Lentils with Ginger, Golden Beets and Herbs

This was a leap of faith. I love all the ingredients separately, but wasn't sure how they would "meld" in the final dish. But I trust Martha. For good reason...this was delicious. Strangely enough, I thought I would say that it was a good dish to carry into autumn. Maybe as an accompaniment to pork tenderloin or a piece of wood-grilled salmon. And it probably would be. But it's also a perfect summer dish. The ginger really brightens up the earthy flavors of the lentils and the beets. (One substitution: I used about two tablespoons of fresh oregano instead of the mint and cilantro.)

Lentils with Ginger, Golden Beets and Herbs
From Martha Stewart Living.
Serves 6.

1 pound (about 6 medium) trimmed golden or red beets
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon coarse salt
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 cup (6 ounces) dried lentils, such as French green or black beluga
6 thin slices fresh ginger plus 1 teaspoon finely grated
1/4 medium red onion, finely diced (1/2 cup)
2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
1 1/2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds, toasted and ground, or 1 teaspoon ground
Freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh mint, plus leaves for garnish
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro, plus leaves for garnish

Preheat oven to 375°. Place beets, water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a baking dish. Cover with parchment, then foil, and bake until beets are tender when pierced with the tip of a small knife, 45 to 55 minutes. Let stand until cool enough to handle. Peel and quarter beets, and place in a small bowl. Toss with 1 teaspoon oil.

Combine lentils and sliced ginger in a medium saucepan, and cover with water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer gently. Cook, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender, about 20 minutes. Drain; discard ginger. Transfer to a large bowl, and stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Combine remaining teaspoon salt and the grated ginger, onion, vinegar, and honey, and let stand for 15 minutes. Whisk in remaining tablespoon oil and the coriander. Pour over lentils, and toss to coat. Season with pepper. Stir in chopped mint and cilantro. Arrange beet wedges on top of lentils. Garnish with herbs, and serve immediately.

(A sprinkle of good sea salt is the perfect crowning touch.)

Food/Wine Pairing: Two choices would work brilliantly here. Summer? A Sauvignon Blanc will play off the sweetness of the beets and the ginger. Want something heftier? How about a "dirty" wine to go with earthy ingredients. Like a Cotes du Rhone. No need for anything expensive. This is good rustic food.