A hearty blend of lentils, tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a savory, one-pan Mediterranean dish.
# Components:
→ Lentils & Pulses
01 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
02 - 2 cups vegetable broth or water
→ Vegetables
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
07 - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
08 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
09 - 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
→ Herbs & Seasonings
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
15 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
16 - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, torn
# Method:
01 - Bring vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add lentils, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
03 - Incorporate minced garlic and diced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Add diced tomatoes with juices, halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Mix cooked lentils into the tomato mixture and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
06 - Fold in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
07 - Remove pan from heat. Stir in fresh parsley and basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
08 - Serve warm, optionally accompanied by crusty bread or over rice.
