Grilled Lentils with Bell Pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the green lentils under cold water and combine with vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-22 minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain well and set aside.

   Tip: Don't overcook the lentils or they'll become mushy when grilled.

2. 2

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the cut sides of the bell peppers and onion rings lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

   Tip: Flatten the pepper halves slightly with your hand to ensure even contact with the grill grates.

3. 3

   Grill the peppers skin-side down for 6-8 minutes until charred and blistered. Flip and grill the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove to a cutting board and cut into thick strips once cooled slightly.

   Tip: The charred skin adds wonderful smoky flavor; don't peel it off.

4. 4

   Grill the onion rings for 3-4 minutes per side until softened and caramelized. Remove and roughly chop into bite-sized pieces.

   Tip: Soak the onion rings in water for 15 minutes before grilling to prevent them from falling apart.

5. 5

   In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 4 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette.

   Tip: Prepare this dressing while the vegetables are grilling for best flavor infusion.

6. 6

   In a grill-safe skillet or perforated grill pan, toss the cooked lentils with 2 tablespoons of the vinaigrette. Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils pick up light char marks.

   Tip: A grill basket works perfectly for this step to prevent lentils from falling through the grates.

7. 7

   Transfer the grilled lentils to a large serving bowl and add the charred peppers and onions. Drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

   Tip: Add the dressing while everything is still warm so flavors meld together beautifully.

8. 8

   Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

   Tip: This dish is wonderful served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep.