Lentils with Spinach
Savor the hearty goodness of **Lentils with Spinach**, a wholesome and nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This one-pan recipe combines tender green or brown lentils with vibrant fresh spinach, sautéed onions, and garlic, all enhanced with earthy cumin, smoky paprika, and a zesty splash of lemon juice. Ready in just 45 minutes, this high-protein, vegan-friendly dish is as versatile as it is flavorful—serve it as a satisfying main course or a nourishing side. Whether paired with rice, crusty bread, or enjoyed on its own, this easy, healthy recipe is a must-try for lovers of comforting yet light fare. Perfect for anyone seeking a delicious way to elevate plant-based eating!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 3 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic cloves
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris. Place them in a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer the lentils for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set the lentils aside.
While the lentils are cooking, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Stir in the ground cumin and paprika, allowing the spices to toast slightly for about 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Lower the heat and gently fold the cooked lentils into the spinach mixture. Season with salt and black pepper, mixing to combine.
Drizzle the lemon juice over the lentil and spinach mixture, stirring one last time. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
Serve warm as a main dish, alongside rice or bread, or as a healthy side dish. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
631 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 30.0 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.6 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2535 mg | 110% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 69.9 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.9 g | 85% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.8 g | ||
| Protein | 25.9 g | 52% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 332 mg | 26% | |
| Iron | 15.4 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 1162 mg | 25% | |
*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.
