Savory Lentil Spinach Stew (Printable)

Hearty lentils simmered with fresh spinach and warming Mediterranean spices in a rich vegetable broth.

# What You'll Need:

→ Legumes

01 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed

→ Vegetables

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 carrots, diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
07 - 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
08 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

→ Liquids

09 - 4 cups vegetable broth
10 - 1 cup water

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - 1 bay leaf
16 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
17 - Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery; cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
02 - Incorporate minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, and dried thyme; sauté for 1 minute to release aromas.
03 - Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, water, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir thoroughly and bring to a boil.
04 - Lower heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
05 - Remove bay leaf, then stir in fresh spinach. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted.
06 - Season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Optionally, stir in lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It brings the perfect balance of hearty and fresh that feels like a secret weapon on busy nights
  • The spices gently wake up your senses making each spoonful feel like a little celebration
02 -
  • Rinsing your lentils really helps keep the broth clear and cooking smooth
  • Adding spinach at the very end preserves its vibrant color and bright taste, making the stew feel fresh instead of heavy
03 -
  • Toast the spices in the oil just until fragrant to unlock their full flavor potential
  • A bay leaf isn't just decoration; it adds that subtle background note that ties the stew together

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