Creamy Garlic Spinach Lentils

Name: Creamy Garlic Spinach Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed; 3 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup coconut cream or heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Garlic Spinach Lentils because they combine my favorite ingredients into a wholesome meal. The blend of creamy texture from the lentils, the richness of garlic, and the freshness from the spinach creates a comforting dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. Whether I enjoy it as a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for guests!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:22:37.012Z

Every time I make Creamy Garlic Spinach Lentils, I'm reminded of how comforting a simple meal can be. The creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the earthy lentils, creating a delightful balance. I remember the first time I prepared this; the aromatic garlic filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! I discovered that letting the lentils simmer in the sauce allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

As I continue to make this dish, I’ve found that adding a squeeze of lemon right before serving adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the meal. Trust me, don’t skip the spinach – it adds not only nutrients but also a pop of color and flavor that makes each bite a little more exciting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy blend of flavors that brings comfort to any table
Nutritious and filling, perfect for plant-based diets
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

Ingredient Spotlight: Lentils

Lentils are not only a powerhouse of nutrition, but they also provide the perfect creamy texture when cooked. For this recipe, brown or green lentils are ideal as they retain their shape while becoming tender. I recommend avoiding red lentils, as they tend to break down too quickly, leading to a mushier consistency. If you're short on time, canned lentils can be a convenient substitute; just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the dish.

When cooking lentils, it's essential to keep an eye on the water-to-lentil ratio. Too much liquid can make the dish soupy, while too little may leave them undercooked. Remember, the lentils should be tender but still hold their shape, taking around 20 minutes when simmered on medium heat. A gentle boil will help prevent them from splitting, which can happen if the heat is too high.

Perfecting the Creaminess

The creaminess of this dish comes predominantly from the coconut cream or heavy cream you choose to incorporate. Coconut cream lends a subtle sweetness and a tropical aroma that beautifully complements the garlic and spinach. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt stirred in at the end for a tangy flavor without compromising on richness. Just be mindful to turn off the heat before adding yogurt to prevent curdling.

For an extra layer of richness, I like to add a splash of nutritional yeast when combining the ingredients in the skillet. It enhances the creamy texture while also imparting a cheesy flavor, making this dish even more delicious. If you're avoiding dairy entirely, you can substitute the coconut cream with an unsweetened nut milk thickened with a cornstarch slurry for a similar creaminess.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Creamy Garlic Spinach Lentils dish is versatile when it comes to serving. Pair it with crusty bread for a comforting meal, or serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for added nuttiness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top can introduce a welcome heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you're feeling fancy, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a wonderful contrast to the creaminess.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Simply reheat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Freezing is also an option; portion the cooled lentils into freezer-safe containers, and they can last for up to three months. Just be sure to stir well after thawing to restore that creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup coconut cream or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Make sure to have everything on hand for easy cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy garlic spinach lentils:

Cook the Lentils

In a medium pot, combine rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked lentils to the skillet, along with chopped spinach, coconut cream, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is heated through, about 5 minutes.

Serve warm and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider topping your lentils with toasted nuts or seeds before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your lentils end up too mushy, that's often a sign they were cooked too long or at too high a heat. Next time, keep the simmer gentle and set a timer to avoid overcooking. If you find yourself with a dish that's too thick, stirring in a little extra vegetable broth or water while reheating will help regain that creamy texture.

On the flip side, if your lentils are too firm or crunchy after cooking, they might not have absorbed enough liquid. You can remedy this by adding a bit more broth while they simmer and covering the pot to steam them lightly. Give them an additional 5 to 10 minutes to ensure they're fully tender for the best eating experience.

Variations and Add-Ons

Feel free to customize this recipe with additional vegetables. Roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes can add a nice depth of flavor. If you're looking for protein variations, try adding cooked chickpeas or diced tofu, which can enhance the nutritional value and make the dish even heartier.

For a herby twist, consider mixing in fresh herbs such as basil or parsley at the end of cooking. These will give a fresh aroma and elevate the overall taste. You could experiment with spices, too; a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can lend warmth and richness to the dish, making it even more comforting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Absolutely! If using canned lentils, simply rinse and add them during the mixing step to heat through.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Yes! You can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the garlic and onion.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave.