Description
A hearty and nourishing Vegetarian Lentil Casserole combining wholesome lentils, vibrant vegetables, and robust spices for a satisfying and comforting dinner. Perfect for easy weeknight meals and versatile to suit your pantry or taste preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup brown or green lentils
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (natural)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (natural)
- 2 cups chopped spinach
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and cook them in the vegetable broth until tender but still firm to the bite. This ensures they maintain their shape and texture in the casserole.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
- Combine Ingredients: To the sautéed vegetables, add the cooked lentils, diced tomatoes (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Natural Gelling Agent and Spinach: Sprinkle the natural gelling agent into the mixture and mix in the chopped spinach. Stir until the casserole mixture thickens slightly and the spinach wilts.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. If using, sprinkle the top with plant-based cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Cook lentils just right to avoid mushiness and ensure texture.
- Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking and consistent flavor.
- Use fresh herbs when possible to enhance brightness of the dish.
- Allow casserole to rest a few minutes after baking for ideal setting.
- Try different plant-based cheeses to find your preferred melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegetarian lentil casserole, lentil casserole, plant-based casserole, healthy vegetarian dinner, gluten free casserole
