Green Lentils from Campania.

Low in fat and high in protein and fiber, Lentils originated in South Asia many centuries ago and were adopted on sight by the Romans as a means of feeding their troops. Lentils are considered lucky in Italy, with vast quantities of the coin-shaped legume eaten with Coteghino during New Year's celebrations. Lentils are an excellent meat substitute or side dish and also perfect for soup.