The ultimate souvenir recipe is this Black Lentils with Asparagus, Jamón, and Crème Fraîche Sauce recipe, which is a nod to a restaurant that’s not around any longer.
When I first graduated from college, I moved back to Los Angeles and into an apartment with my older sister. We’d frequent this hole-in-a-wall BYOB tapas place that had a cool-kids-meet-Barcelona vibe and the menu—modern takes on classic tapas and lots of Rioja—channeled Spain almost as well as Vicky Christina Barcelona.
Why You’ll Love This
This black lentils recipe is a gorgeous blend of textures and flavors—creamy, crispy, earthy, and bright all at once. It’s naturally gluten-free, packed with plant-based protein, and can easily be made vegetarian by skipping the ham. Plus, the whole dish feels upscale but is totally doable for a weeknight dinner or an impressive brunch spread. The one thing I always think about is their crispy lentils with jamón. Here, I’ve added in some asparagus and a mustard sauce for a super simple Spring dish.
Recipe Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these black lentils to life:
- 1 cup black beluga lentils – They hold their shape when cooked and have a rich, earthy flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic – Infuses the lentils with aromatic flavor while they cook.
- 2 cups chicken broth or water – Adds savory depth to the lentils.
- Extra-virgin olive oil – For richness and roasting.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning everything perfectly.
- 1 bunch pencil-thin asparagus – Roasts quickly and adds a bright, fresh element.
- 4 thin slices Serrano ham or prosciutto – Crisps up for a salty, savory topping.
- Crème fraîche, whole-grain mustard, and lemon juice – Whisked into a luscious sauce that ties it all together.
How to Make This Recipe
Start by simmering the black lentils with garlic and broth until they’re tender but still holding their shape. Meanwhile, roast the asparagus and Serrano ham until the asparagus is tender and the ham is crispy.
Whisk together the crème fraîche mustard sauce, then assemble the plate: a bed of lentils, a pile of asparagus, crisp ham on top, and a generous drizzle of sauce.
What to Serve With This
These black lentils are substantial enough to stand alone as a main dish but also pair beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a simply dressed green salad. They’re an easy way to elevate a casual dinner or to round out a spring or Easter menu with something fresh, filling, and a little fancy.
Classic Spanish Recipes
Not heading to Spain anytime soon? Get a taste of the country (and some San Sebastian tapas) by making these recipes at home!
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Black Lentils with Asparagus, Jamón, and Crème Fraîche Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
Cook The Lentils:
- 1 cup black beluga lentils rinsed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
- kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Roast The Asparagus:
- extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 bunch pencil-thin asparagus woody ends trimmed
- kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 paper-thin slices Serrano ham or prosciutto
For The Sauce:
- 1/3 cup crème fraîche
- 3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook The Lentils: Rinse the lentils, then pick out any debris. Place the lentils in a small saucepan and add the broth or water, garlic, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then, bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer until the lentils are tender, about 30 minutes. (Keep adding water as needed to make sure the lentils are just barely covered). Remove lentils from heat and add a big pinch of salt, then drain. If you want them crisp, toss the lentils with additional oil, then spread them into a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet leaving room for the asparagus and ham. Otherisee, set thm aside until ready to use.
- Roast The Asparagus: Meanwhile, heat an oven to 450°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Place the asparagus on the rimmed baking sheet and the thin slice of prosciutto or ham and roast until ham is crisp and asparagus is knife tender, 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness.
- For The Crème Fraîche Mustard Sauce: Mix together crème fraîche, whole grain mustard, and lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and some freshly ground black pepper then whisk until smooth.If needed, add some water until the sauce has the consistency of melted ice cream. Arrange the lentils and asparagus on a serving plate, top with the crisp ham, drizzle with the sauce and serve.
