This simple dinner ticks all the boxes: delicious, wholesome, and satisfying. Plus, it’s vegetarian. Sweet squash combines with crunchy-earthy barley, kale, and peas to make a delicious meal for a weekday evening. Serve with brown basmati rice on the side, if desired.
Per serving:
In small saucepan, bring barley and 1 1/4 cups (310 mL) water to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer. Cook barley covered, until tender but still chewy and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 45 minutes. If kernels taste starchy and hard in centre, simmer for another 10 minutes. Add extra splash of boiling water, if necessary. When done, let rest for 5 minutes. Stir with fork to separate kernels. (Barley can be made ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.)
Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C). Dice squash into small 1/2 in (1.25 cm) cubes. You should have about 2 cups (500 mL). Refrigerate remaining squash for other use. Place diced squash in bowl and lightly coat with 1 Tbsp (15 mL) olive oil. Spread on parchment-lined baking sheet in single layer. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake in centre of preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until tender but slightly firm when tested with fork.
Meanwhile, heat remaining oil in large, heavy saucepan. Add onion, and sauteu0301 over medium-low heat, stirring often, until softened. Fold in kale, chickpeas, and cooked barley, and gently stir-fry over medium heat to wilt kale slightly and warm chickpeas. Gently fold in baked squash and heat through. Remove from heat. Combine tamari, juices, and crushed peppers. Whisk to combine and drizzle over vegetables. Fold in to coat evenly.
Serve immediately with sprinkling of toasted pumpkin seeds.
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.
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