Italian Lentils / Linte italiana

Directions

1. Wash and sort lentils. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water (about 1 inch above the lentils). Start the water boiling over a medium-high flame (then reduce heat and simmer).

2. Chop the tomatoes and onions and add them to the pot as it heats.

3. Clean and press or mince the garlic cloves. Add the garlic, olive oil, and seasonings to the pot.

4. Simmer until the lentils are done and mixture is thick in texture. Add more water if the lentils are too dry.

5. Adjust seasonings and serve.

                                                              

Notes: As an entrée, this dish is nice served over rice, or alone. It can also serve as a side to a meat dish. A good heart warming dish on a cold afternoon, these lentils are quick and easy to make.

 

Variations: If you are sensitive to MSG, or just don’t like vegeta replace it with herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary or sage. Red pepper flakes or paprika are also nice additions. If you’re making this recipe in the summer, take advantage of the fresh vegetables available and add them to this dish. Peppers and spinach are wonderful additions. Meat can also be added – pork is best.

 

Substitutions: Garlic cloves & salt/ Garlic Salt. Olive oil/Other oil.