There are few meals more comforting than warm Shepherd’s Pie. This vegetarian version uses hearty lentils, which are known for their heart-healthy fiber, folate, and magnesium. They are also rich in protein and iron, which help boost energy levels. Adding a sweet potato topping not only enhances the dish's vibrant appearance but also provides a healthy dose of vitamin A.

Yield: 4 pies

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks of celery, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 small red bell pepper, cored and chopped
• 2-3 large kale leaves, chopped
• ¾ cup no-salt-added vegetable stock
• ½ tsp chopped fresh thyme
• ½ tsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water
• 2 ½ cups cooked green or brown lentils
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  
  

Sweet Potato Topping

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• ½ tsp chopped fresh thyme
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, pierce the flesh of the sweet potatoes in several spots with a fork. Microwave on high for about 4 minutes or until the flesh is tender. Remove from the microwave. Cut a slit in each to release the steam, then let them cool while you prepare the rest of the recipe.
2. Heat the olive oil on medium-high in a large, deep skillet. Add the garlic, celery, and onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the red bell pepper and cook 1 minute more.
3. Add the kale and the stock. Stir in the thyme and rosemary.
4. In a small dish, stir together the cornstarch and water. Add it to the vegetables. Stir in the lentils and cook for 1 to 2 more minutes. Stir in the salt and pepper and remove from the heat. Set aside.
5. Spoon the sweet potato flesh out of the skins and transfer to a medium-sized bowl. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to stir the ingredients while gently mashing the potatoes until smooth.
6. Spray 4 medium-sized, oven-safe ramekins or soufflé cups (about the 14-ounce size) with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil. Add about 1 cup of the lentils and vegetables to each. Top with about ¼ cup of sweet potatoes. Gently spread the potatoes over the lentils.
7. Place the dishes on a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling begins to bubble and the edges of the potatoes begin to brown. Remove from the oven and let sit for 3 to 4 minutes. Serve warm.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.