Most of the time, those three words don't go together since dairy products are a definite no. But fortunately for own non-dairy friends, whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan or choose the non-dairy diet for health reasons, this incredibly quick and easy vegan ricotta hits the spot. Combined simply with zucchini for crunch and marina sauce for a burst of flavour, these zucchini rolls are so delicious and jam-packed with nutrients including protein, vitamin B12, calcium, fibre, folic acid, copper, manganese and iron.
This seriously tastes like the real deal and even goes well simply as a spread or dip!
1 zucchini, washed and peeled
1 carrot, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks
Vegan ricotta:
1 cup of firm tofu
1/4 cup cashews, soaked overnight
1-2 tablespoons of nutrition yeast*
Juice of half a lemon
2 tbs dried mixed herbs
1 clove of garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Marina sauce:
1 clove of garlic, chopped
1 can of diced, chopped or whole tomatoes
1 tomato, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
* Note: Also called savoury yeast if you're looking to purchase this online or in health food shops
Method:
- Cut the zucchini in half lengthways, then with a mandolin peeler, slice the zucchini into long thin strips. Soak them with a paper towel to release excess moisture.
- For the ricotta: In a food processor, add the tofu, cashews, lemon juice, garlic, mixed herbs, nutritional yeast and blend for a 1-2 minutes until you get a creamy, ricotta-like consistency.
- For the marina sauce: In a saucepan, cook the garlic until fragrant with a dash of oil. Add the canned and fresh tomatoes with a sprinkle of salt and pepper and simmer until slightly reduced, for 5 minutes on medium heat. Let it cool for 15 minutes.
- Spread a layer of tofu ricotta on the zucchini slice, followed by a thin layer of marina sauce, then gently roll all the way. Secure the zucchini roll in place with a toothpick. Serve and enjoy!
Do check out the One Hot Yoga website! Such a beautiful and refined studio for those who enjoy yoga and pilates:
http://www.onehotyoga.com.au/