The Culinary Life

A professional foodie at large

As a former vegan, I can relate to the idea of being the only herbivore at a carnivorous cookout, wondering what I would eat, feeling like I’d be stuck munching on carrot sticks and corn chips the entire night. Now that I eat—and enjoy—meat these days, I no longer fear the grill … though I do try to limit the amount of meat I consume, mostly for health reasons. But that doesn’t mean I have to give up grilling on the nights I want a lighter dinner. There are many veg-friendly grill options. Have you ever thought of grilling cheese?

[[Read more about Grilled Haloumi Cheese with Olive Tapenade]]

Did you know that olive tapenade recipes are not always vegetarian? My formerly vegan self was not aware of this fact, and I was about a year into my veg adventure before someone informed me that one of my favorite spreads was indeed not inline with my dietary requirements. Not a terribly squeamish vegan, I simply shrugged off the fact that I’d been eating anchovies, sardines, or similar small, fatty fish — which would explain the not-so-lovely-tapenade breath — but I did decide to avoid it for the duration of my time on Planet Veg. [[Read more about Vegetarian Olive Tapenade Recipe]]

Thumbnail image for Seriously Decadent Almost-Raw Chocolate Truffles Recipe

Seriously Decadent Almost-Raw Chocolate Truffles Recipe

May 12, 2012

Made with all natural ingredients and absolutely no refined sugar, this classically rich, creamy treat won’t leave you feeling like ick after indulging.

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Thumbnail image for Vegan Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Vegan Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

May 4, 2012

This vegan macaroni and cheese recipe, based on the recipe by The New Farm Cookbook, is so close to spot-on dairy creaminess that I’ve served it to omnivores and they’ve been none the wiser.

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Thumbnail image for Copycat Recipe: Stacks’ Granola Pancakes Recipe

Copycat Recipe: Stacks’ Granola Pancakes Recipe

April 13, 2012

These pancakes are super filling and addicting. The sweet nuttiness of the granola fills your senses with a wholeness that will exceed your greatest pancakes expectations.

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Thumbnail image for Apricot, Cherry, Cranberry and Cardamom Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Apricot, Cherry, Cranberry and Cardamom Hot Cross Buns Recipe

April 4, 2012

This apricot, cherry, cranberry and cardamom hot cross buns recipe is a twist on the traditional citrus-spice buns you see in bakeries around Easter. Light and sweet, with a touch of tartness, these bun are the ultimate Lenten treat.

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Thumbnail image for Souffle Pancakes – The Ultimate Comfort Fluff

Souffle Pancakes – The Ultimate Comfort Fluff

March 22, 2012

Soufflé pancakes are light and airy while remaining incredibly decadent. Soufflé for breakfast? Yes, please! This recipe will make you squeal with delight.

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Thumbnail image for Fat Tuesday! Mardi Gras King Cake Recipe – Stand Mixer-Free

Fat Tuesday! Mardi Gras King Cake Recipe – Stand Mixer-Free

February 21, 2012

In honor of Mardi Gras, this king cake recipe will help you celebrate, bayou-style. Soft and sweet, this bready treat is covered with a sweet glaze and colored sugar. While many king cake recipes require a stand mixer, this one doesn’t.

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Thumbnail image for A Sweet for Your Sweetie: Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Parfaits

A Sweet for Your Sweetie: Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Parfaits

February 13, 2012

This strawberry chocolate mousse parfait is a perfect quick and easy dessert for Valentine’s Day. Impress your love with literally five minutes worth of work!

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