When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty lentil and vegetable stew to warm you from the inside out. This recipe combines nutritious lentils with a variety of colorful vegetables, making it the perfect comfort food during the colder months. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to indulge in healthy soups & stews.
Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of this stew, filled with tender lentils and vibrant vegetables, while the comforting aroma fills your kitchen. It’s a meal that nourishes both body and soul, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Plus, it’s very adaptable, so you can customize it based on whatever vegetables you have on hand!
Wholesome and Filling Lentil Stew
This hearty lentil and vegetable stew is a rich, satisfying dish that blends the earthiness of lentils with the freshness of seasonal vegetables. It’s thick and filling, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 240kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
