These simple vegan avocado parathas are made with wholemeal wheat flour, a little chickpea flour and a few everyday spices from my spice box. Read More ...
Luscious saffron, cardamom & pistachio cream layered over an almond crust! These gluten-free Kesar Pista bars secretly pack 7g protein. Perfect for Diwali or any other holiday meal! (soy-free, dairy-free, vegan)
Kesar means saffron, and pista means pistachio. These saffron pistachio bars are just so delicious. I just wasnβt ready for how decadent and luxurious they were going to turn out! Theyβre kind of like creamy lemon bars, but with nutty pistachio and floral saffron flavors in them.Β
The saffron-pistachio combination is very popular in Indian desserts and also desserts from many other cuisines. These two flavors just work so amazingly well together, especially raw, fresh pistachios and floral saffron.
Iβm using that today to make a fusion Indian dessert based on kesar burfi, kesar pista ladoo, or pedas, but I made them into these bars. We make this almond flour crust with some cardamom and then make the cream topping with cashews, coconut milk, saffron, and a little pistachio, and then top it with generous amounts of chopped pistachio. It all sets up and it becomes just amazing!
If you donβt have saffron, you can skip that flavor, and add extra cardamom, add a pinch of turmeric for color, and an extra splash of vanilla. That flavor profile pairs really well with the pistachios, as well.
Why Youβll Love Kesar Pista Bars
rich, creamy, decadent bars with nutty pistachios and floral saffron and cardamom flavors
quick almond flour crust
easy to make with simple ingredients
naturally gluten-free and soy-free with almond-free option
For this curry, I used the mangoes readily available at Tesco for this simple mango curry. They are usually sweet and juicy, so there is no need to add any sugar or jaggery. A teaspoon Read More ...
If youβve never made puffed amaranth at home before, this is the recipe you need. Itβs light, crunchy, nutritious, and comes together in minutes.Β
Making puffed amaranth at home is so much easier than most people expect, and once you see how quickly the seeds pop on a hot pan, youβll start finding ways to use them in everything. They make for an amazing snack as theyβre healthy, full of good dietary fiber, potassium, iron, and antioxidants.Β
If you already snack on our air fryer roasted makhana regularly, puffed amaranth gives you another really good option thatβs just as quick and nutritious.Β
The pan isnβt hot enough. This is the most common reason. Amaranth needs very high, direct heat to pop, much hotter than what youβd use for regular cooking. Heat the pan on high for a few minutes before adding the seeds, and test with a couple of seeds first. If they donβt pop within a second or two, the pan needs more time.
Can I puff amaranth in the air fryer?
No. Amaranth needs a very high, direct heat source and constant stirring to pop evenly, and the air fryer canβt provide either. The seeds are tiny and will fall through most air fryer baskets, and without the ability to shake and stir constantly, theyβll burn before they pop. A heavy-bottomed pan on the stove is the only reliable way to do this.
What can I use puffed amaranth for?
A lot more than just bhel. You can sprinkle it on smoothie bowls, yogurt, or porridge for crunch. Mix it into homemade granola or energy bars. Toss it with melted chocolate and nuts for a healthy version of our chocolate makhana bark. Or just season it with chaat masala and eat it on its own as a light snack. Once you have a batch made, youβll find yourself reaching for it constantly.
Is amaranth gluten-free?
Yes. Amaranth is naturally gluten-free, which makes this bhel a great snack for anyone avoiding gluten. Just make sure the other ingredients youβre using, like the chaat masala, donβt contain any gluten-based additives.
Richaβs Top Tips
The pan has to be very, very hot before you add the seeds. If the pan isnβt hot enough, the seeds wonβt pop, and youβll end up with hard, unpopped amaranth thatβs unpleasant to eat. Test with a couple of seeds first, and if they pop within a second or two, the pan is ready.
Only add 1-2 tablespoons of seeds at a time. If you dump all the seeds in at once, the pan temperature drops and they wonβt pop evenly. Small batches give you the best results.
Shake the pan continuously and transfer the popped seeds immediately. Amaranth burns very quickly once popped, so you need to keep the pan moving and get them out within 5-6 seconds. Even a few extra seconds can turn them bitter.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to a week. It stays crunchy as long as no moisture gets in.
Serving Ideas
This puffed amaranth is a great snack on its own, but here are a few ways to enjoy it:
Turn it into a bhel: Check this recipe for how to turn it into a bhel. Itβs crunchy, tangy, and the perfect healthier replacement for puffed rice.Β
As an evening snack withMasala Chai: A bowl of this crunchy bhel with a hot cup of chai is the most satisfying 5 pm combination.
As a topping: Sprinkle the puffed amaranth and roasted makhana over yogurt, smoothie bowls, or salads for extra crunch and nutrition.
During fasting days: Amaranth is commonly eaten during Navratri and other fasts. Skip the peanuts and chaat masala, season with rock salt and cumin instead, and it becomes a great vrat-friendly snack.
Did You Know?
Amaranth was a staple food of the Aztec empire and was so important that it was used in religious ceremonies. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 1500s, they banned amaranth cultivation because they saw it as a threat to their efforts to convert the Aztec population to Christianity. The ban lasted nearly 500 years, and amaranth almost disappeared as a food crop. It survived only because small farming communities in remote parts of Mexico and Central America quietly continued growing it. Today itβs experiencing a global comeback as a superfood, but for thousands of years before that, it was simply dinner.Β
This popped amaranth has become our go-to healthy snack, and I hope it becomes yours too. And now that you know how to puff amaranth at home, the possibilities are really endless. Tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory when you try it.Β
Heat a heavy bottomed pan or kadai until very hot, add 1-2 tablespoons of amaranth seeds and heat on high heat. Within 1-2 seconds the seeds will start popping, shake the pan continuously for 5-6 seconds till the seeds have popped and immediately transfer the popped amaranth to a bowl as they tend to burn. If the pan is not very hot, the popping process will not occur and it is a very quick process. Follow the same steps to quickly pop the seeds and add to the bowl.
Diwali has always been a special time of year for me. Growing up in a Gujarati family in Kenya, festivals were about much more than lighting lamps and decorating our homes. They were about family, Read More ...
I canβt believe this is tofu! This creamy, tangy whipped tofu feta with smoky, savory, sweet, spicy βhoneyβ on top takes just 15 minutes. Itβs perfect for snacking, potlucks, and holiday parties! (gluten-free and nut-free with soy-free option. 15g protein and 3g fiber per serving not including sides)
This dip, itβs luscious, tangy, creamy, delicious! Topped with a smoky savory spicy sweet topping. And it takes just 15 minutes! Once you try this dip, youβll keep coming back with I canβt believe itβs tofu! I canβt believe itβs vegan!
We make the whipped feta with a block of tofu, but nobody will believe that itβs tofu-based. Even Dalana, my assistant, who is a level 10 tofu skeptic, said that she canβt taste the tofu in this vegan whipped feta at all.Β
Then, we top the dip with this spicy, savory, smoky, bacon-y, hot honey kind of situation. Of course, vegan. And then thereβs a crunchy topping with crisp garlic, some toasty seeds, and pine nuts.Β
This vegan tofu feta is easy to put together and it will disappear so quickly. You just add everything to the food processor for the tofu feta and itβs done. You crisp up a little bit of the garlic and toast the seeds, and thatβs done. Mix the hot honey ingredients together, and thatβs done.
Itβs just an awesome dip, and itβs packed with protein, from the tofu and the seeds on top. A serving of this delicious dip has 15 grams of protein!
Whipped tofu feta is smooth, creamy, and versatile. You can serve it as a dip with a side of garlic bread, pita, veggies, or whatever else you like. You can use it to make sandwiches with crisp, fresh veggies, and itβs so filling and delicious. You can spread it on the bread with some onion and peppers and bake it to make high protein cheese toast. Or, add it to your charcuterie board with some of my other dips, like my jalapeΓ±o popper dip, spinach artichoke dip, or French onion dip. So many ways to use it!!
Why Youβll Love Whipped Tofu Feta
quick 15 minutes! and easy to make
a hit at potlucks, parties, holiday parties, etc.
creamy, protein-packed dairy-free whipped feta that no one will believe is tofu
crispy garlic and smoky-sweet vegan hot βhoneyβ topping
naturally gluten-free and nut-free with easy soy-free option
These Gujarati-inspired theplas are made with a combination of wheat flour, chickpea flour and bajra flour (pearl millet flour). I added grated paneer, frozen methi (fenugreek leaves), fresh ginger, spices and sesame seeds for extra Read More ...
This masala aloo matar sabzi uses no onion and garlic, but is still bursting with flavor in every single bite. Itβs spicy, tangy, and loaded with texture. For potato lovers, this needs to be on your lunch menu!Β
This masala aloo matar recipe is the perfect example of the fact that simple ingredients can create the most delicious dishes if used right. Itβs got potatoes, peas, tomatoes, and a handful of everyday Indian spices, but the resulting sabzi is sooo flavorful that youβll want to make it again and again!Β
My family loves eating this potato and peas curry with dal tadka and jeera rice, but I keep switching things up by plating this along with hot rotis, pooris, plain rice, and even adding it between two slices of bread to make a quick sandwich. And the vessel gets wiped clean every single time. And with two kids, you know this is a big achievement! Easy to customise, easy to make, and quite versatile, this masala aloo matar is a must-have on your weekly menu!Β Β Β
Potatoes: Peeled and cut into small cubes. Make sure theyβre of the same size so they cook evenly and quicklyΒ
Green peas: I have used frozen, but both fresh and frozen work in this recipeΒ
Tomatoes: For tang and texture. This forms the base of the masala in this masala aloo matar
Spices: Cumin seeds, asafoetida (hing), coriander, cumin, red chilli, and turmeric powders add color, warmth and flavor to the dish
Chilli: Finely chopped green chillies for heat. You can skip this if you have a low spice tolerance
Ginger: Finely chopped for heat, flavor and aroma
Amchur powder: AKA dry mango powder. This helps add a subtle tanginess to the sabzi. You can use a squeeze of lemon juice instead, but I highly recommend using amchur powder if you can find itΒ
Coriander leaves: Used as garnish for a hit of earthy freshness in every bite
Salt: For seasoning
Oil: Any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point works well in this recipe
Frequently Asked QuestionsΒ
Can I add other veggies to this recipe?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, carrots, beans, and mushrooms are some veggies that work really well in this dish. You can even add paneer if you like.Β
Can I add onions and garlic to this recipe?
Yes, why not! This sabzi is usually made during Navratri and we donβt eat onion and garlic during this time. But you can certainly add onion and garlic for a masala aloo matar sabzi thatβs just as delicious!Β Β
Richaβs Top Tips
Cook on low heat: Keep the pan covered and cook on low heat so the potatoes soften without burning. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if the masala starts sticking to the bottom.
Add the tomatoes later: Adding tomatoes once the potatoes are almost cooked prevents their acidity from slowing down the cooking process and helps the potatoes soften properly.
Adjust the spices to your taste: You can increase the green chilli or red chilli powder for more heat. If you prefer a tangier aloo matar, add a little extra amchur powder.
Serving IdeasΒ
Aloo matar is one of those everyday sabzis that goes with just about anything! Here are a few ways to serve it:
With puri: Serve it alongside hot, fluffy puris for a classic combination thatβs perfect for a weekend breakfast or lunch.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Allow the aloo matar to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3β4 days.
Reheat: Reheat in a kadai or pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the sabzi has dried out. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze aloo matar for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that potatoes can become slightly grainy or change texture after thawing. For the best texture, I recommend making it fresh or refrigerating it instead.
This simple aloo matar is an easy, everyday sabzi made with potatoes, green peas and a handful of pantry spices. Itβs comforting, full of flavour and pairs beautifully with roti, paratha or rice. Keep this recipe handy for those days when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!
If you make this recipe, DM me your pictures over on my IG @my_foodstory. I love seeing your recreations!
2potatoesapprox 250 grams, peeled and cut into Β½ inch cubes
ΒΎcupfresh or frozen green peasapprox.100 grams
2teaspoonscoriander powder
Β½teaspooncumin powder
Β½teaspoonred chilli powder
Β½teaspoonturmeric powder
ΒΌteaspoonamchur powder
ΒΎteaspoonsalt
1tomatofinely chopped, approx. Β½ cup
1tablespoonfinely chopped coriander leaves
Instructions
Heat oil in a kadai or pan, add cumin seeds, hing and once the cumin seeds crackle, add green chilli, ginger and saute for a few seconds till fragrant.
Add potatoes, green peas, spice powders β coriander, cumin, red chilli, turmeric, amchur, salt, mix well and cook covered on low heat for 8-10 minutes till the potatoes are 85% cooked.
Add tomatoes, mix well and cook on low heat for 4-5 minutes till the potatoes are cooked well, garnish with coriander leaves and serve.
These stuffed peppers are a delicious way to combine ready-cooked red and white quinoa with grated paneer, spring onions and Indian spices. A little passata keeps the filling moist and flavourful, while the peppers make Read More ...
Craving sabudana vada without the guilt of deep frying? These Air Fryer Sabudana Vadas are your new go-toβcrispy outside, soft inside, and every bit as delicious!Β
Sabudana vadas are a fasting classic, but this air fryer version is a total game-changer. Theyβre super easy to make, taste just like the fried ones, and you donβt need to stand over hot oil or deal with splatters. Honestly, these are on repeat at my place during Navratri or whenever I want a snack that feels comforting without the guilt.Β
Itβs also one of my favorite Maharashtrian recipes along with Kanda Batata Poha and Misal Pav which I have loved since my college days!!Β
Sabudana (sago pearls) soaked in ΒΎ cup water for 6-8 hours (or overnight). Medium sized sabudanas work the best for this recipe
Potatoes, boiled and mashed β forms the base and acts as a binding agent to prevent the air fryer vadas from breaking apart
Roasted peanuts β adds lots of texture and a nutty flavor
Green chilliΒ β for heat. Feel free to adjust according to your toleranceΒ Β
Coriander and curry leaves β for earthy flavors and freshness
Cumin seeds β to temper the oil
Lemon juice β for freshness
Salt and sugar β for balance, flavor, and seasoning
Cooking oil β any neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point
How to Soak Sabudana
Making anything with sabudana starts with soaking, and itβs key to get this step right to nail the dish. Hereβs how to do it perfectly:Β
Wash and rinse the sabudana pearls: Soak sabudana in water in an even 1:1 ratio, until thereβs enough water to cover all the sabudana without any excess. This recipe calls for ΒΎ cup sabudana pearls soaked in ΒΎ cup water. Β Too much water will result in extremely sticky sabudana.Β
Leave it to soak for a minimum of 6 hours or even better, overnight, and youβll never use any other method again.
Itβs important to put only as much water as necessary, because if there is extra liquid content which the sabudana can not soak in, the airfrying process becomes a mess. So stick to the ratio.
Once soaked, squish a few sabudana pearls between two fingers. If the insides are even a little hard, that means they need to be soaked for longer. They should get mashed easily between your fingers.
Get my Air Fryer cookbook!
My newΒ Essentials Air Fryer CookbookΒ has 60+ fool-proof air fryer recipes, secret tips, and other essentials to help you make the most of your air fryer!Β Check it outΒ now!
Absolutely! Just pop them back in the air fryer at 180Β°C for 2-3 minutes and theyβll crisp up nicely.
Why is my sabudana vada not holding shape?
This usually happens if the sabudana hasnβt soaked well or the potato mash isnβt binding enough. Make sure the sabudana is soft when pressed between your fingers, and if needed, add a bit more potato to the mix.
Can I make the sabudana vada mix ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours. Shape and air fry when ready to serve. This actually helps the mixture firm up and makes shaping easier.
How do I prevent the vadas from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Make sure to grease the basket well before placing the vadas so that they donβt stick!
My vadas didnβt crisp up as expected β what went wrong?
There could be a few reasons for this: β They may need a couple more minutes in the air fryer. The cook time can vary a little depending on your model. β Not enough oil brushed on the vadas (a light coat really helps) β The basket was overcrowded β make sure to space the vadas out so air can circulate.
Richaβs Top Tips
Make sure the sabudana is soaked properly. To check this, press the pearls between your fingers, they should mash easily.
Donβt skip oil brushing on the vadas. This helps them turn golden and crisp.
Air fry in batches. Overcrowding prevents them from crisping up evenly.
Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. These vadas crisp up as they cool!
Pair with a cup of masala chai for the ultimate snack.
Enjoy as part of a fasting thali during festivals.
Storage Tips
These vadas are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
To reheat, just pop them back in the air fryer at 180Β°C for 2-3 minutes and theyβll get nice and crisp.Β
These vadas are not freezer-friendly as sabudana tends to change texture after freezing.
You wonβt be able to get enough of these Airfryer Sabudana Vadas once you give them a try! These are absolutely perfect for those days when you want a snack that feels indulgent, but isnβt. Comfort food made healthy? Iβm soo in!
If you make these, do send me pics over on my IG @my_foodstory!! These are perfect for the monsoon season so you gotta give it a try ASAP <3Β
Wash & soak sabudana in ΒΎ cup water for 6-8 hours or overnight. After the soaking hours, the sabudana will soak up all the water and fluff up. Refer note 1.
Take soaked sabudana in a large bowl, add rest of the ingredients except oil & mix well.
Preheat the airfryer at 200C.
Grease your palm with oil, take a golf sized sabudana mixture on your palm and flatten it to form round discs or vadas. Repeat till all vadas are formed.
Line the airfryer mesh with parchment paper, brush with oil, place vadas and brush some oil over the vadas. Avoid overcrowding and make sure that there is some gap between the vadas.
Airfry the vadas for 7 minutes at 200C, flip them once, brush with oil and air fry them at 200 C for 6-7 more minutes. They turn crisp once they cool down.
Repeat the same process for all the remaining vadas.
Video
Notes
To check if sabudana is soaked well, press one sabudana pearl in between your fingers and it should mash easily.
Any cooking oil may be used, I have used groundnut oil.
This easy vegan cream of mushroom soup is rich, savory, and packed with mushroom flavor, plus 14g protein per serving! Made with simple ingredients and ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect with crusty bread for dipping! With a side of whole grain bread β 18g Protein. (gluten-free, soy-free with easy nut-free option)
This recipe was originally posted March 6, 2013. It has been updated with modified recipe, pictures and video.
This cream of mushroom soup is a recipe that my friend Somer McCowan shared on my site over 10 years ago. Somer passed away from cancer months ago, and Iβve been thinking about her a lot, which got me thinking about this soup .
I tweaked Somerβs recipe a little bit, reducing the cashews, and changed a couple of the steps in the cooking method to make it simpler.Β
The original recipe called for adding all of the stock to the mushroom mixture and boiling it and then blending some of that soup, but itβs not as easy when you have to transfer boiling liquid into a blender. So instead, Iβm blending part of the cooked onion and mushroom mixture with the cashews and adding that back into the pan, then adding the remaining stock.Β
This is just such a simple and delicious soup! You can change up the flavors to preference, deepen the flavors by adding some miso, add some fresh herbs for additional flavor, and some pepper flakes for a little bit of heat, if you like. If you donβt have wine, you can use balsamic vinegar instead.
Somer was just an amazing person, and her recipes were always incredible. When I was dealing with health issues, she pitched in with this recipe to help keep my blog going. She was just an absolute superwoman. She wrote for Forks Over Knives, co-hosted the Virtual Vegan Potluck, and was just the sweetest, most beautiful, compassionate person.
Somerβs cream of mushroom soup recipe is simple, yet itβs so creamy and flavorful with herbs and plenty of umami! She said, βIβd like to think if I was able to go to Richaβs house and bring her some lunch, that Iβd bring her a big bowl of this soup. Feel better soon, girl.β
Why Youβll Love Cream of Mushroom Soup
delicious, creamy soup with amazing herb and mushroom flavor
easy to make in 30 minutes with simple ingredients
gluten-free and soy-free with nut-free and oil-free options
A simple, flavourful Gujarati-style shaak made with tofu, everyday spices and a little khatta-mitha (sweet and sour) balance. Tofu is a wonderful plant-based ingredient because it takes on the flavours of the spices beautifully. This Read More ...
Indian meals often include pickles, salads and chutneys because they bring different tastes, textures and freshness to the meal. They may be served in small quantities, but they can make a big difference to the Read More ...
This loaded Samosa Dip brings all the flavor of samosa chaat to a shareable party platter! Samosa-spiced potatoes, crispy chickpeas, tangy chutneys, creamy yogurt and crunchy veggies make every scoop a delicious mix of textures. No pastry or folding needed! Nut-free, gluten-free and soy-free, with 13g protein (52g total) and 10g fiber per serving!)
This samosa chaat platter is going to be the first thing that disappears at every dinner party. It has an incredible mix of flavors and textures! It looks festive, itβs easy, and perfect for the upcoming festive season. This samosa platter is also high in protein and fiber. with 13 grams protein(52g total without sides) and 10 grams fiber per serving.Β If you use multigrain or whole grain crackers or pita as a side, the numbers bump up by 3-5g. It also has this word that is going to get you to run to the kitchen to make it right now, which is SAMOSAS!
What are Samosas? Samosa are crispy, savory pastries stuffed with deliciously spiced potatoes. Theyβre a super popular Indian side and the star of this platter.
What is Chaat?
Chaat is a family of Indian street food snacks. Chaat dishes usually have tons of different textures and sauces and flavors built up. Chaat actually means to lick, basically, because the flavor and texture combination is so amazing that you really want to lick every last bit off of your plate.
For samosa chaat, ideally you use some pre-made samosas, break them apart, top them with yogurt, chutneys (like my cilantro-mint chutney or tamarind chutney), some other crispy bits, and fresh onion and tomato. But for an easier and healthier version, weβre just making the samosa potatoes and then layering it all up.
Traditionally, chaat comes with the crispy bits, such as the crispy crackers or the crispy samosas, right in it. And if youβre making it ahead, all of those crispy bits kind of get soggy. So to avoid that, weβre going to make this layered dip kind of situation and serve the crackers on the side, so that people can just scoop it directly from the platter. You get those same flavors and textures, but you never lose that crunch!
If you donβt want to make the whole platter, you can also just make these individual components and serve them all as a chaat spread, so that people can take whichever toppings they want and whichever chutneys and sauces they want. If they want just the chickpeas, they can use just the chickpeas with some sauces, or just the potatoes, or all of the above. Make all of these components, and then serve them however you like. They are absolutely delicious and amazing.
You can use store-bought tamarind chutney, but there is a recipe for a homemade tamarind chutney in the recipe notes, which comes from my first cookbook. If you donβt like tamarind or donβt have access to tamarind, you can also make the maple lime sauce that Iβll also put in the recipe notes. Or use Mango chutney (store bought or homemade)
You can serve this with crackers, crisp pita bread, papadum, cucumber, carrots, or tortilla chips as the crunchy element. Use what you have, and try this incredible samosa chaat platter!
Why Youβll Love This Samosa Platter
flavors and textures of samosa chaat, simplified
crunchy chickpeas, spiced potatoes, and flavorful chutneys
Smoky Moroccan harira soup with chickpeas, red lentils, and quinoa is a budget friendly, 1-pot meal! Bring crusty bread to dip. (21g protein, 21g fiber, 8 mg iron. Gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free. Oil-free option.)
This is such a hearty, delicious, and easy one-pot soup. Today, weβre converting pantry staples into a rich, deeply flavored, hearty, and satisfying harira. This Moroccan chickpea and lentil soup is budget-friendly, one-pot, meal prep-friendly, and packs 21 grams of protein and 21 grams of fiber per serving, and 8 mg Iron. It is cozy, and it tastes like it has been simmering all day, but it really only simmers for about 30 minutes!
Often, harira has either pasta or grains added in it. I am using quinoa in the soup along with the chickpeas and lentils. That makes the soup gluten-free. It is also nut-free and soy-free, if you use nut-free and/or soy-free non-dairy yogurt for the topping, or just skip the yogurt topping altogether. Harira is rich and hearty, even without it.
Serve this with a side of toasty bread, garlic bread, or pita bread, and topped with some creamy non-dairy yogurt and lemon juice. Itβs also great over a baked potato or over roasted veggies.
This recipe is rich in folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium from the lentils. It also has vitamin C and lycopene from the tomato. It is very budget-friendly, about $6.50 to $7 for the whole pot!
Why Youβll Love Harira
1-pot soup packed with veggies, protein, fiber, and FLAVOR!
easy to make with simple, budget-friendly ingredients
flavors of cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and black pepper paired with hearty chickpeas, lentils and quinoa
naturally gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free with an oil-free option
This healthy lemon dill potato salad is a healthier version of the heavy duty mayo laden potato salad recipes. Its super light and refreshing and absolutely perfect to serve at a barbecuedinner.
While I love indulging in the classic mayo laden, creamy potato salads, this lighter and healthier version has my heart right now. Itβs so easy and refreshing to put together. The combination of dill and lemon is classic and the potatoes really soak up the dressing, so that they arenβt bland or boring!
I love serving this with my chicken tikkas or mutton curries as a refreshing side to balance the out the meatiness with some carbs. But honestly, you could add it to sandwiches, wraps, or even serve along with a stir-fry for a side dish thatβs going to be a memorable event.
Baby Potato: The hero ingredient of this salad soaks in all the dressing. The starch in the potatoes adds a creamy texture to the salad
Dill leaves: The sharpness from the dill leaves pairs perfectly with the lemony and pungent taste of the onions. It balances out the creaminess of the potato as well
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is light and has a neutral flavor which makes it the best base for the dressing of this potato salad
Lemon: We add both fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for that fresh lemon flavor, zing, and aroma
Seasoning: Salt and sugar season the dressing and help balance the tang and brightness of the lemon
Dijon Mustard: for emulsification and that extra tang
Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick of heat
Spring Onions and Garlic: These aromatics give a pungent and herby flavour to the salad
Best Potatoes For This Salad
If you have an option, the best potatoes for a potato salad are waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes. I picked up a pack of baby potatoes, because thats whats available in India and they are not very starchy. So they hold their shape and donβt disintegrate when tossed around in the dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the best potatoes for this salad?
If you have an option, the best potatoes for a potato salad are waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes. I picked up a pack of baby potatoes, because thats whats available in India and they are not very starchy. So they hold their shape and donβt disintegrate when tossed around in the dressing.
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, absolutely. Baby potatoes tend to be less waxy hence they work really well in this salad. But you can definitely use regular potatoes too. Just make sure to cook them slightly under so they donβt disintegrate into the salad.
How do I stop the potatoes from becoming mushy?
Make sure to cook the potatoes only until they are fork tender. Which means you should easily be able to insert a knife or fork into the potato without it falling apart completely. This is essential to making sure that the potatoes stay firm and donβt become mushy.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried dill instead of fresh dill, although fresh dill gives the salad a brighter, more delicate flavour. Since dried herbs are more concentrated, use about 1 tablespoon dried dill in place of the ΒΌ cup fresh dill called for in the recipe.
How to Make Lemon Dill Potato Salad
1. Add all the dressing ingredients for the dressing in a bowl and whisk till combined.
2. Cut the potatoes in half leaving the skin on, and place them in a pot. Add enough water to submerge them completely. Add 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fork tender. Drain the water from the potatoes and place the potatoes in a large bowl.
3. Add the prepared dressing to the potatoes while warm and mix to combine.
4. Add dill and spring onions to the bowl with the potatoes toss well and let this salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the potatoes soak up the liquid.
Richaβs Top Tips
Season the water well while boiling potatoes. This ensures the potatoes donβt end up feeling bland in the salad.
Dress the salad while itβs still warm. This helps them soak the dressing up, which means you have MORE FLAVOUR in each bite.
Make this salad the day before. This salad is sooo good when its made a day early because that really helps develop the flavours and mellows the salad down from being extra lemony. I like to warm it up in the microwave (warm, not reheat), so that the dressing isnβt waxy and melts down before serving.
Cook the potatoes until theyβre fork tender. Overcooking the potatoes will prevent them from holding shape and give you a soggy and messy salad.
Storage Tips
Fridge: This salad is super make-ahead friendly. You can either make it in advance or store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so making it ahead will actually mean a more flavorful salad.
Reheat: Gently warm (not reheat) this healthy potato salad in the microwave and sprinkle a bit of fresh dill and spring onion greens before serving for a boost of fresh flavors.
Freeze: I would not recommend freezing this salad as the potatoes become waxy and lose their texture after thawing.
Serving Ideas
This lemon dill potato salad is light, fresh and tangy, so it works especially well alongside grilled, roasted or air-fried mains. Serve it with air fryer chicken tikka, soy chicken wings or chicken seekh kebabs for an easy dinner or party spread.
It also makes a great side for sandwiches, burgers and wraps when you want something a little fresher than fries.
And if youβre putting together a bigger spread, this salad fits right in with grilled meats, barbecue dishes and other summer-style sides. I especially love serving it slightly chilled but not straight-from-the-fridge cold, so you can really taste all that lemon, dill and mustard.
Customisation Ideas
Add some crunch: Finely chopped celery, cucumber, radishes or red onions would add a lovely fresh crunch to the soft potatoes.
Make it creamy: A couple tablespoons of greek yogurt or mayonnaise in the dressing gives this lemon dill potato salad a lovely rich and creamy texture.
Add more herbs: Throw in some parsley, coriander, or fresh chives instead of or along with dill for even more herby flavour.
Make it spicy: Add some red chilli flakes, freshly chopped green chilli, or a pinch of cayenne to the dressing.
Add some protein: Toss in boiled eggs, chickpeas or shredded chicken to turn this into a more filling meal.
Add some cheese: Crumbled feta would work particularly well with the lemon, dill and mustard dressing
Use different potatoes: Baby potatoes work beautifully here, but you can also use regular potatoes cut into bite-sized pieces. Just make sure you donβt overcook them or theyβll become mushy when tossed with the dressing.
This healthy lemon dill potato salad is sooo good, youβll probably never go back to using mayonnaise again. Itβs light, herby, and so refreshing. I love making this as a carb source along with our meat-heavy dinners, but you can honestly have it whenever and however you like. It tastes amazing either ways.
If you make this healthy lemon and dill potato salad, donβt forget to DM the pictures @my_foodstory. Happy cooking!
This Healthy Lemon Dill Potato Salad is dressed in a zesty vinaigrette so fresh that youβll never miss the traditional mayo based potato salad! Itβs best served warm so that the potatoes soak up all that good dressing and goes best with sides like wings, ribs and all the barbecue foods.
Cut the potatoes in half leaving the skin on, and place them in a pot. Add enough water to submerge them completely. Add 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fork tender. Drain the water and place the potatoes in a large bowl.
While the potatoes are cooking, make the dressing and keep it ready. Add all the ingredients for the dressing in a bowl and whisk till combined.
Add dill and spring onions to the bowl with the potatoes and pour the dressing over the potatoes while they are still warm. Toss well and let this salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the potatoes soak up the liquid.
Video
Notes
Peeled vs. unpeeled Potatoes: This depends on how you like your potato salad but both ways work. I prefer to leave them unpeeled.
Lemon vs Lime Juice: If you are using lime juice instead of lemon juice in the vinaigrette, reduce the amount by half. Lime juice is more tart than lemon juice.
Using larger potatoes:Β If you are using larger potatoes, dice them in quarters or six pieces depending on the size of the potato you are using.
Other Ingredients: I love adding chopped celery and boiled egg to this potato salad too.
Marry me white bean soup is a creamy, smoky soup with rich, Italian flavors. That tofu cashew hemp cream packs nutrition! (gluten-free with easy soy-free and nut-free options. 23g Protein, 13g fiber 7mg iron. 1-pot, 30 minutes. Freezer friendly and budget friendly!)
What if I told you that you could make an amazing, creamy, 1-pot soup that is also comforting and nutrient-dense? It is hearty, budget-friendly, easy, and packed with protein, fiber, and iron. It is also packed with amazing flavor and is ready within 30 minutes. It is also weeknight-friendly and uses mostly pantry staples. The whole pot only costs about $5 to $6 to make.
Marry me white bean soup is creamy, hearty, and nutrient-dense. Thereβs 23 grams protein, 13 grams fiber, 7 mg iron, and even more nutrients in a bowl of this marry me soup! Thereβs protein from the white beans, cashews, hemp seeds, tofu, and nutritional yeast, and fiber from the vegetables, greens, and white beans.
To make it more hearty, you can add red lentils to the soup while simmering in the stock. The lentils add even more protein and fiber! Or, you can double up on the white beans.Β
The sun-dried tomato, smoked paprika, creamy texture, and garlicky flavors work really well with some pasta as well. You can also serve it with cheese toast or toasted sourdough, garlic bread, pita.
Why Youβll Love Marry Me White Bean Soup
The flavor! We build the flavor by
1. Toasting garlic and pepper flakes to infuse the oil
2. Toasting the tomato paste and sun dried tomatoes to deepen the umami
3. Using a combination of tofu hemp seeds and cashews for cream so that the cream has volume and hearty creamy flavor!
30-minute 1-pot meal, easy weeknight dinner using mostly pantry ingredients
creamy, smoky, hearty soup with tons of Protein and Fiber in every bite
Meal prep, freezer friendly.
naturally gluten-free with easy soy-free and nut-free options
Iβve made plenty of lentil soups, but this lentil potato soup is the one I keep coming back to. It always wins on flavor and nutrition, and Iβll tell you the simple techniques that make it unbelievably flavorful every time. Each serve packs 20g Protein 14g Fiber 8mg Iron (gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free)
This pot of lentil potato soup, including the toasted seed topping, has 75+ grams of protein, 56 grams of fiber, 24 milligrams of iron(8 per serve is 44% dv), about 700 milligrams of magnesium, 12 milligrams of zinc, plenty of omega fats, and lots of vitamins A and C, along with calcium.
This lentil soup has so much flavor from the way we build up the flavor profile and spices. It is hearty with plenty of veggies and kale, and then we level it up with a toasty seed topping that not only adds amazing texture but also boosts the nutrient profile of the soup.
The lentils bring protein, fiber, iron, and folate. Kale adds vitamins K, C, and A, along with calcium. Pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, and sesame seeds bring magnesium, zinc, calcium, omegas, and even more protein. The potatoes add vitamin B6 and potassium, while the carrots contribute beta-carotene. This lentil soup is truly a powerhouse of nutrients.
To level up this lentil potato soup, 1. we first toast the garlic in the oil. Toasting the garlic releases its flavor into the oil, and then we add the onion. The onion stops the garlic from continuing to cook, so you get perfectly golden garlic without burning it. Next, we toast the tomato paste with the onion. This caramelizes the tomato paste and builds even more umami into the soup.
2. The flavors: we build layers of flavor with herbs and spices. I use oregano, but basil or thyme work just as well.Β
Then, I make a quick harissa-style spice blend with ground coriander, cumin, onion powder, and smoked paprika. You can also use a prepared harissa blend, sumac, shawarma spice blend, baharat, curry powder, or Cajun seasoning. All of these work wonderfully here. I also add black pepper to deepen the flavor and add a gentle heat.Β
These layers of herbs and spices create an incredibly flavorful broth for the lentils and potatoes to cook in.
3. The potatoes are added midway through cooking, so they become perfectly tender while still holding their shape. They soak up all of the delicious broth without falling apart. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add the potatoes at the beginning, so they break down into the broth.Β
Toward the end of cooking, we stir in plenty of kale to make the soup even more nutrient-dense.Β
4. We make a quick toasted seed topping. This adds to much texture and flavor, itβs surprising and incredible! We use pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, and sesame seeds. The seeds are toasted with lemon zest, which adds a bright, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with their nutty richness. We finish the topping with Aleppo pepper flakes for a smoky, gentle heat. If you donβt have all three kinds of seeds, use one or two instead, but definitely make the topping!
Why Youβll Love Lentil Potato Soup
nutrient-packed pot of soup with tons of amazing flavor
easy to make with simple ingredients
versatile! Use different spice blends and additions to change the flavor profile to preference.
crunchy seed topping adds even more flavor, an incredible texture and nutrient boost
This Dense Bean Salad keeps you full for hours! Black beans, lentils, veggies, kale, seeds and a creamy, lemony dressing. High Protein, High fiber, anti-inflammatory (17 grams Protein, 14 grams fiber per serving. Gluten-free, Nut-free, option for soy-free)
This is my anti-inflammatory dense bean salad. Dense bean salads have been trending, and they are just amazing hearty meals with tons of beans and so many different combinations of flavors, textures, and veggies that you can add to them.
Beans, along with all of the vegetables and other ingredients in this salad, are a great source of fiber, protein, iron, and zinc.
The whole bowl has 65+ grams or more of protein, 50+ grams of fiber, 20+ milligrams of iron, and loads of vitamin C from the tomatoes, peppers, and lemon to help your body absorb all of that iron. There are omega-3s from the hemp seeds, along with pumpkin seeds, making this an incredibly nutrient-dense meal.
This is a great, budget-friendly, easy-to-put-together salad. There is no cooking involved. You just have to chop everything, make the dressing, toss it all together, and itβs ready. Itβs also perfect for meal prep because the flavors enhance as the salad sits. The next day, itβs even more flavorful because the beans absorb all of that delicious dressing.
Serve this dense bean salad with tortilla chips, toasted sourdough or garlic bread, added to wraps or tacos, or served over grains, such as quinoa or farro. There are endless possibilities with this salad!
Why Youβll Love this Dense Bean Salad
easy, no-cook meal, perfect for hot weather!
packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, Antioxidants and minerals in every bowl
Anti-inflammatory ingredients
creamy lemon yogurt dressing sends the flavor profile over the top
naturally gluten-free and easy to make nut-free and soy-free
Creamy, garlicky pepper white beans with spinach, finished with an irresistible crispy chickpea crumble, is the high-protein pantry meal I make on repeat, because it doesnβt even taste like a pantry meal. (20g protein, 13g fiber, 8mg iron. Soy-free with gluten-free and nut-free options)
This creamy garlic pepper sauce with beans and kale or spinach is fantastic on its own. But then we level it up with this crispy chickpea breadcrumb topping, which adds texture, another pop of flavor, and more even protein and fiber. Think high protein croutons!
There is tons of protein in this recipe (80 grams in the entire pan) along with about 52 grams of fiber and 32 milligrams of iron. There is protein from the beans, chickpeas, cashews, hemp seeds, nutritional yeast, and kale, along with loads of fiber from the beans, chickpeas, kale, and hemp seeds.
This is a nutrient-packed meal, and you can increase the protein and fiber even more, depending on what sides you serve it with. Serve it with a side of multigrain bread or a good sourdough to bump up the protein and fiber even more. Itβs also rich in iron, folate, magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins, and it comes together pretty quickly.
You can also serve it over pasta, baked potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Or make a quick bean toast by topping bread with the creamy beans and air frying for 6 to 7 minutes for a super quick and satisfying lunch. It smells so good as itβs cooking. It smells peppery, cheesy, and heavenly.Β
The crispy chickpeas on top are so addictive! You can use that topping over any pasta or salad. The topping alone is a must-make.
This recipe uses two cans of beans. The whole can of white beans will simmer in the creamy garlic sauce, while you are dividing up a can of chickpeas. Some of the chickpeas get blended into the sauce to make it creamy, and the rest gets crisped up to make this amazing breadcrumb topping.
Why Youβll Love Pepper Beans
super easy pantry meal that doesnβt taste like a pantry meal
High protein and fiber
crispy chickpea-breadcrumb topping, youβll want on everything
naturally soy-free with easy gluten-free and nut-free options