One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils Recipe
A creamy, hearty, and comforting dish perfect for a cozy lunch or a Sunday brunch, this One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils recipe brings together the goodness of lentils, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy base. The delicate balance of flavors, with hints of basil and a splash of white wine, makes this dish a unique take on a vegetarian meal. Serve it with garlic bread on the side and a refreshing Piña Colada mocktail for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1/2 cup |
| Spinach (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Rocket leaves (chopped) | 1/2 cup (optional, use more spinach if needed) |
| Butter | 2 teaspoons |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 |
| Fresh cream | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Dry white wine | 1/2 cup |
| Basil leaves | 2-3 leaves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Red chili flakes | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 100 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Sauté the Onions:
Begin by heating butter in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they turn translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This creates the base for your lentil dish, giving it a fragrant and flavorful foundation. -
Add the Lentils:
Once the onions are softened, add the washed masoor dal (lentils) to the pan. Sauté the lentils with the onions for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to slightly toast, enhancing their flavor. -
Cook the Lentils:
Pour in enough water to just cover the lentils. Stir the ingredients together, then cover the pan and let the lentils cook on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally, and check the lentils for tenderness. If you prefer a quicker method, you can use a pressure cooker to reduce the cooking time. -
Add the Vegetables:
Once the lentils are fully cooked, add the spinach, rocket leaves, and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5-6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to wilt and release their flavors into the lentils. -
Finish the Dish:
Next, add the red chili flakes and basil leaves to the pan, stirring to combine. Pour in the fresh cream and milk, bringing everything to a boil. Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes, then turn off the heat. Allow the dish to stand for 15-20 minutes. This resting time helps the lentils absorb all the delicious flavors, making the dish even more rich and flavorful. -
Serve:
Once the dish has rested, give it a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy spinach lentils warm, accompanied by some garlic bread for a delightful contrast of textures. For an added treat, pair it with a Piña Colada mocktail (pineapple with coconut milk) for a refreshing and tropical touch to your meal.
Serving Suggestions
This One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils recipe is a perfect dish to serve during a leisurely Sunday brunch. Its rich and comforting texture is sure to satisfy your hunger and provide warmth during a cozy afternoon. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the tender lentils and fresh greens. Enjoy it with:
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, garlicky bread provides a wonderful crunch that complements the smooth, creamy lentils.
- Piña Colada Mocktail: A refreshing, tropical drink made with pineapple and coconut milk, perfect for a sweet contrast to the savory lentils.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for One Pot Creamy Spinach Lentils is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of lentils and leafy greens makes it a wholesome vegetarian dish that’s high in fiber and protein. The addition of fresh cream and milk creates a rich and satisfying texture, while the white wine adds a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect dish for a light yet filling lunch or a comforting brunch.
