Lentils are not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile, making them a great ingredient for various healthy recipes. They are loaded with vitamins, fiber and made up of more than 25% protein, which your body needs after a good workout. So, here are a few delicious and nutritious recipes featuring lentils:
Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Cook lentils according to package instructions until tender. Toss roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until caramelized. Combine cooked lentils with the roasted vegetables. Dress with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature as a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Lentil Soup
In a large pot, sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. Add minced garlic and spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, and cook until fragrant. Stir in dried lentils, vegetable broth, and canned diced tomatoes. Simmer the soup until the lentils are tender, adding more broth if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve the lentil soup hot with crusty bread for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Cook lentils until al dente and set aside.In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, and carrots until crisp-tender. Add cooked lentils to the skillet and toss with the vegetables. Drizzle with a sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Cook until everything is heated through and coated in the sauce. Serve the lentil and vegetable stir-fry over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Mediterranean Lentil Wrap
Spread hummus onto a whole-grain wrap or tortilla. Top with cooked lentils, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or vinaigrette dressing. Add fresh spinach or arugula for extra greens. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half for a quick and portable lunch or dinner option.
These recipes are just a starting point, and you can customize them with your favorite ingredients and flavors to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with lentils in your cooking for delicious and nutritious post-workout meals!
