Taste FOOD FILES
MEATLESS MARVELS
Dig into lighter springtime fare with creatively crafted vegetarian dishes
BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Grilled Eggplant and Halloumi
Kovo Modern Mediterranean Grilled eggplant and tomato is topped with a slice of grilled halloumi, drizzled with oil and balsamic reduction, and sprinkled with fresh herbs in this savory appetizer option. Halloumi, a popular cheese from Cyprus, Greece, has a high melting point, which makes it the perfect addition to this dish. $14. www.kovomedi.com.
Portobello Burger
Two Brothers Tap House and Brewery One of the greatest meatless marvels in the world is the mushroom, as exemplified in Two Brothers’ mouthwatering portobello burger. Centered on a freshly baked brioche bun, the marinated mushroom is topped with grilled onions, creamy Havarti cheese, lettuce, tomato, and alfalfa sprouts. The final touch is a sweet balsamic glaze. $11. www.twobrothersbrewing.com.
Roasted Heirloom Carrot Tacos La Senora at The Saguaro Carrots … on a taco? Yes! For this decidedly unique dish, roasted heirloom carrots are tossed in an arbol chili sauce then paired with housemade requeson, which is a spreadable, ricotta-like cheese produced in Brazil and Portugal. The ingredients are piled onto a housemade tortilla and served with three to an order. $14. www.thesaguaro.com.
Roasted Cauliflower
Brat Haus Meat-centric Brat Haus also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes including roasted cauliflower, which is both gluten-free and vegetarian. Florets of tender cauliflower are mixed with the Mediterranean flavors of tahini, fresh cilantro, and raisins for slight sweetness. To complete the dish, sumac (another spice) adds a tangy, lemony taste. $12. www.brathausaz.com.
Keto Bowl Come spring, many people seek lighter dishes – which can often mean vegetarian options – that don’t sacrifice flavor. Luckily, Valley chefs understand that vegetarian dishes don’t have to equal boring. Whether you’re a strict vegetarian or simply seeking an alternative to meaty dishes once in a while, plenty of options around town will satisfy on all levels.
Tocaya Organica This new-to-the-menu item makes a perfect power lunch, featuring Spanish-style cauliflower rice, sauteed tricolor peppers, avocado, and sauteed garlic Brussels sprouts paired with Roma tomatoes, black olives, and arbol salsa. There is also an option to add a protein (and queso). $13.95. www.tocayaorganica.com.
Chilled Raw Pad Thai
Farm & Craft Inspired by the popular Thai dish, this chilled salad entree is built with spiralized zucchini and carrots, tossed in a housemade chili almond dressing, then piled high with bean sprouts, shredded Brussels sprouts, raw almonds, and a
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So Scottsdale! March ‘19