Warm Lentils with Wilted Chard, Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese

Step 1

Preheat oven to 425 F.  Scrub and trim beets and cut into ½ inch slices or wedges. Place on a foil lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender, about 25- 30 minutes.

Step 2

If cooking lentils, place ¾ cup dried lentils in a small pot and cover with 3 inches of water and a pinch salt. Bring to a boil, cover and turn heat down to a simmer, cook about 25-30 minutes or until tender but still hold their shape. Drain.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium high heat. Add diced onion and saute 3-4 minutes. Turn heat  down to medium, add garlic and cook 2 more minutes, until golden and fragrant.

Step 4

Lower heat to medium low. Add chard and gently wilt, just slightly, about 2-3 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5

Add 2 cups cooked lentils to the skillet, gently folding them in and warming. Season again with salt and pepper.

Step 6

Add beets and splash with 1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar.  Let vinegar cook down for just a couple minutes so it’s not so acidic. Sprinkle with goat cheese and herbs. Taste again, if it tastes bland it most likely needs salt. Serve immediately.