Versatile lentils

I’M INCREASINGLY pleasantly surprised by the versatility of lentils, especially now that I’m including them in my diet more often. Even my husband, a meat lover, enjoys these dishes. Of all the legumes, lentils are my favourite. They’re easy to cook, don’t need to be soaked beforehand and don’t cause uncomfortable bloating like beans sometimes do.

Lentils are also super nutritious. They have the third-highest protein content of all legumes and their high-fibre content stabilises blood sugar and helps lower cholesterol, thereby combating vascular conditions. Lentils also aid digestion and thanks to their low kilojoules and absence of fat, are excellent to include in any diet.

LENTIL VEGGIE TART

A tortilla is used as the crust for this tasty tart.

SERVES 4

PREPARATION: 20 MIN

COOKING: 40-50 MIN

60ml (¼c) olive oil
3 garlic cloves, crushed
15ml (1T) grated ginger
10ml (2t) ground cinnamon
10ml (2t) ground cumin