Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils

Name: Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup coconut milk or cream; Juice of ½ lemon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils when I want a comforting yet nutritious dish that satisfies my cravings. The lentils soak up the flavors of garlic and spinach, creating a creamy sauce that’s deliciously rich. Each bite is packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day. I enjoy serving this dish over brown rice or whole grain pasta, and it's an excellent meal prep option for those busy weekdays. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen like it has in mine!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:01:19.505Z

When I first tried Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such a delicious meal. The combination of spinach and garlic with tender lentils is heavenly! I learned that blending a little bit of the cooked lentils into the sauce adds an amazing creaminess without using heavy dairy.

This dish reminds me of cozy dinners at home, enjoying the rich flavors while knowing I’m nourishing my body. The key is to sauté the garlic until it’s golden, which elevates the flavor of the entire dish. Give it a try, and you’ll see what I mean!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Packed with nutrients and fiber for a healthy meal
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Insights

The rich, creamy texture of this dish largely comes from the combination of coconut milk and lentils. Coconut milk not only adds a subtle sweetness but also enhances the creaminess, making it feel indulgent without the heaviness of dairy. If you're looking to cut back on calories or cater to a sensitivity, you can substitute almond milk or unsweetened soy milk—just keep in mind that it won't be as rich.

Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Green or brown lentils hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for this recipe. Avoid red lentils here, as they break down and become mushy, altering the intended texture of the dish.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking the lentils, make sure to keep an eye on the pot during the simmering stage. They should be tender but not falling apart—this typically takes about 20-25 minutes. If they are too firm after 20 minutes, just continue simmering while checking every few minutes until they reach the desired texture. Overcooked lentils can result in a mushy dish.

Sautéing the onions and garlic until they're nicely caramelized brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. I like to cook the onions until they are just starting to turn golden, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This creates a base that complements the lentils and spinach beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful experience:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup coconut milk or cream
Juice of ½ lemon

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy and comforting dish:

Cook the Lentils

In a medium pot, add lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until lentils are tender, about 20 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Combine and Creamify

Once lentils are cooked, stir them into the sautéed onion and garlic. Mix in chopped spinach and coconut milk, and season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until spinach wilts.

Finish with Lemon

Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm.

Your creamy creation is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or your favorite herbs to the dish during cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Creamy Spinach Garlic Lentils can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the dish looks too thick after storing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up.

If you need to store it longer, consider freezing it. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion as it freezes. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as described above.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines when served over a bed of brown rice or whole grain pasta, adding even more nutrient density. For a fresh twist, you might want to top it with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or even some toasted pine nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture. I love adding a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess.

You could also transform this into a hearty soup by adding more vegetable broth and some chopped carrots or bell peppers during the sauté stage. This way, you can enjoy the creamy flavor while also incorporating a variety of vegetables into your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Yes, dried lentils are great in this recipe, and they will give you a fresh taste!

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze for up to a month.

→ What can I serve with these lentils?

They pair well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.