Balsamic-Marinated Portobello Mushrooms

By
Dan J
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Incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet is becoming hugely popular and it brings a combination of both health and environmental benefits. No one is saying you have to give up your steaks and salmons, but eating a few meals a week that are plant-based is a great way to start including more vegetables and fiber into your diet. This can lead to lower blood pressure, it lowers the risk of diabetes, and it helps manage weight. Learning to cook vegan style meals can be an adjustment so here is a great recipe from Minimalist Baker to try.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large portobello mushrooms (stems removed, wiped clean)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp avocado or olive oil
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper (or red pepper flake)

Toppings:

  • 1 medium red bell pepper (cut into bite-size pieces)
  • 1 small red onion (thinly sliced wedges or diced)
  • 1 head garlic (cloves separated and peeled)
  • 2 Tbsp avocado or olive oil
  • 1 healthy pinch sea salt and black pepper (or red pepper flake)
  • 2 Tbsp fresh herbs (such as rosemary or oregano // optional)
  • 3/4 cup vegan pizza sauce
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup soft vegan cheese

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh Basil
  • Red pepper flake
  • Vegan Parmesan Cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (204 C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
  2. Add the portobello mushrooms (stem side up) to a shallow dish. Mix the balsamic vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper. Use a pastry brush to brush on all sides. Leave to marinate for 5 minutes on both sides.
  3. Add the red peppers, onions, and garlic to the baking sheet, toss with oil, salt and pepper, and some fresh herbs and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check the oven halfway through to mix the veggies around so they are evenly baked. Take out and set aside but leave the oven on.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the mushrooms to the pan. Cook on each side for 4-5 minutes.  Once the mushrooms and vegetables are cooked assemble the pizzas. Place mushrooms on the baking tray and add toppings. Start with the pizza sauce, roasted veggies and garlic and add some soft vegan cheese.
  5. Bake for 15-20 mins and remove from the oven. You can garnish with fresh basil or red pepper flakes.