Ingredients

12 ounces swiss chard
1 cup lentils , rinsed , drained
1 medium onion , finely chopped
2 garlic cloves , minced , pressed your choice
1 teaspoon cumin seed , coarsely crushed
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
2 cups water
12 ounces dry linguine
salt
6 ounces neufchatel cheese , room temperature
grated parmesan cheese ( optional )
Crock Pot Pasta With Lentils and Chard is a satisfying, wholesome meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, without sacrificing flavor. The combination of lentils and chard creates a filling and nutritious base, while the neufchatel cheese adds a creamy richness to the dish. This hearty pasta dinner is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, and is a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

Instructions

1.Rinse and chop 12 ounces of swiss chard.
2.In a crock pot, combine the chopped chard, 1 cup of rinsed and drained lentils, 1 finely chopped medium onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of coarsely crushed cumin seed, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, 1/8 teaspoon of fresh coarse ground black pepper, and 2 cups of water. Stir to combine.
3.Cook the mixture on low heat for 7 to 8 hours.
4.About 20 minutes before you are ready to serve, cook 12 ounces of dry linguine according to package instructions and drain.
5.Add salt to taste to the slow cooker mixture and stir in 6 ounces of room temperature neufchatel cheese until melted and well combined.
6.Serve the slow cooker mixture over the cooked linguine.
7.Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, if desired.

PROS

This recipe is an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that yields a flavorful and satisfying dinner.
The combination of lentils and chard provides a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

CONS

The slow cooker method requires advance planning and time commitment, since the meal needs to cook for 7 to 8 hours.
Some diners may find the texture of the lentils slightly mushy.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lentils are a nutritious legume that are rich in dietary fiber and protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They are also a good source of iron, folate, and phosphorus. Swiss chard is a leafy green vegetable that contains a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium and potassium. Chard also contains antioxidants that can help support eye and heart health.

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