Elevate your weeknight dinners with this wholesome and hearty recipe for Sautéed Lentils and Spinach Over Polenta. Creamy, buttery polenta infused with Parmesan serves as the perfect base for a nutrient-packed medley of tender lentils, sweet cherry tomatoes, and wilted baby spinach, all sautéed with savory garlic and onions. A splash of vegetable broth ties the flavors together, while a sprinkling of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick. Topped with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness, this dish offers the perfect balance of comfort food and health-conscious cooking. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a vegetarian main course that's as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Keywords: sautéed lentils, creamy polenta, spinach over polenta, vegetarian comfort food.
In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.
Gradually whisk in the polenta, reducing the heat to low. Stir continuously to prevent lumps.
Cook the polenta for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes creamy.
Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping it warm.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
Stir in the cooked lentils and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes to heat the lentils and soften the tomatoes.
Add the baby spinach to the skillet and pour in the vegetable broth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach has wilted.
Season the lentil mixture with red pepper flakes and black pepper to taste. Adjust salt if needed.
To assemble, spoon a portion of creamy polenta onto each plate.
Top with the sautéed lentil and spinach mixture, ensuring an even distribution of contents.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Calories |
2139 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 82.1 g | 105% | |
| Saturated Fat | 35.2 g | 176% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 142 mg | 47% | |
| Sodium | 4160 mg | 181% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 269.5 g | 98% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 46.1 g | 165% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.6 g | ||
| Protein | 92.4 g | 185% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1235 mg | 95% | |
| Iron | 22.2 mg | 123% | |
| Potassium | 2618 mg | 56% | |
*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.