Developed for MBF CSA Members by chef and Clinical Ayurvedic Specialist Alexeis Filipello

— part of the culinary offerings of the California College of Ayurveda

Originally posted on 6/30/2026

Your Summer Guide to Ayurvedic Food Combining

At Rasa Kitchen, we focus on Agni (your digestive fire). By pairing foods mindfully, you optimize nutrient absorption and prevent stomach upset. But true wellness isn't rigid, our recipes are designed to be made with your heart. Love garlic? Throw it in. Hate zucchini? Swap it out.

The Golden Rules

Eat Raw by Day: Consume fruit and raw veggies at midday when your digestion is strongest. Avoid lemon here, as sour and sweet can clash. Use lime instead for a smoother, sweeter finish.
Watch the Pairings: Keep dairy away from meat, fish, and some beans. Eat fruit alone, or cooked into morning grains. Opt for tofu with beans if your digestion feels weakened in any way.
Skip the Chill: Avoid eating straight from the fridge. Let food come to room temperature.

Note: Rules are meant to be bent! If your digestion feels strong, prioritize enjoying your meal, a happy mind is key to good health. Listen to your body, trust your intuition, and let your appetite lead the way.

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups Cooked white quinoa
1 cup cooked Garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed (or any lentil or bean you like)
2 Zucchini, quarter-sliced (lightly flash-cooked, do not overcook)
1 red onion, medium dice (optionally cooked)
Shredded carrots
Scallions & fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh basil, chiffonade (lots)
1/2 cup Crumbled marinated tofu or sheep feta
1/4 cup Lime-Dijon vinaigrette (lime, olive oil, pinch of cumin, Dijon, touch of maple syrup (optional), salt and pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

Prep: Ensure the quinoa, onions, and flash-cooked zucchini are at room temperature.

Toss: In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, garbanzo beans, zucchini, onions, and carrots.

Finish: Mix in the vinaigrette, (add to taste) fold in the fresh herbs and scallions, and top with the crumbled tofu or feta. You can forgo the tofu or feta and add fresh toasted nuts or seeds, or do both. Let marry for an hour before serving to bring out all the yummy flavors of this dish.

Enjoy!