Satisfying Lentil Bake with Savory Nut Crumble Topping

Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of a comforting meal wafting through the air, and good company gathered around the dinner table. This is the perfect setting for a delightful Lentil Bake with a Savoury Nut Crumble Topping. Inspired by the simplicity of traditional home-cooked meals, this recipe marries wholesome ingredients with a satisfying texture, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. It’s not just about nourishment; it’s about creating cherished moments with loved ones. What sets this recipe apart is its easy preparation and ability to cater to various dietary preferences, making it a go-to for both vegans and meat-eaters alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lentil Bake with a Savoury Nut Crumble Topping will have you falling in love at first bite. First off, it boasts a perfect blend of hearty lentils and flavorful vegetables, all encased in a crusty, nutty topping that adds a delightful crunch. Not only does this dish stand out for its taste and texture, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe; you can customize it based on what you have on hand or to suit your dietary requirements. What’s more, once prepared, it can be made ahead of time, ensuring that you can enjoy delicious home-cooked nourishment with minimal fuss throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup dry lentils: Green or brown lentils work best for this dish, providing a hearty base that holds its shape and adds texture.
• 2 cups vegetable broth: This adds depth and flavor to the lentils as they cook, ensuring they absorb all the spices and seasonings nicely.
• 1 large onion, chopped: A foundational flavor, the onion adds sweetness and aroma to the bake, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a warm, robust flavor, complementing the earthiness of the lentils.
• 1 carrot, diced: Carrots add a subtle sweetness and nice color, enriching the nutritional value.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: Bell peppers provide a crunchy texture and a burst of color, plus they’re an excellent source of vitamins.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice introduces a lovely smokiness that deepens the flavor of the lentil bake.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that will help bring out the flavors of your ingredients, making the dish deliciously balanced.

Optional Additions

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can give your dish a delightful kick.
• 1 cup spinach or kale: Stir in some greens for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals; they will wilt right into your bake.
• 1-2 tablespoons nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor without the dairy, sprinkle nutritional yeast into the lentil mixture before baking.

Special Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Chopped finely, these herbs will add a refreshing touch to contrast the savory notes of the bake.
• Crème fraîche or dairy-free yogurt: A dollop on top before serving adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Chili flakes: A sprinkle on top adds an appealing visual element while also enhancing the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy directions to create your own Lentil Bake with a Savoury Nut Crumble Topping:

1. Prepare the lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain well. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until tender but firm. Drain any excess liquid.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
3. Mix the lentils and vegetables: Once the vegetables are softened, add the cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. If you’re using spinach or kale, fold them in at this stage and cook until just wilted.
4. Prepare the nut crumble topping: In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of mixed nuts (like almonds, walnuts, and pecans), ½ cup of breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of salt. This will create a crunchy topping that complements the soft bake.
5. Assemble the bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the lentil-vegetable mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the nut crumble topping over the lentil mixture.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of crème fraîche if desired, and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

This Lentil Bake is best served warm right out of the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread. For storage, let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can easily refrigerate the bake for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through. It’s also freezer-friendly for longer storage; just remember to use a freezer-safe dish and it can last for up to 3 months.

Helpful Tips

• Cooking lentils: For even faster preparation, use canned lentils—just rinse and drain them before adding to your mixture!
• Spice it up: If you like experimenting with flavors, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami twist.
• Mix the nuts: Feel free to change up the nuts in the crumble topping according to what you have on hand for varied texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this lentil bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the lentil mixture a day in advance and assemble the bake right before you’re ready to cook it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while making dinner prep simple.

What can I substitute for nuts in the crumble topping?

If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use nuts, try using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds as a crunchy alternative. You can also make a breadcrumbs-only topping with some added spices for flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.

Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, while green and brown lentils are best for texture and cooking time, red lentils can work as well. Just note that they will break down more and create a creamier consistency.

What do you recommend serving with this dish?

This lentil bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad, steamed greens, or a side of roasted vegetables. The hearty flavors make it filling enough for a standalone meal, but served with sides, it creates a well-rounded dining experience.

Conclusion

The Lentil Bake with a Savoury Nut Crumble Topping is not just a dish; it’s an experience that embodies warmth, comfort, and togetherness. Its unique combination of flavors and textures sure to please everyone, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or seeking a hearty meal for yourself. By trying this recipe, you’re also diving into a wholesome culinary tradition that can be easily adapted to fit your tastes. We invite you to create your version and share your thoughts or any modifications you make in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation alive about delicious, nutritious meals that bring us all together!

Satisfying Lentil Bake with Savoury Nut Crumble Topping

Print Recipe

Savor a satisfying Lentil Bake with a Savory Nut Crumble Topping Perfectly blended flavors for a wholesome meal you’ll love Healthy & delicious

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup dry lentils
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
• 1 cup mixed nuts
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

• Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain well. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes until tender but firm. Drain any excess liquid.
• In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
• Once the vegetables are softened, add the cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. If you’re using spinach or kale, fold them in at this stage and cook until just wilted.
• In a separate bowl, mix together mixed nuts, breadcrumbs, olive oil, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt to create a crunchy topping.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the lentil-vegetable mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the nut crumble topping over the lentil mixture.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
• Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of crème fraîche if desired, and enjoy!

• Author: souzanfood
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: Vegan
• Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 calories
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fiber: 16 grams
• Protein: 12 grams

Keywords: Lentil Bake, Vegan Recipe, Nut Crumble Topping