatoes can be ordered plain so you can add salt, pepper, chives and any other healthy toppings on your own. They also offer oranges as a combo side too so if you do happen to go for burger, grab some fruit instead of fries ; )
  • Arby’s - Um, its pretty tough here. You have to pick a lot off of the salads and read the ingredients on the dressing packets to be 100% safe. The market fresh sandwich bread had honey in it but is suitable to vegetarians and calories counters as you can make a lettuce, onion and tomato sandwich if you must. The subs can be made veggie as well.
  • Pizza Hut – Vegans, we are screwed here unless we order multigrain dough with no sauce and tons of veggies. All other sauces and doughs contain dairy ; ( For non vegans, go for the cheeseless veggie on multigrain ; )
  • Domino’s – Crunchy thin crust is the only vegan crust (contains soy for those sensitive to it). Pizza sauce is dairy free so pile on the veggies and order up! Salads are ok without cheese and any of the Italian dressings. Skip the breadsticks as they contain dairy as well. Go ahead and get the pasta primavera but swap the alfredo for pizza sauce (not marinara as it has cheese in it).
  • Papa John’s - I’m leery as they do not have ingredients listed although they do claim to be all natural. Call and ask the manager before ordering anything regarding vegan and/or allergen ingredients.
  • Baja Fresh – I love Baja as everything is made fresh with no lard, msg, etc. I go for the tostada salad with no meat, cheese or sour cream and pile on salsa, guac and all their cool fixin’s from their salsa bar. It’s chock full of beans, rice and crispy veggies. You can also go for the veggie burrito or tacos with no cheese or sour cream!!
  • Chipotle -Another great place in a pinch for healthy fast food. The black beans, rice, guac, and tortillas are all vegetarian so eat away people and create you dish however you choose ; )
  • Del Taco - From what I can decipher, the veggie works burrito without cheese or sour cream is vegan as are their fries. Make sure you ask a manager before ordering.
  • Starbucks - Soy latte, soy tea latte, soy chai latte, yum ; ) If you need the extra flavors, they use syrups for most of them and they too are vegan but chemically and high fructose sugary. Also, Frappucinos can be made with soy now so have at it for a sinful treat! If you’re hungry, go for the tofu and noodle bento box or a fruit medley. Starbucks in Canada carries vegan baked goods!
  • Coffee Bean – Soy lattes and hot tea with soy milk here. No yummy flavored drinks as they use powders that all contain dairy ; (

Stay tuned as next week I navigate chain restaurants!! Be safe and conscious fast fooders!!


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Apr 5, 20124 notes
#healthy fast food #ordering vegan #ordering vegetarian #ordering gluten free #travel #options

March 2012

4 posts

Healthy and Vegan Food Trucks Sweeping The Nation

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Well, what was once a few trucks with crazy long lines popping up here and there has now become a nationwide phenomenon. With major metropolitan cities everywhere joining in the mobile food movement, the varieties have become as unique as the cities they are found in. And with variety, comes options for special diet diners.

So with no further a due, here is The Healthy Voyager’s Round Up of food trucks all across America that feed the hungry, veggie and health conscious masses!

Los Angeles ( and surrounding areas)

  • The Kogi Truck – The truck that started it all has a number of great veggie korean bbq options
  • Sea Birds – 100% vegan and organic all the time
  • FrankenStand -  100% vegan hot dogs in a horror themed cart
  • Dosa Truck – Lots of vegan Indian food options
  • The Nacho Truck – Great Mexican vegan options
  • Organic Oasis – Eco and organic truck with a ton of raw vegan options
  • Sweet E’s Bake Shop – Dessert truck with lots of vegan options and some gluten free
  • The Green Truck – Eco friendly truck with all natural options and tons of veggie goodies
  • Mandoline Grill – Vietnamese food with great vegan options
  • Smokin’ Willie’s – BBQ with vegan options
  • Frysmith – French Fry truck with vegan options

San Francisco, CA

  • Sunny Vibrations -Eco-vegan awesomeness
  • The Pie Truck – Has veggie pies

Portland, OR

  • Homegrown Smoker – Vegan BBQ and Comfort Food
  • Unicart – Vegan mythical beast food
  • D.C. Vegetarian - Veggie truck with lots of vegan options
  • Native Bowl – Vegan bowls
  • Sneaky Kitty – Vegan Thai
  • Off The Griddle – Veggie and vegan burgers
  • The Biscuit Bike – Vegan biscuits and gravy
  • The Pedal Kettle – Eco-vegan kettle corn

New York , NY & New Jersey

  • The Cinnamon Snail – 100% vegan and organic breakfast, lunch and dessert truck
  • The Desi Truck – Indian food with veggie options (Manhattan)

Miami, FL

  • The Mac N’ Food Truck – 100% vegan comfort food, specializing in awesome mac n’ cheese and other yummies

Chicago, IL

  • Soul Vegetarian – run by the makers of Ste. Martaen vegan cheese and Soul vegetarian East, this food truck serves up 100% vegan food

Providence, RI

  • Like No Udder – 100% soft serve vegan ice cream truck

Durham, CT

  • GMonkey – Eco and vegetarian, local and seasonal truck

Dallas, TX

  • Good Karma Kitchen  – Organic vegetarian truck

Austin, TX

  • CCV - Vegan food trailer

Washington, D.C.

  • The Fojol Bros. Truck – A traveling culinary carnival with veggie options

Boston, MA

  • Clover Truck – Veggie and vegan organic options

And there’s more and more popping up every day! Be sure to leave a comment if you know of one we should add to the list!


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Mar 21, 20125 notes
#food trucks #vegan #vegetarian #healthy #national
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