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Vegetarian Research

Loaded Lentil Salad

This Loaded Lentil Salad is packed with flavor and protein! Lentils are nutritional powerhouses, and this salad is great for keeping you fueled all day long. This hearty recipe can be served on its own or enjoyed with crackers or chips. Holiday potlucks are just around the corner, and this versatile vegetarian salad is a great addition to any table.

close up of loaded lentil salad in a meal prep container

I know this Loaded Lentil Salad isn’t the most beautiful dish, but I promise you that what it lacks in looks, it makes up for in taste. It’s packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Make this recipe on a Sunday and have an easy and healthy vegetarian lunch to enjoy all week long. It’s also a great addition to any holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Lentil Salad

  • Easy to makeIt’s great when such a healthy meal comes together quickly. I like using pre-cooked lentils for this recipe, and it’s ready in about 15 minutes. It’s also a great way to clean out the produce drawer; if you have extra veggies that need to be used, just throw them in.
  • Great for lunch – I love making a big batch of this hearty lentil salad and packing it into meal-prep containers for the week. Enjoy it with crackers, chips, or on its own.
  • Packed with nutrients – Lentils are nutritional powerhouses that we can all greatly benefit from incorporating into our diets. They’re high in fiber and protein, filling you up and making digestion easy. Lentils are also packed with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation inside the body.

showing how to prepare the dressing for this loaded lentil salad with chickpeas

Loaded Lentil Salad Recipe Ingredients + Substitutions

  • Lentils – There are a few different kinds of lentils out there, and most of them can be used in this recipe, except red lentils, which get pretty mushy when cooked. I usually cook my own brown lentils for recipes, but I used the packaged lentils from Trader Joe’s for this no-cook salad, and they worked great. Canned lentils can also be used.
  • Chickpeas – You can leave the chickpeas out and use lentils alone for this recipe, but I find the chickpeas offer a nice contrast. Their flavor, texture, and size slightly differ from lentils, adding a nice balance.
  • Vegetables – I used celery, carrots, onion, and green olives in this recipe. This lentil salad is great because you can use almost any veggie you have on hand. Omit what you don’t like and add what you do.
  • Dried Cranberries – I love dried cranberries’ chewy texture and sweet flavor. They also go well with the rosemary and thyme flavors, giving this salad a holiday feel.
  • Walnuts – Walnuts are rich in flavor and add a nice crunch. However, any nut or seed will work.
  • Feta Cheese – I love adding crumbled feta cheese to vegetarian salads to bulk them up. It also adds a nice salty creaminess. Crumbled goat cheese can be used instead, or a vegan feta cheese substitute will also work.
  • Fresh Herbs – I like adding chopped fresh parsley to this salad for extra color. Cilantro, or another herb of choice, can also be used.
  • Dressing – The dressing provides the majority of the flavor for this recipe. It’s made using olive oil, tahini, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. I like to use fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme to really boost the flavor but dried can also be used.

showing how to assemble this easy vegetarian lentil salad

How To Make This Easy Vegetarian Lentil Salad

  1. Add all of the dressing ingredients to a large mixing bowl.  Whisk together well, and add in the chickpeas and lentils. I like to mix the beans with the dressing and then give everything a little mash. This is optional, but I find it helps incorporate the dressing flavors into the salad.
  2. Next, add the celery, onion, green olives, carrots, feta cheese, dried cranberries, walnuts, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together well and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Serve this loaded lentil salad by itself or with crackers.

close up of my loaded lentil salad in a meal prep container topped with feta cheese

Recipe Frequently Asked Questions

  • Make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free tamari or soy sauce in the dressing.
  • Make this recipe vegan by using a vegan feta cheese substitute or omitting the feta cheese completely.
  • Where can I buy pre-cooked lentils? I like the boxes of cooked lentils from the refrigerated section of Trader Joe’s. You can also buy canned lentils at most grocery stores in the canned bean aisle. 
  • How many servings does this recipe make? If serving as a side dish at a potluck, this recipe makes about 10-12 servings. You should get about 3-4 good portions if serving as a lunch.
  • How long do leftovers last? If stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers should last about 5 days.
  • Should this lentil salad be served warm or chilled? This recipe uses pre-packaged lentils and canned chickpeas, so it never gets heated. I suggest serving it at room temperature or chilled.

Have a question I didn’t answer? Ask me in the comment section below, and I will get back to you ASAP.

loaded lentil salad in a meal prep container for lunch

Looking For More Healthy Lentil Recipes?

Lentil and Roasted Carrot Salad

Quick and Easy Vegetarian Lentil Soup

One Pot Lentil Chickpea Coconut Curry

Easy Red Lentil Curry

Sweet Potato Millet and Lentil Cakes

 

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Loaded Lentil Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews


  • Author:
    She Likes Food


  • Total Time:
    20 minutes


  • Yield:
    4-6
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Loaded Lentil Salad is packed with flavor and protein! Lentils are nutritional powerhouses and this salad is great for keeping you fueled all day long.  This hearty recipe can be served on its own, or enjoyed with crackers or chips.  Holiday potlucks are just around the corner and this versatile, vegetarian salad, is a great addition to any table!


Ingredients

  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 17.6 oz (100 g)  cooked lentils (about 2 cups)*
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup grated carrots, or diced carrot
  • 1/4 cup diced green olives
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, or cilantro
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure maple syrup, or honey
  • 1 teaspoon tamari, or soy sauce
  • 12 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh minced rosemary



Instructions

  1. Add all of the dressing ingredients to a large mixing bowl.  Whisk together well and then add in the chickpeas and lentils.  I like to mix the beans with the dressing and then give everything a little mash.  This is optional, but I feel like it helps incorporate the dressing flavors into the salad better.
  2. Next, add in the celery, onion, green olives, carrots, feta cheese, dried cranberries, walnuts and chopped parsley.  Mix everything together well and season with salt and black pepper, to taste.
  3. Serve this loaded lentil salad by itself or with crackers.

Notes

*I used a box of pre-cooked lentils from Trader Joe’s.  You can cook your own lentil or used canned/boxed.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Lunch, Vegetarian
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: American

The post Loaded Lentil Salad appeared first on She Likes Food.

Vegetarian Research

High Protein Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

If you’re craving enchiladas, this easy Mexican-inspired dinner will surely hit the spot! This Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is packed with about 30 grams of protein per serving. It’s budget friendly, made with simple ingredients and great for a vegetarian dinner that the whole family will love. Feel free to add extra veggies and serve with chips, fresh cilantro and plain greek yogurt for even extra protein.

close up of vegetarian enchilada skillet in a bowl

We’ve been having unusually warm weather lately, but I’m still in winter mode, and even hoping for at least one more snow.  Our whole family had the flu last week and it was brutal.  There were a few days where no one even left the bedroom, and I certainly wasn’t doing much cooking.  Now that I’m feeling better, I’m catching up on my favorite comfort foods, and this Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is at the top of the list!  Each serving is packed with about 30 grams of protein, it’s easy to make and freezer friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Enchilada Skillet

  • Hearty and filling – This enchilada skillet recipe is packed with tofu, black beans and cheese making it a filling dinner that the whole family can enjoy.  Each serving has about 30 grams of protein, making it a great meat free balanced dinner.  Serve with a side salad or chips and salsa.
  • It’s packed with flavor – If you like enchiladas, you will love the flavor of this easy skillet dinner.  It gets loaded with warm seasonings and fire roasted tomatoes.   Make sure to use a well seasoned enchilada sauce for maximum flavor.
  • Made in One Pot – This recipe can be made in one pot using an oven-safe skillet. If you don’t have a skillet that can go directly into the oven, you can transfer everything to a baking dish and then top with cheese before placing in the oven.

showing how to break the tofu into bite sized chunks and cut the corn tortillas into pieces

Why Your Body Will Love This Cozy Meal

  • Blood Sugar Regulation – Black beans are high in fiber and protein, giving them a low glycemic index. This means they digest slowly and don’t cause blood sugar levels to spike or rise too quickly. This makes black beans a healthy choice for people with diabetes who need to control their blood sugar levels more. They also keep you feeling full for a longer period of time since they digest slowly.
  • Protein – Tofu is a complete protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids that your body needs to build muscle and repair tissues. Tofu contains 10 grams of protein per half a cup, making it a great plant-based ingredient to incorporate into your diet.  Black beans are also a great source of plant based protein.
  • Bone Health – Tofu contains high amounts of calcium and magnesium, which play a huge role in ensuring you grow and maintain healthy bones. Tofu is also rich in isoflavones, which are compounds found in plants that can help decrease the risk of osteoporosis, among other things.

showing how to assemble and cook the skillet enchiladas with tofu and black beans

Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet Recipe Ingredients

  • Tofu – I like to use this high protein, super firm tofu that I get at Trader Joe’s.  I think that both Sprouts and Walmart have similar kinds.  If you can’t find super firm, extra firm will work great, just make sure to press as much liquid out of it as you can before using.
  • Black Beans – I used two cans of black beans, which equals about 3 cups total.  Black beans can be substituted with pinto or kidney beans, if needed.
  • Enchilada Sauce – I used red enchilada sauce, but green can also be used.  I like the Hatch brand of enchilada sauce, but any brand can be used.  The more flavor the better!
  • Spices – I also like to add my own flavors to make sure the tofu isn’t bland.  I added cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.  If you don’t already have those spices on hand, you could use a couple tablespoons of taco or chili seasoning mix.
  • Corn Tortillas – Yellow or white corn tortillas can be used in this recipe.  Flour tortillas can be used, but they tend to get soft and kinda slimy once mixed with the enchilada sauce.  The corn tortillas mix in nicely and hold their texture a little bit better.
  • Cheese – I like to use colby jack but any kind of cheese will work.  Add pepper jack cheese if you want some heat!

tofu and black bean skillet enchiladas before and after they have been baked in the oven

How To Make This Satisfying Vegetarian Enchilada Recipe

  1. Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees F.  If not using pre-pressed tofu, press as much liquid out of the tofu as you can, and then use your hands to tear the tofu into bite sized chunks.  You can also use a knife and dice it into bite sized pieces.  Chop the corn tortillas into about 1 inch sized pieces and set aside. 
  2. Heat a large, oven safe, skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.  Once oil is hot, add in the diced onion, tofu, tamari, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic and onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.  Mix everything together until tofu is coated with all the spices.  Cook until onion has softened and tofu is starting to brown, 5-7 minutes, stirring a few times.
  3. Add in the diced corn tortillas and cook until tortillas are starting to soften, 2-3 minutes.  You can add extra olive oil in if you want your tortillas to brown a little bit.  Next, add in the black beans, diced tomatoes and enchilada sauce.  Mix until everything is combined and allow enchilada mixture to come to a low simmer.  Add any extra salt, as needed.
  4. Add in the shredded cheese and mix until melted.  Top with the remaining shredded cheese and either place the lid on until melted, or place entire skillet in a preheated oven until cheese on top is melted, about 5 minutes.  Remove from oven, let cool a few minutes, garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy with your favorite enchilada toppings.

dinner bowl with high protein tofu and black bean enchiladas topped with fresh cilantro

Recipe Frequently Asked Questions

  • This recipe is already gluten free, just make sure that the enchilada sauce you use is certified gluten free.
  • Make this recipe vegan by using a vegan cheese substitute that melts well.
  • Is there a substitute for the tofu?  If you’d rather not use tofu in this recipe, you can use crumbled tempeh, another meat substitute, or just double the amount of beans added.
  • Is this enchilada skillet freezer friendly?  Yes, this meal can be frozen before or after it has been cooked.  Use a freezer friendly, air-tight, container and freeze for up to 3 months.  Thaw in the refrigerator or on the counter before heating, or heat from frozen.
  • How long do leftovers last?  If stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator, leftovers should last about 4-5 days.
  • Have a question I didn’t answer?  Ask me in the comment section below and I will get back to you ASAP!

A serving spoon scooping up some of the tofu enchilada skillet

Looking For More Vegetarian Dinner Recipes?

Mediterranean Tortellini Bake

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chickpea Pizza

Vegetarian Pizza Casserole with White Beans and Rice

Vegetarian Fajita Rice Casserole

Easy Roasted Vegetable Pasta with Parmesan

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High Protein Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews


  • Author:
    She Likes Food


  • Total Time:
    45 minutes


  • Yield:
    4-6
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

If you’re craving enchiladas, this easy Mexican-inspired dinner will surely hit the spot! This Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is packed with about 30 grams of protein per serving. It’s budget friendly, made with simple ingredients and great for a vegetarian dinner that the whole family will love. Feel free to add extra veggies and serve with chips, fresh cilantro and plain greek yogurt for even extra protein.


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 medium sized yellow onion, diced
  • 1 (16 oz) package super firm, or extra firm, tofu (pressed if needed)
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 8 (6 inch) corn tortillas, yellow or white
  • 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can fire roasted diced tomatoes, with most of the liquid drained out
  • 2 cups enchilada sauce, homemade or store-bought
  • 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish, if desired



Instructions

  1. Pre-heat oven to 425 degrees F.  If not using pre-pressed tofu, press as much liquid out of the tofu as you can, and then use your hands to tear the tofu into bite sized chunks.  You can also use a knife and dice it into bite sized pieces.  Chop the corn tortillas into about 1 inch sized pieces and set aside.
  2. Heat a large, oven safe, skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.  Once oil is hot, add in the diced onion, tofu, tamari, cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic and onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper.  Mix everything together until tofu is coated with all the spices.  Cook until onion has softened and tofu is starting to brown, 5-7 minutes, stirring a few times.
  3. Add in the diced corn tortillas and cook until tortillas are starting to soften, 2-3 minutes.  You can add extra olive oil in if you want your tortillas to brown a little bit.  Next, add in the black beans, diced tomatoes and enchilada sauce.  Mix until everything is combined and allow enchilada mixture to come to a low simmer.  Add any extra salt, as needed.
  4. Add in the shredded cheese and mix until melted.  Top with the remaining shredded cheese and either place the lid on until melted, or place entire skillet in a preheated oven until cheese on top is melted, about 5 minutes.  Remove from oven, let cool a few minutes, garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy with your favorite enchilada toppings.

Notes

If you want to add extra veggies to this recipe, add them in at the same time you are adding in the onion and tofu.  Bell peppers, mushrooms or zucchini would be great additions.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Dinner, Vegetarian
  • Method: Stovetop, Oven
  • Cuisine: Mexican Inspired

 

The post High Protein Tofu and Black Bean Enchilada Skillet appeared first on She Likes Food.

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