Skip to content

Vegan Plant-Based Personal Chef

Melanie Daponte

  • Vegan Plant-Based Chef Melanie Daponte
  • About Melanie
  • What They’re Saying
  • Melanie’s Blog
  • Plant-Based Diet FAQs

Author: Melanie daPonte, Plant-Based Vegan Personal Chef

Plant-based Vegan personal chef, photographer and food writer living and working in Palm Beach County, Florida.

Plant-Based: On The Cheap

“I would try the plant-based diet, but I can’t afford it!” A phrase I have heard often. But, it’s a … More

animal rights, chef, Comfort food, Cooking, Food, healthy food, Heart Healthy, meatless meals, Nutrition, Personal chef, plant-based, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian, Weightloss

Client Stories: Peter

Peter– “I was having trouble gaining weight and with my strength training routine I was hungry all the time and … More

animal rights, chef, Food, meatless meals, Personal chef, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegan personal chef, vegetarian

Client Stories: Michael

“I recently returned from a 30 day health retreat where I learned about proper nutrition and the best way to … More

chef, Cooking, Food, meatless meals, Nutrition, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegan personal chef, vegetarian

Client Stories: Ryan

Ryan– “I travel alot with work and when I come home it’s great to have healthy, custom vegan meals waiting … More

animal rights, chef, Food, meatless meals, Personal chef, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegan personal chef, vegetarian

Vegan Crab Cakes with Tomato-Caper Remoulade

This recipe is hands-down the menu item my clients request most often! Light, but filling these vegetable cakes are actually … More

animal activism, animal rights, Cooking, Food, meatless meals, Personal chef, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Tofu Scramble

Tofu scramble, when I reflect on my day to day cooking, is probably the recipe I cook most often at … More

animal rights, Cooking, healthy eating, plant-based diet, recipes, Tofu, Vegan, vegetarian

“Meaty” Grilled Tofu

Through much trial and error over the years– I have come to a great appreciation and respect for the humble … More

animal rights, chef, Cooking, meatless meals, plant-based, recipes, Tofu, Vegan, Vegan recipes, vegetarian

Tofu Vindaloo

This is a spicy Indian dish I decided to prepare without any added oil. It turned out  tasty and well … More

Comfort food, dinner, Food, Indian food, Indian recipes, kitchen time, Low-fat vegan, Middle Eastern Food, Oil-free, recipes, spicy, Tofu, Vegan, vegan food, vegan indian food, Vegan recipes, vegetarian, vegetarian indian food

Sesame Grilled Tofu with Sichuan Vegetables

Here’s a quick and easy weeknight treat! I do not own a wok and still refuse to buy one. However, … More

Asian, meatless meals, spicy, Tofu, Vegan, vegetarian

Tofu Pad Thai with Rice Noodles

One of my favorite noodles dishes made vegan and oh so much healthier than take-out! This recipe is super-easy and … More

Asian, chef, Comfort food, Cooking, meatless meals, Noodles, Personal chef, plant strong, plant-based recipes, thai food, Tofu, Vegan, vegan asian food, Vegan comfort food, vegetarian

Korean Gochujang Barbecue Bowl

You may have noticed a condiment called gochujang popping up in your neighborhood grocery recently. It’s basically a spicy Korean … More

animal rights, asian food, chef, meatless meals, Personal chef, Tofu, Vegan, vegetarian

General Tso’s Tofu with Green Tea Soba

I am always looking to veganize recipes. Any recipe. Some of them traditionally feature meat. That doesn’t stop me from … More

asian food, Cooking, meatless meals, plant-based diet, recipes, Tofu, Vegan, vegetarian

Vegan Mushroom Gravy

Low-fat gravy?? How could that be? How about no-fat gravy? This gravy is so smooth and savory, but also light, … More

cookbook reviews, low-fat recipes, Low-fat vegan, mushrooms, Vegan, vegan cookbook reviews, Vegan cooking, Vegan gravy, Vegan recipes, vegetarian, vegetarian recipes

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Farro (soy free, gluten-free option)

This is a fun, easy, delicious whole foods meal–elegant enough for guests, but simple enough to whip up on a … More

plant strong, plant-based, Vegan, vegetarian

Mushroom Bourguignon

Well, isn’t this fancy? A classical French dish turned vegan! Warm, savory and satisfying– this rich stew is filled with vegetables, … More

animal rights, Cooking, healthy eating, meatless meals, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Balsamic-Roasted Mushrooms

This dish makes a great appetizer or a light meal. Mushrooms have that satisfying umami flavor and a lovely “meaty” … More

chef, Cooking, meatless meals, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegan appetizers, vegetables, vegetarian

Thai Peanut Curry with Vegetables and Tofu

This is one of my very favorite dishes! Creamy, sweet and spicy–with lots of tender-crisp vegetables and protein-rich tofu! My … More

coconut, coconut milk, spicy, thai food, Tofu, Vegan, vegetables, vegetarian

Indian Lentil Salad with Curry Vinaigrette

Where I am getting my lean, mean protein lately? Why lentils, of course! These friendly little legumes pack 18 grams … More

beans, curry, Indian, legumes, lentils, protein, Vegan, vegan indian food, vegetarian, weight loss, whole foods

How To Make Lentils Taste Good

If you hate lentils, chances are you have eaten them from a can. The first time I tried them was long … More

animal rights, chef, Comfort food, Cooking, lentils, meatless meals, plant-based, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Party Enchiladas (gluten and soy free)

Now, I’m not gonna lie, enchiladas are neither quick or easy to make, but they are great for entertaining. These … More

Gluten-free, gluten-free vegan, soy free vegan, soy-free, Vegan, vegan party food, vegetarian
Plant-Based Chilil

John Legend’s Chili, Plant-Based Version

I came across this recipe for chili in Chrissy Teigen’s cookbook, “Cravings”. I decided to follow the recipe exactly (with … More

Cooking, Food, meatless meals, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Soup Magic: Spicy Black Bean

This soup doesn’t even require any vegetable chopping! Can it get any easier? I fired up the crockpot and added … More

beans, hearty soups, plant strong, plant-based, plant-based diet, protein, Quick and easy, quick meals, slow cooker, Vegan, vegan soups, vegetarian, weight loss

Soup Magic: Homestyle Split Pea

Put something warm and nourishing in your belly with this super-easy soup recipe. When I think of split pea soup, … More

crockpot, hearty soups, legumes, plant strong, plant-based, quick meals, slow cooker, soups, split pea, Vegan, vegetarian

Soup Magic: Hearty Lentil

Lentil is one of my favorite high-protein meal soups. It’s simple and low maintenance, and comes together in just a … More

budget-friendly recipes, cheap eats, crockpot, legumes, lentils, meatless meals, one-dish meals, protein, Quick and easy, soups, Vegan, vegetarian, weight loss

Pasta Fagioli

Pasta fagioli is a classic Italian soup combining hearty white beans and pasta in a savory tomato broth with fresh thyme and … More

beans, cold weather soup, pasta, protein, Vegan, vegetarian

Thai Red Lentil Chili

This is my new favorite stew! Imagine spicy smoky chili flavor mingled with sweet creamy coconut milk, hearty kidney beans, … More

Gluten-free, plant strong, plant-based, Thai vegan recipes, vegan chili, Vegan comfort food, Vegan stew

Senate Bean Soup

U.S. Senate Bean Soup  is traditionally made with navy beans, ham hocks and onions. It is served in the dining room … More

beans, chef, Comfort food, food history, Personal chef, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian

White Bean Chili

This alternative to traditional chili is a thick and hearty stew of white beans, yellow squash, onions and yellow bell … More

Cooking, protein, recipes, soups, Vegan, vegetarian

Golden Indian Dal Soup

Dal is my go-to comfort food. A warm, savory, nourishing meal, filled with creamy, protein-rich lentils and healing turmeric–tempered with cumin … More

animal rights, chef, Comfort food, Cooking, Indian food, plant-based diet, protein, Vegan, vegetarian

Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry

This quick and simple but intensely flavorful bowl is my current lunch favorite. And the recipe welcomes substitution for whatever … More

animal activism, animal rights, chef, Cooking, Food, Indian, main dishes, Personal chef, peta, plant-based, recipes, Vegan, vegan personal chef, vegetarian

Rajma Masala (Red Kidney Bean Curry)

I couldn’t wait to try this recipe I stumbled upon at SpiceyAndSugaryBites. I’ve never made an Indian curry with kidney beans … More

beans, Comfort food, Indian recipes, meatless meals, plant-based, Vegan, vegetarian

House Vinaigrette

Sometimes I just want a simple, yet tasty vinegar and oil dressing for my salad. This is the classic recipe we … More

Cooking, plant-based diet, recipes, Salad, Vegan, vegetables, vegetarian

Easy Vegan Plant-Based Black Bean Fajita Bowl

Beans can play a major role in a whole food, plant-based vegan diet. They are economical, filling, super-easy to cook … More

beans, Cooking, Gluten-free, Heart Healthy, meatless meals, Personal chef, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian, weight loss

The Truth About Plant-Based Meat

Choosing a vegan burger, hot dog or plant-based meat breakfast sausage doesn’t make burgers, sausage or hot dogs healthy.  It … More

cancer prevention, Cooking, Food, Health, healthy eating, meatless meals, Nutrition, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian, weight loss

Easy Enchilada Sauce

In my experience, you can stuff a burrito with just about anything. But the sauce…now, the sauce can make it … More

animal rights, chef, Cooking, Food, mexican food, Personal chef, peta, plant-based diet, recipes, tomato sauce, Vegan, vegetarian

Plant-Based Vegan Taco ‘Beef’ Crumbles

 This easy recipe from my home kitchen collection is always a big hit, whether featured in burritos, tacos, nachos, salads…the list … More

animal rights, chef, Comfort food, Cooking, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Mushroom-Sesame Soba With Edamame

I love noodles, especially soba. Here’s a quick and easy dish that works for a weeknight meal, but translates just … More

Asian, chef, Cooking, Noodles, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Vegan Lentil-Tempeh Sloppy Joes

Here’s a new enlightened version of an old classic that is just perfect served in the traditional buns or over a … More

Comfort food, Cooking, Heart Healthy, Personal chef, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian, weight loss

Lentil-Walnut Loaf with Sweet Tomato Glaze

This is a client favorite and a recipe I swear by, having grown up eating traditional meatloaf. This version has … More

chef, Comfort food, Cooking, Food, meatless meals, plant-based, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian
Vegan Mushroom Soup

Easy Vegan Mushroom White Bean Soup

A Quick and Easy Plant-Based, Nutritious Vegan Lunch or Dinner Idea! This mushroom white bean soup will keep you warm … More

chef, Cooking, Heart Healthy, meatless meals, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Smoky Pulled Jackfruit

When I first heard that jackfruit can imitate the texture of shredded meat classically prepared as barbecue, I could hardly believe it. … More

barbecue, Cooking, Food, jackfruit, meatless meals, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

Spicy Red Bean and Tofu Jambalaya

This dish can be put together in 30 minutes or less but tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. My … More

cajun, gluten-free vegan, meatless meals, Quick and easy, Spicy food, Tofu, Vegan, vegetarian

Dirty Chai

A shot of fresh-brewed espresso poured into a cup of spicy, rich chai tea. The best of two worlds? I just had … More

chai, chef, Coffee, Cooking, Food, Indian, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian

David Lynch’s Quinoa: An Incidentally Vegan, Plant-Based Recipe

David Lynch’s short film, Quinoa, is included as a special feature on his Inland Empire DVD. Filmed in black and white, … More

chef, Cooking, david lynch, Food, meatless meals, Movies, Personal chef, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian

Top Picks: Viewing Recommendations For New Vegan Plant-Based Diet

If your focus in the new year is on improving your personal health, and breaking the cycle of disease stemming … More

Health, healthy living, Lifestyle, Nutrition, Vegan, vegetarian
Plant-Based Chilil

Never Bored: Easy Vegan Plant-Based Meals For Your Week

“What’s For Dinner?” A vegan plant-based diet is anything but restrictive when you have a collection of easy, tasty recipes … More

animal rights, cancer prevention, chef, Cooking, Food, heart healty, meal planning, meatless meals, plant-based diet, recipes, Vegan, vegetarian, weight loss

Best. Hummus. Ever.

What makes this hummus recipe so special? It’s simplicity. So, I’m not going to ramble on about the history of … More

animal rights, chef, Comfort food, Cooking, Food, plant-based diet, plant-based personal chef, recipes, Vegan, vegan personal chef, vegetarian

The New American Plate

What Can a Plant-Based Diet Do For You? According to the latest report, over 40% of adults in the USA … More

cancer prevention, chef, diet, healthy cooking, Heart Healthy, Obesity, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian, weight loss
Vegan Plant Based Personal Chef Special Event

Celebrating Ten Years in Business!

Here’s a short day-in-the-life video I’m sharing to celebrate ten years cooking delicious vegan, plant-based food for satisfied clients throughout … More

chef, Personal chef, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian

Vegan Plant-Based Creme Brûlée

  Yes, you read that right. Creme brûlée. Silky smooth and creamy sweet. And can I just mention, so easy … More

chef, Cooking, dairy free, desserts, egg-free, Food, plant-based diet, Vegan, vegetarian

Posts navigation

Older posts

Recent Posts

  • Plant-Based: On The Cheap
  • Client Stories: Peter
  • Client Stories: Michael
  • Client Stories: Ryan
  • Vegan Crab Cakes with Tomato-Caper Remoulade

Recipe Box

  • Breakfast/Brunch (32)
  • Chef Biz (6)
  • Client Stories (10)
  • Desserts (34)
  • Diet and Lifestyle (14)
  • Mains (81)
  • Sauces/dressings (18)
  • Sides (12)
  • Soup/Stews (21)
  • Uncategorized (19)

Follow Blog via Email

Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join 3,306 other subscribers

Top Posts & Pages

  • Original Ginger (O.G) Refresher
    Original Ginger (O.G) Refresher
WordPress.com.
 

Loading Comments...
 

You must be logged in to post a comment.