Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this hearty and nutritious Caramelized Onion & Spinach Lentil Skillet Recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of savory flavors, offering a rich, comforting meal that's both delicious and healthy. Whether you're in search of a quick weeknight dinner or a meatless meal idea, this skillet recipe delivers a satisfying experience.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups vegetable broth or water
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cups fresh spinach leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes or until they become golden brown and caramelized.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the cumin and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aromas.
Add the rinsed lentils to the skillet, coating them with the onion-spice mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the lentils are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt from the heat of the lentils. Add the balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the lentils warm, garnished with chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and crumbled feta cheese if desired.
