Indian Lentils and Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic finely chopped or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 cups water
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1/2 cup dry lentils, rinsed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup orzo or tiny pasta
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat (300 °F in an electric skillet). Add onion and garlic and cook 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Stir in water, diced tomatoes with juice, lentils, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
3. Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low (250 °F in an electric skillet). Simmer for 25 minutes.
4. Add pasta and cook uncovered until pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve warm.
6. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes:

• Serve topped with light sour cream or plain non-fat yogurt.