TJ's Balsamic Lentil Sauté

Hello friends! Today I have to share with you my newest discovery:

Trader Joes precooked lentils

They are so convenient and such a time saver! They last a long time and are ready when you need them.

I opened up a package of these yesterday and put some on a salad. But there are 2.5 cups of lentils in this package and it has to be used within a couple days. So I did some quick internet searches and came across this recipe on the Trader Joes website that turned out to be a true winner. (Link)

Balsamic Lentil Saute

Lentils, spinach, bell pepper, onion (yellow is fine), garlic, balsamic, sundried tomatoes

As usually, I made a few tweaks based on what I had available.

-Instead of spinach, I used broccoli leaves from our garden. Feel free to use kale, chard, or whatever other green you have around.

-I added a few roughly chopped mushrooms. I just love how it adds substance to a dish.

-I didn't have parsley but added 1/2 tsp Braggs herb and spice blend

-I didn't have balsamic glaze so I just used balsamic vinegar

Wow - this came out even better than I'd hoped. I was a bit unsure of the sundried tomatoes but we just happened to have some in the fridge so I figured I'd try it. Listen carefully...This ingredient is crucial!!!! Seriously, there is incredible flavor even just in the oil around the tomatoes that adds such an amazing flavor to the dish. 

Another reason this dish is a time savor: you can use a package of microwave brown rice or quinoa! I used a 2 serving package from Safeway of quinoa with kale mixed in and it was super quick and delicious (plus added more veggie!)

This recipe is great because you can make one meal for now and another for the next day. I scooped half of the quinoa onto a plate and the other half into a container, topped each with lentil sauté and now have an easy lunch to take to work tomorrow. You will probably have a little sauté left over as well, so now you also have a healthy afternoon snack ready to go!

So colorful! 

Even better when enjoyed outside!