Vegan Morning Glory Muffins

Not all of us greet the morning as a glorious occasion, but these muffins live up to the promise of a glorious morning and are sure to brighten even the most dismal awakenings. Delectably moist and spiced up like a pumpkin pie, lots of textures and flavors are present in these multi-layered bites of goodness. Nutty undertones mingle with the aromatic spices, while the natural sweetness of the fruit and pumpkin tantalizes the palate in a gentle and soothing way. Walnuts add a bit of crunch to complete the experience. Each small bite is a delight. Serving one up with a cup of tea or coffee is a healthy way to start your morning or enjoy for a morning or afternoon snack.

Complimented by nutty undertones and natural sweetness from the fruit, these beauties are moist with a bit of earthy crunch from walnuts, natural sweetness from pineapple, apple, raisins and coconut.

Homemade Fruit and Nut Maple Granola

There is nothing quite like homemade granola as I can now assert with confidence, having finally made my own. It's not something I eat all that often, but it does make for a healthy treat, quick breakfast or travel along snack. Granola is especially delightful served up with a good helping of almond milk or yogurt and topped with fresh berries. It's a fine way to enjoy a generous serving of fiber, protein and essential nutrients too.

Creamy Peanut Butter Chickpea & Squash Curry

Though I embrace nearly every legume with open arms and a hungry tummy, my pantry being a concrete overflowing testament to that statement, if I absolutely had to choose a favorite, say a desert island essential, I would say buttery soft, plump, and infinitely versatile chickpeas are always a consideration when it comes to meal planning.

No-Bake Trail Mix Energy Bites

My approach to eating is to focus on small balanced meals and wholesome snacks and treats that can be enjoyed throughout the day. I always focus on variety and quality ingredients to ensure that my digestive system is not overly taxed and additionally that I'm getting a wide range of nutrients from different sources.

This brings me to these little trail mix bites that are easy to prepare and packed right full of protein. You really only need one to provide a boost of energy.

They travel well on the trail, are well suited to take along for an addition to lunch, or just enjoyed when you are wanting a snack right inside when it's too miserable to want to go on a trek. It's always such a challenge to find anything decently nourishing and healthy to purchase when on a road trip, but if you plan ahead, it won't be necessary to stop for snacks.

Potato Patties Stuffed with Spiced Mushrooms and Green Peas

Potatoes are always a nourishing and comforting choice to serve up for dinner, and when they are shaped into heavenly patties with a mushroom and pea filling, complete with fresh dill and spices, and then baked or fried and topped with velvety tomato chutney, culinary bliss ensues. These were served up as a side, but honestly, if that was all I was going to eat for my evening meal, I would have been completely satisfied. Slightly crisp on the outside and soft inside, these succulent little bites were inspired by my potato patties stuffed with spiced green peas (aloo mattar tikki).