Looking for a salad topper that’s allergen-friendly, fat-free, and packed with protein? Let me introduce you to Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils—they’re my new obsession and the star of this Oil-Free Crispy Cheddah Lentil Harvest Salad!
These Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils are the ultimate unicorn of salad toppers, blowing their less nutritious counterparts—like croutons—out of the water. Lentils are not only protein-packed but also one of the most sustainable crops, requiring significantly less water to grow compared to many other protein sources, like tree nuts. Honestly, the best part is how versatile Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Lentils are. Whether you’re piling them on salads, sprinkling them over soups, or just snacking on them straight from the bag, they never disappoint. Add in roasted acorn squash, crisp apples, and a creamy tahini dressing, and you’ve got the ultimate salad for your holiday gatherings!
The Inspiration
When I discovered Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils, I knew I had to create a recipe that let them shine. These lentils are allergen-friendly, protein-packed, and so flavorful, but what really drew me in was their mission. Lentil Telepathy is a woman-owned business inspired by the power of human connection to Nourish and Uplift. This connection—or “telepathy”—is at the heart of everything they do. Based here in San Diego County, they’re committed to creating snacks that are phenomenally better for you and the planet, using USA-grown, non-GMO lentils that are a regenerative and sustainable crop. Supporting a company with strong values makes me even more excited to cook with their products.
I created this Oil-Free Crispy Cheddah Lentil Harvest Salad to showcase their Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils in a way that reflects both flavor and sustainability. The roasted acorn squash, crisp apple slices, creamy tahini dressing, and crunchy lentils come together in a salad that’s not only delicious but also caters to many dietary needs and features seasonal ingredients. There’s something truly special about feeding your family healthy, feel-good meals, especially during the holiday season. This salad is perfect for the whole family, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering.
Lentils: Good for you and the Planet
Lentils are not only a nutrient powerhouse but also one of the most sustainable and regenerative crops you can consume. One of the standout features of lentils is their ability to thrive with minimal water usage, making them a water-savvy option in a world that’s increasingly facing water scarcity. Compared to other crops, lentils require far less water to grow, which makes them an environmentally friendly choice for planet conscious eaters looking to reduce their water footprint.
Lentils are also a regenerative crop, meaning they actually improve the soil they’re grown in. They are a legume, which means they fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching it for future crops. This reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, helping to maintain soil health and promoting sustainable farming practices. By choosing Lentil Telepathy, you’re supporting a food that has a positive impact on the environment, making them a win-win for both your plate and the planet. With their minimal environmental impact and nutrient-dense Crunchy Toasted Lentils, Lentil Telepathy is a great choice for your family!
Ways to Use Crunchy Toasted Lentils
Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils aren’t just perfect for topping salads—they’re incredibly versatile and can elevate so many dishes! Here are a few other ways to use them:
- Top Butternut Squash Soup: Sprinkle some of these crunchy toasted lentils on top of your favorite butternut squash soup for added crunch and a punch of flavor. They balance the smoothness of the soup beautifully! The cheddah flavor would go well or try their Sweet & Tangy BBQ for more of a smoky touch!
- Potato Skins: Add a fun and crunchy twist to classic potato skins by topping them with Crunchy Toasted Lentils. They’re the perfect addition for texture and flavor, making your appetizers stand out.
- Green Bean Casserole: Give your green bean casserole a flavorful and protein packed crunch by scattering some Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils on top. They’re a great alternative to fried onions, adding a healthier twist and more unique flavor profile to your creamy beans!
- Extra Flavor on Hummus: For a simple snack, add these crunchy toasted lentils to a plate of hummus. They add a delicious crunch and extra burst of flavor that makes every bite more exciting. Their Peri-Peri Chili and Lemon flavor would go perfectly on traditional hummus!
- Trail Mix: Toss some of these lentils into your trail mix for a savory option that adds protein without utilizing common allergens!
- Chicken Tender Breading: Crush these crunchy toasted lentils up and use them as a breading for chicken tenders. They create a perfectly crunchy, savory coating that adds an extra layer of flavor and protein to this classic!
With Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Lentils, the possibilities are endless, and they’ll quickly become your go-to for adding texture, flavor, and nutrients to so many dishes!
Kitchenware you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: I like to use mixing bowls to ensure the squash is coated evenly with water and salt. It helps to get everything well combined before roasting.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for slicing all of your fruits and veggies, especially the squash, which can be a little tricky to cut.
- A good knife: Squash can be tough to cut through, so having a sharp knife makes all the difference. It’ll make slicing much easier and safer!
- Baking Sheet: You can use a baking sheet or ceramic dish to roast your squash. I went with a baking sheet for this recipe, which helps the squash get a nice, even roast.
- Blender: For preparing the salad dressing, I personally love my NutriBullet. It’s compact, easy to clean, and does the job perfectly. While you can use a higher-powered blender, this one is my go-to for quick dressings!
Step by Step Directions
If you’re ready to create a delicious and nourishing salad, this Oil-Free Crispy Cheddah Lentil Harvest Salad is the perfect option. With roasted acorn squash, crisp apples, and a tangy tahini dressing, it’s a salad that truly packs a punch in both flavor and nutrition. Here’s how to bring it all together:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the Squash: Slice your acorn squash in half lengthwise, then cut it into 1/2-inch thick slices, about 2-3 inches long. Place the squash slices in a mixing bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of filtered water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to coat the squash evenly.
- Roast the Squash: Arrange the squash slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Cover them with aluminum foil and roast for 35 minutes.
- Increase Oven Temperature: After 35 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 425°F, then remove the foil from the squash and continue roasting for an additional 10 minutes.
- Crisp the Squash (Optional): If you want your squash to have an extra crispy edge, broil it for 3-5 minutes on each side until it reaches your desired level of crispness.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the squash is roasting, combine all of the dressing ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth, making sure to blend the dates well into the mix. You can serve the dressing as is, or for a thicker consistency, heat it in a saucepan for 2-3 minutes to warm it through. Let the dressing cool slightly.
- Massage the Kale: On a large serving platter, coat your chopped kale with the dressing and massage it thoroughly for 2-3 minutes to soften the kale leaves.
- Assemble the Salad: Once your squash is done roasting and cooled a bit, arrange the slices and the thin apple slices around the edges of the kale. You can also place a few slices on top for extra color and texture.
- Add the Toppings: Finish by adding the sliced shallot, fennel fronds, and lemon zest on top of the salad.
- Top with Crisp Lentils: Finally, sprinkle your Lentil Telepathy Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils over the salad for a crunchy, flavorful topping, packed with 7 grams of protein!
This vibrant, nutrient-packed salad is ready to serve and makes a great side dish or main for any occasion. Enjoy!
Print
Oil-free Crispy Cheddah Lentil Harvest Salad with Lentil Telepathy
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Ingredients
Salad:
1 bundle Lacinato Kale, chopped
1 acorn squash
1 tbsp filtered water
1 tsp salt
1/2 green apple, thinly sliced
1 small shallot, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fennel fronds
Zest from 1 lemon
1/3 cup Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils
Dressing:
1/3 cup unsweetened milked oats
2 tbsp tahini
2 tsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp dijon mustard
2 medjool or deglet dates
2 fresh garlic cloves
1 tsp nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the acorn squash in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/2-inch slices, about 2-3 inches long.
- Place the squash in a mixing bowl with 1 tbsp water and 1 tsp salt. Toss to coat.
- On a baking sheet, wrap your acorn squash slices in aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Increase oven temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Unwrap the foil, spread your squash out, and roast for an additional 10 minutes.
- If you’d like to crisp up your squash further, broil on each side for 3-5 minutes until it’s reached desired crispiness.
- While the squash is roasting, make the dressing by blending all dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, heat it in a saucepan for 2-3 minutes (my preference). Let cool.
- On your serving platter, massage your dressing into the kale to soften the leaves.
- Plate the acorn squash and apples around the edges of the salad with a few slices placed on top.
- Add your sliced shallot, fennel fronds and lemon zest to the top. Top with Lentil Telepathy Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils for a delicious protein-packed crunch. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Salad
FAQ for Oil-Free Crispy Cheddah Lentil Harvest Salad
1. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the crispness of the lentils and squash.
2. What other flavors does Lentil Telepathy offer?
Lentil Telepathy has some exciting flavors you can try, including Sweet n Tangy BBQ and Peri Peri Chili and Lemon. Each offers its own unique taste, perfect for adding variety to your dishes!
3. Can I prep this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this Oil-Free Crispy Cheddah Lentil Harvest Salad in advance! You can roast the squash and make the dressing ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply toss the kale with the dressing, add the roasted squash, and top with lentils for a fresh and flavorful meal.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. How can I make this salad more filling?
If you’d like to make this salad more substantial, you can add a protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or my favorite—double the Crunchy Toasted Cheddah Lentils!
6. What are the benefits of Lentil Telepathy’s Crunchy Toasted Lentils?
Crunchy Toasted Lentils are not only fat-free and packed with protein, but they also cater to various allergies and dietary needs. Free of seed oils and made with non-GMO lentils, they’re a great choice for anyone looking for a healthier, crunchy snack or topping. Plus, lentils are a sustainable, regenerative crop that requires minimal water, making them a responsible choice for both your health and the planet!
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Questions? Comment Below!