Red Lentil Nuggets

Red Lentil Nuggets

Red Lentil Nuggets

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!

Protein-Rich Breakfast Wrap

Protein-Rich Breakfast Wrap

Protein-Rich Breakfast Wrap

If you’re ready to add a powerful punch of nutrients to your daily routine, this Protein-Rich Wrap is the perfect choice. Not only does it deliver a satisfying crunch and flavor, but it’s also a wonderful way to start your day with balanced energy. Whether you need a quick breakfast that fuels you for the morning ahead or a light lunch that keeps you going, this wrap does it all. High in protein and healthy fats, this cottage cheese-based wrap stabilizes your blood sugar, preventing those midday crashes while keeping you feeling full and satisfied for hours.

What makes this wrap particularly special is its star ingredient, cottage cheese. Cottage cheese is not only delicious but also packed with high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s rich in B vitamins, which help convert food into energy, and provides important minerals like calcium and phosphorus for strong bones. Including cottage cheese in your diet regularly can support a healthy metabolism and help maintain a healthy weight. Plus, its versatility allows you to enjoy it in both sweet and savory dishes!

This recipe is perfect for a high-protein meal to keep you energized throughout the day without the sugar highs and lows that many other breakfast or lunch options bring.

Why this wrap is great for you?
Cottage cheese, along with eggs, forms the protein-rich base of this recipe. Both ingredients are excellent sources of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Cottage cheese also provides B vitamins and minerals that support bone health, while the zucchini adds fiber and important vitamins like A and C. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense wrap that keeps your blood sugar stable, helping to prevent energy crashes.

Ingredients

For the flatbread/wraps:
  • ⅓ cup (80 g) cottage cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • ⅛ tsp salt (optional)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 100 g zucchini (or other veggies of choice)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (divided)
For the topping (feel free to add your preferred toppings):
  • 20 g lettuce
  • 25 g avocado
  • 30 g smoked salmon

Directions

  1. Slice the zucchini and cook it in a pan with half of the olive oil for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Flip the zucchini, brush with the remaining oil, and cook for another minute.
  3. In a mixing bowl, blend the cottage cheese, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Use a hand blender to make it smooth.
  4. Pour the mixture over the zucchini, cover the pan, and cook over low-medium heat for 3-4 minutes or until the top side is set.
  5. Flip the flatbread or wrap and cook the other side uncovered for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Layer the lettuce, avocado, and smoked salmon on one side of the wrap.
  7. Fold the other half over the filling to create the wrap.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time & Cooking Information

  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Pan cooking time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 1 wrap

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Energy: 449 calories
  • Protein: 31.63 g
  • Fat: 32.79 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7.49 g
  • Fiber: 2.7 g

Storage & Recommendations

  • Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  • For variety, feel free to add your favorite fillings such as spinach, tomatoes, or feta for a twist.

 

Red Lentil Crackers

Red Lentil Crackers

Red Lentil Crackers

These homemade Red Lentil Crackers are a delightful, gluten-free, and protein-packed snack that’s incredibly crunchy and easy to make. Red lentils are not only rich in protein but also loaded with essential nutrients and minerals, making these crackers a healthy and satisfying choice. Skip the store-bought, highly processed options and enjoy these simple, nutritious, and delicious crackers.

Red lentils are a versatile ingredient, offering a substantial amount of protein and fiber, which are essential for maintaining energy levels and promoting digestive health. They also provide important vitamins and minerals, such as iron and magnesium, which support overall well-being. These crackers are perfect on their own or paired with a variety of dips and spreads, adding a nutritious crunch to your snack time.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a healthy accompaniment to your favorite dip, these Red Lentil Crackers are an excellent option. They’re easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for satisfying your crunchy cravings.

These crackers make a great snack on their own or can be paired with a variety of dips and spreads. Enjoy them with your favorite hummus, guacamole, or cheese spread for a delightful, crunchy snack that’s both healthy and satisfying!

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (140 g) red lentils
  • ¾ cup (170 ml) water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

  1. Soak red lentils for at least 3 hours or overnight in the fridge. After soaking, rinse thoroughly under running water and strain well.
  2. Transfer to a mixing bowl, add water, and blend until you reach a smooth consistency.
  3. Add olive oil, salt, and baking powder to the mixture. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
  4. Brush a large baking tray (37 cm X 25 cm) with oil and line with parchment paper.
  5. Pour the lentil mixture onto the baking tray. Spread it out evenly across the pan. Shake the pan gently to distribute the batter well.
  6. If desired, sprinkle your favorite seeds, spices, or herbs. We sprinkled sesame seeds on half of the tray, leaving the other half plain.
  7. In a preheated oven, bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10 minutes. The batter should turn into a dry texture. Remove from the oven and cut into your desired shapes. We used a pizza cutter for this.
  8. Return the cut crackers to the oven and bake for an additional 40 minutes at 350°F (180°C) or until they are cooked, dry, and crispy.
  9. Take the crackers out of the oven and let them cool before enjoying!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 10 + 40 minutes
Servings: 34 crackers

Nutritional Information (Per Cracker)

  • Energy: 23 calories
  • Protein: 1.03 g
  • Fat: 1.03 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2.66 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g

Storage

  • Store the cooled red lentil crackers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
  • They can last for up to a week at room temperature.

 

 

Red Pepper Dip

Red Pepper Dip

Red Pepper Dip

Spice up your snack time with this vibrant and flavorful Red Pepper Dip! This recipe combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the creamy richness of cottage cheese, creating a dip that’s both satisfying and healthy. Cottage cheese, a protein-rich, low-calorie ingredient, ensures that this dip not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients without the guilt.

Red peppers are the highlight of this dish, offering a wealth of health benefits. They are packed with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a great addition to your diet. The roasting process enhances their natural sweetness, adding depth and complexity to the dip. Cottage cheese, on the other hand, brings in a creamy texture and a boost of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Including red peppers and cottage cheese in your regular diet can support your immune system, improve skin health, and provide lasting energy.

This Red Pepper Dip is perfect for adding a burst of color and flavor to any dish. Use it as a spread on sandwiches, as a topping for grilled meats, or as a flavorful dip for your favorite snacks. Enjoy the blend of smoky and sweet flavors in every bite!

Ingredients

  • 3 large red peppers (400 g)
  • 3 ½ tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 cup (200 g) cottage cheese
  • 1 garlic clove
  • ¼ tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. smoked paprika
  • Chili flakes to taste
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice

Directions

  1. Clean and pat dry the red peppers. Brush the red peppers with some olive oil.
  2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and broil for 10 to 15 minutes or until the skin looks dark and roasted on one side.
  3. Flip the red peppers and broil the other side for another 10 to 15 minutes.
  4. Transfer the hot roasted peppers into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let sit for 30 minutes to cool slightly and make the skin easier to remove.
  5. Once cooled, peel off the skin and remove the seeds from the peppers. Set the cleaned red pepper flesh aside to continue cooling.
  6. In a mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese and blend it until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add the red pepper flesh to the blended cottage cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and lemon juice to the mixture.
  8. Blend again until you reach a smooth consistency.
  9. Transfer the dip into a glass container and let sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour to thicken and allow the flavors to infuse.
  10. Garnish with slices of roasted red pepper and drizzle with some extra olive oil on top before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Broiling Time: 30 minutes
Fridge Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Energy: 131 calories
  • Protein: 5.02 g
  • Fat: 9.64 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7.45 g
  • Fiber: 1.1 g

Storage

  • Store the leftover red pepper dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
  • This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables. It also works as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.

 

Spinach Dip

Spinach Dip

Spinach Dip

Get ready to enjoy a light and flavorful twist on the classic spinach dip! This version swaps out the traditional sour cream and mayonnaise for cottage cheese, making it a protein-packed, low-calorie, and delectable alternative. Perfect for any occasion, this dip offers a creamy texture and a burst of flavor that will surely make it a hit at your next gathering.

Spinach is not just a leafy green; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and several antioxidants, spinach provides essential nutrients that support eye health, reduce oxidative stress, and may even help regulate blood pressure. When combined with cottage cheese, which is high in protein and calcium, this dip becomes a nutritious option that you can enjoy guilt-free. Incorporating spinach and cottage cheese into your regular diet can help boost your overall health, support muscle repair, and maintain strong bones.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, appetizer, or a spread on sandwiches, this spinach dip is a versatile addition to any meal. With its combination of nutrient-dense spinach and creamy cottage cheese, this dip is not only delicious but also a great way to add more greens and protein to your diet.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium-sized onion (100 g)
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • ¼ tsp. salt
  • 200 g defrosted spinach (or equivalent of fresh spinach)
  • 1 large garlic clove
  • 1 tsp. dried dill
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Chili flakes (to taste, optional)
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (200 g)
  • 60 g Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp. lemon juice
  • Fresh spinach leaves (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp. extra olive oil (for garnish, optional)

Directions

  1. Finely chop the medium-sized onion. In a pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil, the chopped onion, and salt. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion starts to brown.
  2. Add the defrosted or fresh spinach to the pan with the onions. Add a minced garlic clove, dried dill, black pepper to taste, and chili flakes to taste. Continue to stir and sauté all the ingredients.
  3. Continue sautéing for 8-10 minutes. Set the cooked spinach mixture aside to cool.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese and blend until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add ¾ of the cooked spinach mixture, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice to the blended cottage cheese. Blend until you reach a smooth consistency.
  6. Add the remaining cooked spinach mixture to the blended dip and stir to incorporate the larger pieces of spinach for texture.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to thicken and allow the flavors to infuse.
  8. Before serving, garnish with fresh spinach leaves and a drizzle of extra olive oil on top.
  9. Serve with your favorite crackers or as a side dish or appetizer.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Pan Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Fridge Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Energy: 173 calories
  • Protein: 8.04 g
  • Fat: 13.48 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5.99 g
  • Fiber: 1.2 g

Storage

  • Store the leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
  • This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables. It also works as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.

Additional Recommendations

  •  This spinach dip is a delightful and nutritious option for any occasion.
  • Enjoy it as a party appetizer, a healthy snack, or even as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for a quick and easy meal.