Cumin-Scented Lentil and Spinach Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-21 · Updated 2026-05-21

A comforting, hearty stew of earthy lentils simmered with aromatic cumin and fresh spinach for a nutritious vegetarian meal. This Middle Eastern-inspired soup recipe (vegetarian, gluten-free), ready in about 50 minutes, pairs dry brown lentils, vegetable broth, extra virgin olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a quick salad. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry brown lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup dry brown lentils under cold water and drain. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
2. Step 2: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin, and 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the rinsed lentils and 4 cups vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
4. Step 4: Stir in 4 cups chopped fresh spinach, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper; cook uncovered for 5 more minutes until the spinach wilts and the stew thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors before serving.