Main Street Vegan

Have you ever been sad that a book ended and you couldn't keep reading? The Penguin Group just sent over a new book Main Street Vegan by Victoria Moran that captivated me the whole way through. At first glance I thought 300+ pages about veganism... yikes, this is going to be tough to get through. They always say never judge a book by its cover because I could not put this book down! I am obsessed....possibly one of my favorite books ever!

I had heard Victoria Moran's lectures and had the opportunity to hear her speak at the Take Back Your Health Conference in northern Virgina last year. I have to tell you, this woman left a lasting impression in my life. Victoria is a very kind individual; glows from the inside out and gives off a sense of calmness when speaking. Her non-judgement approach to those who are not vegan was well translated into her new book.

To be honest, when I first opened the book I thought it would be like most vegan books on the shelves that preach, judge and share vivid details of animal treatment. Although that is okay, this book was nothing like I expected. Much like her lectures, this book was easy to follow, entertaining and encouraging. Take me for example. Yes, I thoroughly enjoy eating healthy, and eat vegan often, however I still consume animal products purchased from a local farm. That being said it was like this book was written for me, the average person walking down the street looking to refine their eating habits and live a healthier lifestyle.

The book Main Street Vegan spoke about different ways to consider how we go about our everyday lives. Have I ever really stopped to consider the treatment of the animals I viewed for entertainment at the local circus or weekend rodeo? This book provides baby steps for those individuals who want to make a change or even those who just want to learn about the vegan lifestyle.

Each chapter starts with a quote and ends with a delicious, budget-friendly vegan recipe you can try for yourself or share with others.  It is so well written that you start reading and then look at the clock to realize an hour has passed. Throughout this book you will learn how easy it is to make the transition to become vegan in all aspects of life if you choose to do so.

I can't recommend this book enough (as you can tell from my never ending blog post). It's perfect for that everyday person who wants to live a life of kindness, happiness and health. Remember, like me, you do not have to be vegan to truly enjoy this great read.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS- Main Street Vegan hits shelves April 26, 2012.

Before you leave I had to share this great recipe from the book!

Chocolate Mousse

• 1/2 cup pitted Medjool Dates (place in a bowl with enough water to cover, leave for 10-30 mins, drain and use immediately)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 3/4 cup mashed avocados (about 1.5 avocados)
• 1/2 cup plus 2 TB unsweetened cocoa or carob powder
• 1/4 cup water

1. Place dates, syrup and vanilla in a food processor and blend until smooth
2. Add avocados and cocoa powder and process until creamy (may need to scrap down sides)
3. Add water and process briefly

**You can even freeze this recipe for up to 2 weeks.... can we say YUM!!

Friends, Books and Good Food.... is there anything better?

I am honored to let the HA readers know that a friend of mine at Penguin Publishing asked me if I would review upcoming health and wellness books before they are released. Of course, you all know me and how much I love to read and cook, so my answer was an immediate YES! Plus, an added benefit is all my readers will get the first scoop.

I just received The Book Club Cook Book and I must say this is an awesome idea! Judy Gelman and Vicki Levy Krupp included select recipes inspired from many top selling novels around the county. Each novel is paired with a dish that reflects the essence of the book. Flip through to find your favorite novel and indulge in your taste.

My favorite has to be, Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand.  To reflect the main character of this book the recipe for Pumpkin Biscuits was chosen. I got the biscuit part but I was a little confused by the pumpkin. After reading a little further I realized the former cow pony that was housed with Seabiscuit to keep him company was named Pumpkin. How cute!

The book has recipes from fruit salad to teriyaki beef skewers. My two favorites recipe selections from the book are Girl with the Pearl Earring's vegetable soup (vegetarian version) and The Devil Wears Prada's Sun Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Pizza. Of course I chose these because they are healthy...haha! But they really go well with the book they are partnered with so its a win win!

Pros

• If you have a book club, or are thinking of starting one, this cook book is a must have!
• I love the idea of making a dish that is inspired by the story you are reading and then sharing it with friends.
• All the recipes are made from scratch.
• Such a perfect gift for a friend or loved one.

Cons

• Not all of the recipes are considerably healthy, but atleast if you feel the need to indugle these recipes are a good choice as they do not include processed foods.
• There is an 8 page visual containing full color photos of the recipes, and I wish there were more.

This book goes on sale March 1st so mark your calendars.