Hey everyone! If you’re a fan of NikkiVegan like I am, you’re going to love this latest video where Nicole, also known as Nikki Vegan, shares her Trader Joe’s grocery haul along with some super easy and delicious vegan recipes. I absolutely adore her channel because she always provides such practical and tasty meal ideas. In my opinion, her approach to vegan cooking makes it so accessible and fun. So, let’s dive into the highlights of her haul and the mouth-watering recipes she shared!
Organic Creamy Cashew Fiesta Dip
One of the first things Nicole picked up was the Organic Creamy Cashew Fiesta Dip. I think this dip is a game-changer for any vegan cheese lover. It’s like a vegan nacho cheese spread made from cashews and potatoes. You can enjoy it cold with crackers or warm it up to melt over nachos, burritos, or veggie bowls. I tried it myself, and I have to say, it’s absolutely delicious and versatile.
Unfried Rice
Next, Nicole made her famous Unfried Rice, which is perfect for meal prep. She uses:
- Cooked rice
- Shredded carrots
- Shredded cabbage
- Cauliflower rice
- Cooked mushrooms
- Green beans or asparagus
For the sauce:
- Tahini
- Water
- Tamari
- Rice wine vinegar
- Agave
- Sriracha
She sautés the rice and veggies with a bit of water to soften them, then stirs in the sauce. Topped with cilantro, fresh parsley, and sesame seeds, this dish is colorful and packed with flavor. I love how easy and customizable this recipe is. In my opinion, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies.
Lentil Curry
Nicole also shared her go-to Lentil Curry recipe, which is perfect for meal prep. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Curry powder, cumin, coriander, ginger, turmeric
- Can of diced tomatoes
- Cup of coconut milk
- 2.5 cups of red lentils
- Water
Sauté the onion and garlic, then add the spices. I love how aromatic this step is—it makes the kitchen smell amazing! Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, lentils, and water, and let it simmer until thick. I tried this curry, and it’s so comforting and flavorful. In my opinion, it’s a must-try for any curry lover.
Soba Noodles with Peanut Sauce
For a quick and satisfying meal, Nicole made Soba Noodles with Peanut Sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- 6 dashes of cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- Juice from 2 limes
For the noodles and veggies:
- Soba noodles (buckwheat and whole wheat blend)
- Zucchini and carrot noodles
- Scallions
- Cilantro
Mix the sauce ingredients in a blender for a smooth consistency. Combine the soba noodles with the veggie noodles and mix in the sauce. I love the combination of warm, creamy noodles with fresh veggies. In my opinion, this dish is both hearty and refreshing.
Carrot Ginger Soup
Nicole also made a delicious Carrot Ginger Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups chopped carrots (about 5 small to medium carrots)
- Chopped onion
- Crushed garlic cloves
- Thinly sliced ginger
- Sea salt, ground coriander, black pepper
- 1 cup coconut milk (carton variety)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tsp tamari
- Apple cider vinegar
- Maple syrup
- ¼ cup almond butter
Sauté the carrots, onion, garlic, and ginger until soft and fragrant. Add the spices, coconut milk, vegetable broth, tamari, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and almond butter. Blend until smooth. I think this soup is incredibly nourishing and flavorful. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich
For a fun and nostalgic treat, Nicole made a Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich with a twist. She mixed:
- Peanut butter or almond butter
- Dried blueberries
- Raisins
- Cinnamon
- Maple syrup or vanilla extract
Spread the mixture on toasted vegan bread, add banana slices, and top with granola or other toppings like chocolate chips or hemp seeds. On the other slice of bread, mash fresh raspberries with a drizzle of maple syrup. This sandwich is so delicious and customizable. I tried it, and it’s now one of my favorite snacks!
Nicole’s grocery haul and recipes are full of inspiration and practical tips. I love how she makes vegan cooking so approachable and delicious. In my opinion, her channel is a treasure trove of fantastic meal ideas. Happy cooking!