Baked Garden Lentil and Egg Medley

• •1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• •4 cups vegetable broth
• •2 tablespoons olive oil
• •1 medium onion, chopped
• •2 carrots, diced
• •2 celery stalks, diced
• •1 red bell pepper, diced
• •2 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 teaspoon dried thyme
• •1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• •1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• •1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• •Salt and black pepper to taste
• •4 large eggs
• •1/4 cup milk or cream
• •1/4 cup grated Parmesan or other hard cheese (optional)
• •Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

1. 1Rinse the lentils and combine them with vegetable broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
2. 2While lentils cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. 3In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes until softened.
4. 4Stir in the diced bell pepper, minced garlic, dried thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. 5Add the undrained diced tomatoes and the cooked lentils to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. 6Stir in the fresh spinach until it just wilts.
7. 7In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk/cream (or yogurt if preferred), and grated cheese (if using) with a pinch of salt and pepper.
8. 8Pour the egg mixture evenly over the lentil and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Gently swirl it around with a spoon so it settles into the top layer.
9. 9Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg layer is set and lightly golden.
10. 10Remove from oven, let stand for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Lentils are one of the oldest cultivated legumes, dating back over 10,000 years! They're packed with plant-based protein and fiber, offering a wonderful nutritional base that pairs beautifully with the richness of eggs.