Hearty & Healthy: Your New Favorite Weeknight Lentil Stew Recipe
Food Recipes Ideas
Hearty Weeknight Lentil Stew
A comforting, protein-packed lentil stew perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, featuring tender lentils and savory vegetables.
★★★★★
5 from 1 review
Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings4
Calories350 kcal
📝 Ingredients
👩🍳 Instructions
1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and onion is translucent.
2
Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3
Add rinsed lentils and the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot. Pour in vegetable broth. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer.
4
Simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the stew becomes too thick, add a splash more broth or water.
5
Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
6
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
💡 Notes
This stew is excellent for meal prep and tastes even better the next day. It freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months. For a creamier texture, mash a portion of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot.
