Lentils with Kale and Mushrooms

Today I wanted to share a super easy plant-based dish that is vegetarian but can be made fully vegan by omitting the eggs. This is pretty hearty so I’m not sure that even the most dedicated meat eater would want to add meat, though. But you do whatever makes you happy!

2 cups of dried lentils -$1.32

1 package of sliced mushrooms – $3.34

Shredded zuchini- $0.78

1 bundle to 2 bundles of kale (or frozen kale) – $1.97

Chili Flakes, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper, olive oil

*optional add on- 1-2 eggs per serving (as pictured) – $1.81

Cooking your lentils is easy- just follow the instructions on the package! While they cook in a pot, put your mushrooms in a pan with thyme, chili flakes, pepper, garlic (minced) and a small amount of olive oil. You want to cook these down and get them nice and soft.

Once your mushrooms are cooked down, add your kale and cook it until the leaves are wilted. Next, add your shredded zuchini and cook for 2-3 mnutes and you’re done! It’s at this point that you’d want to taste for salt (never start your mushrooms with salt… it’ll make them rubbery).

When your lentils are cooked and drained, add them to your mushroom mixture, stir it all together and enjoy!

Going without a traditional meat at dinner can save you so much money in the long run- you don’t have to skip feeling satisfied, though! What’s your favorite way to cut cost on protein?