Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew

In today's fast-paced world, finding wholesome meals that are both nourishing and satisfying can often feel like a challenge. Enter the Robust Lentil & Vegetable Delight—a hearty stew packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant vegetables that not only tantalize your taste buds but also support a healthy lifestyle. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it is simple to make and yields a generous serving size. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this delightful dish while also exploring its nutritional benefits and variations.

Savor the Robust Lentil & Vegetable Delight, a nutritious and hearty stew that's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. This flavorful dish combines protein-rich lentils with a medley of vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a savory broth. Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, it's a wholesome option for anyone looking to embrace plant-based meals. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite spices, this stew is both satisfying and healthy. Enjoy it with crusty bread or over grains for a balanced meal!

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Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

4 cups vegetable broth

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables: Incorporate the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper into the pot. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and allow the spices to toast for about 1 minute.

Incorporate Lentils & Tomatoes: Add the rinsed lentils and the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot. Mix well.

Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that all ingredients are covered. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add the Greens: Just before serving, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as preferred.

Serve: Ladle the hearty lentil and vegetable stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy warm with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 6