By: Camila Dipuglia | @sanoyexotico

I’m thrilled to share with you a perfect recipe for your summer BBQs and beach days: Vegan Cielito Lindo with grilled oyster mushrooms, made with Loisa’s delicious Sofrito Rojo!

This dish is one of my all-time favorites, and I know it will become one of yours too. Whenever I make this recipe, everyone falls in love with it—even my non-vegan friends. It’s a comforting dish packed with layers of flavor, from the smoky grilled mushrooms to the rich, savory Sofrito. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavor that always transports me back to the sunny beaches of the Caribbean.

This is a popular dish that is often served as an appetizer or snack at gatherings and parties. It is also known as "Corn Dip" or "Cielito Lindo Dip." This dish combines a variety of ingredients layered to create a rich, flavorful, and visually appealing appetizer.

Ingredients

• Base Layer: The base usually consists of a layer of refried beans, seasoned ground beef, or in this case - mushrooms!
• Second Layer: This is typically a layer of cream cheese mixed with sour cream or mayonnaise.
• Third Layer: A layer of guacamole is often added for a creamy, flavorful addition.
• Fourth Layer: Salsa or pico de gallo is spread on top of the guacamole layer.
• Additional Layers: Shredded cheese (usually a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack), diced tomatoes, sliced olives, and green onions are common toppings.
• Final Touch: Some variations include a layer of shredded lettuce for added freshness and crunch.

Being the only vegan in my family and friend group, I’ve felt the need to create recipes that everyone can adapt to their dietary needs and enjoy without any compromises. It’s always a joy to see how much they love the food I prepare, and I believe that good food should bring people together, no matter their dietary preferences. That’s why I make sure my recipes are versatile and can be easily adapted for everyone.

So, if you’re not vegan but are delighted by the recipe, you can substitute grilled chicken for the mushrooms. Just use the same seasoning measurements per 1 lb of chicken, and all the Loisa seasonings will ensure it's bursting with flavor! The combination of Loisa’s Organic Adobo and Sazón, plus Sofrito Rojo will make your taste buds dance, whether you’re grilling mushrooms or chicken.

Preparation

1. Layering: The ingredients are carefully layered in a dish, usually in the order mentioned above.
2. Chilling: The dish is often chilled for a short period to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Serving: It is typically served with tortilla chips, which are used to scoop up the various layers.

Usually when I make this dish, I like to make a huge batch so there’s typically leftovers. Here are the best ways to re-heat:

Oven Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Dish: If the dip is in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out.
3. Reheat: Place the dish in the oven and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Check to ensure it’s heated evenly.
4. Serve: Remove from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, and serve with tortilla chips.

Microwave Method

1. Prepare the Dish: If the dip is in a microwave-safe container, make sure it is evenly spread out.
2. Cover: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to retain moisture.
3. Reheat: Microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dip is heated through. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes total.
4. Serve: Remove from the microwave carefully, as it will be hot, and serve with tortilla chips.

Stovetop Method

1. Transfer to Pan: Transfer the dip to a non-stick skillet or pan.
2. Heat Gently: Warm over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure it heats evenly and doesn't stick to the pan.
3. Serve: Once heated through, transfer to a serving dish and serve with tortilla chips.

Tips for Reheating

• Even Heating: Make sure to stir the dip occasionally during reheating to ensure even heat distribution.
• Moisture Retention: Covering the dish while reheating helps retain moisture and prevents the top layer from drying out.
• Check Temperature: Ensure the dip is heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

This Vegan Cielito Lindo is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy, plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It's perfect for a casual BBQ with friends, a fun family gathering, or a relaxing day at the beach. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Happy grilling!