Photo credit: Runnin Srilankan
Full of filling fiber and plant-based protein, beans and lentils may just be a perfect breakfast food – and yet, they remain relatively untouched on mornings in the western world, but probably not for long. If you, like us, love legumes so much that you’d like to incorporate them into your breakfasts, we’ve got some delicious ideas to help you enjoy beans and lentils for breakfast.
Southwest Quinoa Breakfast Bowl, The Kitchn
Basically a tasty breakfast burrito (complete with black beans) in bowl form, this one shouldn’t be much of a stretch – but it definitely should be savored. While the ingredients list is fairly long, the time it takes to put it all together is not – and nearly everything (save the eggs and avocado) can be prepped the night before for hectic early mornings.
Chocolate & Black Bean Smoothie, (Never) Homemaker
You know how you can put black beans in brownies? Well, you can – and the surprising yet delicious combination works just as well in smoothie form! Other hidden ingredients that make this morning treat secretly nutritious include frozen banana, almond milk and a few handfuls of fresh spinach.
Chocolate Lentil Pancakes, Runnin Srilankan (pictured)
So you’ve mastered the art of the protein-packed chocolate smoothie and are looking to try something a bit more challenging? Give these incredible plant-powered pancakes a try! With a base of cooked red lentils blended with cinnamon, cocoa, almond milk and brown sugar, they make a nutritious, gluten-free and fun start to the day.
Baharat Quinoa, Lentils and Eggy Breakfast, Food to Glow
For a savory meal that packs a bit of heat, try this combination of flavors inspired by Lebanese cuisine. The quinoa, lentils, Greek yogurt and cooked-to-order egg ensure a ton of protein, perfect for powering a long day of work or school. Meanwhile, the accompanying spice blend is seriously delicious.
Whole Food Lentil & Quinoa Breakfast Patties, Yum Universe
A vegan alternative to a savory sausage patty, this recipe takes a bit more time than you’ll likely have on a busy weekday – but save it for the weekend, and you’ll find the effort to be well worth it. The final product may be enjoyed as crumbles in different dishes, or as a protein-packed side dish to gluten-free toast, eggs or a tofu scramble.
Baked Eggs with Spicy Beans, Fuss Free Cooking
Baked eggs appear to be having a moment, and with good reason. The all-in-one dish can be packed with nutritious ingredients, and also look quite beautiful. This simple version features chopped tomatoes, chili flakes, garlic, cilantro and a few other seasonings, as well as mild and filling Cannellini beans for a hearty morning meal.
Looking for more plant-powered, gluten-free recipes? Be sure to check out the recipes page at AncientHarvest.com. And while you’re looking around, meet the new varieties of our Bean & Lentil Pastas, which provide the superfood nutrition of legumes along with the ease and flavor of traditional pasta.
