Creamy Spinach Tomato Lentils

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup coconut milk; 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating dishes that are not only delicious but also pack a nutritional punch. When I made these Creamy Spinach Tomato Lentils, the combination of lentils with vibrant spinach and rich tomato sauce blew my mind. In just a few minutes, I had a comforting meal that was both satisfying and extremely healthy. You can serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own, making it a versatile addition to any weeknight dinner rotation.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:01:14.592Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The combination of spices enhances the natural flavors of the spinach and lentils. I recommend using fresh spinach, as it gives a vibrant color and a lovely texture to the dish.

Don't forget to play around with the seasoning to suit your taste. I added a hint of crushed red pepper for some heat, which perfectly complemented the creaminess of the dish. Trust me, you'll want to serve it with some crusty bread to scoop up every morsel!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Nutritious and packed with protein from lentils
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner

      

The Role of Lentils

Lentils are the star of this dish, offering not only protein but also a wealth of fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Their unique ability to absorb flavors makes them perfect for this creamy concoction. When cooked properly, they become tender and slightly creamy, enhancing the overall texture of the dish. For optimal results, simmering the lentils until they are just tender is key; overcooking can lead to mushiness, which we want to avoid.

For this recipe, you can use either green or brown lentils, as both varieties work well. Green lentils maintain their shape better, while brown lentils tend to be softer when cooked. If you're looking for a quicker alternative, red lentils cook faster but will break down more, creating a thicker sauce. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.

Perfecting the Spinach and Tomato Blend

The fresh spinach and tomatoes add not only vibrant color but also essential nutrients to your meal. Cooking the spinach until just wilted helps retain its nutritional value while ensuring it complements the rich tomato base beautifully. I recommend using fresh spinach for the best texture, but if you're in a pinch, frozen spinach can also work; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.

The diced tomatoes enhance the overall flavor profile with their acidity and slight sweetness. Opt for the canned variety with no added ingredients for a pure taste. If you want to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity if necessary.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Creamy Spinach Tomato Lentils are delightful on their own, serving them over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa can make for a heartier meal. You can even pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying side. For an added kick, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving.

This dish is highly versatile; you can customize it by adding other veggies such as bell peppers or mushrooms. If you like a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper during the sautéing process. Additionally, for a vegan-friendly option, ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based, and you can easily substitute the coconut milk with a non-dairy cream if preferred.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Lentils:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup coconut milk
1 tbsp olive oil

These ingredients come together beautifully for a hearty, wholesome meal.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

Cook the Lentils

In a medium pot, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Add Spinach and Cream

Add the chopped spinach and coconut milk to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 more minutes until the spinach wilts.

Finish and Serve

Drain the lentils and add them to the spinach mixture. Stir to combine and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

This recipe is straightforward and perfect for mastering the basics of cooking lentils!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to make this dish your own. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage and Reheating

These Creamy Spinach Tomato Lentils can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. To reheat, simply transfer the lentils to a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir gently until heated through, typically about 5–7 minutes.

If you're looking to batch-cook, this recipe freezes well too. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your lentils are still hard after the suggested cooking time, it may be due to the age of the lentils. Older lentils can take longer to cook, so be sure to check for doneness before proceeding to the next step. Additionally, always make sure your vegetable broth is well-seasoned, as this greatly impacts the flavor of the entire dish. Adjusting salt and pepper at the end can significantly enhance the final taste.

If the dish turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t hesitate to add a bit more coconut milk or broth to create a creamier texture. On the flip side, if it’s too runny, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken up. Being attentive at this stage will help you achieve the perfect consistency.

Flavor Enhancements

For those who enjoy a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a bay leaf while cooking the lentils. Just remember to remove it before serving. Another flavorful addition could be a tablespoon of nutritional yeast, which not only boosts the dish's umami flavor but also adds extra vitamins, particularly B12 if you're on a plant-based diet.

Herbs are also a fantastic way to elevate this dish. Fresh basil or thyme can be added at the end of cooking for an aromatic finish. Alternatively, a sprinkle of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika can add a subtle smokiness, bringing a whole new dimension to the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried lentils?

Yes, just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of lentils you choose.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the heat.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.