lentils and spinach recipe

The Best lentils and spinach recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes that never fails to impress – Lentils and Spinach. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a perfect example of how a simple yet flavorful meal can be made with just a few ingredients. The story behind this recipe is quite fascinating, as it originated from the Mediterranean region where lentils have been a staple food for centuries.

The combination of tender lentils, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s both comforting and healthy. When I cook this recipe, I love watching the transformation from raw ingredients to a delicious meal that my family devours in minutes. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare this recipe.

Simply sauté some onions, garlic, and ginger, add the lentils and spinach, and let the magic happen. The key technique here is to cook the lentils until they’re tender but still hold their shape – it’s essential to get that right or the dish can become mushy. I’ve experimented with different spices and seasonings over the years, but I always come back to the classic combination of cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

It’s amazing how these flavors complement each other so well. My kids love helping me in the kitchen with this recipe, especially when we get to mash up some garlic cloves (they think it’s like playing with playdough!) We often have leftovers which are just as delicious reheated the next day – perfect for packing lunches or having a quick dinner after school.

This recipe has become an integral part of our family gatherings and special occasions. It’s comforting to know that no matter what life brings, we can always count on this hearty dish to bring us together. I’ve tried various storage methods over time, but I find that keeping cooked lentils in an airtight container in the fridge works best for me.

When reheating, I like to add some fresh spinach leaves on top for added flavor and texture.

Lentils and Spinach Stew

4.8 from 1962 votes

A hearty and nutritious lentils and spinach stew perfect for a comforting meal. This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice for any day of the week.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Lentils and Spinach Stew

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 medium celery stalks, diced
1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and picked over
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 bag (10 oz) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 tbsp lemon juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5Stir well to combine.
6Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
7Stir in the chopped spinach and lemon juice.
8Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until spinach is wilted and the flavors are well combined.
9Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 20g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can serve this stew with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Watch Video Of How Lentils and Spinach Stew Works

This lentil and spinach recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering. It’s a dish that can be easily scaled up or down, making it perfect for any size crowd.

I often double the recipe and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal on busy days. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, from rice and quinoa to crusty bread.

It’s a dish that I know my family will always enjoy, and I hope yours will too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lentils and Spinach Stew

Q: Can I use red or green lentils instead of brown?

Yes, you can use either red or green lentils as substitutes. Keep in mind that they may change the texture slightly.

Q: How long do I need to cook the lentils?

Cooking time will depend on your preference for tenderness – typically 20-30 minutes for brown lentils.

Q: What if I don’t have any fresh spinach?

You can use frozen spinach as a substitute; just thaw it first before adding it to your dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the lentil mixture ahead of time but wait until just before serving to add fresh spinach.

Q: Why do you recommend using ground cumin?

Cumin adds depth to the dish without overpowering other flavors.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly but not vegan due to the use of butter.

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