Vegetarian Lentil and Spinach Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-08-02 · Updated 2026-08-02

A hearty lentil and spinach stew rich in protein and nutrients, with warming spices and fresh herbs. This Mediterranean-inspired vegetarian recipe (high-protein), ready in about 55 minutes, pairs dry green lentils, fresh spinach leaves, onion 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 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 dry green lentils
• 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 medium, diced onion
• 1 large, diced carrot
• 2 diced celery stalks
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup dry green lentils under cold water until clear. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced medium onion, 1 large diced carrot, 2 diced celery stalks, and 3 minced garlic cloves; sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables soften and become fragrant.
2. Step 2: Stir in 1 tsp ground cumin and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; cook for 1 minute until spices release their aroma.
3. Step 3: Add rinsed lentils and 4 cups vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Step 4: Stir in 4 cups fresh spinach leaves and cook for another 3 minutes until wilted.
5. Step 5: Season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.