Lentil Roast Wreath (Gluten-Free)

Lentil Roast Wreath is a stunning and flavorful plant-based centerpiece that’s perfect for festive meals or special occasions. Made from hearty lentils, vegetables, and herbs, this gluten-free roast is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The wreath shape adds a festive touch, making it a beautiful addition to your holiday table.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

For the Roast:

1 cup green or brown lentils, cooked and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, grated
1 zucchini, grated
1/2 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
1/4 cup ground almonds or breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if necessary)
1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds (optional, as a binder)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup vegetable broth (or water)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Glaze:

2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon mustard
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

Prepare the Lentil Roast:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a round baking pan.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Add the grated carrot and zucchini, and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the cooked lentils, quinoa (or rice), ground almonds or breadcrumbs, flaxseeds (if using), tomato paste, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and cook for 2–3 minutes, until heated through.

Shape the Wreath:

Transfer the lentil mixture to a round baking pan or onto the prepared baking sheet. Shape the mixture into a wreath shape by pressing the edges of the mixture together, forming a ring.
You can create a well in the center if you like, to resemble a wreath or a circular loaf.

Make the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, mustard, and balsamic vinegar until smooth.

Bake the Lentil Roast Wreath:

Brush the glaze generously over the top of the lentil wreath. Reserve some glaze for later.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the roast is firm, golden brown on top, and cooked through.

Serve:

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before carefully transferring to a serving platter.
Brush with any remaining glaze and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips:

Gluten-Free Version: Ensure that the breadcrumbs you use are gluten-free, or use ground almonds for a nutty flavor.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the lentil mixture and shape the wreath a day in advance. Simply refrigerate it and bake on the day you plan to serve it.
Vegan Option: This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can use any plant-based ingredients to adjust to your taste.

This Lentil Roast Wreath is a show-stopping dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. Its warm, savory flavors combined with the beautiful wreath shape make it the perfect dish to celebrate any special occasion.