Elevated Veggie Lentil Delight for Two

Ingredients:

For the Lentils:

• 1 cup lentils (any variety)
• 1/2 white onion
• 3 large carrots
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups water

Pumpkin:

• 1 small to medium pumpkin (any type)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1/2 cup parmesan
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs or almond meal
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Creme Fraiche:

• 1 cup creme fraiche
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 2 teaspoons lime zest
• 2 minced garlic cloves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the Pumpkin:
   • Cut the pumpkin into 1/2-inch slices.
   • In a large bowl, combine all pumpkin ingredients.
   • Lay out the pumpkin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for 45 minutes or until a fork easily pierces the pumpkin.
3. Prepare the Lentils:
   • In a medium-sized pan, combine all lentil ingredients and bring to a boil.
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
   • Let it simmer until the lentils are soft (approximately 35-40 minutes).
   • Drain any excess water and remove the bay leaf.
4. Prepare the Creme Fraiche:
   • Mix all creme fraiche ingredients in a bowl.
5. Assemble:
   • Place the cooked lentils as the base.
   • Top with the roasted pumpkin slices.
   • Finish by drizzling the lime-infused creme fraiche over the dish.
6. Enjoy! 😊