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7 Vegan Foods That Support Better Sleep (and 7 That Don’t)

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Discover 7 vegan foods that help you sleep better—plus which ones to avoid—\ and enjoy plant-based supper ideas and a sleep-friendly recipe! Getting a restful night’s sleep isn’t just about avoiding screens or caffeine—what you eat for supper plays a huge role. Some plant-based foods contain nutrients that help regulate melatonin and serotonin levels, promoting relaxation and deeper sleep. Others can spike your energy or disrupt digestion, keeping you awake long past bedtime. 🥱 7 Vegan Foods That Support Improved Sleep Cherries – One of the only plant sources of natural melatonin. Tart cherries or juice before bed may help regulate sleep-wake cycles. Kiwi – Rich in serotonin-boosting compounds and antioxidants; studies link kiwi consumption with faster sleep onset. Almonds – Contain magnesium and tryptophan, nutrients linked to improved sleep quality. Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas) – High in magnesium and zinc, which work with tryptophan to support melatonin production. Tofu – A good sou...

Vegan Dill Pickle Feta Spread

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Vegan Dill Pickle Feta Spread I tried a few recipes for vegan feta but none of them quite achieved the sharp, slightly acidic saltiness that I was looking for. I imagine I could have come close if I had used more salt (probably a lot more salt) and likely a juiced entire lemon. I think I may go for more lemon juice, but I definitely won't be 'upping' the salt level.  So. In an impulsive moment, prodded by the hungry adults in the other room, I jacked up the acidic code with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and another jolt of dried dill. When I next taste-tested it, I was reminded of dill pickles-- without actually having used such an ingredient. Dill pickles have become a luxury in this household (they are, i ndeed, also   a luxury item in the grocery store these days-- especially our preference, the dill pickles made by a more natural fermentation process.) Quite delicious, if I do say so myself. I hope you agree! INGREDIENTS: 1 cup well-cooked or canned, drained, and ...

Simple Tofu Spread

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 This tofu spread is very tasty and satisfying in that bulky protein way tofu imparts. It is creamy and substantial. Our son thinks it is vaguely reminiscent of *liverwurst*-- not as salty or as greasy or as troubling to think about though. Ingredients: 14 oz. Extra Firm tofu, drained 1/2 cup fine chopped red onion  1/4 cup Tamari or soy sauce 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 cup chopped cilantro  1/2 cup walnuts 2 teaspoons peanut butter 1. I made this spread in my small food processor, but you can also make it by hand. Start by either chopping the walnuts finely with a knife or in the food processor. 2. Combine all ingredients in the mixing bowl or the bowl of the food processor. Crumble up the tofu into small chunks. 3. If you using a bowl, you may want to also use a potato masher to get the process of a smooth spread started. In the food processor pulse and scrape down until a nice smooth sauce results. 4. If you are doing it by hand, you might actually need to get in t...

Curried Lentil Dip or Spread (gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free)

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IN MEDIUM POT, Bring to a boil: *1 C. Red Lentils in *2 1/2 C. Filtered Water Turn it down to Low when it has boiled and simmer for about 20 minutes. IN A SKILLET, SAUTE TOGETHER (for about 5 minutes): *1 T. Coconut Oil *1 C. diced Onions *1 1/2 C. diced Apple (peeled and cored) *3 Garlic Cloves, grated or minced *dash of Celtic Sea Salt ADD to the above: *1/2 C. Raisins *1 tsp. Curry Powder and continue to cook for another 20 minutes on LOW. ADD all of the above to a Food Processor and process with: *1/4 C. Coconut Milk *2 T. Fresh-squeezed Lemon Juice *1/2 tsp. Celtic Sea Salt (or to taste) This is a delicious high protein, low fat vegan dip that will disappear almost as soon as you set it on the table at a Potluck.  Dip with multi-grain pita (or GF), fresh crudite (raw veggies), pineapple spears, mango chunks, ?? Adapted from the recipe for Curried Lentil Dip in the Moosewood Restaurant New Classics: 350 Recipes