Easy Mediterranean Lentils And Rice
This nutritious, one-skillet Mediterranean Lentils and Rice dish is a plant-based powerhouse that combines earthy lentils with fragrant basmati rice. Featuring golden caramelized onions and a warm blend of cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric, this healthy meal is perfect for busy weeknights. It is a fiber-rich, budget-friendly dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, offering a satisfying and aromatic experience that the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Quick Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cans lentils (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
1.5 cups cooked basmati rice (or 1/2 cup uncooked)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
2 cloves garlic, grated
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon turmeric
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley or cilantro, chopped
1 large lemon, cut into wedges
Greek yogurt for serving
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook for about 8-10 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
Stir in the honey, garlic, paprika, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the drained lentils and stir to coat well with the onion and spice mixture.
Fold in the cooked basmati rice and cook for another 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Adjust seasonings if necessary and remove from heat.
Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing and a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.
Notes
If using uncooked rice, cook it separately or add enough liquid to the skillet to simmer with the lentils. Feel free to add extra colorful vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutrition further.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg