Lentil Fiesta Flip!
Lentils are a staple in vegetarian and plant-based diets because of their ability to compensate for the nutrients commonly found in meat. They are versatile, filling, and easy to purchase.
Keep it simple by purchasing pre-cooked lentils. I get the packaged lentils from Trader Joe’s or Westbrae organic canned lentils at Whole Foods Market, Walmart, and most grocery stores.
Known for their mild and earthy flavor, they can be mixed into many different meals, and offer many benefits.
FIBER:
Lentils are a great source of fiber because they contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. When eaten they absorb the water in your stomach and expand, making you feel fuller longer. Not only do they make you feel full, but they do a great job of promoting digestion. The insoluble fiber continues to absorb the water in your digestive tract, which makes the lentils swell and carry waste out of the digestive tract. The soluble fiber has been known to help in stabilizing blood sugar. This helps in managing energy levels, mood changes and is beneficial for people with diabetes.
PROTEIN:
Lentils are considered one of the best sources of plant protein. They have the same amount of protein as about three whole eggs and rank third-highest level of protein by weight of any nut or legume. Because of that, and their high levels of iron, they have become a staple meat replacement for vegetarian and plant-based diets.
AFFORDABLE:
Lentils are not only amazing and full of beneficial nutrients, but they are affordable. A 1lbs bag of lentils is only about $1.13 on the Walmart website. Making it accessible, easy to cook, and easy to incorporate into your diet.
Lentil Fiesta Flip
Try my plant-based quesadilla-style lunch, you'll be hooked!
Ingredients:
Lentil taco "meat": mix Trader Joe’s lentils with taco seasoning like chili, smoked paprika, garlic, cumin etc. If you like spice, I love Trader Joe’s taco seasoning.
Guacamole or smashed avocado: I use the premade guacamole cups from Costco
Salsa: I used the organic salsa from Costco
Vegan cheese: I used Miyokos Creamery shredded cheddar cheese. I love it because it’s made with beans and plant-based ingredients.
Wrap: I used these new Mitla Tortilla organic flour tortillas that I recently found at Whole Foods Market.
Directions:
Cut the diameter of the tortilla (from the center out). Place ingredients in four separate quadrants of the tortilla. Fold (flip-up, across, and down) and place on a hot skillet on the stove. Cover with a lid so the cheese can melt. Cook 3-4 mins on each side. Enjoy!
Watch my reel on Instagram for a visual!
If you make this recipe and enjoy it, be sure to tag @AKFunctionalNutrition on Instagram!