Vegan Spiced Carrots with Whipped Feta & Chimichurri
This flavorful Vegan Spiced Carrots with Whipped Feta & Chimichurri dish is inspired from the Plant You cookbook. Carleigh Bodrug is amazing and when I made this recipe, I freaked out! The recipe combines roasted spiced carrots with protein-packed lentils, a creamy whipped feta dip, and zesty chimichurri, offering a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Carrots provide antioxidants like beta-carotene, while lentils add fiber and plant-based protein. The whipped feta, made with white beans and cashews, offers healthy fats and a dairy-free twist, and the fresh herbs in the chimichurri deliver a dose of vitamins and anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s a delicious, nutrient-rich meal that’s great for boosting energy and supporting overall health.
- Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and boosts the immune system.
- Lentils: High in plant-based protein and fiber, promoting heart health and digestion.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, helping regulate blood sugar levels.
- Cumin: Aids digestion and is a good source of iron and antioxidants.
- White beans: High in fiber and protein, they help stabilize blood sugar and support heart health.
- Cashews: Provide healthy fats, magnesium, and copper, which benefit heart and brain function.
- Lemon (juiced): High in vitamin C, it boosts immune function and aids in digestion.
- Garlic: Known for its antibacterial and heart-protective properties, it supports immune health.
- Parsley: Rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, it supports bone health and reduces inflammation.
- Nutritional yeast: A great source of B vitamins and plant-based protein, supporting energy levels.
- Fresh cilantro: High in antioxidants and may help detoxify heavy metals from the body.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
Nutrient-dense: Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and plant-based protein for a healthy, balanced meal.
Bold flavors: A mix of sweet, savory, and zesty flavors from roasted carrots, lentils, whipped feta, and chimichurri.
Versatile: Works as a light lunch, appetizer, or side dish, fitting a variety of meal plans.
Plant-based: Whipped feta uses white beans and cashews, making it a great dairy-free alternative.
Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and steps, perfect for busy moms looking for healthy meal ideas.
Immune-boosting: Ingredients like garlic, parsley, and lemon help support overall wellness and immune health.
Visually appealing: Colorful and vibrant, this dish is Instagram-worthy and perfect for sharing!
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Spiced Carrots with Whipped Feta & Chimichurri
Equipment
- blender or food processor
Ingredients
- 10 carrots samll-medium size
- 1 can 14-once can of lentils drained and rinsed
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp garlic chili sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
Whipped Feta Dip
- 1 can 15-once white beans drained and rinsed
- 1 1/4 cup cashews soaked at least 2 hours
- 3 tbsp water
- 1/2 lemon juiced
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Chimichurri
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1 cup carrot tops or additional cup or fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F, and line a baking sheet with a reusable baking mat or parchment paper.
- Place the carrots on the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle with the cinnamon, cumin, and salt until coated. Roast for 30 minutes, or until softened.
- While the carrots roast, in a medium-size bowl or jar, combine the garlic chili sauce, maple syrup, and hoisin sauce. Add the lentils.
Chimichurri
- In a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients and mix until a suace is formed.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven, pour the lentil mixture over the cooked carrots, and toss until coated. Return the pan to the oven and roast for 5 more minutes.
Whipped Feta Dip
- In a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients and mix until a suace is formed.
- Transfer to a serving dish, and with the back of a spoon, create a swirl.
- Remove carrots from oven and top add to the whipped feta dip. Top with the Chimichurri. Serve.