Vegan Salad Recipes: BLT Salad w/ Sunflower Ranch

October 1, 2015
When I talk to people about eating a plant based diet, many of them exclaim that they would not be able to live without bacon.  I'm not sure what it is about this salty, cured meat but it seems to have some type of addictive powers and has received a cult following as of lately.  All types of foods and novelty products are available paying homage to bacon. I am a firm believer that eating a plant-based diet is more fulfilling and satisfying than eating meat.  Others, however, might not share this idea and think that vegans are deprived and deficient.  This could not be further from the truth, which is why I make it my mission to create plant based versions of all the traditional favorites.    This salad recreates the classic BLT sandwich, it gives you all the flavors of the original and also provides you with essential vitamins and minerals.  The "bacon" that I made for this recipe uses tempeh which holds the flavor well of the savory marinade.  A creamy ranch style dressing is made using blended sunflower seeds in place of buttermilk. This is a savory, satisfying salad that will excite your taste buds and nourish your body.  Enjoy!
Vegan BLT Salad with Creamy Sunflower Ranch Dressing

Vegan Salad Recipes: BLT Salad w/ Sunflower Ranch

Recipe Type: Detox Salads
utensils YIELDS 2 entree salads or 4 side portions
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  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • 2 tomato, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • Tempeh bacon:
  • 8 oz package tempeh, sliced
  • 1/8 cup liquid aminos
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • pinch raw sugar
  • Sunflower ranch:
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dill, dried
  • 1/2 tsp parsley, dried
  • to taste sea salt and pepper
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Directions

1. Soak the sunflower seeds for 1 - 3 hours. 2. Drain the water and add the seeds into your blender with the rest of the ingredients. 3. Blend until smooth and refrigerate until ready to use. 4. Mix together the aminos and spices, pour over the tempeh and let it marinate for 15-20 min. 5. Heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in a pan over med high heat and brown the tempeh slices until they are crispy on each side. 6. To assemble the salad, take some greens and top with the tempeh, tomato and avocado. Drizzle with the dressing and serve.
Also by Kathryn: Chai Apple Pie A La Mode
Rainbow Spring Rolls with Carrot Ginger Sauce
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__ Photo: Kathryn Farrugia

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Kathryn is a vegan cook and nutrition consultant based in Los Angeles. She uses yoga in the park, runs by the beach and hikes through the mountains to connect and inspire creativity that she brings to her dishes. She is determined to make the world a healthier and happier place one meal at a time. Read more at ZENutrition or follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

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