Tomato Kritharaki with Vegan Cevapcici and Tzatziki: A Flavorful Mediterranean Delight
Are you ready to savor a Mediterranean dish that bursts with flavors and offers a delightful twist on traditional recipes? This Tomato Kritharaki with Vegan Cevapcici and Tzatziki is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for vegan enthusiasts and anyone looking for a hearty, healthy dinner, this recipe combines the comforting taste of baked pasta with spiced vegan meatballs, all topped off with creamy tzatziki. Let’s dive into this delicious journey.
Ingredients
For the Tomato Kritharaki:
– 250 grams kritharaki (or orzo pasta)
– 400 grams canned diced tomatoes
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 500 milliliters vegetable broth
– A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Vegan Cevapcici:
– 200 grams lentils (cooked and drained)
– 100 grams grated zucchini (excess moisture squeezed out)
– 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
For the Tzatziki:
– 250 grams vegan yogurt
– 1 small cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of half a lemon
– Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Tomato Kritharaki:
1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the canned diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about five minutes.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Stir in the kritharaki and reduce heat to low.
7. Cover and simmer for approximately fifteen minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
Make the Vegan Cevapcici:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, grated zucchini, flax egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small sausage-like forms.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry each cevapcici for about three to four minutes on each side until golden brown.
Prepare the Tzatziki:
1. In a bowl, combine vegan yogurt with grated cucumber.
2. Add minced garlic and lemon juice to the mixture.
3. Season with salt to taste and stir well.
Serve Your Dish:
1. Once your kritharaki is cooked through, remove it from heat and fluff it gently with a fork.
2. Place a generous serving of Tomato Kritharaki on each plate.
3. Top it off with several pieces of crispy vegan cevapcici.
4. Drizzle tzatziki over everything or serve it on the side for dipping.
5. Garnish your dish with fresh parsley for added color.
Tips and tricks
When preparing tomato kritharaki with vegan cevapcici and tzatziki, a few tips can make the process smoother and the meal more delightful. First, choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in your kritharaki. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a burst of freshness to your dish.
Cooking the kritharaki al dente is essential, as it will soak up flavors from the sauce without becoming mushy. For the vegan cevapcici, consider using a mixture of lentils and chickpeas for a hearty texture. Allowing the cevapcici to rest after cooking helps them firm up, making them easier to serve.
For tzatziki, opt for plant-based yogurt to keep it vegan while maintaining creaminess. Adding extra garlic will enhance its flavor; however, adjust according to your taste preference. Finally, garnish your dish with a sprinkle of paprika for an appealing presentation.
FAQs
What is tomato kritharaki with vegan cevapcici and tzatziki?
Tomato kritharaki with vegan cevapcici and tzatziki is a flavorful Mediterranean dish that features kritharaki pasta cooked in a rich tomato sauce. The vegan cevapcici adds protein, made primarily from legumes and spices. Tzatziki provides a cool contrast with its creamy yogurt base mixed with cucumber and garlic. This meal balances carbs, proteins, and fresh flavors perfectly.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparing tomato kritharaki with vegan cevapcici and tzatziki generally takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Cooking the kritharaki and preparing the tomato sauce takes about 25 minutes. Meanwhile, you can whip up the vegan cevapcici in about 20 minutes, including mixing ingredients and cooking them on medium heat until golden brown. The tzatziki requires minimal time—just mix all ingredients together.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make tomato kritharaki with vegan cevapcici and tzatziki gluten-free, substitute traditional kritharaki pasta with gluten-free pasta or rice-shaped alternatives made from quinoa or corn. Ensure that any other ingredients you use are also gluten-free by checking labels carefully. This way, you can enjoy this delicious dish without worrying about gluten.
Tomato kritharaki with vegan cevapcici and tzatziki is a wonderful recipe that offers comfort food while being nutritious. It brings together various flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy everyone at your table. Enjoy making this dish for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners!