Description
This recipe features juicy roast tomatoes paired with spiced lentils and creamy feta, creating a flavorful and nutritious Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The roasted tomatoes bring sweetness and depth, while the harissa-spiced lentils add a warm, smoky kick balanced by fresh herbs and tangy lemon juice.
Ingredients
Scale
Roast Tomatoes
- 600g tomatoes (a mixture of varieties, large ones halved or quartered)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to season)
Spiced Lentils
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped or crushed
- 2 x 400g cans green or puy lentils, drained and rinsed
- 2 tsp harissa paste
- 2 lemons, 1 zested and both juiced
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Bunch of parsley, coriander, or mint, or a mixture, chopped (divided)
Topping
- 200g feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare tomatoes: Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan, gas mark 6) or prepare an air fryer to the same temperature. Place the halved or quartered tomatoes on a baking tray or into the air fryer basket. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle the ground cumin over them.
- Roast the tomatoes: Cook the tomatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are softened and starting to collapse, releasing their natural juices. This roasting enhances their sweetness and develops a rich flavor.
- Prepare spiced lentils: Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and gently fry for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Warm the lentils with spices: Add the drained and rinsed lentils and the harissa paste to the pan. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the lentils to warm through and absorb the spices.
- Add lemon and herbs: Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Fold in most of the chopped herbs, saving some for garnish. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Assemble and serve: Divide the spiced lentils between serving plates or bowls. Top with the roasted tomatoes along with any juices from the tray or air fryer. Crumble the feta cheese over the top and scatter with the remaining fresh herbs. Serve warm or at room temperature for a vibrant and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can use a mixture of tomato varieties such as cherry, plum, or vine tomatoes for varied texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of harissa paste to your preferred spice level.
- This dish can be served as a main course or as a side alongside grilled meats or flatbreads.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese or omit entirely.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: roast tomatoes, spiced lentils, feta, Mediterranean recipe, vegetarian, harissa, lemon zest, easy healthy meal
