The inspiration for this recipe is coming from my favourite salad from Gails Bakery so I decided to try to recreate at home. In reality it is a lentil salad but I called it millefeuille because I presented it in layers and reminded me of a millefeuille, but beware there is nothing sweet in there. Although I avoid dairy, I decided to include the middle layer with goat cheese in order to stay true to the initial recipe. Also quite a few of my followers are vegetarians who eat dairy so I though I would give them the option of including the cheese which in all fairness takes the taste to a different level. Nutritionally goat cheese has a different profile to cow’s cheese, as it contains shorter fatty acid chains and it is easier to digest and tolerate among (some) people who are allergic to dairy. The lentils are soaked overnight to get rid of the phytates and I also boil first for 10mins and then discard the water to make them even easier to digest. I then saute the lentils with ginger, garlic and tarragon to give them a delicious fragrance that pairs perfectly with the sweet beetroots. Don’t skip the hazelnuts for the garnish as they really add to the taste!
Ingredients (for 2 people)
For the lentils:
-1/4 cup brown lentils, soaked overnight
– 1 garlic clove, minced or finely sliced
-3cm ginger, minced or finely sliced
-1 tbs dry tarragon
-1 tbs olive oil
– Salt & pepper
- A handful of rocket leaves
- 2 boiled beetroots, cut into small squares
- 1 soft goat cheese
- A handful of roasted hazelnuts
Preparation
For the lentils:
- Boil the lentils in water for 10 mins, discard the water, rinse and leave to cool
- In a small saucepan, saute the garlic, ginger and tarragon for 2-3 mins and then add the pre boiled lentils. Mix well and leave to cool.
Place the bottom layer of rocket on a plate. Layer with 2 tbs of lentils. Spread the goat cheese on top of the lentils (if you are using) and finally layer with 2 tbs of the squared beetroots. I ‘ve used a special ring mold to give it the cake shape. Garnish with 2-3 hazelnuts and enjoy!