Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Beluga lentil recipe takes inspiration from Jamie Oliver's philosophy of fresh, simple ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice for the whole family. It’s so easy, even beginner cooks will find it a breeze!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 cup Beluga lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This is a great time to prep your other ingredients!
Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!
Incorporate lentils and broth: Add the rinsed Beluga lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Taste test!
Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This simple garnish elevates the dish!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beluga Lentils
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference: Feel free to add more or less of the herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your Beluga lentils over brown rice or quinoa for a heartier dish. A simple side salad complements it well.
Variations: Spice Things Up!
- Spicy Beluga Lentils: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for an extra kick.
- Mediterranean Beluga Lentils: Stir in some chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese before serving.
- Curried Beluga Lentils: Add a tablespoon of curry powder along with the other spices for a flavorful twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This recipe provides a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients used. A general estimate would be around:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This easy Beluga lentil recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!