Vegetarian Veggie Cottage Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) lentils, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4-6 cups mashed potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and frozen peas to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Transfer the vegetable and lentil mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the bottom layer.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes on top of the vegetable mixture, creating an even layer that covers the entire dish.
7. Use a fork to create texture on the surface of the mashed potatoes, which will help them brown in the oven.
8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
9. Remove the veggie cottage pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
10. Serve the vegetarian veggie cottage pie as a comforting and satisfying main dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Feel free to add additional vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn, based on your preference.
• For extra flavor, you can incorporate herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika into the vegetable and lentil mixture.
• Customize the mashed potatoes by adding grated cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
• Serve the veggie cottage pie with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.