Meatless Monday: Start with Lentils or Beans and ...

... create a stellar side dish with this lentil salad recipe. Or create a main dish: toss them into a pot of chili. Make some burgers or patties. Or scoop 'em into tacos. Roll 'em up in wraps or quesadillas or enchiladas (with cheese!). Gotta love canned beans. They're economical, versatile and filled with fiber. They sit quietly on the shelf waiting to be called into action. They don't complain when we toss them in with comrades they've never met before. And best of all: they taste great.

With the warmer temperature heralding the arrival of spring, our meals and salads are taking on a lighter twist. Here's a salad that pairs perfectly with any grain, garden burgers, veggie burgers, baked potatoes (or even tossed salad with garlic bread on the side). Or add it as a side dish to introduce someone new to lentils. They are meaty and satisfying and a perfect plant-based protein for meatless Monday.

Do you have a favorite way to serve lentils?