Sausage, Kale and Veggie Soup {Low Carb / Keto}

Sausage-Kale-Veggie-Soup

Whenever it’s cold outside, I crave a big pot of #soup or stew to warm my bones and forget that its Winter outside…I’m used to the NY Winters I grew up with, but down here in Florida it’s a little crazy for it to be so chilly right now!

Sausage-Kale-Veggie-Soup-3

So I made a big pot of this #delicious Sausage, Kale and Veggie Soup, which seemed perfect for a major binge-watching session of Bridgerton on Netflix. (Have you seen it yet!? #OMG I am in #love with that show! No time for a full review here but I’ll talk more about that later in my Winter #2021 Things I Love post coming up next week..A must see if you like historical dramas!)

Sausage-Kale-Veggie-Soup-2

Not only is this soup super comforting, but it’s #healthy, #lowcarb and #keto-friendly and quite filling too! I made it with some spicy ground Italian sausage (you can also use sweet sausage instead if you like less heat), a few big handfuls of fresh baby kale, and sautéed lots of fresh veggies too – carrots, celery, garlic, onions, parsley and zucchini. Then I simmered it all together with some beef broth, Everglades seasoning, Italian seasoning, olive oil + red pepper flakes into a big pot of goodness.

Sausage-Kale-Veggie-Soup-4

I topped it off with more fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese and went. to. TOWN. And of course served it with a glass of crisp white wine to go with.

Feel free to substitute #vegan sausage, white cannellini beans, sliced baby Bella mushrooms, a few halved baby potatoes or cauliflower florets / cauliflower rice instead of the Italian sausage if you want to make the soup #vegan or #vegetarian…but you might want to add more seasonings and a little more olive oil if not using sausage to amp up the flavors. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage if you prefer… (not vegetarian but a little healthier and less fat). And it’s just as delicious with chicken broth or veggie broth too.

Anyway you make it, I hope you enjoy and stay warm! What better way to spend a weekend afternoon than a good show and some comfy soup? 🙂

Sausage + Kale Veggie Soup

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Yield: Serves 8

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

This is a super delicious and comforting soup for the Winter made with Italian Sausage, Baby Kale, and lots of veggies like carrots, celery, garlic, onions, and zucchini all simmered together into a big pot of goodness. Topped with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese - all you need is some crusty Italian bread and a glass of crisp white wine to make it a healthy meal. Enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
  • 2 carrots, chopped or sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Sea salt and pepper, to taste
  • 5 cups beef broth (or chicken or vegetable)
  • 1 zucchini, halved and sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Everglades seasoning (or seasoned salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2-3 cups fresh baby kale, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté 1 pound ground Italian sausage in 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat in a Dutch oven for about 5 minutes until sausage was no longer pink; remove from pot with a slotted spoon into a mixing bowl.
  2. Add the carrots, onion, celery, and garlic into the same pot with additional tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper (to taste), and cook for another 5 minutes until veggies are soft.
  3. Add the cooked sausage back in to the pot and add the broth, sliced zucchini, Everglades seasoning (or seasoned salt), garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), tomato paste, Italian seasoning; bring soup to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer the soup over medium-low heat for 10-15 mins. Add two large handfuls of fresh baby kale (about 2-3 large cups), and chopped fresh parsley; simmer another 5-10 mins until the kale is wilted.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese at the end and serve hot with a little more cheese on top. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve with a glass of wine and crusty Italian bread, if desired.

Notes

You can sub vegan sausage, white cannellini beans, sliced baby Bella mushrooms, a few halved baby potatoes or cauliflower florets/rice instead of sausage to make it vegetarian...you might want to add more seasonings to taste, and add a little more olive oil if not using sausage for amped up flavors.

You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage if you prefer. (not vegetarian but a little healthier and less fat).

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2021/01/sausage-kale-and-veggie-soup-low-carb-keto/

More soup recipes you may enjoy: 

Classic Minestrone Soup

French Lentil Vegetable Soup

Veggie and Bean Soup

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

I was recently invited to participate in a recipe challenge for Kevin’s Natural Foods and I am so excited to try these delicious #organic sauces! They are all sugar/dairy/soy/gluten-free as well as paleo and keto-friendly, made with non-GMO/clean ingredients, super tasty and easy to cook with. And since I am currently doing a #keto and #low-carb lifestyle, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to experiment with some fun recipes for the contest.

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

Chicken Tikka Masala is one of my favorite Indian dishes EVER – so I jumped at the opportunity to create a Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread – an absolute flavor explosion which is also guilt-free and MAJORLY delicious!

KNF Tikka Masala Sauce

 

I used Kevin’s Natural Foods Tikka Masala Sauce – a delicious blend of bright tomato curry made with coconut milk, ginger, and Indian spices, with some roasted cauliflower, sweet caramelized onions, and juicy savory chicken thighs over homemade Keto Garlic “Naan” Flatbread.

Keto Garlic Naan Flatbread Ingredients

 

I started first by making the keto garlic naan flatbreads using mozzarella cheese, almond flour, cream cheese, garlic powder, baking powder and a pinch of Himalayan Pink sea salt and microwaving it for about a minute until cheeses are melted.

Keto Garlic Naan Flatbread

 

Then I stirred in the egg and kneaded it gently into a dough and shaped them into ovals on to the baking sheets, and brushed them with olive oil, fresh garlic, paprika and some chopped cilantro. I baked them for 15-17 minutes until browned and let them cool on parchment paper while making the Chicken Tikka Masala topping.

Roasted Cauliflower

 

Next, I chopped up a head of cauliflower into small florets and drizzled them with olive oil, garlic salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and roasted them in a 400 degree oven for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and browned (but made sure not to overcook because it will simmer in the sauce later with the other ingredients).

Caramelized Onions

 

I sliced up some sweet onion and sautéed them in a large pan with some more olive oil, sea salt and paprika for about 25-30 minutes over low heat until they were soft, golden and caramelized. YUM!!

Pour Sauce over ingredients

 

In the same saute pan, I sautéed the chicken thighs over medium-high heat until cooked through and no longer pink. Then I added the chicken back in the pan along with the cauliflower and onions, a pinch of red pepper flakes for additional heat, and poured the Chicken Tikka Masala sauce over the top.

Chicken TIkka Masala

 

I let this big pot of curry goodness simmer over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes to let all the delicious flavors meld together with the sauce.

Chicken Tikka Masala

 

Once done, I topped the Keto flatbreads with some of the mixture..LOOK AT THIS GORGEOUS COLOR.

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

 

…then sliced the flatbread into wedges and topped it off with some fresh cilantro and black pepper.

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

 

OMG – you guys. This is the most delicious thing ever – and it’s so easy! The garlic flatbreads are literally super low carb and the chicken, cauliflower and sweet onions go so good with the Tikka Masala curry sauce – it literally melts in your mouth!

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

I can’t wait try their other great sauces out – stay tuned for more recipes this month that I’ll be creating for the same challenge with their Korean BBQ, Lemongrass Basil and Thai Coconut flavors which you can find online!

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 2-4

Serving Size: 1/2 to 1 flatbread

These Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbreads are a flavor explosion! Made with Kevin's Natural Foods Tikka Masala Sauce (organic, gluten free), roasted cauliflower, caramelized onions, and juicy chicken thighs over Keto Garlic Naan Flatbread. Guilt-free and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

  • Chicken Tikka Masala:
  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 2 cups cauliflower florets
  • 4 tablespoons ghee or olive oil, divided
  • Kosher salt and pepper
  • 1 large onion, julienned
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 pouch Kevin’s Chicken Tikka Masala Sauce
  • Fresh torn cilantro, for garnish
  • ------------------------------
  • Garlic Naan Flatbread:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 4 tablespoons cream cheese
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • Kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced

Instructions

  1. Garlic Naan Flatbread:
  2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  3. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, add mozzarella, almond flour, cream cheese, garlic powder, baking powder and a large pinch of salt. Microwave on high until cheeses are melted for about 1 minute; stir in eggs.
  4. Shape the dough into two 1/2-inch thick ovals and place on two large baking sheets.
  5. Mix ghee or oil with garlic and cilantro, brush over top of the bread.
  6. Bake each flatbread for 15-17 minutes. Set aside while making Chicken Tikka Masala.
  7. Chicken Tikka Masala:
  8. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of ghee or olive oil over cauliflower and season with garlic salt and pepper on a large baking sheet.
  9. Roast cauliflower for 20-25 minutes, until browned and crispy. Remove tray from oven and set aside.
  10. Heat an additional tablespoon of ghee or oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, sprinkle paprika over the onions and sauté for about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low and let cook for about 20-25 minutes until caramelized and brown. Set aside into a small bowl while cooking the chicken.
  11. Bump up the heat to medium-high and add the chicken to the same sauté pan with one tablespoon ghee or olive oil. Saute for about 6-8 minutes until cooked through and no longer pink.
  12. Pour in the pouch of Jason’s Chicken Tikka Masala Sauce to the pan along with the cooked onions and cauliflower. Toss in a few red pepper flakes if desired. Bring sauce to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer and let cook over low heat for 5-8 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or chicken broth until desired consistency.
  13. Remove from heat to cool and let flavors meld together.
  14. Top each keto naan flatbread with 1/2 the Chicken Tikka Masala mixture and garnish generously with fresh cilantro and freshly cracked black pepper.
  15. Slice flatbreads into wedges and serve immediately.

Notes

You can also substitute chicken breast instead of chicken thighs if you prefer. Try adding other veggies in if you like - peas, green beans, carrots...if you want to spice up the heat, garnish with a few jalapeños or sliced red chilies.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/11/keto-chicken-tikka-masala-flatbread/

Chicken Tikka Masala Flatbread

 

#eatcleanlivehappy #kevinsnaturalfoods #kevinsrecipechallenge

Check out more of Kevin’s Natural Foods Products and Recipes Online!

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Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup

Beef Vegetable Soup

Beef Vegetable Soup

Fall is finally upon us and its my favorite time of year! I especially love cozy soups and stews when it starts to get chilly outside. One of my favorites is this lovely Beef Vegetable Soup made with chunks of beef roast and tons of healthy and colorful veggies like carrots, onions, celery, garlic, zucchini, tomatoes and baby peas cooked in a flavorful beef broth with a hint of red wine vinegar and fresh herbs that will fill your belly and warm your toes.

First sear the beef in a large pot over high heat in a large soup pot or Dutch oven for a few minutes. Remove the beef to a large plate, then add the veggies and fresh herbs and sauté them for about 5 minutes. Add the vinegar and cook a few more minutes. Then pour in the beef stock, tomatoes, tomato sauce, cover, and let it bubble and simmer for about an hour and a half on low heat until the meat and veggies are meltingly tender and all the flavors meld together into a big pot of savory, delicious goodness.

Add zucchini and peas

Add the pre-cooked zucchini and frozen baby peas in the pot the last 10 minutes of cooking (so they don’t get too mushy. Look at all the goodness going on in there!

 

Serve the soup with some garlic butter Texas toast for dipping along with a glass of red wine for double coziness and maximum comfort.

Beef Veggie Soup

Enjoy!

Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours

Yield: 10

Serving Size: Approx. 1 cup

Calories per serving: 209

Fat per serving: 7g

This Beef Vegetable soup is super healthy and filling and perfect for Fall. Chock full of veggies like onions, garlic, carrots, zucchini, peas and celery cooked with chunks of chuck beef roast, tomatoes and tomato sauce and beef broth. Great served with fresh parsley and a side of garlic butter Texas Toast for dipping!

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or grapeseed oil
  • 2 3/4 pounds stew beef or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt
  • 2 cups yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cups celery, chopped or thinly sliced
  • 2 cups carrot, chopped or sliced
  • 1 cup zucchini, sliced and halved
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 4 1/2 cups beef broth (or more for thinner soup)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup frozen baby peas
  • Fresh Italian parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Garlic Butter Texas Toast, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over high heat. Season beef with pepper and 1 teaspoon of salt, and add half of the beef, sautéing until browned on all sides but still pink in the center; transfer to a plate or bowl. Add additional tablespoon of oil to the pot and repeat with the rest of the beef.
  2. Reduce heat to medium-high and heat additional tablespoon of oil. Saute the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini and garlic until soft and tender, about 5 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon salt, dried oregano, fresh thyme and 1/4 teaspoon of seasoned salt and cook for another minute. Remove zucchini and set aside to add back in later.
  3. Add red wine vinegar and cook over medium-high for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Add beef broth, tomato sauce and diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium and cover the pot, letting the soup simmer for 1 hour 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is cooked through and tender. Add frozen baby peas and sautéed zucchini in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley and garlic butter Texas toast for serving. Goes great with a glass of dry red wine like Merlot of Cabernet.
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/09/hearty-beef-vegetable-soup/

Other Beef Veggie soup recipes you might enjoy: 

Vegetable-Beef Soup, NY Times

Hearty Beef Vegetable Soup, Taste of Home

Hearty Beef and Freezer Veggie Soup, Southern Living

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles w/ Blood Orange + Black Currant Vinaigrette

Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Noodles

This is a lovely recipe that I wanted to share with you all because it’s one of my absolute favorites and perfect for Spring! ?????

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Salad

This Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodle Salad is made with some roasted eggplant, quinoa, feta cheese, mint and pomegranate seeds which are all lightly drizzled in this gorgeous vinaigrette dressing I made with Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil + Black Currant Balsamic Vinegar which makes the salad even more #delish!

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Salad

Start out by first cutting up your eggplant into medium size chunks, drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast in the oven on a sheet pan for about 25 minutes until soft and golden. Cook quinoa according to package directions and drain, fluff with a fork. Make your zucchini spirals with a spiralizer (or you can shave long, thin slices with a mandoline) and drizzle with a little olive oil and salt and pepper and sauté for a few minutes.

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles

Then toss the roasted eggplant and cooked quinoa in a bowl with the zucchini noodles. Top with feta cheese, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves. Drizzle with the Blood Orange Black Currant vinaigrette dressing and toss together with the salad. Season the zucchini noodles with salt and pepper to taste. 

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles

Feel free to substitute crumbly queso cheese, goat cheese, burrata, mozzarella or any other mild cheese you like. You can also use cooked wild rice, farro or any other ancient grain you like (amarynth, teff, etc.) for the quinoa – or leave it out all together to make the recipe #keto/#lowcarb/#atkins-friendly. If you can’t find fresh pomegranate arils, the salad would be delicious with either some fresh baby tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Soooo good and #healthy!

Have a great weekend everyone, stay safe, stay healthy and enjoy 🙂

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles w/ Blood Orange + Black Currant Vinaigrette

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Yield: 4

Serving Size: 1 cup

Calories per serving: 221

Fat per serving: 13.6g

Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodles w/ Blood Orange + Black Currant Vinaigrette

This Roasted Eggplant Zucchini Noodle Salad with roasted eggplant, quinoa, feta, pomegranate + mint is super #fresh and #healthy and the perfect light meal to start off the weekend! Drizzled in a @7Barrels Blood Orange + Black Currant balsamic vinaigrette makes this even more absolutely #delish!

Ingredients

  • 1 medium Italian eggplant
  • ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil, divided
  • 1-2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Black Currant Balsamic Vinegar
  • Sea salt, to taste, plus more for serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup dry quinoa
  • 2 zucchinis spiral sliced or made into ribbons with a wide peeler
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grainy Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup pomegranate arils or cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup feta cheese, for garnish
  • Handful fresh mint, roughly chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 475ºF.
  2. Cut eggplant into 1-inch cubes. On a rimmed baking sheet, toss eggplant with ¼ cup Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast until browned and tender, about 25 minutes. Toss with 1-2 tablespoons Seven Barrels Black Currant Balsamic Vinegar and chopped parsley.
  3. Meanwhile, bring salted water and quinoa to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam with cover on for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  4. For the dressing, in a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil, lemon juice, grainy Dijon mustard, honey, and ground pepper. Season with salt, to taste.
  5. Squeeze any excess water out of the zucchini noodles with a tea towel or paper towels. Add 1 tablespoon of Seven Barrels Blood Orange Olive Oil in a large sauté pan and cook the noodles for about 2-3 minutes, toss in the cooked quinoa and mix together.
  6. Pour the dressing over the cooked quinoa and zucchini; toss well to combine and transfer to a serving bowl. Top with roasted eggplant, pomegranate arils or cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and mint, to serve. Drizzle with an additional small amount of dressing, and additional salt and pepper to taste, if desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute cojita cheese, goat cheese, burrata, mozzarella or any other mild cheese you like.

You can also substitute wild rice or farro or any other ancient grain you like (amarynth, teff, etc.) for the quinoa (or leave it out all together to make the recipe keto/low carb/atkins friendly.

Schema/Recipe SEO Data Markup by Yummly Rich Recipes
https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/05/roasted-eggplant-zucchini-noodles-w-blood-orange-black-currant-vinaigrette/

Other Zucchini Noodles #recipes you may enjoy: 

Shrimp, Basil & Corn Zucchini Noodles w/ Meyer Lemon Cream Sauce

Garlic Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Pasta

Red Curry Beef Zucchini Noodles

Zucchini Noodle Carbonara

Mediterranean Beef Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

Mediterranean Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

These grilled Mediterranean Beef Kebabs are the perfect #low-carb/#Keto/#Whole30-friendly dish made with lightly spiced Steakhouse Elite Grass-Fed Ground Beef grilled on skewers. Now that Spring is on the way, I’m focusing on eating healthier and less carbs with whole, fresh, #organic ingredients.

Mediterranean Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

Once the beef skewers are grilled, they are served with a simple, lovely salad made with fresh sun-roasted tomatoes, cucumber, red onions, parsley, mint, and crumbled feta, and a side of homemade tzatziki sauce made with garlic, cucumbers, mint and greek yogurt.

Mediterranean Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

Healthy, light and delicious! You can also serve these on grilled pita bread if you wish. Pairs well with a crisp white wine or light red.

Mediterranean Beef Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: Serves 4.

Serving Size: 1-2 Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

These grilled Mediterranean Beef Kebabs are the perfect low-carb/Keto/Whole30-friendly dish made with lightly spiced Steakhouse Elite Grass-Fed Ground Beef grilled on skewers. They’re served with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, red onions, parsley, mint, and crumbled feta, and a side of homemade tzatziki sauce. Healthy, light and delicious!

Ingredients

  • BEEF KEBABS:
  • 1 medium onion, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, minced
  • 1 1/2 pounds Steakhouse Elite Grass-Fed Ground Beef
  • 1/2 cup finely ground almond flour + 1 tablespoon water
  • Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 4 teaspoons Mediterranean or Greek seasoning
  • SIDE SALAD:
  • 1 large tomato, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • Parsley, chopped
  • Mint, chopped
  • Feta Cheese, crumbled
  • TZATZIKI:
  • 3 Persian, Kirby or ½ English cucumbers, cut into ¼-inch pieces
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
  • ¼ cup chopped mint

Instructions

  1. BEEF KEBABS:
  2. Soak 10 wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, removing when ready to start making beef kebabs. Lightly oil a grill or grill pan and preheat to medium-high.
  3. Finely mince the onion, garlic, and parsley and place in a large mixing bowl. Add the ground beef, almond flour/water mixture, salt and pepper and Mediterranean spices. Mix together with your hands until well combined. Alternatively, you can mince all the ingredients together in a food processor.
  4. Take a handful portion of the meat mixture and mold it on a wooden skewer into a long log-shaped kebab about 1 inch wide. Repeat with the rest of the meat and skewers, laying them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
  5. Place the beef kebabs on the grill and cook for 4 minutes on one side, turn over and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  6. Serve the kebabs with a side salad made of sliced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, parsley, mint and feta cheese with a side of tzatziki for dipping.
  7. TZATZIKI:
  8. Toss cucumbers with a few generous pinches of salt in a small bowl; firmly squeeze several times with your hands to release excess water. Drain.
  9. Mix cucumbers, yogurt, oil, lemon juice, and garlic in a medium bowl; season with salt. Let sit at room temperature 15–20 minutes; discard garlic. Stir in mint just before serving.
  10. Do Ahead: Tzatziki can be made 2-3 days ahead (without mint). Cover and chill in the refrigerator, and add fresh mint just before serving.

Notes

You can also substitute the ground beef with ground lamb or chicken, and serve with a side of grilled pita bread if desired.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/03/mediterranean-beef-kebabs-w-tzatziki/

Mediterranean Kebabs w/ Tzatziki

Enjoy!

Citrus Arugula Salad with Pistachios, Ricotta + Mint

This #Winter Citrus #Salad w/ Arugula, Ricotta Salata & Pistachios has a Lemon Truffle Dressing that is to die for! 

A gorgeous and refreshing salad made with blood oranges and Cara Cara oranges, arugula, chopped mint, pistachios and sliced red onion over arugula with a lovely dressing made with 7 Barrels White Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. The perfect blend of sweet, tangy, crunchy and salty all in one bite!

#lowcarb #keto #whole30 approved #recipe! ..It’s the perfect refreshing salad for the New Year! Happy #2020!

Citrus Arugula Salad

Citrus Arugula Salad with Pistachios, Ricotta + Mint

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Yield: Serves 4.

A gorgeous and refreshing Winter salad made with citrus, arugula, chopped mint, pistachios and red onion over arugula with a lovely dressing made with 7 Barrels White Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper. The perfect blend of sweet, tangy and salty all in one bite!

Ingredients

  • 2 blood oranges, peeled, pith removed and sliced crosswise ¼ inch thick
  • 2 Cara Cara or Navel oranges, peeled, pith removed and sliced crosswise ¼ inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons roasted salted pistachios, chopped
  • ½ small red onion, halved and sliced thin crosswise
  • 3 cups baby arugula
  • 4 tablespoons Seven Barrels Truffle Oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Ricotta Salata, crumbled (or 8 thin slices, divided)

Instructions

  1. Layer the orange slices in alternating colors on a large plate or a couple of small plates.
  2. Top the layered oranges with chopped mint, pistachios, and sliced red onions on the plate(s).
  3. Toss the arugula with truffle oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  4. Place a pile of arugula on top of the layered oranges and top with the crumbled ricotta cheese and additional freshly ground black pepper if desired.

Notes

Note: If you can’t find fresh Ricotta Salata cheese, you can also substitute another tangy sheep’s milk cheese such as Manchego or Aged Pecorino Romano. Fresh sliced Mozzarella or Burrata cow’s milk cheese could also substitute nicely for a milder flavor.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2020/01/citrus-arugula-salad-with-pistachios-ricotta-mint/

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp Stir Fry

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp Stir Fry

Hey guys! Oh my gosh, it’s almost the end of the year! Can you believe it? Where does time fly? I’m so ready for a New Year though – #2019 can’t come soon enough! 🙂

I was invited to participate in the #Steviva #Holiday #Keto #Blogger #Recipe Challenge this year and made a Sweet and Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp Stir Fry. With all the #holidays going on and the rich, delectable #food I’ve been enjoying this month, I wanted to make a recipe a little bit lighter and healthier, and on the lower carb side…(before it all happens again this weekend for New Years!)

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp Stir Fry

I love Steviva products because they are lower in carbs, low glycemic, low calorie and they use all natural ingredients in their products. Their line of good-for-you all natural alternative sweeteners are terrific options for cooking and baking without sugar. Whether you need a granulated sweetener to replace table sugar, a powdered sweetener to replace confectionery sugar or a liquid sweetener to replace corn syrup, they have carefully developed safe, low glycemic, low caloric sweeteners that taste and act just like sugar.

Steviva + Nectevia Marinade

This dish is super easy and quick to make and has great flavors using fresh Meyer Lemon juice, soy sauce, sesame, Nectevia Agave Stevia Blend, Steviva Erythritol Blend, a dash of ginger and #Sriracha for some spiciness to make a delicious sticky marinade to go with the shrimp and fresh veggies. And it’s low carb and low cal! BONUS*** 🙂

Marinate Shrimp

Simply make your marinade for the shrimp with all the ingredients and put it in the fridge in a ziplock baggie for 1/2 an hour. Then stir fry the shrimp for a few minutes until they are no longer pink and remove the shrimp from the pan.

Saute the shrimp and veggies in marinade

Add the veggies and stir fry those for about 5-7 minutes until tender crisp and the sauce starts to thicken. Add the cooked shrimp back in and toss together for another minute or so.

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp Stir Fry

Serve immediately over brown or cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles or soba noodles and spoon the rest of the spicy and sweet sauce on top and garnish with a few more sesame seeds and even some green onions if you wish.

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp Stir Fry

Prep Time: 40 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yield: 4

A super easy and delicious stir fry made with shrimp and fresh veggies, marinated in a spicy and sweet sauce made with Meyer lemon juice, soy sauce, Sriracha, Steviva Blend and Nectevia. Great for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Best served over brown rice, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles or soba noodles.

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons Steviva Blend
  • 4 tablespoons Nectevia agave syrup
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • juice of one Meyer lemon
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha
  • dash of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • dash of ginger (fresh minced or dried)
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups fresh sliced veggies (broccoli florets, red pepper, snap peas)
  • white pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Whisk together Steviva Blend, Nectevia agave nectar, soy sauce, garlic, lemon juice, sesame oil, sesame seeds, Sriracha, red pepper flakes and ginger in a small mixing bowl.
  2. Add half of the sauce to the shrimp and let marinade in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or more.
  3. Heat butter in a medium sized skillet over medium high heat. Add the shrimp, discard marinade from the bag (save the other unused half for making the sauce). Saute for about 3-5 minutes until shrimp is no longer pink.
  4. Remove shrimp from the pan and add the fresh vegetables. Saute for about 5 minutes or so until soft.
  5. Add the reserved marinade and pour over the vegetables. Cook for another few minutes until sauce thickens.
  6. Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan and toss together with the vegetables and the sauce. Season with pepper, to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired over brown rice, cauliflower rice, soba noodles or zucchini noodles.

Notes

You can also use this marinade for scallops or chicken or beef, just increasing the cook time appropriate for the protein (about 10-12 mins for chicken or beef until cooked through). Vegetables can be swapped out as well whatever you prefer!

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/12/sweet-spicy-meyer-lemon-shrimp-stir-fry/

Sweet + Spicy Meyer Lemon Shrimp

I’d love to hear your comments on this recipe below if you decide to make it! Please make sure to tag @stevivabrands and @artfulgourmet with a link back to this original post on my blog if you do share any recipes or photos on social media!

For more information on #Steviva Brands products and more recipes, please visit their website and social media pages:

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Instagram

—–

Note: I received products from Steviva Brands to experiment with recipes for the Blogger Challenge Recipe Contest. All opinions, recipes, photos and text are my own. 

Sausage, Zucchini + Mushroom Pasta {Gluten-Free, Organic}

TresOmega Gluten Free Pasta

 Sausage Mushroom Zucchini Pasta

The holidays are approaching so quickly (yay!) and during this time of year I love staying indoors and making some serious comfort food. Especially anything #Italian, made with #pasta. And #cheese. And #veggies.

Sausage Mushroom Zucchini Pasta

But that always comes with consequences, (note: stretchy pants, lol) and I’m trying to restrain myself a little bit by eating lighter and healthier until all the holiday parties start flooding in…(this weekend!)

Tresomega Coconut Oil + Quinoa Penne Pasta

I was invited to participate in the Tresomega Blogger’s Challenge again this year, so I decided to make a super delicious Italian pasta dish made with Tresomega Gluten-Free Quinoa Penne Pasta and their Organic Coconut Oil.

Sausage, Mushroom + Zucchini Pasta

I topped the pasta with some saut̩ed mushrooms, garlic, mire poix, zucchini, Italian sausage, roasted pecans and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The sauce is super light too Рmade with chicken broth, a splash of brandy and a few tablespoons of half and half and some dried Italian herbs for a light, gorgeous flavor.

Sausage, Mushroom + Zucchini Pasta

Tresomega Quinoa Penna Pasta is made with a unique blend of organic Royal Bolivian Quinoa – a nutrient packed superfood, organic amaranth, an ancient grain rich in vitamins and minerals and #organic white rice. And, it’s gluten-free, corn-free and certified organic. 

Sausage, Mushroom + Zucchini Pasta

They only use the highest quality ingredients, sustainably sourced and environmentally-sensitive to help promote a #healthy lifestyle. They are also dedicated to supporting a viable economic livelihood for farmers and promoting a #sustainable agricultural environment for future generations.

Sausage, Zucchini + Mushroom Pasta {Gluten-Free, Organic}

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 4

Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups pasta

A super delicious Italian pasta dish made with Tresomega Gluten-Free Quinoa Penne Pasta and their Organic Coconut Oil, topped with some sautéed mushrooms, garlic, mire poix, zucchini, italian sausage and toasted pecans and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. The sauce is super light too, made with chicken broth, a splash of brandy and a few tablespoons of half and half, sprinkled with some italian herbs for a light, gorgeous flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Tresomega Coconut Oil
  • 6 ounces ground pork Italian sausage
  • 1 (8 ounce) package sliced baby bella mushrooms
  • 1 cup chopped mire poix (celery, carrots, onion)
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into demi lunes
  • 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 (8 ounce) package Tresomega Penne Pasta
  • 1/3 cup brandy or dry white wine
  • 1 cup organic chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons half and half
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tablespoon dried Italian herb seasoning
  • 1/2 cup dry roasted pecans
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, mushrooms, mire poix, zucchini, and garlic and saute together stirring often, until sausage is crumbly and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside. Toss with a tablespoon of coconut oil to prevent pasta from sticking together while cooking the rest of the ingredients.
  3. Add the brandy (or wine) and let alcohol cook down until flavors are absorbed for about 2 minutes.
  4. Add the chicken broth to the mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook for another minute or so.
  5. Stir in half and half, season with salt and pepper, and red pepper flakes and italian seasoning.Cook for another few minutes on low heat.
  6. Serve the Sausage, Mushroom Zucchini sauce over the pasta and top with fresh grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

You can also use any of the other Tresomega Quinoa pastas (fusilli, spaghetti, or elbows)

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2018/12/sausage-zucchini-mushroom-pasta-gluten-free-organic/

Tresomega Quinoa Pasta Varieties

Please also check out Tresomega’s other varieties of pasta – you can find and purchase their products online at: Tresomega.com, Sams.com, Amazon.com and Walmart.com.

Sausage, Mushroom + Zucchini Pasta

Thanks to Tresomega Nutrition for sponsoring this post! Please share the love and enjoy more of Tresomega Nutrition’s products by visiting their website and connecting via social media:

Website: http://www.tresomega.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TresomegaNutrition/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tres_omega

I’d love to hear your comments below on the recipe and be sure to tag your shared posts with #tresomega #organicsforlife and #artfulgourmet @artfulgourmet!

This is a sponsored post from Tresomega Nutrition written by me. All opinions, recipes and photos are my own, and I only support products I love and use myself. Also, if you share this post or any of my other posts, recipes or photos, please be nice and tag my content with @artfulgourmet and include a link to the original post on The Artful Gourmet.

Thanks and Happy Holidays! 

Dr Smood: Smart Food for a Good Mood + Maca Pumpkin Couscous

I just discovered an amazing new cafe and store in NYC called Dr Smood – have you seen it? If not, you need to go. Based out of Miami, Dr Smood is a health company that makes “Smart Food for a Good Mood” – and oh how you’re gonna love this place!

They make all their own juices, smoothies, organic products and delicious healthy food based on 6 moodsPower, Beauty, Immunity, Detox, Energy and Health, which you can choose based on your mood and feeling and what you want to gain from the experience.

I had the opportunity to visit the Flatiron location in NYC and had a delicious Organic Detox Juice #9, made with ginger, lemon, lime, raw honey, echinacea, and cayenne. Then for lunch I tried their Butternut Squash Soup, Turkey and Avocado sandwich on their homemade Performance Bread before browsing the beautiful cafe and store of amazing products including organic tea, coffee, chocolate, health and beauty supplements and organic dried foods.

 

dr smood mushroom powder

Dr Smood’s Organic Superfood Powders

Dr Smood’s Organic Superfood Powders would make a wonderful gift for the health and wellness-obsessed foodies on your list. They’re full of health-boosting goodness and are easy to use (they can be easily mixed into smoothies or juices, on yogurt or cereal or added to energy balls and no-bake treats).

There are a total of 13 beautifully packaged superfood powders, including Raw Cacao Powder, Spirulina Powder and Red Maca Powder. Each powder comes with an information packet, including a recipe and serving suggestions, and can be purchased at one of the five Dr Smood cafés in NYC.

Dr Smood Red Maca Superfood Powder

Dr Smood Red Maca Powder is an adaptogenic herb that helps the body to adjust to stress. Maca is an excellent source of phytochemicals and protein and helps to regulate the endocrine system and hormones, boost libido and increases energy, stamina and endurance. Enjoy maca in homemade granola or add it to tea, juice, smoothies, oatmeal or cereal. (SRP: $21.95)

Dr Smood Spirulina Powder

Dr Smood Spirulina Powder contains over 60% complete protein—almost 3x as much as beef—and is one of the few good sources of plant-based B12. This algae can also boost your immunity and promote a healthy digestive tract. Use it to make a semi-raw soup with sweet potatoes and carrots, spirulina cacao clusters or add it to your favorite juice or smoothie. (SRP: $14.95)

Dr Smood Cacao powder

Dr Smood Raw Cacao Powder contains approximately 40x more antioxidants than blueberries, which help the body to resist and repair damage from free radicals; plus it’s a natural mood booster and can promote beautiful skin, nails and hair. Use it to make hot cacao with coconut cream and almond milk this season and you will never want the standard version of hot chocolate again! You can also add it to coffee, yogurt, fresh fruits or smoothies. (SRP: $10.95)

Red Maca Pumpkin Couscous with Shallots, Bacon + Crispy Sage

I picked up a jar of the Red Maca powder at the store and created a new recipe for Maca Pumpkin Couscous w/ Shallots and Bacon and Crispy Sage that turned out absolutely delicious! Maca powder is a great supplement to add to sweet recipes like juices and smoothies and organic raw desserts, or savory recipes like soups, sauces, gravies, or to sprinkle on roasted veggies.

Maca Pumpkin Couscous w/ Shallots and Bacon and Crispy Sage

Maca Pumpkin Couscous w/ Shallots and Bacon and Crispy Sage

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Yield: Serves 4.

Serving Size: 1 cup

A delicious and healthy way to incorporate Red Maca powder into a lovely fall savory dish. Roasted pumpkin, sautéed garlic and shallots and bacon tossed into a basil and herb couscous topped with crispy sage and pumpkin seeds.

Ingredients

  • 1 small sugar pumpkins, halved, seeds removed, skin on
  • 3 tablespoons olive or coconut oil, divided
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Dr Smood Red Maca Superfood Powder
  • Dash of cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 shallots, sliced
  • 1 garlic clove, chopped
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked, drained and crumbled
  • 1 package of Near East Basil and Herb couscous
  • 6-8 sage leaves
  • Roasted pepitas or pumpkin seeds, for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese, grated, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
  2. Drizzle each pumpkin half with 1 tablespoon of oil. Season with salt and pepper, Red Maca powder and cayenne. Place the pumpkin halves cut side down onto a lightly greased baking sheet. Roast in oven for 1 hour, until fork tender and golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
  3. Remove skin from pumpkin, cut into 1-inch cubes and toss with maple syrup; set aside.
  4. Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Cook the couscous according to package directions and set aside.
  5. Cook bacon in oven on a large foil lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes until crispy and brown, drain and crumble; set aside.
  6. Heat another tablespoon of oil in a sauté pan over medium heat; cook shallots and garlic for approximately 5 minutes until soft and golden (be careful not to burn!). Add sage leaves and sauté until crispy and browned.
  7. Add the cooked pumpkin, bacon, garlic, shallots to the couscous and toss together.
  8. Transfer to individual serving bowls, garnish with crispy sage, roasted pumpkin seeds and grated parmesan cheese.

Notes

You can also substitute roasted butternut squash or any other hearty veggies like eggplant, zucchini, mushrooms and bell peppers. Omit the bacon and cheese to make it vegetarian and dairy free.

https://www.theartfulgourmet.com/2017/11/drsmood-smartfood-for-a-goodmood/

Here’s another fun easy recipe you can make when you have a sweet tooth:

Maca, Coconut and Cashew Granola (gluten-free, vegan)

1 1/2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
1 cup raw, unsalted cashews, coarsely chopped
1 cup coconut flakes
4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 tablespoon Dr Smood Red Maca Superfood Powder
pinch Himalayan fine grain sea salt

Preheat your oven to 300° F. Line a medium-sized baking sheet with parchment. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Spread all ingredients in an even layer on a pan. Bake for 15 – 20 minutes. Allow to fully cool on the pan. Granola will firm and turn crunchy once cooled. Store in a sealed container in the fridge.

Check out the gallery below to see more photos of their amazing store and food and products I discovered!

To find a Dr Smood cafe and retail store near you, please visit their website at http://drsmood.com

Dr Smood Facebook Page

Dr Smood Instagram Page