Lentil pasta with roasted vegetables

Lentil paste with roasted vegetables – A healthy and flavorful delicacy

If you're looking for a simple yet extremely tasty recipe, lentil paste with roasted vegetables is the perfect choice! This recipe not only brings a delightful taste to your table but is also a healthy option, packed with nutrients. Lentils, a versatile and nourishing ingredient, combine perfectly with roasted vegetables, creating a creamy and flavorful paste. Here's how you can prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 can of Bonduelle lentils (about 400 g)
- 100 g homemade sour cream
- 100 g pumpkin seeds (you can also use sunflower seeds for variation)
- 7 small carrots
- 5 parsnips
- 2 bell peppers (you can also use sweet peppers if you prefer)
- 3 red onions
- 2 white onions
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 zucchini
- Herbs de Provence (or a mix of your favorite herbs)
- Fresh or dried thyme
- Olive oil
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground pepper

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling and washing the vegetables. Cut the carrots, parsnips, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini into equal-sized pieces to ensure even baking. You can play with the cutting shapes to add a visually pleasing aspect to the dish.

2. Roasting the vegetables
Place the cut vegetables in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt, pepper, herbs de Provence, and a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Add the pumpkin seeds, which will add a crunchy taste and additional nutritional value. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized.

3. Boiling the lentils
In the meantime, boil the lentils according to the instructions on the package. Usually, they should be boiled for about 20 minutes. After boiling, drain the lentils and let them cool slightly.

4. Preparing the paste
In a blender, add the roasted vegetables and boiled lentils. Blend on medium speed until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the homemade sour cream and remaining pumpkin seeds, continuing to blend until all ingredients are well integrated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serving
The lentil paste can be served warm or cold, alongside crunchy croutons. For an extra touch, you can drizzle a little olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs on top. It is a perfect choice as an appetizer for a dinner with friends or as a healthy snack during the day.

Nutritional benefits:

This lentil paste with roasted vegetables is not only delicious but also very healthy. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and B vitamins. The roasted vegetables add antioxidants and essential nutrients, while olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats. This recipe is ideal for vegans and can be integrated into healthy diets.

Tips and suggestions:

- If you want a smoother paste, you can add a little water or vegetable broth during blending.
- Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, creamier taste.
- Experiment with different vegetables, such as eggplants or roasted tomatoes, to vary the flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried lentils, but make sure to boil them before adding them to the paste. Check the cooking instructions on the lentil package.

2. How can I store the lentil paste?
The lentil paste stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. What can I accompany this paste with?
This paste pairs perfectly with fresh salads, whole grain bread, or even as a filling for sandwiches. Try serving it with a arugula and cherry tomato salad for a healthy and balanced lunch.

A personal note:
This lentil paste recipe with roasted vegetables reminds me of the evenings spent with family, when we gathered around the table and shared stories. The aroma of roasted vegetables and lentils fills my heart with joy and makes me appreciate simple yet meaningful moments. I hope it brings you the same pleasant memories!

In conclusion, lentil paste with roasted vegetables is a wonderful choice for a healthy meal, full of flavor and color. Try this simple recipe and discover the joy of cooking! Enjoy your meal!