Description
Hearty jamie oliver vegetarian meatloaf blends plant-based ingredients into a satisfying main dish. Packed with protein and rich flavors, this recipe offers a delicious alternative for vegetarian dinner tables.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats
- 4.5 oz (128 g) spaghetti sauce or tomato sauce
- ¾ cup (85 g) Monterey jack cheese or American cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp seasoning salt
Instructions
- Lentil Foundation: Boil water in a medium saucepan with salt, add lentils, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 25-30 minutes until tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Lentil Preparation: Drain lentils, partially mash with a fork, and let cool for several minutes to prevent overheating other ingredients.
- Mixing Base: Combine mashed lentils with diced onion, quick-cooking oats, and shredded cheese in a large mixing bowl, ensuring even ingredient distribution.
- Flavor Infusion: Whisk egg into the lentil mixture, then incorporate spaghetti sauce, garlic powder, dried basil, dried parsley, seasoning salt, and black pepper until thoroughly blended.
- Oven Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Loaf Formation: Transfer the lentil mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface and gently compacting to create an even layer.
- Baking Process: Bake for 35-45 minutes until the top develops a golden-brown crust and feels firm to the touch.
- Resting and Serving: Allow the loaf to rest in the pan for 10-12 minutes, then carefully loosen edges and transfer to a serving platter. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Master Lentil Texture: Partially mash lentils with a fork to create a meaty, substantial texture that mimics traditional meatloaf consistency.
- Cheese Selection Strategy: Choose Monterey Jack or American cheese for optimal melting and binding properties that enhance flavor and structure.
- Perfect Baking Timing: Watch for golden-brown top and firm touch during 35-45 minute baking window to ensure ideal moisture and doneness.
- Resting Ritual: Allow 10-12 minutes of cooling time after baking to help loaf set and maintain structural integrity when slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg