Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry! It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it both nutritious and satisfying. I often whip it up during the week for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. The earthy lentils paired with fresh spinach and a rich blend of spices create a comforting meal that warms the soul. Plus, it's easy to prepare and cooks in just one pot, which means less cleanup for me. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:25:34.986Z

When I first tried making lentil curry, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet flavorful it turned out to be. The combination of spices and the creaminess from the lentils and spinach blended perfectly. I experimented with various seasonings, and I found that adding a pinch of cumin and coriander really elevated the taste. It’s a recipe I keep returning to because it never fails to impress both family and friends.

What I love most about this curry is its versatility. You can enjoy it over rice, with naan bread, or even on its own. I often make a big batch to have leftovers for lunch, which makes my week so much easier. Plus, knowing that it's healthy makes me feel even better about indulging in its deliciousness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with plant-based protein and fiber
Vibrant colors and rich flavors make it visually appealing
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices

      

The Power of Lentils

Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. They provide about 18 grams of protein per cooked cup, along with essential vitamins and minerals like folate and iron. Their earthy flavor and hearty texture enhance the curry, while also thickening the sauce as they cook. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris, ensuring a clean taste in your final dish.

For those unfamiliar with cooking lentils, it's important to note that they don't require pre-soaking like other legumes. Simply rinsing and cooking them in the broth along with the spices allows them to absorb the flavors beautifully. If you want to speed up the cooking time, consider using red lentils, which typically cook in about 15-20 minutes and break down slightly, creating a creamier texture in your curry.

Fresh Spinach Benefits

Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients to your curry. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and magnesium, it contributes to the overall healthfulness of the dish. Adding the spinach at the end of cooking preserves its bright green color and ensures it retains its nutritional value. Cooking it just long enough to wilt, about 2-3 minutes, prevents it from becoming mushy and losing its appealing texture.

If fresh spinach isn't available, you can substitute it with frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pot. This not only saves preparation time but also allows you to keep a stash of greens on hand for quick meals. The flavor remains consistent, and it's a great way to reduce food waste.

Customizing Your Curry

One of the best aspects of this Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry is its flexibility. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the lentils for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. If you enjoy a spicier kick, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions for an added dimension.

For those looking to switch up the flavor profile, experimenting with different spices can be rewarding. Try incorporating turmeric for its health benefits and beautiful color, or a dash of coconut milk for creaminess and a hint of sweetness. This curry is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch; don't hesitate to make it yours!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry:

Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any additional spices or vegetables that you enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the curry:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Lentils and Spices

Pour in the rinsed lentils along with the curry powder, cumin, and coriander. Stir well to coat the lentils with the spices.

Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes

Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to the pot, bringing everything to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked through.

Stir in Spinach

Once the lentils are tender, fold in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm, preferably with rice or naan!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add a diced chili pepper when sautéing the onions. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a splash of coconut milk at the end for a creamier texture.

Storage and Reheating

This Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. After cooking, let the curry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, often making leftovers even more delicious the next day.

If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers. The curry can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much during storage for a nice creamy consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this curry over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce and add a filling component to your meal. Naan or pita bread also pairs wonderfully, allowing you to scoop up the curry for a fun dining experience. For an added burst of freshness, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime just before serving, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, this curry can be transformed into a buddha bowl. Layer it with roasted sweet potatoes, sliced avocado, and a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. This combination brings in diverse textures and completes the meal. I often switch things up depending on what I have in the fridge to make each serving unique and delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just reduce the cooking time and add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ Is the curry vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and it is suitable for vegans.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This curry freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or naan bread, and you can even enjoy it on its own!