Ranch Dressing and Split Pea Soup

Jamie wanted me to include a warning regarding this ranch dressing. She says it is incredibly addictive. In fact, she has made it by the tub and just eats with with bread!


Ranch Dressing

3 tablespoons of vegan mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoon of imitation bacon bits
1 tablespoon of vegan sour cream
1 1/2 teaspoon of dill weed
1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar
3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice

In a medium sized bowl, mix the vegan mayonnaise, vinegar, sour cream and lemon juice until well combined. The consistency should be similar to the original mayonnaise. Then fold into all other ingredients other than the bacon bits. Chill for about 30 minutes. Just before serving, add the bacon bits and mix well. Let sit for about 3-4 minutes and serve. Adding the bacon bit too early may result in sogginess.



Split Pea Soup

3-4 small to medium sized potatoes
4 cloves of garlic (chopped)
5 cups of water
3/4 cup of carrots (chopped)
1 cups of split peas
2 tablespoons of onion (sliced)
2 teaspoons of oil
2 teaspoons of garlic powder
2 teaspoons of ground black pepper
1 teaspoons of salt
1 teaspoon of soy sauce
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of thyme

Cut the potatoes into 1 inch cubes and boil until tender. I generally leave the skins on but you can peel them if you want. Strain and set aside. In another pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the split peas and carrots and cook until tender. Keep and eye on this as you may need to add more water. This should take about 20 mins. Do not let it over boil. In a sauce pan, heat the oil and add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent. Add the paprika and soy sauce and let cook for 2 mins. Add the onion mixture to the split peas along with your potatoes. Mash the potatoes and carrots until clumpy and semi-smooth. Add all other ingredients and mash until you reach the desired texture. You may need to add more water.


It has been very dreary recently here in Atlanta. Yesterday was a gorgeous day. Sunny and warm without being hot. It called for a walk, not work.

I generally do not make big lunches but yesterday I got the urge. It may be my only opportunity for a good home cooked meal for awhile so I seized it. It was delicious.

Off to LA in 2 days. Off to Maine in 7 days. I will have lots of pictures to share!