Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal? Then look no further! This Green Lentils recipe, inspired by the culinary genius of Jamie Oliver, is your answer. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – quick, delicious, and bursting with wholesome goodness. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend supper, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of simple, healthy meals elevated to a whole new level!
Ingredients: What You'll Need for this Easy Recipe
This recipe is designed to be pantry-friendly, utilizing ingredients you likely already have. If not, they’re readily available at your local grocery store.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Quick & Easy Guide
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Let's get started!
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the lentils and broth: Stir in the rinsed green lentils, vegetable broth (or water), and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer to perfection: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This delicious dish is equally satisfying on its own or served alongside crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Green Lentils
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Start checking for tenderness around the 20-minute mark.
- Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or a bay leaf for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Embrace variations: Experiment with different vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Basics
This green lentil recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Spicy Green Lentils: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Curried Green Lentils: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of curry powder along with the spices for an aromatic and flavorful twist.
- Lemon Green Lentils: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the lentils before serving for a bright and zesty finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This healthy meal provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for a balanced diet. The exact nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This easy green lentil recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy food doesn't have to be complicated. It's a quick dinner idea, a perfect example of delicious dishes made with simple ingredients, and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!