Vegetable pâté

Lentil Spread - Savory Vegetable Pâté

Are you looking for a simple and healthy recipe, perfect for fasting periods or for a delicious vegan snack? I invite you to discover a recipe for green lentil pâté, which not only prepares quickly but is also packed with nutrients. This pâté is an excellent choice, not just for vegans but for anyone looking to diversify their diet.

The history of lentil pâté goes back in time, being a popular option in many cultures due to its versatility and nutritional value. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, and the resulting dish is easy to customize by adding various flavors.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Essential ingredients:
- 150 g green lentils (washed)
- 120 g walnut meat
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped herbs (parsley, basil, or your preference)

Step by step to a perfect pâté:

1. Cooking the lentils: Start by rinsing the green lentils well under cold running water. Then, place them in a pot with water, making sure the water covers the lentils by about 5 cm. Boil the lentils for 45 minutes or until they are soft but not mushy. It is important not to overcook them to achieve a pleasant texture in the pâté. After boiling, drain the lentils but keep a cup of the cooking water.

2. Preparing the pâté: In a blender or food processor, add the cooked lentils, walnut meat, peeled garlic, olive oil, pepper, paprika, soy sauce, and salt. Blend until you obtain a smooth paste. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved water, blending continuously, until you achieve the desired consistency.

3. Adjusting the taste: Taste the prepared pâté and adjust the spices according to your preferences. You may want to add more salt or pepper, depending on how intense you want the flavor.

4. Packing and cooling: Transfer the pâté into jars or plastic containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for about a week, and the flavor will intensify as it cools.

5. Serving: Serve the lentil pâté alongside fresh, crusty bread. Add some pickled cucumbers or fresh vegetables for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. This pâté is also perfect for a picnic or a party, being easy to transport and serve.

Useful tips:
- If you want a spicier flavor, you can add a chili pepper or chili flakes to the pâté mixture.
- You can experiment with other nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to achieve different flavor nuances.
- Add spices like cumin or coriander for an exotic twist.

Nutritional benefits:
Lentil pâté is rich in protein, fiber, and B vitamins. Lentils are known for their ability to maintain heart health and aid digestion. Walnut meat brings omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use red lentils instead of green lentils?
Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so check the consistency after 20 minutes.

- How can I keep the pâté longer?
You can freeze it in small portions, but make sure to let it thaw in the refrigerator before consuming.

Combine this pâté with a fresh green salad or a green smoothie for a complete and healthy lunch. Regardless of the occasion, lentil pâté will surely become a favorite recipe in your kitchen!