The perfect combination of flavor and texture.

Photo bySkinny Ms.

Lentils, an ancient legume, have captured people’s hearts for centuries with their versatility and nutritional value. But have you ever wondered what happens when you combine these humble legumes with the fragrant touch of rosemary? Below we will explore the health benefits, a step-by-step guide to preparation, and servings suggestions for our rosemary lentils recipe!

Health Benefits of Rosemary Lentils

• Protein-Packed Powerhouse: Lentils, known for their impressive protein content, team up with the spiciness of chili to create a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a substantial protein punch. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans, this rosemary lentils recipe ensures a complete and satisfying meal.
• Metabolism Boost from Chili Peppers: The addition of chili peppers brings more than just heat – it brings capsaicin, a compound known for its metabolism-boosting properties. Not only does this rosemary lentils recipe add a kick to your palate, but it also revs up your body’s calorie-burning engine.
• Heart-Healthy Fusion: Lentils are renowned for their heart-healthy attributes, and chili, with its capsaicin content, may contribute to cardiovascular health by promoting better blood circulation and reducing cholesterol levels. Together, this rosemary lentils recipe creates a dynamic duo for heart-conscious food enthusiasts.
• Digestive Benefits: Lentils are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health. The slight-spiciness of chili adds an extra layer of digestive support, making this rosemary lentils recipe not only delicious but also friendly to your digestive system.
• Immune-Boosting Goodness: Both rosemary and chilis have immune-boosting properties. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants, while the heat from chili peppers is often associated with stimulating the immune system. Enjoying this rosemary lentils recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a boost for your body’s defense mechanisms.
• Enhanced Digestion: Lentils contain a significant amount of dietary fiber, aiding in a healthy digestive system. Additionally, rosemary possesses carminative properties, promoting the relief of bloating and gas.

Rosemary Lentils for Every Season

A notable feature of the recipe for rosemary lentils is its seasonal adaptability, which lets foodies enjoy the variety of tastes that each season has to offer.

Spring

In spring, consider incorporating vibrant green peas or tender asparagus into your rosemary lentils for a burst of color and added nutrients. I like to serve them over a bed of peppery arugula tossed in olive oil & lemon juice for a light, tasty treat!

Summer

When summer arrives, bringing a rainbow of flavors and hues, I take advantage of the chance to add sun-drenched tomatoes and zucchini to my rosemary lentils. This recipe is made light and summery by the soft zucchini adding a subtle sweetness and the luscious tomatoes adding a refreshing acidity. For a cool summertime treat that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, try serving the chilled rosemary lentils as a salad on hot days.

Autumn

Autumn offers hearty additions to the rosemary lentils with its rich tapestry of harvest colors. Accept the earthy colors of sweet potatoes or butternut squash, which give the meal a cozy depth. These fall veggies’ inherent sweetness combines with rosemary’s piney scent to create a comforting and fulfilling dish that reflects the coziness of the season. Toasted almonds add a crunchy texture to your rosemary lentils that mimics the fall foliage’s jewel tones.

Winter

With hearty and cozy ingredients, the recipe for rosemary lentils can be raised while winter shrouds the area in a serene frost. To add some rustic warmth to the recipe, try cooking the lentils with hearty root vegetables like parsnips and carrots. Winter greens, such Swiss chard or kale, not only improve the nutritional value but also offer a bit of heft to beat the cold. Warming spices like cumin or smoked paprika can be added to rosemary lentils to make a dish that is perfect for winter that will make your body and spirit feel cozy.

Throughout the seasons, don’t forget to adapt the quantity of chili flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness, adding an extra layer of customization to your rosemary lentils.

Serving Suggestions

• Grains: Serve your rosemary lentils over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, quinoa, or couscous for a wholesome and filling meal. The combination of lentils and grains provides a complete source of protein and essential amino acids.
• Bread: Crusty artisan bread or warm naan makes an excellent accompaniment to rosemary lentils. The combination of textures and flavors creates a lovely dining experience.
• Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value of your meal by adding roasted or sautéed vegetables. Spinach, kale, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers complement the earthy tones of the lentils and the aromatic notes of rosemary.
• Cheese: Like things savory? Sprinkle some crumbled feta or grated Parmesan over your rosemary lentils. The salty notes of the cheese elevate the dish to a gourmet level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to soak my lentils?

Great news! Lentils are one of the only legumes that do not require presoaking. In fact, even on the stovetop, it only takes a quick 20 minutes to get them to perfect al-dente texture.

Does it matter what kind of lentils I use?

Not necessarily, as long as you understand that yellow and red lentils are softer and tend to have a creamier consistency the longer they cook. They do not hold their shape as well as the green and brown ones do, so you may want to reconsider if using them for this dish. It will result in more of a puree or “mashed” lentils than a structured dish of distinctive, separate lentils. NOTE: this recipe works well with garbanzo beans (chickpeas) as well.

What’s the best way to serve these?

I eat them alone, but I also add pancetta or bacon to the dish to make it more substantial. Leftover ham is also an option. Cook them longer and make it a soup! Or, serve them with rice, quinoa, bulgur, farro, or another hearty grain to make a complete protein.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 pound dried lentils green or brown, rinsed and sorted
• 7 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion small, 1/2" dice
• 1 1/2 tablespoons rosemary fresh, finely chopped
• salt to taste
• pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes

Instructions

• Place rinsed lentils in a large pot over medium high heat.
• Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. See notes.
• While lentils are cooking, heat skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
• Add onions and rosemary and saute about 5 minutes, until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside until lentils are finished cooking.
• After 20 minutes, test lentils for doneness. They should be al-dente, tender but still hold their shape.
• Pour lentils into a large strainer or colander and drain liquid.
• Return skillet with onions and rosemary to medium heat, and combine with lentils.
• Stir in red chili flakes, and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot.