Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils ( green French lentils )
4 1/2 cups cold water
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 fennel bulb , stalks discarded , reserving fronds
3 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
2 medium onions , finely chopped
1 carrot , diced
1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
1 1/4 lbs sweet Italian sausage
3 tablespoons fresh parsley , chopped
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar ( to taste )
Lentils With Fennel (And Sausage) is a delicious and healthy meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Lentils are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world and are well-known for their nutritional value and versatility. Fennel, on the other hand, is a lesser-known vegetable that adds a unique flavor and texture to this dish. The combination of lentils, sausage, and fennel creates a rich and satisfying meal that is sure to please both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike. Serve as a main course with a side of crusty bread or as a side dish to your favorite protein.

Instructions

1.Rinse lentils in cold water.
2.In a large pot, bring lentils, water, and 1 tsp salt to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until tender (about 25 minutes).
3.Trim the top and bottom of the fennel bulb and remove any tough outer leaves. Cut the bulb crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices.
4.In a large frying pan, heat 2 tbsp oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrot, and fennel seeds and stir until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
5.Slice the sausage into 1/4-inch-thick slices and add to frying pan. Sauté until sausage is browned and cooked through.
6.When lentils are tender, drain excess water. Add lentils to frying pan and stir with sausage and vegetables. Toss with remaining oil, parsley, black pepper, and red wine vinegar to taste. Serve warm.

PROS

Lentils With Fennel (And Sausage) is a hearty and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare.
Both lentils and fennel are packed with nutrients and health benefits, making this an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

CONS

One downside of this recipe is that it uses red meat, which can be high in saturated fat.
However, if you use lean sausage or substitute with a vegetarian sausage, this dish can still be enjoyed without compromising on taste or healthiness.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This recipe is high in protein, fiber, and several essential nutrients such as iron, folate, and vitamin B6. Lentils have been shown to support heart health, improve digestion, and manage blood sugar levels. Fennel is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to reducing inflammation and improving brain function.

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