Tahini Lentils

Tahini Lentils

This Tahini Lentils dish is a vibrant, nourishing blend of fresh vegetables and creamy tahini, brightened with lemon zest and juice. It's a wholesome, plant-based meal perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Vegetarian

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

15 min

Servings

4

Tahini Lentils combine the nutty richness of tahini with the zesty brightness of lemon juice and fresh vegetables, creating a dish that's both comforting and invigorating. Lentils have long been a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, known for their high protein content and versatility. This recipe brings those traditional flavors into a simple, contemporary meal. The use of kale, courgettes, and green beans adds a delightful mix of textures and nutrients, making the dish hearty yet fresh. The lemon-tahini dressing introduces a luxurious creaminess without any dairy, perfect for plant-based diets or those seeking a dairy-free option. The light sauté of vegetables retains their color and freshness, while the gentle wilting of kale rounds off the dish with a tender bite. Serve this Tahini Lentils dish alongside warm flatbreads or over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing herbal tea, enhancing the fresh and nutty flavors. For an added twist, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs on top before serving.

Ingredients

  • 50 g Tahini
  • zest and juice of 1 Lemon
  • 2 tblsp Olive Oil
  • 1 chopped Red Onions
  • 1 clove peeled crushed Garlic
  • 1 thinly sliced Yellow Pepper
  • 200 g Green Beans
  • 1 sliced Courgettes
  • 100 g shredded Kale
  • 250 g pack Lentils

Instructions

In a jug, combine the tahini with the zest and juice of the lemon along with 50ml of cold water, whisking thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, runny dressing. Adjust the seasoning to your taste with salt and pepper, then set this vibrant sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld. Warm the olive oil in a wok or large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion along with a pinch of salt, and sauté for about 2 minutes until the onions start to soften and develop a golden hue. This process brings out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor base. Next, incorporate the crushed garlic, thinly sliced yellow pepper, green beans, and courgettes into the pan. Continue to cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the vegetables cook evenly and maintain a slight crunch and vibrant color. Finally, add the shredded kale, lentils, and the prepared tahini dressing to the pan. Keep the heat on for a few minutes while stirring gently to wilt the kale and ensure the dressing coats every ingredient, creating a luscious, creamy finish. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Tips: To enhance the flavor, toast the lentils lightly before adding them to the pan. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a splash more cold water. For an extra zest, finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of chili flakes for heat.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4