When it comes to vegetarian cooking, sometimes all it takes is a little extra protein to transform a seemingly sidelike dish into the star of any meal. Red, black, or white beans, seasoned tofu or a scoop of quinoa all beef up green salads, simply roasted vegetables and whole grains quickly, churning out a finished product that was not only easy to prepare but also hearty enough to count as a full meal. Eggs, too, are a go-to source of filling protein, and given their versatility — think options for scrambling, poaching and frying — they pair well with a myriad of dishes.

Food Network Magazine uses this idea to create its Lentils with Fried Eggs, a quick-to-make recipe full of bold flavors. Start by sauteing shallots and celery with thyme, then add a splash of vinegar and pinch of sugar to balance the acidic taste, and mix in diced tomatoes and brown lentils for substance. After just a few minutes of cooking, add tangy Dijon mustard and fresh parsley, and top each serving of lentils with a butter-fried egg. You'll want something to sop up the remnants of the rich runny egg yolk and sweet-savory tomato sauce, and for that, soft pita bread is just what's needed.

Get the Recipe: Lentils with Fried Eggs from Food Network Magazine

Meatless Monday, an international movement, encourages people everywhere to cut meat one day a week for personal and planetary health. Browse more Meatless Monday recipes.