Skinny Lentil Dip

 This lentil dip is packed with yummy veggies, a burst of citrus, intoxicating herbs and salty cheese. Loaded with protein it is a wonderful snack to serve with pita chips, tortilla chips, or crackers!

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Week two of my back to work journey has been wonderfully exhausting. I was nervous about not being able to stay true to my weight watchers plan, while working and coming home to be mom. I've made a big effort to pre-plan and prepare both my breakfast and lunches for the week. This second week has been as successful as the first in that regard. I am struggling on meal planning dinner though. Something I definitely need to work on!

At the beginning of August we had a Civic holiday here in Ontario, which means we had a long weekend. My SO's family planned a small family gathering, which we attended before spending the remainder of the weekend at the cottage. We all brought stuff to snack on, and for dinner; and this lentil dip was a yummy snack that made an appearance. I was so excited that there was a low point item to snack on! To make things better, it was absolutely delicious!

I've always been a fan of lentils, but my kids aren't fans at all. For that reason, they don't make an appearance in our house very often. Needing something to bring for lunch this week, I decided to make a batch of the dip, to pack everyday, with crackers and pita chips. That along with a few turkey pepperoni sticks and a fruit/veggie, made up my 4-6 point lunch. It is wonderfully filling and kept me going until dinner time.

What kind of Lentils do I use to make Lentil Dip?

Lentils are from the legume family and are usually sold dry. They look like tiny pebbles and can either be green or red. Once they cook they become tender, with a pleasant chew (similar to al dente pasta). They are high in fibre, protein and carbs.

While lentils can be cooked from dried, they are also sold precooked and canned. Find them in the canned bean/vegetable section of your grocery store. Make sure to give them a very good rinse before using. 

Are Lentils Gluten-Free?

Lentils are naturally gluten free and are low in fat and high in protein. They have an earthy mild flavour and are best paired with bold bright flavours. 

Paired with veggies, herbs, citrus and feta, this is a wonderful healthy gluten-free recipe!

What Ingredients go in Lentil Dip?

Lentils- use canned for a quick and easy alternative

Corn- adds great sweetness. Use fresh from the cob, canned or frozen corn
 
Tomato- I used grape tomatoes from my garden, but Roma tomatoes would also be great

Cucumber- use a variety with small seeds, such as an English cucumber

Onion- red onion or green onion work best, due to their mild flavour

Herbs- Basil and Oregano add wonderful flavour to this dip

Feta Cheese- I used a light feta, to save on calories. It tastes just as delicious as full fat Feta

Lemon juice- adds a wonderful bright flavour to the dip

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Equipment needed for this recipe

• can opener
• colander 
• cutting board
• sharp knife
• mixing bowl
• citrus reamer
• large spoon or rubber spatula

Skinny Lentil Dip

1- 540 ml can lentils, drained and rinsed

1 pint grape tomatoes, cut into quarters

1 1/2 C corn ( or 1-341 ml can)

1 C cucumber, cut into small pieces

1/2 C red onion, finely chopped

1/2- 200g container of light feta

1 tsp each, basil and oregano

juice of one lemon

salt and pepper to taste

In a mixing bowl, combine the lentils, tomato, corn, cucumber, onion and spices. Add in lemon juice and toss to coat. Crumble in the light feta and mix gently all together. Cover and let sit at least 1 hr before serving with your choice of pita chips, tortilla chips or crackers.