Lentil Salad with Spinach, Pecans, and Cheddar - PCOS-Friendly Recipe

Lentil Salad with Spinach, Pecans, and Cheddar
Servings: 4
Lunch

This Lentil Salad with Spinach, Pecans, and Cheddar is a PCOS-friendly recipe.

Nutrition per Serving

0 Calories
0g Protein
0g Carbs
0g Fat
This earthy salad is filled with protein — sans meat, to boot!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. lentils (about 2 1/3 cups)
  • 1 small onion
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/3 c. pecans
  • 4 tbsp. red- or white-wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper
  • 1/2 c. olive oil
  • 1 1/2 lb. spinach
  • 1/4 lb. aged Cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. In a medium pot, combine the lentils, onion, carrot, garlic, bay leaf, and enough water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until the lentils are tender, about 30 minutes. Drain; discard the onion, carrot, garlic, and bay leaf.
  2. In a small frying pan, toast the pecans over moderately low heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Or toast them in a 350 °F oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Chop them.
  3. In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of the vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper. Add the oil slowly, whisking.
  4. Shred half the spinach and put in a large glass or stainless-steel bowl. Add the hot lentils and toss with half the dressing, the remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss the mixture gently until the spinach wilts.
  5. Toss the remaining spinach into the remaining dressing and put on plates. Top with the lentil mixture and the toasted pecans. Using a vegetable peeler, shave the cheese over the top.
  6. Wine Recommendation: This salad, with its lentils and rich cheddar, can easily stand up to a fruity red wine. A petite sirah's roasted-berry flavors make it just right for the part.

PCOS-Friendly Foods in This Recipe

This recipe contains the following foods that may benefit PCOS management: Spinach.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this Lentil Salad with Spinach, Pecans, and Cheddar recipe is designed to be PCOS-friendly., it supports balanced blood sugar and hormonal health.

Yes, this recipe works well as a PCOS-friendly Lunch. Pair it with other PCOS-friendly foods throughout the day for balanced nutrition.

This recipe can be part of a structured PCOS meal plan. It makes 4 servings, making it great for meal prep. For a complete weekly plan tailored to your PCOS type, take our free 60-second quiz at pcosmealplanner.com/pcos-quiz to get a personalized 7-day meal plan.

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