When it comes to creating nutritious meals that everyone will love, these Red Lentil Nuggets are a true winner. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunchbox addition, a satisfying snack, or a wholesome dinner centerpiece, these nuggets are guaranteed to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, made with pantry staples, fresh veggies, and hearty red lentils, these nuggets are gluten-free, packed with protein, and baked to golden perfection.

But what makes these nuggets truly special is their versatility. They’re perfect for picky eaters, busy parents, or anyone looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Imagine the joy of knowing exactly what’s in your food—no preservatives, no hidden additives, just real, wholesome ingredients. Serve them alongside a creamy avocado dip, a fresh salad, or even tucked into wraps for a fun twist on mealtime.

Now, let’s talk about the star ingredient: red lentils. These humble legumes are a nutritional powerhouse and a must-have in any well-rounded diet. Red lentils are rich in plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and omnivores alike. They’re packed with dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. But that’s not all—red lentils are an outstanding source of iron, folate, and magnesium, nutrients crucial for energy production, immune function, and overall vitality.

Incorporating red lentils into your regular diet can have lasting health benefits. Their iron content can help combat fatigue and support red blood cell production, while their low glycemic index keeps you feeling full and energized for hours. Red lentils are also incredibly versatile, they pair well with countless flavors and can be used in soups, stews, salads, and, of course, these delightful nuggets.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s healthy, flavorful, and easy to make, these Red Lentil Nuggets tick all the boxes. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based ingredients into your diet while ensuring that every bite is as delicious as it is nourishing. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a meal for yourself, these nuggets are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (90 g) red lentils
• 30 g onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, coarsely chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 can (110 g) strained tuna meat
• 50 g shredded carrot (or veggies of choice)
• 40 g finely chopped red bell pepper (or veggies of choice)
• 10 g finely chopped fresh parsley
• 30 g shredded mozzarella (or cheese of choice)
• 3 tbsp. olive oil, plus 1 tbsp for brushing
• ¼ tsp. salt
• ¼ tsp. dried onion powder
• ¼ tsp. dried garlic powder
• ¼ tsp. dried oregano (or herbs of choice)
• Black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Soak red lentils in water for 4 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Rinse soaked lentils thoroughly and strain well to remove any excess water.
3. Blend lentils with onion, garlic, and egg in a blender or with a hand blender until smooth and creamy.
4. Add strained tuna, shredded carrot, chopped bell pepper, parsley, mozzarella, olive oil, and all seasonings to the mixture.
5. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture holds together easily.
6. Shape the mixture into nugget fingers or rectangles, about 2 tablespoons each.
7. Place the shaped nuggets onto a parchment-lined baking pan.
8. Brush the tops of the nuggets with olive oil for a crispier texture.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as fresh avocado dip.

Prep Time and Baking Information:

• Soaking: at least for 4 hours or overnight in the fridge
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 16 nuggets

Nutritional Information:

Per 1 nugget:

• Energy: 70 calories
• Protein: 3.6 g
• Fat: 4.35 g
• Carbohydrates: 4.4 g
• Fiber: 0.8 g

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze uncooked nuggets on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.

Particular Recommendations:

Red lentils are a versatile ingredient that blends seamlessly into both savory and sweet recipes. To maximize their health benefits, pair them with vitamin C-rich foods to boost iron absorption, such as fresh bell pepper in this recipe or a side of citrus salad. These nuggets also make a great gluten-free and protein-packed option for those focusing on balanced eating habits!