Eating a plant-based diet doesn’t mean you have to miss out on former meat-dish favorites. From fake bacon to veggie dogs, quick-to-make “mock” products can be found in supermarket freezer cases everywhere today. But if you’re not a fan of soy, or you’re avoiding processed foods, these convenient options may not be right for you. Instead, try making your own cruelty-free creation with whole-food ingredients like nuts, veggies and herbs. These no-cook walnut “meat” balls are just what your favorite raw zucchini pasta dish has been missing!
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups walnuts
1 cup sundried tomatoes
2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp. sage
1 tsp. fennel seeds
1 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. rosemary
1 tsp. oregano
Pinch black pepper and sea salt
Pinch cayenne pepper
Directions
- In a blender, add all ingredients and blend for 5 minutes or until well combined. (Note: Mixture should be moist and moldable.)
- Scoop mixture from blender by the spoonful and shape into balls.
- Serve raw with zucchini pasta, bean pasta or brown rice pasta.
Liana’s tips:
- If you don’t have a blender, you can use a mortar and pestle. Crush the walnuts first. Dice the sundried tomatoes and mix everything together in a bowl until just moist enough to stick together.
- Serve “meat” balls as a party snack or appetizer with dipping sauce and organic corn chips.
- Wrap “meat” balls in lettuce to make raw tacos!
- For a nut-free version, use pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts.
Nutrition info: 274 calories, 25 grams fat, 10 grams carbs, 4 grams fiber, 6 grams protein