Lentil pasta with olives

Lentil Pasta with Olives - A Healthy and Quick Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

I propose a delicious and healthy recipe, perfect for quick dinners or a hearty lunch - Lentil Pasta with Olives. This simple recipe combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the creamy texture of lentils, and the olives add a touch of Mediterranean flavor. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step.

Ingredients:

- 200 g lentils (preferably green or brown lentils)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 100 g pitted olives, sliced
- 1 large tomato (you can also use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor)
- 750 ml vegetable broth (freshly made or from cubes)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs such as basil or oregano

Instructions:

1. Preparing the lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils well under cold running water, then soak them for about 15 minutes. This will reduce cooking time and aid digestion.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a deep pot, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat for 5 minutes until translucent. Add the crushed garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it as it becomes bitter.

3. Add the olives and tomatoes: Incorporate the olives and diced tomato (or sun-dried tomatoes) into the pot. Mix well and let everything simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors.

4. Cook the lentils: After the vegetables have softened, add the drained lentils and vegetable broth. Bringing the broth to a boil will help the flavors meld. Reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender.

5. Season: Finally, taste and season with salt, pepper, and if desired, herbs like basil or oregano. These will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

6. Serving: Lentil Pasta with Olives can be served warm or at room temperature. It can be a great accompaniment to grilled meats or enjoyed on its own with a fresh salad. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for added flavor.

Practical tips:

- Make sure the lentils are well-cooked but not overcooked, to retain their texture.
- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add some chili flakes during the onion sautéing step.
- This recipe is versatile. You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to add a sweet note.
- To turn this dish into a vegan meal, ensure that the vegetable broth is 100% natural, without additives.

So, get ready to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal! Lentil Pasta with Olives is not only a smart choice nutritionally, but also a recipe that will delight your taste buds. Bon appétit!