This post was created in partnership with ALDI. All opinions are our own. Is it chili season already? Wasn’t it just moments ago we were eating watermelon salad in our flip flops? As the weather changes, foods follow suit: changing from light and bright to hearty and spiced. As much as I hate to admit it: we’re craving all the fall over here! So Alex and I are starting the party with this insanely-tasty healthy chili recipe. It’s got a savory, hearty flavor even though it’s meatless. And it’s full of good-for-you ingredients; a trio of protein-packed beans, quinoa, and loads of spices. We got all of the ingredients at ALDI: our go-to place to stock up on fall ingredients that are high quality, organic, and affordable. Ready to get cooking? Want to try it too? Let us know if you head to ALDI to stock up and make this recipe! Tell us in the comments below. Or tag us on Instagram using @acouplecooks and @aldiusa.
What makes this a healthy chili recipe?
If you search the internet for healthy chili recipes, you come up with a lot of turkey chilis. But what about making it even healthier by going meatless? We won’t go into the nitty gritty here, but research is showing the value of eating lots of plants. So to us, a healthy chili is loaded with vegetables instead of the traditional meat. A healthy chili is also loaded with good-for-you ingredients that are full of valuable nutrients! Here are some of the heavy hitting veggies in this chili:
Simply Nature Organic Beans: pinto, kidney, and black beansSimply Nature Organic Quinoa: packed with plant-based proteinTomatoes, onions, and cornSimply Nature Organic Flax Seed: Optional, but it adds protein and omega 3’s
This recipe works as a family dinner recipe for a weeknight. When entertaining, pair it with our smash hit Best Homemade Cornbread, Cornbread Muffins, Easy Vegan Cornbread or any of these best sides to go with chili.
The flavor secrets to this chili
It can be difficult to load flavor into a vegetarian chili because, well, meat tastes really good. So we’ve had to use a few secrets to making the flavor delicious and satisfying. Here are a few of our tricks to this healthy chili recipe:
Simply Nature Organic Ketchup: Ketchup brings in a little sweetness and tang to this chili. We like to use organic ketchup because it usually tastes better and is free from high fructose corn syrup.A hefty dose of chili powder: Using quite a bit of chili powder helps to bring big flavor. Some chili powders can be spicier than others, so make sure you’re using a brand that fits your spice tolerance. Cumin, oregano, fresh garlic, and garlic powder: These spices round out the chili and bring a depth of flavor.
Try our Chili Seasoning in this recipe! Add 6 to 7 tablespoons of the mix instead of the spices.
Toppings for a healthy chili
Loading up chili is the best part, right? But if you’re thinking about healthy chili, the toppings can be a place where calories can add up. One tip we’d say is to add just enough toppings to add flavor, but not so much that someone might say, “Want some chili with that sour cream?” With that in mind, here are our favorite toppings to load up that chili — and the first one is our favorite new idea!
Southern Grove roasted and salted pepitas (pumpkin seeds): Not only are they cozy, they add a nice crunch and a bit of plant-based proteinPlain Greek yogurt, sour cream, Vegan Sour Cream or Cashew Cream (for vegan chili)Shredded cheese — just enjoy it in moderation (or omit for vegan chili)Thinly sliced green onions or chivesTortilla strips — these baked tortilla strips add a crunch!Hot sauce
What other chili toppings do you like? Do you do saltine crackers (is that a regional thing)? Would you try our Pickled Jalapeños for a spicy kick?
This recipe is…
Vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan, plant-based, and dairy-free (with vegan toppings).
More healthy fall recipes
Are you feeling it too? Here are some more of our favorite fall recipes: 4 from 2 reviews **Totally optional, but stirring in adobo sauce adds another level of complexity. Chipotles in adobo sauce are available in a small can; the chilis are packed with adobo sauce, a purée of tomato, vinegar, garlic, and some other spices. You’ll just add the sauce.
Pumpkin Pasta Sauce with Penne: easy pasta with a creamy, savory pumpkin sauce and Parmesan cheeseQuick Chili Recipe This speed demon quick chili recipe is just the thing: in under 25 minutes you’ve got an easy dinner!Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup Recipe: cozy soup that’s dairy free and chock full of nutritious beans and whole grainsBest Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai: fan-favorite squash recipe using spaghetti squash instead of noodlesEasy Pumpkin Hummus: savory, warm-hued hummus flavored with pumpkin and cuminCozy Vegetarian Pot Pie: the coziest meal chock full of veggies and a savory gravyBaked Gnocchi with Pumpkin Sauce: doughy balls of pasta simmered in a savory pumpkin sauce with goat cheese
