All of the richness that comes with the month of December is wonderful and delicious, but some days I just need a break from it all. I still want something filling and flavorful that will satisfy me. That's where legumes come into play for me – specifically, lentils. This salad incorporates classic French flavors, including whole grain mustard, onions, carrots, parsley, and french lentils. I Read more

If you were disappointed there was no bean-based dish in my roundup of vegetarian entrees, I've got an awesome recipe for you: lentil chili. It's hearty, slightly spicy, and absolutely delicious. The best thing about this meat-free chili is that it's healthy, so you feel good eating it. It has the warm, comforting qualities of a classic chili, but without all the extra fat. It takes a little more Read more

Angelica is currently riding high on a lentil streak. She shares her favorite ways to enjoy them below. After having this delicious lentil salad at Cibo in Sausalito I went on a week long lentil bender and tried to sneak them into most every meal. My favorite mix so far is lentils, celery, and Brussels sprouts topped with pomegranate seeds. Do you have an image of something delicious that you Read more

For me, September doesn't only mean back-to-school time; it's also back-to-cooking time. For dinner inspiration I am loving Martha Rose Shulman's new cookbook, The Very Best of Recipes For Health. Don't let the word "health" in the title fool you; her recipes are big on flavor and easy to make. For the FitSugar Give It Up Challenge, I am living without meat for two weeks, which means I am eating Read more

The other day I caught a repeat of Barefoot Contessa where she made a scrumptious-looking lentil vegetable soup. Without thinking I printed the recipe and headed to the grocery store — before the episode was even over. The funny thing was later that night, my sister called and said, "did you see Barefoot Contessa? She made the most amazing soup!" I informed her that the very same soup was Read more

Much to my dismay, my sister and girlfriends are going on a 10-day detox where they'll eat vegan and give up alcohol. Since I'm not participating (what can I say? I can't live without cheese and a glass of wine!), I'll get in on the fun by hosting a vegan dinner. This flavorful meal that's chock-full of vegetables starts with a chickpea, mint, and parsley spread slathered on pita bread. For the Read more

If you don't cook with lentils on a regular basis, you should start experimenting with them. The small legumes cook quickly, are filling, and can be served with everything from chorizo to arugula. Not to mention they're supposed to help you lose weight! This recipe combines lentils with sweet potatoes, red pepper, and cauliflower. The exotically flavored dish is seasoned with coconut milk and Read more