Slow-Simmered Greek Lentil Stew with Spinach and Tomatoes

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-10 · Updated 2026-06-10

A hearty vegetarian stew blending green lentils with fresh spinach and tomatoes, enriched by aromatic herbs and cumin. This Greek-inspired vegetarian recipe, ready in about 55 minutes, pairs green lentils, extra virgin olive oil, onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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, rinsed green lentils
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large, diced onion
• 2 medium, diced carrots
• 4, minced garlic cloves
• 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 4 cups, roughly chopped fresh spinach
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1.25 tsp sea salt
• 3/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large diced onion and 2 diced carrots, sautéing for 6-8 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
2. Step 2: Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1.5 tsp ground cumin, and 1 tsp dried oregano; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 1 cup rinsed green lentils, 14 oz canned diced tomatoes with juices, and 4 cups vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer gently uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: After 30 minutes, stir in 4 cups chopped fresh spinach, 1.25 tsp sea salt, and 3/4 tsp black pepper. Continue simmering for 10 more minutes until lentils are tender and spinach is wilted.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice for brightness before serving.