Hearty Lentil and Tomato Side Dish
Are you in search of a side dish that’s not only nutritious but also full of flavor? Get ready to discover the dish that will warm your days with its genuine flavors and simplicity: a savory combination of legumes and vegetables, perfect for enriching your table.
I still remember when my grandma used to make this dish on special occasions. Every time, the aroma of the sautéed vegetables would fill the house, announcing a meal made with love. Today, I’m passing on this culinary treasure to you: a side dish featuring lentils enveloped in the sweetness of tomatoes, slowly cooked to reach the perfect texture.
Imagine the contrast between the softness of the lentils and the intense flavor of fresh tomatoes, combined with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil that tantalizes the taste buds. And if you desire to add some crunch to your dish, let a handful of toasted mixed seeds peek through the creamy surface of your lentils before serving them.
Now is the time: put on your apron and follow these simple steps to create something special for you and your loved ones. With just a few genuine ingredients, you will transform a simple dinner into an unforgettable memory.
Recipe Notes
- EASE: Quick and easy recipe to whip up.
- PROS: Flavorful side dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
- CONS: Requires 30 minutes of cooking time.
- PREPARATION: Aromatic sauté, lentil cooking, addition of tomatoes.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Approximately 350 Kcal per serving, packed with protein and fiber.
Notes on the recipe’s ingredients
- Lentils: packed with protein and fiber, perfect for a healthy diet
- Roma tomatoes: rich in vitamins A and C, great antioxidants
- Extra virgin olive oil: a precious and healthy Mediterranean seasoning
Nutritional Aspects
A side dish packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins for a balanced diet.
- Rich in plant-based protein, perfect for vegetarians and vegans.
- High in fiber for a healthy gut.
- Vitamin C from the tomatoes to boost the immune system.
- Extra virgin olive oil, a source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Few ingredients, yet full of essential nutrients.
- Low in calories, perfect for those on a low-calorie diet.
Recipe for Lentils in Tomato Sauce: Tasty Side Dish
Instructions
- Start by cleaning the shallot, celery, and carrot. Finely chop these vegetables to create an aromatic soffritto.
- In a large pot, pour the lentils and add the prepared vegetable mixture. Cover with cold water and bring to a boil.
- Add a pinch of salt and let the lentils cook until tender, checking occasionally and adding water if necessary.
- Meanwhile, wash the plum tomatoes, remove the skin by briefly immersing them in boiling water, and then dice them.
- Once the lentils are cooked, drain them while keeping some of the cooking water.
- Return the lentils to the pot, season with a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and add the diced tomatoes.
- Let it all simmer for about 5 minutes over medium-low heat, gently stirring.
- Taste and adjust the salt if necessary before removing from the heat.
Notes
Variations of Tomato Lentils Recipe
Discover some variations to personalize your tomato lentils.
- Spice it up by adding some chili for an extra kick
- Swap the cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor
- Throw in some fresh rosemary during cooking for an extra aroma
- Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for a tangy twist
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
If you have any doubts or curiosities about how to prepare tomato lentils, you’ll find the answers to the most common questions here.
How can I make tomato lentils more crunchy?
For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted mixed seeds before serving.
How long does it take to cook lentils?
Lentils require about 30 minutes of cooking until they become tender.
