Prepare a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dinner using only one pot. This recipe combines red lentils, spinach, and tangy feta cheese for a quick weeknight meal.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
5 ounces fresh spinach
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the rinsed red lentils, vegetable broth, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts completely into the lentil mixture, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice.
Serve the lentil mixture immediately, topping each portion with crumbled feta cheese.
Notes
Rinsing the red lentils removes excess starch, which helps prevent the final dish from becoming too gummy.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of milk or unsweetened plant-based milk during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
You can substitute brown or green lentils, but increase the cooking time by 10 to 15 minutes.