Elaine GordonTrader Joe’s lentils can serve as a delightful base for many dishes. Their hearty nature makes them perfect for pairing with roasted vegetables, which can add a nice crunch and depth of flavor. You might consider grilled eggplant or zucchini, perhaps drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt.
A side of sautéed greens, like kale or spinach, complements lentils beautifully—most of us are just trying to squeeze in more greens, right? Even a dollop of Greek yogurt can elevate the taste. Lastly, bread or grain like quinoa balances the meal nicely.
Introduction: Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
I first stumbled upon the magic of lentils while browsing the aisles at Trader Joe’s. It was one of those days when I felt a deep craving for something nutritious yet satisfying. Lentils ticked all the boxes: they were protein-packed, rich in fiber, and easy to prepare. Plus, they’re an affordable pantry staple. Honestly? I can’t stress enough how versatile they are. It doesn’t matter if you’re a vegetarian, a busy parent, or somebody just trying to eat healthier—this dish is for everyone.
In this recipe, I combine the convenience of Trader Joe’s ready-to-eat lentils with a few fresh ingredients to create a dish that bursts with flavor. I adore how each ingredient contributes to the overall experience of the dish while still being simple enough for any home cook to master. Let me walk you through it.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this easy and delicious meal:
Trader Joe’s Version:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups prepared lentils
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 1/2 cups Trader Joe’s tomato basil bruschetta blend
From-Scratch Version:
- 1/2 cup dried black lentils or French green lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher sea salt (to taste)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups homemade bruschetta sauce
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
How to Make “Trader Joe’s Lentils”
Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of this fantastic recipe. Follow along with these clear steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First off, make sure everything is clean and ready to go. Whether you’ve opted for the Trader Joe’s version or made your lentils from scratch, gathering your ingredients will streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Lentils
For the Trader Joe’s version, simply open the package and measure out 1 1/2 cups of the prepared lentils. If you’re going from scratch, rinse your dried lentils under cold water and add them to a pot with three times their volume of water. Bring it to a boil and then simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy.
Step 3: Mix the Bruschetta Blend
In a large bowl, combine your 1 1/2 cups of the tomato basil bruschetta blend. If you’re making it fresh, whip up a simple homemade bruschetta sauce using diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, salt, and a bit of garlic. This will add incredible freshness to your dish.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Dump your lentils into the bowl with the bruschetta blend. Add your tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. This addition gives the whole dish a tangy, savory flavor that just elevates everything. Stir gently—don’t mush the lentils!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Basil
Fold in 1/2 cup of crumbled feta for creaminess and 1/4 cup of fresh basil for that lovely herbal note. This is one of my favorite parts. The colors alone are enough to make your kitchen feel festive.
Step 6: Final Touches
Let the mixture sit for a bit. This helps all the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding kosher salt if needed.
Recipe Notes
- Lentils: These legumes are not just easy to cook but also incredibly good for your health. They are filled with protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adding balsamic vinegar pulls out the sweetness of the tomatoes. It’s a game-changer for flavor.
- Feta Cheese: The salty tang of feta perfectly complements the earthiness of the lentils.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh herbs can transform a dish from good to spectacular, giving it brightness and depth.
Recipe Variations
- Add More Veggies: Any seasonal veggies will work. Think cucumbers, red onion, or even avocados for creaminess.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes.
- Change the Herbs: If basil isn’t your thing, try parsley or cilantro instead.
- Add Protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can enhance the protein content.
- Make it Vegan: Simply omit the feta or substitute it with a vegan cheese option.
- Create a Wrap: Use this lentil mixture as a filling for whole grain wraps or lettuce cups.
Trader Joe’s Lentils Recipe
Equipment
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups prepared lentils
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 1/2 cups Trader Joe’s tomato basil bruschetta blend
- From-Scratch Version:
- 1/2 cup dried black lentils or French green lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Kosher sea salt
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups homemade bruschetta sauce
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
Instructions
- First off, make sure everything is clean and ready to go. Whether you’ve opted for the Trader Joe’s version or made your lentils from scratch, gathering your ingredients will streamline the cooking process.
- For the Trader Joe’s version, simply open the package and measure out 1 1/2 cups of the prepared lentils. If you’re going from scratch, rinse your dried lentils under cold water and add them to a pot with three times their volume of water. Bring it to a boil and then simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender but not mushy.
- In a large bowl, combine your 1 1/2 cups of the tomato basil bruschetta blend. If you’re making it fresh, whip up a simple homemade bruschetta sauce using diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, salt, and a bit of garlic. This will add incredible freshness to your dish.
- Dump your lentils into the bowl with the bruschetta blend. Add your tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. This addition gives the whole dish a tangy, savory flavor that just elevates everything. Stir gently—don’t mush the lentils!
- Fold in 1/2 cup of crumbled feta for creaminess and 1/4 cup of fresh basil for that lovely herbal note. This is one of my favorite parts. The colors alone are enough to make your kitchen feel festive.
- Let the mixture sit for a bit. This helps all the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding kosher salt if needed.
Notes
- Lentils: These legumes are not just easy to cook but also incredibly good for your health. They are filled with protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Adding balsamic vinegar pulls out the sweetness of the tomatoes. It’s a game-changer for flavor.
- Feta Cheese: The salty tang of feta perfectly complements the earthiness of the lentils.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh herbs can transform a dish from good to spectacular, giving it brightness and depth.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
I hope this laid-back, flavorful approach to Trader Joe’s lentils encourages you to give this dish a whirl in your kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or just looking for a healthy dinner option, this recipe is multifunctional and ready to rock your meals.
Together, all these ingredients create a delightful, vibrant dish that quickly becomes a staple in my home. Grab your shopping list and head to Trader Joe’s—they’ve got everything you need to whip this up tonight! Trust me, you won’t regret it!
