Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering French-inspired dish that will make your taste buds dance! This Caramelized Onion French Lentils and Cheesy Toast recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, sweet depth of slowly caramelized onions, hearty French green lentils, and irresistibly crispy, melted cheese toast. Perfect for those seeking a gourmet experience that's surprisingly simple to create, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup French green lentils
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the French green lentils under cold water and set aside. Thinly slice the two large onions and have your olive oil, bread, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme ready for use.
- In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed lentils and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Once cooked, drain any excess water and set the lentils aside.
- While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the oil. Season the onions with a pinch of salt to help draw out their moisture.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to become soft, golden brown, and caramelized. If the onions start to stick to the pan, you can add a splash of water or a little more olive oil to deglaze the pan.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir to combine the lentils with the onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to cook together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the lentil and onion mixture is heating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet. Top each slice with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cheesy toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
- To serve, divide the caramelized onion and lentil mixture among four plates. Top each serving with a slice of cheesy toast. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic finish.
- Enjoy your Caramelized Onion French Lentils and Cheesy Toast while warm!
Tips
- Lentil Perfection: Use French green lentils (Puy lentils) for the best texture—they hold their shape beautifully and have a wonderful nutty flavor.
- Caramelization Secrets: Low and slow is the key to perfect caramelized onions. Don't rush the process; allow 20-25 minutes for those golden, sweet strands.
- Cheese Selection: While Gruyère offers a classic French flavor, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like aged cheddar or a sharp Swiss for variety.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Both the lentils and caramelized onions can be prepared in advance, making this a great weeknight meal option.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to your caramelized onions for an extra depth of flavor.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh thyme isn't just decorative—it adds a beautiful aromatic touch that complements the dish perfectly.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
