Lentils

Lentils 

Lentils were one of the first foods cultivated by man, lentils were used by the ancient Greeks for both medicinal and culinary purposes. Today they are a staple in India where they are prepared as dahl, a delicious spicy dish made from lentils, onions, garlic, cumin and oil. 

Unlike other members of the legume family, lentils do not need to be soaked before cooking, which makes them a quick and easy way to add nutrient-rich legumes into your diet. Lentils also come in a variety of colors including, pink, brown, green and yellow. 

Lentils have a rich concentration of dietary fiber and folate, which makes them an excellent choice for a healthy heart. Lentils also provide powerful antioxidant protection to the cellular structures from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. They are available year-round, don’t need to be refrigerated and have a shelf life of about a year. 

One serving of cooked lentils contains about 230 calories and are an excellent source of protein, fibers, folate, iron, phosphorus and manganese. 

Try a lentil salad- Using green lentils, chopped tomatoes, chopped red bell pepper, minced sweet onion, and minced mint. Add your favorite home-made dressing, then to with crumbled feta cheese and minced fresh parsley. 

Enjoy 

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