Vegetarian Slow Cooker Lentil Sloppy Joes with Spaghetti Squash
Protein and fiber-packed vegetarian lentil sloppy joes served on top of spaghetti squash. Everything is made in the slow cooker for ease -- even the spaghetti squash! Vegan and gluten free!
1 1/4cupsuncooked green lentils, rinsed and drained
1white onion, finely diced
1red pepper, finely diced
1carrot, thinly sliced (carrot is optional)
3clovesgarlic, minced
1 1/2tablespoonschili powder
1teaspooncumin
1/2teaspoononion powder
1/4teaspooncayenne pepper
1 - (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 -(15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 1/2cupswater, plus more if necessary
2tablespoonsorganic ketchup
1 teaspoonyellow mustard
1teaspoongluten free soy sauce
1spaghetti squash, washed
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large slow cooker, add in all ingredients except spaghetti squash. Stir to combine.
Cut the washed spaghetti squash in half around the middle and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash halves face down in the slow cooker right on top of the lentils. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or until squash is tender and lentils are cooked completely. If the lentils seem dry in any way, just stir in some water until it reaches a nice thick, consistency.
Remove spaghetti squash and shred inside with a fork. Divide among bowls and add lentil sloppy joe topping. Sprinkle with cheese, if desired. Serves 4-6 depending on how hungry you are. Nutrition information provided is based on recipe evenly divided between 4 people.
Recipe Notes
What to do if you don't have a slow cooker: I would assume that you could just cook the lentils on the stove top in the sauce instead of on a slow cooker. Saute vegetables with a small amount of olive oil, then add in the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to medium and simmer until lentils are tender -- about 35-45 minutes. Uncover and cook longer if more liquid needs to be absorbed.
To cook spaghetti squash: Cut in half, scoop out seeds, and place on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375 degrees F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Nutrition Facts
Vegetarian Slow Cooker Lentil Sloppy Joes with Spaghetti Squash
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 358Calories from Fat 28
% Daily Value*
Fat 3.1g5%
Carbohydrates 69.7g23%
Fiber 13.7g57%
Sugar 11.9g13%
Protein 16g32%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.