Easy Mediterranean Lentils Rice – Quick Flavorful Dish

Craving a dish that’s both hearty and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than this incredibly easy Lentils and Rice recipe! It’s a quick, one-pot wonder that delivers a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati or jasmine recommended), rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or mint, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the rinsed lentils and rice to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices and onion mixture.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, then add the salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the lentils and rice with a fork. Stir in the lemon juice.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or mint.