Manic: Finding a zesty side dish that isn’t the same ol’ thing like potatoes or broccoli again that my family will eat…and like! This could also easily be a main dish as well.
Managed: Stopped at the tasting sample section at my local Trader Joe’s and found a surprising combination that is simple to make and tasty, too. Plus my picky family liked it! Lentils anyone? This combination of lentils with Trader Joe’s Chimichurri Rice with Vegetables is terrific! 
Simply follow the instructions on the package of the Chimichurri Rice which is to saute it with a little olive oil and water until cooked.
Note to self: next time take the picture before ripping it open!
While the Chimichurri rice is cooking, make the Trader Joe’s Steamed Lentils which are simply added to boiling water and cooked for 5 minutes. 
Then strain the lentils and add to the rice mix. Super easy and super delish! It can also be topped with a little cilantro, which I think would be tasty. I didn’t have any on hand so I am going to try that next time.
Lentils contain fiber and iron and the Chimichurri rice has veggies that include peas, onion, shallots and garlic. Plus yummy ginger and cilantro are also included along with the basmati rice…I don’t eat a lot of rice, so this part of the dish was a treat, but this side dish was mostly healthy in my opinion.
I love that the store has a tasting section…and it worked because I bought these two frozen foods! Then I came home and cooked it for my 18-year-old son and for myself. We both gave it a thumbs up!
