Coconut Lentil Crunch: My Recipe Featured in the Dietitians of Canada Cookbook

I’m honoured to share that my recipe “Coconut Lentil Crunch” has been published in the Dietitians of Canada Nutrition Month Cookbook: Nourish to Flourish. March is Nutrition Month, an annual campaign led by the Dietitians of Canada that highlights the importance of food, nutrition, and healthy eating for Canadians. This year, I’m grateful to share my recipe. This cookbook features recipes contributed by dietitians across Canada, showcasing how nutritious food can be practical, accessible, and enjoyable in everyday life.

Coconut Lentil Crunch

Yield: 8 servings

Oven temperature: 300°F (150°C)

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw lentils

• ¼ cup maple syrup

• ¼ cup coconut oil

• ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds

• 1 cup mixed nuts, chopped or sliced

Instructions

1. Place the lentils in a saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 3 minutes.

2. Rinse the lentils with cold water, drain thoroughly, and pat dry with a paper towel. Set aside to cool briefly.

3. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

4. In a large bowl, combine the lentils, maple syrup, coconut oil, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and mixed nuts. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. Spread the mixture in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake for approximately 1 hour, stirring two or three times to promote even crisping.

7. Remove from the oven and allow the mixture to cool completely. It will continue to become crisp as it cools.

My recipe highlights lentils, an affordable and nutrient-dense ingredient rich in plant-based protein, fibre, iron, and slow-digesting carbohydrates that help keep us energized and satisfied. By roasting lentils with coconut, maple syrup, nuts, and chia seeds, they transform into a golden, crispy crunch that works perfectly as a snack or a topping for yogurt, salads, or smoothie bowls.

Making Nutrition Practical

As a dietitian, my goal is always to translate nutrition science into practical, real-life food ideas.

Healthy eating shouldn’t feel complicated or restrictive. It should be:

• Accessible

• Affordable

• Enjoyable

• Sustainable

Recipes like Coconut Lentil Crunch show that nutritious foods can also be fun, creative, and delicious. Grateful to be part of the incredible community at Dietitians of Canada and to contribute to this year’s Nutrition Month initiative.

Cheers,

Elaine Dietitian