Vegetarian Sloppy Lentils in Pita

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with these hearty and flavor-packed Vegetarian Sloppy Lentils in Pita! This wholesome twist on a classic comfort food swaps out meat for protein-rich lentils, simmered to perfection in a savory tomato base infused with paprika, cumin, and a hint of chili powder. Nestled in warm pita pockets and topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, these handheld delights are as satisfying as they are nutritious. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules while delivering a plant-based meal that's bursting with bold flavors. Serve them as-is or customize with toppings like crisp cucumber or creamy Greek yogurt for an extra pop of freshness. Ideal for vegetarian and vegan diets, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium Bell pepper (red or green), finely chopped
• 2 cups Cooked brown or green lentils
• 3 tbsp Tomato paste
• 1 cup Crushed tomatoes
• 0.5 cup Vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 0.5 tsp Chili powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish)
• 4 pieces Pita bread (whole wheat or regular)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 5

Add the cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 8

Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or oven, if desired.

Step 9

Cut each pita in half to create pockets. Fill each pocket with a generous scoop of the sloppy lentil mixture.

Step 10

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Optional: Add your favorite toppings such as diced cucumber, shredded lettuce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1362.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1667.7

Total Fat 38.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 5170.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 274.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 52.9g	0%
Total Sugars 36.2g
Protein 73.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 323.9mg	0%
Iron 26.8mg	0%
Potassium 3657.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 20.1%

Protein: 16.8%

Carbs: 63.1%