If you’re already vegan, you can skip most of the introductory material in The Everyday Vegan and head straight for the vegan recipes.
If you’ve been wondering about becoming vegan, you’ll find the facts on protein, calcium, and iron, and some personal stories of why veganism can be a healthy choice. Each recipe includes nutrition information, and ideas for variations.
Appetizers
From fancy Artichoke Puffs made from phyllo dough to vegan Hot Nacho Dip, this chapter provides ideas for parties, including a great section on how to make your own chips and side breads from healthy tortillas and pitas.
Sauces, Gravies, and Salad Dressings
Here you’ll find a variety of vinaigrettes, mushroom gravy, and even a way to make Caesar dressing without eggs or dairy. Look for pasta sauce recipes (such as dairy-free pesto, Creamy Garlic Sauce, Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, and Mediterranean Sauce) in the Main Course section.
Soups and Stews
If you’re looking for a way to warm up your kitchen a cold day, try the Chili, Spicy Thai Stew, or Velvety Roasted Herbed Tomato Soup.
Salads and Sandwiches
This chapter has some great summer recipe ideas, whether you try the Cool Cucumber Tomato Toss or the outstanding Roasted Potato Salad. It’s a bit skimpy on the sandwich recipes, but you’ll find falafels and a variety of homemade vegan “burger” recipes in the Main Course section.
Main Courses
As with a meal, the Main Course section provides the bulk of the book. In it you'll find vegan pasta sauce recipes, a variety of grain and legume patties, risotto, squash, and casserole recipes, and even Spanokopita (phyllo spinach pie). For a change of pace, try the Ginger Hoisin Rice Noodles or Pesto Portabellas. The Tomato-Olive Rice Bake is a simple yet delicious dish that’s great for weeknights and for company.
Simple Sides
Try the Herbed Yam and Potato Fries to go with your Mushroom Pecan Burgers from the previous chapter, or make the Roasted Fennel with Carrots and Shallots for an easy to make, yet exotic vegan side dish.
Muffins and Snack Loaves
Although it’s fairly easy to find vegan vegetable recipes, finding great vegan dessert recipes can be a bit more of a challenge. Fortunately, Burton provides some great recipes for vegan Banana Bread (with maple syrup) and Pumpkin Raisin Loaf.
Sweet Treats
In addition to Lime (or Lemon) “Cream” Pie (made with tofu) and Ooey-Gooey Caramel Chip Bars, this section has several great ideas for making vegan ice cream with only a food processor and a freezer. It also covers Almond Whipped “Cream,” Hot Fudge Sauce, non-dairy rice pudding, and even Lusciously Light Tiramisu.
The Everyday Vegan by Dreen Burton (Arsenal Pulp Press, October 2001) finishes with an index so you can find just the meat-free, egg-free, dairy-free recipe you need for your next vegan meal, potluck, or birthday party.
