Rice and lentils was one of the first meals I had in Italy. I visited the country assuming I would consume nothing but Pasta and Pizza. Happily I went without both for that entire trip. I was served an incredibly satisfying dish of rice and lentils with locally made mozzarella cheese, olives and fresh vegetables at the restaurant in the Castle of Cheri. The combination was stunning to the eye and pleasing to the pallet. Today it is something I often make when I need a quick one pot meal that will impress as well as indulge a hungry crowd.