INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups cooked lentils, slightly mashed (or a 19 oz can, drained)
  • 1 medium onion , diced
  • 1 cup rolled oats (quick or large flake)
  • 3/4 cup grated old cheddar cheese
  • 1 egg , beaten
  • 1/2-2/3 cup tomato sauce (or spaghetti sauce or BBQ sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4-1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

DIRECTIONS

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Celsius.
  2. Mix lentils, onion, oats, and cheese in a large bowl and mix well.
  3. Add the beaten egg and mix well.
  4. Add about 1/2 c of sauce, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper. Add remaining sauce so long as the mixture will not be too sloppy.
  5. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray and pour/scrape the lentil mixture into it. Even out the top surface with a spatula or fork.
  6. Bake uncovered 30-40 minutes or until top is golden and crispy.
  7. Let cool at least 5 minutes.
  8. Turn out onto serving platter and garnish with parsley, if desired.
  9. Variations:.
  10. Add chopped celery, different sauces, different cheeses (or no cheese!) or try more traditional poultry spices instead of the Italian ones. Serve with all the ‘fixins: mushroom gravy, mashed potatoes, squash, and salad.