Delicious and Easy Lentils
Packed with hearty goodness and bold spices, this recipe for Delicious and Easy Lentils is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Ready in just 45 minutes, it features tender green or brown lentils simmered with aromatic garlic, onions, and carrots, plus a vibrant medley of cumin, coriander, and paprika for a warm, earthy kick. Canned diced tomatoes lend a subtle tanginess, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness. This one-pot vegan dish is a versatile delight, ideal as a nutritious main served with rice or bread, or as a wholesome side dish to round out any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, healthy comfort food option.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Dry green or brown lentils
- 3 cups Water
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 large Carrot, finely diced
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup Canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon Ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set them aside.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the chopped onion and diced carrot for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Stir in the cumin, coriander, and paprika, ensuring the vegetables are well coated with the spices.
Add the rinsed lentils, the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, and 3 cups of water to the saucepan. Stir well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
Simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season the lentils with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the lentils rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy as a main meal with rice, crusty bread, or a green salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
701 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 37.6 g | 48% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.3 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 5 mg | 2% | |
| Sodium | 2765 mg | 120% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 72.9 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 26.7 g | 95% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.1 g | ||
| Protein | 23.8 g | 48% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 278 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 1832 mg | 39% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
