Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, diced; 1/2 cup coconut cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love how this Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils recipe brings together all my favorite flavors in a single dish. The combination of tender lentils with fresh spinach and a garlic-infused creaminess is simply irresistible! It’s a dish that not only satisfies my cravings but also feels nourishing and wholesome. Whether I'm serving it for a simple weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe never fails to delight. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:13:20.209Z

Cooking Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils has always been a rewarding experience for me. The first time I prepared this dish, I was amazed by how quickly it came together and how delicious it was! Using fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also delivers a nutrient boost. I recommend sautéing the garlic until fragrant before adding it to the lentils for an aromatic kick.

One tip I learned is to use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the lentils for an extra layer of flavor. It really enhances the overall taste and richness. Each bite feels indulgent while still being a healthy option. This recipe has quickly become a staple in my meal rotation!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts and satisfies
Packed with nutrients from spinach and lentils
Easily customizable with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Enhancing Flavor with Cooking Techniques

The secret to achieving deep, rich flavors in this Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils dish lies in the sautéing technique. Allow the diced onion to cook until it's translucent; this typically takes around 5 minutes over medium heat. This step releases the natural sugars in the onion, making it sweet and flavorful. Follow this with the garlic, cooking just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can turn bitter and overshadow the dish's mildness.

To elevate the creamy texture, consider using full-fat coconut cream. This ingredient creates a luscious sauce that clings to the lentils and spinach beautifully. If you're conscious of fat or calories, you can opt for a lighter coconut milk, but remember that the richness may be less pronounced. Whipping the cream with the spinach ensures it blends smoothly, creating an indulgent feel without complicated techniques.

Nutritional Benefits and Customizations

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. Including them in this dish not only enhances flavor but also promotes satiety, making your meal filling and satisfying. Pairing lentils with spinach adds a boost of vitamins A and K, alongside essential minerals like iron and magnesium. This combination not only makes for a delicious meal but also supports overall health and well-being.

For those looking to customize, the dish is very forgiving. Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like kale or Swiss chard in place of spinach, or introduce spices like cumin or coriander for added warmth. I enjoy a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy, adding even more flavor and nutrients. By adjusting the seasonings, you can tailor this recipe to suit your palate or dietary requirements.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
1/2 cup coconut cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils:

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25 minutes or until tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Sauté the Garlic and Onion

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Combine Ingredients

Stir the cooked lentils into the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Add the chopped spinach and coconut cream, mixing well until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.

Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious creamy dish!

Make sure to enjoy this dish warm for the best flavor and comfort!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try stirring in some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro just before serving. You can also substitute the coconut cream with heavy cream for a richer taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils dish stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. I recommend preparing a large batch and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creaminess, as the lentils may absorb moisture upon cooling. Simply heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly due to freezing, but it will still be delicious. This makes for a quick and nutritious dinner option on busy nights.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a standalone meal; however, it pairs beautifully with sides to add variety. Serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa turns it into a filling, wholesome bowl. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top not only elevates presentation but also adds a fresh flavor burst.

For a complete meal, consider accompanying the lentils with crusty bread or a light salad. The bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy lentils, while a fresh salad provides a nice contrast with its crunch. You may also drizzle some lemon juice over the top for an invigorating touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! The recipe is already vegan if you use coconut cream, which is a great substitute for dairy cream.

→ What other greens can I add?

Kale or Swiss chard would work wonderfully in place of spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.