Looking for a quick and nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this delightful Quick Lentil Spinach Stew! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dish that not only warms your soul but also packs a powerful punch of plant-based goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something wholesome, this vegetarian stew combines tender lentils with vibrant spinach and aromatic vegetables. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for diving into this deliciously comforting bowl of goodness!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sautéing until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Add chopped spinach to the pot and stir, allowing the spinach to wilt and incorporate into the stew for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris or impurities, ensuring a cleaner and tastier stew.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for an extra layer of depth and warmth to the stew.
- Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro to brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This stew stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep!
- Serve with Bread: Pair your stew with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
