Puy Lentils with Smoked Tofu and Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

Introduction

This vibrant dish combines tender Puy lentils with smoky tofu and fresh vegetables, creating a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s quick to prepare. Perfect as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, it brings together smoky paprika and tangy balsamic vinegar for a delicious balance.

Ingredients

• 1-calorie oil spray
• 1 large courgette, finely diced
• 100g smoked tofu, finely diced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 250g sachet cooked Puy lentils
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium roasted red pepper from a jar (not in oil), about 85g, sliced
• Good handful pea shoots or rocket

Instructions

1. Step 1: Spray a non-stick pan with 3 sprays of the oil. Add the finely diced courgette, smoked tofu, and smoked paprika to the pan. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the courgettes begin to soften.
2. Step 2: Stir in the balsamic vinegar and allow it to sizzle and reduce slightly in the pan, coating the vegetables and tofu with the flavorful glaze.
3. Step 3: Meanwhile, place the cooked Puy lentils, finely chopped red onion, and sliced roasted red pepper into a bowl. Toss gently to break up any clumps of lentils.
4. Step 4: Add the tofu and courgette mixture to the bowl with the lentils and vegetables. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Step 5: Just before serving, scatter the pea shoots or rocket over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier twist, add a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the courgette and tofu.
• Swap the pea shoots or rocket with fresh spinach or watercress if preferred.
• If you can’t find smoked tofu, regular tofu with a splash of liquid smoke or extra smoked paprika works well.
• Use freshly cooked Puy lentils if you prefer, just allow them to cool before mixing.

Storage

Store the lentil and tofu mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer it warm, gently heat it in a pan before serving, then add the fresh greens on top.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, while Puy lentils hold their shape nicely, you can use green or brown lentils. Just make sure they are cooked and drained well to avoid sogginess.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Absolutely. All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan option for a nutritious meal.

Puy Lentils with Smoked Tofu and Roasted Red Pepper Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 89 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delicious and nutritious recipe featuring smoky, tender puy lentils mixed with sautéed smoked tofu and fresh courgettes, enhanced by the tang of balsamic vinegar and a touch of smoked paprika. Perfect as a light lunch or a wholesome dinner, this dish is quick to prepare and full of flavorful textures.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables and Tofu

• 1 large courgette, finely diced
• 100g smoked tofu, finely diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium roasted red pepper from a jar (not in oil), about 85g, sliced
• Good handful pea shoots or rocket

Pan and Seasonings

• 1-calorie oil spray (3 sprays)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 250g sachet cooked puy lentils

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pan and sauté courgettes and tofu: Spray a non-stick pan with 3 sprays of 1-calorie oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely diced courgettes, smoked tofu, and smoked paprika. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the courgettes soften and the tofu is heated through.
2. Add balsamic vinegar and reduce: Stir the balsamic vinegar into the pan mixture, allowing it to sizzle and reduce slightly to coat the courgettes and tofu with a tangy glaze.
3. Mix lentils, onion, and pepper: While the courgette and tofu cook, place the cooked puy lentils, finely chopped red onion, and sliced roasted red pepper into a large bowl. Toss gently to break up any clumps of lentils and evenly distribute the ingredients.
4. Combine all ingredients: Add the cooked tofu and courgette mixture to the bowl with the lentils and vegetables. Toss everything gently until well combined, ensuring the smoky flavors are distributed.
5. Serve with fresh greens: Just before serving, scatter a good handful of pea shoots or rocket on top to add freshness and a peppery bite. Serve warm or at room temperature.
6. Store leftovers: This dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it ideal for meal prep or quick meals the next day.

Notes

• Use smoked paprika for an authentic smoky flavor that complements the tofu and lentils.
• The roasted red pepper should be from a jar and not in oil to keep the dish light.
• This recipe is perfect for vegetarians seeking a protein-rich dish.
• Make sure to toss the lentils gently to keep their texture intact.
• Adding pea shoots or rocket just before serving preserves their fresh and crisp texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: European

Keywords: puy lentils recipe, smoked tofu lentils, vegetarian lentil salad, easy lentil dish, healthy lentil meal, smoky lentils, courgette recipes