Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious lentil and spinach casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dry lentils (green or brown)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ons:
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or vegan cheese)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs for a crispy topping
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
Ingredient Substitutions
- No lentils? Try chickpeas or black beans.
- Out of spinach? Kale or Swiss chard works great too.
- Want more veggies? Toss in chopped carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
How to Make Lentil and Spinach Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris. In a medium pot, combine the lentils with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Let the spices toast for a minute to release their aroma. Add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the cooked lentils and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the lentil and spinach mixture to a greased casserole dish. If you’re adding cheese or breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly on top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Wrapping It Up
Lentil and spinach casserole is the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating enjoyable and stress-free. It’s simple to make, customizable, and packed with all the good stuff your body needs. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish is a winner.
Ready to give it a try? Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s get cooking! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
