Red Lentils With Veggies Recipes

RED LENTIL AND VEGETABLE STEW

Steps:

• Sauté the carrots, onion, and celery in the olive oil until they start to caramelize a bit.
• Add the garlic about a minute before the vegetables are finished sautéing.
• Add the red lentils, and stir until mixed with the vegetables.
• Add the stock, tomatoes and juice, cumin, and Tabasco, if using.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat and reduce heat to medium low.
• Simmer until the lentils are tender, about 25 minutes.
• If the liquid all evaporates and the lentils are not done, add a little water to keep the simmer going.

SPICY RED LENTIL SALAD WITH PICKLED VEGETABLES

Steps:

• For the lentils: Set a large saucepan over high heat. Add the lentils and toast in the dry pan until they just turn in color a little (this will give the finished lentils a little texture), 20 to 30 seconds. Add 3 1/2 cups water, the cumin, red pepper flakes, bay leaf and some salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, until the lentils are tender and all the liquid has been absorbed, about 12 minutes. Pour the lentils out onto a flat platter in a thin layer so they cool faster and don't get too soft. Cool in the refrigerator for 5 minutes.
• For the salad: Drain the giardiniera, reserving 1 tablespoon of the pickling juice, and roughly chop. Wash the arugula and dry well.
• For the vinaigrette: In a large mixing bowl, make a quick vinaigrette by combining the reserved pickling juice with the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, and some salt and pepper. While whisking, add the olive oil to emulsify.
• Assemble the salad in a large bowl by folding the giardiniera in with the lentils. Dress lightly with the vinaigrette and serve immediately over the arugula.