Quick & Easy Loaded Black Bean Burger Salad Recipe

Quick & Easy Loaded Black Bean Burger Salad Recipe

Black Bean Burger Salad

Tired of boring salads? Try one of Jacob’s signature dishes, a Black Bean Burger Salad recipe with Balsamic Basil Dressing. 

When Jacob and I first started dating, a burger salad bowl was one of the meals he would prepare to impress me. He wanted to show off his cooking skills and knowledge of healthy recipes. I’m sure dating a dietitian must be a little nerve-wracking, worrying that I might be assessing every meal he prepares for me.

Dietitians care more about the deliciousness of the food (we know all about balance). However, I was thoroughly impressed with Jacob’s salad-making skills. It’s not always easy to prepare a healthy salad that is also delicious!

So, let’s make Jacob’s Signature Black Bean Burger Salad and all my favorite burger toppings. 

A large black bean burger patty laid overtop a spinach salad with cucumbers, shallots, and sliced cherry tomatoes.

Three Reasons You Will Love This Burger Salad

Versatile: This salad can be made using a homemade healthy black bean burger cooked in a skillet over medium heat, a frozen veggie pattie heated through in an air fryer, or even grilled burgers made with lean cooked ground beef or turkey burgers.

Moreover, you could even add some shredded cheddar cheese to the top of the burger for a melty cheese addition. The eater can add a variety of different ingredients to their salad, such as romaine lettuce or arugula, dill pickles or picked green beans, red onion, goat cheese, crispy bacon, or even your favorite salad dressing.

Nutritious: In this recipe you will find protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Not following a keto diet and finding this recipe needs a little more carbohydrates? Just add a side of your favorite mac salad, top with crunchy croutons, or even some oven-roasted potatoes. 

Looking to make this low-carb lunch or dinner? Beyond Burger makes really good vegan burger patties. They have 20g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. 

Easy: I think Jacob made this recipe so often because of how easy it was for him to whip together. Just take your premade frozen veggie burger and heat it in the microwave, air fryer, or skillet, then add it over a bed of mixed greens and veggies. Then, top it with your favorite dressing or my Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette.

close up of a balsamic basil vinaigrette with lots of julienned basil mixed throughout the vinaigrette.

The Ingredients in this Black Bean Burger Salad

  • Black Bean Burgers – You are welcome to use either homemade veggie burgers and/or store-bought black bean burgers in this recipe. I have a delicious homemade Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger recipe but I also enjoy Morning Star’s Spicy Black Bean Burgers.
  • Mixed salad greens
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Cucumber
  • Shallots
  • Balsamic Basil Vinaigrette – recipe on The Addy Bean!

Optional ingredients – turn this into a cheeseburger salad by adding about a cup of shredded cheddar. 

black-bean-burger-salad-dressed

Step – By – Step Instructions

This is a quick and simple salad that can be put together in under 15 minutes.

Prepare the dressing:

  • Add all the salad dressing ingredients to a jar. Secure the lid of the jar and shake to incorporate, set aside. 

Prepare the burger:

  • Stovetop: Add 1 tbsp avocado oil to a skillet and turn to medium heat. Add the frozen store-bought or homemade black bean burgers to the skillet. Cook for 7-10 minutes flipping halfway through. 
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the burgers for 14-16 minutes. 
  • Cool the burger for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the salad. 

Prepare the salad:

  • First, add the greens to the salad bowl or bowls. Then layer on the tomatoes, cucumber, and shallots. Add the Black Bean Burgers and drizzle over the Balsamic Basil Dressing. 

A large black bean burger patty laid overtop a spinach salad with cucumbers, shallots, and sliced cherry tomatoes.

Jazzing Up Salads

There are 4 key rules to follow when jazzing up a salad.

  1. Healthy Fats: Add something with healthy fats such as nuts & seeds, olive oil, avocado oil, avocados, pole-caught canned tuna, or olives.
  2. Protein: Include a protein source like chicken, fish, pork, nuts & seeds, tofu, tempeh, or legumes.
  3. Crunch: croutons, nuts & seeds, crispy quinoa, tortilla strips, crisp peppers, apples, cucumbers, or baked chickpeas.
  4. Lastly, add fruits and veggies you actually enjoy, not just the ones you think are healthy. 

I feel so passionately about these 4 key rules when creating a jazzed-up (not boring) salad that I wrote an entire article about how to BYO (build your own) salad! Check it out here -> BYO (Build Your Own) Salad – The Addy Bean Article

black-bean-burger-salad-dressed-closeup

Salads Are Love

I love to make fun, exciting, and delicious salad recipes. Below are a few other salads you may love. 

Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with Smoked Trout

A stoneware bowl with arugula and spinach salad topped with toasted vegetables, quinoa, smoked fish, pickled beets, toasted walnuts, and a creamy walnut dressing.

Easy Lemon Cucumber Salad with a Lemon Vinaigrette

Top down view of a lemon cucumber salad with a spoon. The off white bowl is sitting overtop a sage linen napkin.

Glass Noodle Salad

Top down of glass noodle salad with baked tofu over top.

A large black bean burger patty laid overtop a spinach salad with cucumbers, shallots, and sliced cherry tomatoes.

Jacob's Black Bean Burger Salad with Balsamic Basil Dressing

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This is Jacob's favorite salad recipe and for good reason! Served over top salad greens and veggies, these black bean burgers make for a tasty and healthy salad topper.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 5 servings
Calories 614 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 5 Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger see recipe notes
  • 10 cups mixed salad greens
  • 16 cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1.5 cups sliced cucumber
  • 2 shallots, sliced a medium to large shallot

Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette

  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 10 basil leaves, julienned
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dressing

  • Add all the salad dressing ingredients to a jar. Secure the lid of the jar and shake to incorporate, set aside.

Prepare the burger:

  • Stovetop: Add 1 tbsp avocado oil to a skillet and turn to medium heat. Add the frozen store-bought or homemade black bean burgers to the skillet. Cook for 7-10 minutes flipping halfway through.
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Bake the burgers for 14-16 minutes.
  • Cool the burger for 5-10 minutes before adding it to the salad.

Prepare the salad:

  • First, add the greens to the salad bowl or bowls. Then, layer on the tomatoes, cucumber, and shallots. Last, add the Black Bean Burgers and drizzle over the Balsamic Basil Dressing.
    Enjoy!

Notes

Black Bean Burgers: You may choose to purchase frozen veggie or black bean burgers for your salad, costco and trader joes have excellent varieties. I enjoy using my recipe for Wild Rice and Black Bean Burgers or 2 Morning Star Farms Spicy Black Bean Burgers per serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 614kcalCarbohydrates: 75gProtein: 20gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 33mgSodium: 387mgPotassium: 1404mgFiber: 12gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 1505IUVitamin C: 43mgCalcium: 158mgIron: 5mg
Keyword balsamic, black bean
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger Recipe

Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger Recipe

Original Article Published: 08/15/2022

Craft a Nutritious Culinary Masterpiece with This Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger Recipe

I absolutely love this Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger recipe. These burgers are nutrient-rich, veggie-focused, balanced, and full of flavor.

As a bonus, choosing plant-based options like these burgers can have a lower environmental impact compared to meat-based burgers!

Two burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and jalapeno piled high.

Why I Love To Make Veggie Burgers

In my grad school days, I attempted my first homemade veggie burger with less success than I hoped. Now, five years later, I’m married to a veggie burger enthusiast who prefers them bean-based and spicy. That led me to create this wild rice burger recipe using wild rice from a previous meal, combined with beans and spicy peppers.

Tools Needed For This Recipe

Veggie Burger Patties on a white background next to a plate of tomatoes just cut out of frame to the left of the patties.

Ingredients

  • Wild Rice (or brown rice)
  • Black Beans
  • Peppers
  • Egg
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Herbs
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Avocado oil (olive oil works too)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Black Beans

Pour off the water from the soaked black beans and transfer them to a pot on the stove.

Cover with water and cook for 40 minutes on medium heat. After cooking, set aside to cool.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a pan, sauté the finely diced onion and minced garlic in 1 tbsp avocado oil until they are translucent. Allow them to cool.

Prepare The Burger Mixture

In a food processor, combine the cooked wild rice, cooked black beans, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped jalapeños, oregano, fresh parsley, eggs, and bread crumbs. Pulse until thoroughly combined.

Season the mixture with the salt and black pepper.

Forming the Burger Patties

Using clean hands, shape the mixture into patties of burger size, making 7-9 patties. If the mixture appears too moist, consider adding additional breadcrumbs to enhance binding.

Cooking the Burgers

Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. (Use 1 tbsp avocado oil for 4 patties.)

Serve

Serve the Wild Rice and Black Bean Burgers on your favorite bun with your preferred toppings and condiments. Consider adding lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, or your favorite sauce.

Two burgers with lettuce, tomato, onion, and jalapeno piled high.

Serving Suggestions

For my Wild Rice and Black Bean Burgers, I keep it classic but add a kick with fresh jalapeños. Load up your burger with lettuce (butter lettuce if available), thick slices of red onion, seasonal heirloom tomatoes, raw jalapeño, avocado, and a smear of mayo.

Don’t skimp on the toppings—go for big, thick slices of red onion and farm-fresh tomatoes. And of course, always toast those burger buns for that perfect crunch!

Freezing Wild Rice and Black Bean Burgers

  1. Wrap Individually:
    • Individually wrap each burger in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place pieces of parchment paper between the burgers to prevent them from sticking together.
  2. Place in a Freezer Bag:
    • Transfer the wrapped burgers into a freezer-safe, airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
  3. Label and Date:
    • Label the container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the burgers have been in the freezer.
  4. Freeze Flat:
    • If you have space, freeze the burgers in a flat layer. Once they are frozen solid, you can stack them more efficiently.

A hand holding a veggie burger with lettuce, red onion slices, a tomato slice, and fresh slices jalapeno.

Reheating Frozen Wild Rice and Black Bean Burgers

  • Oven or Toaster Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the frozen burgers on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
  • Microwave: Remove the plastic wrap or foil, place the frozen burger on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave on medium power for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Thaw the burgers in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.

Pro Tip: Opt for Soaked, Dried Beans

Consider using soaked, dried beans instead of canned ones in this burger recipe. Why? It’s all about the texture!

Enjoy This Recipe? Try These with The Burger!

Easy Herb Focaccia

Pickled Beets with Mustard Seeds

Horseradish Aioli

Wild Rice and Black Bean Burger

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Burger will wow even those beef loving burger fans! It's not loaded with weird ingredients, and it's not trying to mimic a beef burger! It's yummy and delicious in its own creation.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 7 servings
Calories 252 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Food Processor
  • 1 Measuring spoons Set
  • 1 large skillet

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup cooked wild rice or quinoa, brown rice etc
  • 1½ cups dried black beans, soaked for 24hours in the fridge
  • ¼ onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large eggs
  • 2 jalapenos
  • ½ tbsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ cup bread crumbs
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt
  • â…› tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil, divided

Instructions
 

Prepare the Black Beans

  • Pour off the water from the soaked black beans and transfer them to a pot on the stove.
  • Cover with water and cook for 40min on medium heat. After cooking, set aside to cool.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

  • In a pan, sauté the finely diced onion and minced garlic in 1 tbsp avocado oil until they are translucent. Allow them to cool.

Prepare The Burger Mixture

  • In a food processor, combine the cooked wild rice, cooked black beans, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped jalapeños, oregano, fresh parsley, eggs, and bread crumbs. Pulse until thoroughly combined.
  • Season the mixture with the salt and black pepper.

Forming the Patties

  • Using clean hands, shape the mixture into patties of burger size, making 7-9 patties. If the mixture appears too moist, consider adding additional breadcrumbs to enhance binding.

Cooking the Burgers

  • Heat 1 tbsp avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. (Use 1 tbsp avocado oil for 4 patties.)

Serve

  • Serve the Wild Rice and Black Bean Burgers on your favorite bun with your preferred toppings and condiments. Consider adding lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, or your favorite sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 252kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 11gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 152mgPotassium: 683mgFiber: 7gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 187IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg
Keyword black bean
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Easy Herb Focaccia From Pizza Dough

Easy Herb Focaccia From Pizza Dough

Easy Herb Focaccia From Pizza Dough

Savor the simplicity of this easy herb focaccia from pizza dough, a delightful blend of fresh herbs and olive oil atop a pillowy, golden crust. Create this recipe with a handful of ingredients, pillowy pizza dough, olive oil, ripe tomatoes, and sprinkled with a medley of fragrant herbs.

Focaccia sliced on a cutting board with a tan linen napkin.

Why You Will Want To Make This Recipe Again and Again

Experience the advantages of freshly baked bread without the extensive effort and time investment. This Easy Herb Focaccia recipe is ready in just around 30 minutes for a quick and delightful side that can be added to breakfast, lunch, dinner, or eaten as a snack. 

Ingredients for This Easy Herb Focaccia From Pizza Dough

  • Pizza Dough – I often use Pillsbury
  • Olive Oil
  • Tomato
  • Herbs
  • Salt & Pepper

 

Uncooked focaccia in a glass pan with sliced tomatoes and herbs to the left top corner

How to Make This Easy Herb Focaccia From Pizza Dough

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Move the rack toward the top 1/3 section of the oven. 

Prepare the pan

Grease a quarter-sized baking sheet or a rectangular baking dish with olive oil.

Roll out the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your baking sheet or dish. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared pan.

Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.

Add Oil and Herbs

Drizzle the olive oil over the dough, making sure to get it into the dimples. Lay tomato slices over the focaccia. Sprinkle chopped rosemary, thyme, and sea salt evenly over the top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm with additional olive oil for dipping, if desired.

Focaccia top down close up

What to Pair with This Recipe

Focaccia pairs well with a variety of healthy options.

Focaccia top down in a ceramic pan

Like This Recipe? You Will Love These Too!

Strawberry Smoothie Bowl [Vegan and High Protein] – one of my most popular recipes!

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussels Sprouts with a Herbed Chestnut Topping

Din Tai Fung Inspired Cucumber Salad Recipe

Easy Herb Focaccia

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Herb Focaccia is super easy because I use store bought, premade pizza dough!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 46 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Dish 13x9 or sheet pan

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Pizza Dough I used pilsbury refrigerated dough
  • 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 Tomato, sliced Really, it's 1/2 to 1 whole tomato. Per bakers preference.
  • ½ tsp Minced fresh rosemary Rosemary is to be removed from it's stem. The amount is per the bakers preference.
  • ½ tsp Minced or whole fresh thyme Thyme is to be removed from the stem. Because the thyme is already very small, mincing is optional. Amount is per bakers preference.
  • ½ tsp Kosher Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black Pepper

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Move the rack toward the top 1/3 section of the oven. 

Prepare the pan

  • Grease a quarter sized baking sheet or a rectangular baking dish with olive oil.

Roll out the dough

  • Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to fit your baking sheet or dish. Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared pan.
  • Use your fingers to create dimples all over the surface of the dough.

Add oil and herbs

  • Drizzle the olive oil over the dough, making sure to get it into the dimples. Lay tomato slices over the focaccia. Sprinkle chopped rosemary, thyme, and sea salt evenly over the top.

Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the focaccia is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

  • Allow the focaccia to cool slightly before slicing. Serve it warm with additional olive oil for dipping, if desired.

Notes

This recipe is Vegan and Vegetarian. 

Nutrition

Calories: 46kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 0.2gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 51mgPotassium: 49mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 173IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 0.1mg
Keyword 5-ingredient
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Easy Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies

Easy Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies

Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies

Indulge in the festive magic of December with Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies! As winter settles in, I love to savor nostalgic and comforting freshly baked Chocolate Chip cookies. And this year I am adding a sweet bonus, marshmallows!

These are not your ordinary batch of chocolate chip cookies. Packed with yummy chocolate chips and pillowy marshmallows, the chocolate chips add richness to each bite, while the marshmallows add their sweet gooey texture. In the bustling holiday spirit, these cookies are a testament to comfort and joy, an invitation to savor the magic of the season. 

Chocolate chip and marshmallow cookies on parchment paper. The center cookie is split and the sticky marshmallow stretched and toasted

Why I Made This Recipe

These cookies are a magical blend of chocolate and marshmallow reminiscent of one of my favorite fireside treats, s’mores! While many cookie recipes include marshmallows I enjoy this one because it’s super easy to make. 

This recipe is a great way to elevate that package of store-bought chocolate chip cookie dough balls! While, in this recipe, I make the dough from scratch, you can skip that step altogether!

So, roll up your sleeves and join us in the kitchen for a baking adventure that promises to elevate your winter delights.

 

Chocolate chip and marshamallow cookies some are stacked and the view is top down.Eight cookies in frame

 

Ingredients

  • unsalted butter
  • granulated sugar
  •  packed brown sugar
  • egg
  • vanilla extract
  • all-purpose flour
  • baking soda
  • kosher salt
  • chocolate chips – I use semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Marshmallows – option to use three mini marshmallows instead of one regular-size marshmallow
  • option for extra chocolate chips to place over the top of the cookie before baking

How To Make This Recipe

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Into the butter and sugar mixture, beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients, the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until well combined.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  6. Place the prepared cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to chill.
  7. Take a rounded tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten it in your palm, place a marshmallow in the center, and encase the marshmallow with the dough, forming a ball. The marshmallow does not need to be completely wrapped inside the dough. Place on the lined baking sheet spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

 

top down of cookies on a cooling wrack over brown parchment paper

Storing Suggestions

To store cookies with marshmallows, follow these steps:

Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on wire racks before attempting to store them.

Layering: If you need to stack the cookies, place a piece of parchment paper between the layers to prevent the marshmallow from sticking to the bottom of the cookies above.

Airtight Container: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. I like Caraway Glass Food Containers.

Room Temperature or Refrigeration: You may store these cookies with marshmallows at room temperature for a few days. To extend the cookie shelf life, refrigerate for up to a week. 

Freezing: Freeze these cookies, in an air-tight container or freezer bag for 3 to 6 months. 

 

Stacked Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies at a 45 degree angle

 

Love This Cookie Recipe? Check Out These Desserts!

Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookie

Air Fryer Baked Apples

Dates with Peanut Butter [Snickers Stuffed Dates]

Chocolate chip and marshamallow cookies some are stacked and the view is top down.Eight cookies in frame

Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
Chocolate Chip and Marshmallow Cookies Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies, where every bite is a heavenly blend of gooey marshmallows and decadent chocolate bliss.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Resting time 30 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 servings
Calories 243 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet
  • 1 parchment paper
  • 1 wire cooling rack
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 Small bowl
  • 1 hand mixer with beaters
  • 1 rubber spatula
  • measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 16 marshmallows

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  • Into the butter and sugar mixture, beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients, the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until well combined.
  • Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  • Place the prepared cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to chill.
  • Take a rounded tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten it in your palm, place a marshmallow in the center, and encase the marshmallow with the dough, forming a ball. The marshmallow does not need to be completely wrapped inside the dough. Place on the lined baking sheet spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 243kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 227mgPotassium: 94mgFiber: 1gSugar: 21gVitamin A: 197IUCalcium: 18mgIron: 1mg
Keyword chocolate, cookie
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Simple Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with Smoked Trout

Simple Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with Smoked Trout

Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with Roasted Root Vegetables, Quinoa, Smoked Trout, and Walnuts

This Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad has roasted root vegetables, quinoa, smoked fish, pickled beets, and a Creamy Apple Walnut Dressing. Finished off with more toasted walnuts, this salad is everything you need in a meal.

A stoneware bowl with arugula and spinach salad topped with toasted vegetables, quinoa, smoked fish, pickled beets, toasted walnuts, and a creamy walnut dressing.

Why I Made This Recipe

I am always looking for different ways to incorporate a salad as the main meal. This salad does just that. Each layer adds a new element to the dish with different flavors, textures, and nutrition.

This vibrant spinach arugula salad features the added tanginess and color of quick-pickled beets, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Enjoy the medley of textures and tastes, complemented by the creamy apple walnut dressing.

Ingredients

For The Roasted Root Vegetables:

  • root vegetables diced (such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and turnips)
  • avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • Kosher salt
  • black pepper

For the Salad and Assembly:

  • 8 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and mesclun)
  • Roasted Root Vegetables
  • 2 cups cooked quinoa
  • 14 oz locally sourced smoked fish (such as trout or salmon, about 3.5oz per serving)
  • 1 cup quick pickled beets, drained and sliced (recipe below)
  • 1 cup Creamy Apple Walnut Dressing (recipe below)
  • 1/2 cup toasted walnut pieces

 

labeled image of ingredients for the layered spinach and arugula salad. Ingredients separated in bowls and on plates.

 

How To Make This Recipe 

  • Roast the Root Vegetables:
    • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Toss the cubed root vegetables with oil, salt, and pepper.
    • Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and tender. Set aside to cool.
  • Assemble the Salad:
    • For family style: In a large bowl or platter, layer the mixed greens, roasted root vegetables, cooked quinoa, smoked fish fillets, and pickled beets. Drizzle the Creamy Apple Walnut Dressing over the salad and sprinkle with toasted walnuts.
    • For individual portions: Divide the salad among individual plates. For each serving layer 2 cups mixed greens, 1 cup roasted root vegetables, ¾ cup quinoa, 3.5oz smoked fish, ¼ cup sliced pickled beets, ¼ cup salad dressing, and 2 tbsp walnut pieces.

 

Hand sprinkling walnuts over Arugula and Spinach Salad with bright red beets and a creamy walnut dressing

Making Layering Salads

When you break down a complex salad like this into its layers, it’s pretty simple and easy to recreate or make variations. Once you break it down, you will love making layered salad recipes over and over again. 

Base: Fresh salad Greens such as arugula, baby spinach, kale, romaine, and butter lettuce.

Veggies: Raw or Cooked veggies such as carrots, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, or cucumber.

Grains/Starches: I like to include grains and starches for fiber and carbohydrates such as pasta, farro, crispy rice, quinoa, potatoes, or croutons.

Protein: Think animal or plant-based proteins such as fish, chicken, baked tofu, legumes, or hunks of feta cheese.

Dressing: Find a dressing that will pair well with the flavors of your salad, like my Creamy Vegan Apple Walnut Dressing, Basil Balsamic Vinaigrette, Cashew Caesar Dressings, or a Lemon Vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice.

Add-ins: This might be an added texture or nutrition addition such as nuts and seeds, dried fruit, or a sprinkling of parmesan cheese.

Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with smoked fish, pickled beets, and a creamy walnut dressing. To the right is linen napkin and a fork.

 

Enjoy This Arugula and Spinach Salad? Try These Other Salad Recipes

Easy Lemon Cucumber Salad with a Lemon Vinaigrette

Kale Apple Walnut Salad

Warm Brussel Sprouts Salad with Acorn Squash

A stoneware bowl with arugula and spinach salad topped with toasted vegetables, quinoa, smoked fish, pickled beets, toasted walnuts, and a creamy walnut dressing.

Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad with Roasted Root Vegetables, Quinoa, Smoked Trout, and Walnuts

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Layered Arugula and Spinach Salad has roasted root vegetables, quinoa, smoked fish, pickled beets, and a Creamy Apple Walnut Dressing. Finished off with more toasted walnuts, this salad is everything you need in a meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 565 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Sauce Pan
  • salad platter or 4 plates for serving

Ingredients
  

For The Roasted Root Vegetables

  • 4 cups root vegetables, diced
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For The Salad and Assembly

  • 4 cups spinach
  • 4 cups arugula
  • 4 cups roasted root vegetables (see above)
  • 3 cups cooked quinoa
  • 14 oz smoked trout or other high-temperature smoked fish like salmon or sablefish
  • 1 cup pickled beets, drained and sliced
  • 1 cup Creamy Apple Walnut Dressing
  • ½ cup toasted walnut pieces

Instructions
 

Roast the Root Vegetables:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Toss the cubed root vegetables with oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and tender. Set aside to cool.

Assemble the Salad:

  • For family style: In a large salad bowl or platter, layer the mixed greens, roasted root vegetables, cooked quinoa, smoked fish fillets, and pickled beets. Drizzle the creamy apple walnut dressing over the salad and top with toasted walnuts.
  • For individual portions: Divide the salad among individual plates. For each serving layer 2 cups mixed greens, 1 cup roasted root vegetables, ¾ cup quinoa, 3.5oz smoked fish, ¼ cup sliced pickled beets, ¼ cup salad dressing, and 2 tbsp walnut pieces.

Notes

nutrition information for creamy apple walnut dressing not included

Nutrition

Calories: 565kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 1494mgPotassium: 1281mgFiber: 13gSugar: 11gVitamin A: 3395IUVitamin C: 36mgCalcium: 166mgIron: 6mg
Keyword salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Colored purplish red from the beets, quick Pickled Beets with Mustard Seeds ino a glass jar on a cutting board.

Quick Pickled Beets and Mustard Seeds

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
The sweet, earthy beets meet the bold kick of mustard seeds in every delightful bite
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Refrigerator time 1 day
Total Time 1 day 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 35 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Sauce Pan
  • 1 Mandolin or sharp knife
  • 1 16 or 24oz sanitized jar and lid

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium sized beets, peeled
  • 1â…“ cups vinegar
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 tbsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • optional: honey or sugar to taste

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Beets

  • Peel and slice or wedge the beets. Use a mandoline for even slices or cut them into uniform pieces by hand.

Step 2: Cook the Beets (Optional)

  • For a softer texture, place the beets in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can skip this step and use raw beets.

Step 3: Prepare the Pickling Liquid

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

Step 4: Add the Spices

  • Add the mustard seeds, black peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaf (if using) to the pickling liquid. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Pickle the Beets

  • Place the cooked or raw beet slices into a clean jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, ensuring they are fully submerged.

Step 6: Cool and Refrigerate

  • Allow the beets to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the jar or container and refrigerate. The beets will be ready to eat after at least 2 hours, but they taste even better after a day or two in the fridge.

Nutrition

Calories: 35kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 317mgPotassium: 121mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 11IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg
Keyword 5-ingredient
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Image of Creamy Vegan Apple Walnut Dressing

Creamy Vegan Apple Walnut Dressing

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
This Creamy Vegan Apple Walnut Dressing has apple cider, apple cider vinegar, walnut oil, and walnuts to a sweet and creamy dressing that is perfect for those autumn and winter time salads.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 169 kcal

Equipment

  • high powered blender

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup toasted walnuts
  • 1/4 cup walnut oil or other oil such as olive or avocado
  • 1/3 cup apple cider
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup optional
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/8 tsp pepper

Instructions
 

  • Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until combined and creamy.

Notes

Try this with my Kale Apple Walnut Salad!
For a thinner dressing, add apple cider or water, 1 tbsp at a time, until desired consistency. 

Nutrition

Calories: 169kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 2gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 76mgPotassium: 88mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 40IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 19mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword winter
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Noodles with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce

Noodles with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce

Easy Rice Noodles with Spicy Sesame Sauce

Ever crave a big ole’ bowl of noodles? I sure do. Noodles are my favorite food. I don’t make such a statement lightly. There is something about the mouthfeel of noodles, so smooth and chewy, that is just so comforting.

Why I Love This Rice Noodle with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce Recipe

I love this recipe because, it’s a quick, easy, and healthy noodle recipe but also super delicious. The Tahini Sauce is a perfect complement. It creates a velvety, nutty flavor and aroma. 

Many of my noodle dishes are inspired by other marvelous dishes. This dish is inspired by Thai peanut noodles and Dan Dan noodles some of my favorite noodle slurping dishes!

 

Stir Fry Noodle pull with chopsticks on a wooden cutting board.

Ingredients

Noodles: I use rice noodles in this dish. Noodles come in many widths and sizes. Some Noodles are thin like vermicelli or round and wide like udon. I recommend using a Pad Thai style, which is known for its dried, flat, and wide noodles. Here is one noodle I like to use, from the Thai kitchen. 

Veggies: You can get creative with veggies for this recipe. I chose carrots, bell peppers, and jalapenos. I love carrots in a warm and cozy noodle dish. The jalapenos and green bell peppers also pair nicely.

Some other veggie variations to try:

  • Broccoli, napa cabbage, onion
  • Celery, carrot, snow peas
  • Edamame, red cabbage, cauliflower

Spicy: As always, spiciness is optional because it is not for everyone. But hey, this is a Spicy Tahini Noodle recipe! You could omit the spicy element and bump up the flavor with some garlic too. 

Protein: Go ahead and use your favorite protein in this noodle dish. I chose a yummy, yet spicy, homemade jalapeno-picked egg. Keep things vegan by topping this recipe with some Baked Tofu.

Tahini Sauce: I make noodles so often that I have tried hundreds of combinations and ratios of ingredients. Due to my long history of noodle adventures, I usually eyeball the sauce, give it a taste, and adjust the ingredients as needed. However, if you need a blueprint, no worries! This combination (written in the recipe at the bottom of this post) will leave you blown away.

Garnish: A garnish can transform any dish into a work of art. When considering the following elements, color, taste, texture, and nutrition garnishes are not something that is thrown aside! In this recipe, I garnish with sesame seeds, green onion, and basil. But technically the egg is a garnish too! 

Other garnish ideas include a wedge of lime or freshly squeezed lime juice, black pepper, a drizzle of maple syrup, a splash of soy sauce, or even an extra drizzle of creamy sauce. 

How To Make This Recipe

A standout feature of noodle recipes is the ease of its creation. Check out my instructions below.

To make Spicy Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Adjust the spice level and sweetness according to your preference.

Cook The Noodles

Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

Heat avocado oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add the carrot, bell peppers, jalapeno, and scallions to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender.

Pour the spicy tahini stir fry sauce over the vegetables and toss until well coated.

Add Sauce and Noodles

Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan and gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and the vegetables are distributed throughout.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the noodles are heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pan from the heat and add the desired garnish. Serve immediately. 

 

 

Sharper Nutrition Fix: Tahini

What is Tahini?

Tahini is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking. It is similar to peanut butter but instead of grounding peanuts to a pulp (or butter), it is made from ground sesame seeds. In tahini, the sesame seeds are toasted, ground, and finally emulsified with oil, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

Tahini has its own wonderful flavor, much like a nutty earthy nut or seed butter. If you don’t have tahini for a recipe, you may be able to substitute a nut or seed butter along with some sesame oil.

Tahini is a major ingredient in a very popular snack food, hummus! Some other culinary uses for tahini include salad dressings, dips (such as hummus or baba ghanoush), used as a condiment, in a baked good (like cake), stirred into a soup, sauce, or smoothie, or you might also want to drizzle over some chickpeas or falafel.

If you want to learn more about how to use tahini in your kitchen check out these articles by Serious Eats, and Bon Appetit.

Stir Fry Noodle pull with chopsticks on a wooden cutting board.

 

Enjoy This Recipe? Try These!

Vegan Yakisoba-Inspired Noodles

Easy Baked Tofu

Vegan Kimchi Instant Ramen Recipe

Stir Fry Noodle pull with chopsticks on a wooden cutting board.

Rice Noodles with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce

Sarah Harper MS, RD, LDN
These Rice Noodles with Spicy Tahini Stir Fry Sauce are quick, easy, nutritious, and delicious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 571 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Pan
  • 1 Mason Jar

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 diced bell pepper
  • 2 minced jalapeno
  • 4 chopped scallions
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 4 hard boiled eggs or pickled eggs
  • 1 tbsp minced ginger
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic

Spicy Tahini Sauce

  • â…“ cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp chili crisp
  • 2 tbsp Chinese black vinegar
  • ½ cup starchy noodle water
  • â…› tsp cracked black pepper

Garnish

  • ¼ cup sesame seeds
  • ¼ basil jullianed
  • 5 scallions cut into long spears

Instructions
 

To make Spicy Tahini Sauce

  • In a small bowl, whisk together sauce ingredients. Adjust the spice level and sweetness according to your preference.

Cook The Noodles

  • Cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

  • Heat avocado oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Stir-Fry Vegetables

  • Add the carrot, bell peppers, jalapeno, and scallions to the pan. Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
  • Pour the spicy tahini stir fry sauce over the vegetables and toss until well coated.

Add Sauce and Noodles

  • Add the cooked rice noodles to the pan and gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and the vegetables are distributed throughout.
  • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the noodles are heated through.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove the pan from the heat and add the desired garnish. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 571kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 16gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 187mgSodium: 1124mgPotassium: 508mgFiber: 6gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 6898IUVitamin C: 55mgCalcium: 195mgIron: 4mg
Keyword Noodles
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!