Dinner Tonight: Lentil Loaf

lentil-loafMany of us grew up with the classic meatloaf. This is like that, but better. So much better. It is very high in fiber and is gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian.

The star of this recipe is definitely the lentils. Lentils have a wide spectrum of essential amino acids and are a good protein source. With 18g of protein per cup and costing only about $1.50 per pound, lentils are an inexpensive protein alternative to beef, chicken and fish. They are also rich in folic acid, iron, phosphorus and copper.

So put away the ground beef and ketchup and make this lentil loaf instead. It is perfect for making on a Sunday afternoon and enjoying for lunch during the week. It freezes well, too. Continue reading “Dinner Tonight: Lentil Loaf”

Read More

Dinner Tonight: Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

sweet-potatoesStuffed peppers are delicious, but if you want to try something different, stuffed sweet potatoes may become your new favorite. This recipe combines three superfoods – lentils, sweet potatoes and kale – to make this hearty and heart-healthy dish, loaded with fiber and all sorts of nutrients.

Lentils have a wide spectrum of essential amino acids and are a good protein source. They are rich in folic acid, iron, phosphorus and copper. Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Not to be outdone, kale is is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, calcium and iron.

In keeping with our theme this month of heart-healthy recipes, this is a great one to try. Continue reading “Dinner Tonight: Stuffed Sweet Potatoes”

Read More

Dinner Tonight: Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup

lentil-sweet-potato-soupAll this snow has me pulling out the soup pots. Soup is the perfect warming meal for days when you can’t go anywhere. This one in particular has a bit of Thai flair to it. You will need red curry paste. I use Thai Kitchen Red Curry Paste, which you can find at most health food stores.

This recipe combines coconut milk, sweet potatoes and lentils for a hearty vegetarian meal that goes will with some warm naan bread.

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. And lentils have a wide spectrum of essential amino acids and are a good protein source. They’re rich in folic acid, iron, phosphorus, and copper.

Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup

1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, peeled and diced
2 Tbsp Thai curry paste
2 medium-sized red-skinned potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch  cubes
1 large  sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes
Continue reading “Dinner Tonight: Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup”

Read More

Lentil Quinoa Burgers with Hemp Pesto

It’s grilling season, and if you are a vegetarian, hamburgers aren’t high on your list for a fun summer meal. A great alternative is this recipe, which is chock-full of protein, fiber and omega-3’s.  The fiber will keep you feeling full, and the protein in the lentils will help balance your blood sugar. Hempseeds are a great source of omega-3’s, which provide cardiovascular benefit.  Hempseeds can be found at any healthfood store and add a nutty flavor to the burger.  I made extra pesto and found that it was tasty on a variety of sandwiches.  You can also freeze it for future use.

Quinoa is an ancient, gluten-free grain that contains all of the amino acids, so it is one of the few non-animal proteins that is an actual complete protein. Quinoa is light, tasty, and  easy to digest. It is not sticky or heavy like most other grains, and  it has a delicious flavor all on its own.

Even meat eaters will love this delicious burger!

1 cup dried green or brown lentils
1/2 cup quinoa
1 cup cilantro, packed Continue reading “Lentil Quinoa Burgers with Hemp Pesto”

Read More

Our Bloggers

  • Paula Gallagher
    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
    read more..
  • Margo Gladding
    Margo Gladding
    Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
    read more..
  • Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
    read more..
  • Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
    read more..
  • Debi Silber
    Debi Silber
    Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
    read more..
  • Teri Cochrane
    Teri Cochrane
    Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
    read more..
  • Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
    read more..
  • Susan Levin
    Susan Levin
    Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
    read more..
  • Rob Brown
    Dr. Rob Brown
    Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
    read more..
March 2024
S M T W T F S
 12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31