Blogger Spotlight: Stephanie McKinnie of Cali Zona!

This week the spotlight is shining on Stephanie McKinnie of Cali Zona! Stephanie puts together deliciously tasting recipes that are also very beautifully designed. She puts a large emphasis on health, so her recipes are developed with ingredients good for the body and mind. From opening her own restaurant, designing her own jewelry line, being a photographer and traveling the world, Stephanie lives a very creative lifestyle!

We put together a list of 10 delicious recipes made by Stephanie, which can all also be found on the Food Monster App! Also, don’t forget to check out our Blogger Spotlight Archives where we feature our amazing bloggers and their recipes every week!

1. Thyme and Pistachio White Bean Dip

Source: Thyme and Pistachio White Bean Dip

Get your pitas warm and ready because you’re going to want to make this delicious Thyme and Pistachio White Bean Dip ASAP. The vegan goat cheese, pistachio, and thyme pair together beautifully. Creamy, flavorful, and unique, this dip is sure to be a party favorite.

2. Parmesan-Roasted Potato Salad 

Source: Parmesan-Roasted Potato Salad

This Parmesan-Roasted Potato Salad is incredible! Roasted potato salads generally make a great side dish for all sorts of meals. Veggie burgers, hot dogs, and patties all are nicely rounded out by a side of flavorful potato salad. This recipe brings the idea to the next level by adding some delicious Brazil nut Parmesan cheese.

3. Maple Caramelized Walnuts

Source: Maple Caramelized Walnuts

It’s amazing how good these Maple Caramelized Walnuts are and how easy they are to make! They taste like there is butter on them but it’s just maple syrup and sea salt. They make a healthy incredibly addictive sweet snack.

4. Quinoa Tabbouleh Stuffed Tomatoes 

Source: Quinoa Tabbouleh Stuffed Tomatoes

These Quinoa Tabbouleh Stuffed Tomatoes are a unique twist on the classic tabbouleh with the addition of vinegar and quinoa. These stuffed tomatoes are full of flavor and are super easy to make! They make the perfect party appetizer or simply delicious side.

5. Roasted Poblano Cilantro Empanadas

Source: Roasted Poblano Cilantro Empanadas

These Roasted Poblano Cilantro Empanadas are full of flavorful goodness! The poblano adds the yummiest roasted pepper flavor and the combination of poblano, cilantro, and melty vegan cheese cannot be beat. The slaw becomes a beautiful bright pink and adds the much needed fresh crunchy quality to the mix. The beauty of empanadas is that they are easy to reheat, which makes them great for when you’re on the go.

6. Chickpea Chorizo Tacos

Source: Chickpea Chorizo Tacos

These Chickpea Chorizo Tacos are one of the best taco recipes out there! This hot and spicy chickpea chorizo is like soyrizo, minus the soy. The chickpeas get their meaty “chorizo” flavor by crumbling them in a food processor with savory sun-dried tomato and being cooked in a skillet with a hot and spicy sauce. Load up your tacos with plenty of crisp lettuce, vegan sour cream, vegan cheese, and some guac to balance the heat.

7. Black Lentil Sesame Coconut Soup

Source: Black Lentil Sesame Coconut Soup

This recipe is heartwarming and naturally vegan and gluten-free. An excellent source of protein and fiber, this Black Lentil Sesame Coconut Soup is perfect for any day of the year.

8. French Onion, Fennel, and Green Lentil Soup

Source: French Onion, Fennel, and Green Lentil Soup

This is a twist on the classic French onion soup with the addition of French green lentils and crunchy fennel fronds. This French Onion, Fennel, and Green Lentil Soup has such a depth of flavor that will sooth your soul.

9. 3-Layer Shortbread Bar With Persimmon Jam and a Crumble Topping

Source: 3-Layer Shortbread Bar With Persimmon Jam and a Crumble Topping

A creative and mouthwatering 3-Layer Shortbread Bar, this is a must try dessert! The shortbread in this recipe has the perfect amount of sweetness, the persimmon rose jam adds a subtle twist, and the crumb topping is the maestro conducting all the flavors in this wonderful symphony. For the grand finale, it’s topped off with a dash of powdered rose. Enjoy these beauties with coffee, almond milk, or tea.

10. Vanilla Bean Wafers 

Source: Vanilla Bean Wafers

These Vanilla Bean Wafers are a tribute to the classic ‘Nilla Wafers’ cookies you may have eaten as a child. They are a bit heartier than the original but they are way healthier!

To find more recipes by Stephanie you can head to her website or download the Food Monster App. The app has over 15,000 vegan and allergy-friendly recipes, and subscribers receive new recipes every day! Both Android and iPhone carry the app, and it can also be found on Instagram and Facebook. Take a look!

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