Meatless Monday: Spicy Lentils with Broccoli and Goat Cheese

It’s been way too long since I’ve done a Meatless Monday post!  And I’ve been meaning to share this recipe for quite some time;  I even made it a few weeks ago and then got too lazy to post.  But, I made it again last night just for you…

I’m a big fan of lentils.  And of all things spicy.  Oh, and I love goat cheese.  Broccoli is pretty great too.

Um, yeah, I kind of love everything about this recipe.  And the fact that it’s easy makes it even better!

Spicy Lentils with Broccoli & Goat Cheese

Serves 2-3

by Healthy Girl and the City

What you need:

• 1/2 tbsp coconut oil (or EVOO, your choice)
• 4 cloves of garlic, pressed
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (leave out if you’re anti-spicy)
• fresh ground pepper, to taste
• 2 c veggie broth
• 1 c lentils (I used a half cup green lentils and a half cup split red lentils since I ran out of green*)
• Broccoli – however much you want
• 2 tbsp goat cheese per serving

What to do:

• Saute the garlic, onion and red pepper flakes in oil, about 3 minutes
• Add the veggie broth and lentils – bring to a boil, then simmer, stirring occasionally for about 15 minutes
• Can add more broth if necessary
• Steam some broccoli while lentils are simmering & you’re good to go!

*the split lentils give it more of a stew-like consistency

step 1: steamed broccoli

step 2: add lentils

step 3: add goat cheese

It’s really freaking good.  And really freaking good for you to boot.

Why I love lentils:

• Easy to make
• Filling & low-calorie
• Great source of cholesterol-lowering fiber
• Also loaded with folate, iron, protein, vitamin B and other vitamins and minerals
• Helps regulate blood sugar levels
• So versatile!

If you haven’t cooked lentils before, get after it!  In the meantime, I need to start brainstorming unique recipe ideas using them.  Stay tuned…