In the first I used pre-cooked lentils from Trader Joe's (find in the refrigerator section) but you could just cook dry ones and chill. Lentils are especially good for post-op gastric bypass people... high in protein, iron, B1.
The second took advantage of the great summer cucumbers I keep getting at the Farmer's Market. It's best made a few hours ahead so the cucumbers soften slightly, everything chills and the flavors have time to love on one another.
Shelly's Leek & Lentil Salad
1 1/2 cups Cooked Lentils, chilled
2 Leeks, diced (white & light green parts only)
3 Green Onions, diced
1/2 a Cucumber, chopped
1 stalk Celery, sliced
2 oz. Herb Goat Cheese, crumbled
2 Tablespoons Orange Muscat Vinegar
1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
Saute leeks till golden. Set aside to cool. Add cooled leeks to lentils and all other ingredients. Mix till combined and chill.
Shelly's Summer Cucumber Salad
1 Large Cucumber, thinly sliced
2 oz. jar Pimentos, drained
1 Tablespoon Fresh Dill, snipped
2 Tablespoons Storebought Onion Poppy Seed Vinaigrette
1 Tablespoon Rice Wine Vinegar
pinch of Kosher Salt
a few twists of Black Pepper
Mix together. Chill till serving.
The burgers: Quick'N Eat Fully Cooked Choice Angus Patties (12 in a package/$13.79)
I found them at Costco (I understand Sam's Club carries them too) and I am in love. Soooo easy to prepare. Fully cooked (grilled) all you need to do is heat and eat. Which usually means they will be tough and dry... not these. They are super moist... which is mucho mucho importante for post-op eating. They are one of the best burgers I have eaten. Seriously.
Calories 280
Protein 25 g (per patty not including cheese)
I BBQ'd them 5 minutes on one side (lid down) flip, add cheese & 4 more minutes. You can also nuke 'em or toss them in a pan.
Both of these side dishes were YUM! "Side dishes" always makes me think of Cartman.
