Lentil Stew with Ham and Greens

Warm, hearty, and brimming with comforting flavors, this Lentil Stew with Ham and Greens is the perfect one-pot meal for cozy nights. Packed with protein-rich green or brown lentils and flavorful smoked ham, this recipe is balanced with a medley of tender vegetables and a generous helping of leafy greens like kale or spinach. Simmered in a savory broth seasoned with bay leaf, thyme, and paprika, the result is a deeply satisfying stew that's as nutritious as it is delicious. Ready in under an hour, this gluten-free dish is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Serve it warm with crusty bread for a filling dinner or enjoy it solo for a lighter yet satisfying option. Don't forget the optional splash of lemon juice for a refreshing pop of brightness!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1.5 cups smoked ham, diced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 4 cups kale or spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils under cold running water to remove any debris, then set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 5

Add the diced smoked ham to the pot and stir, allowing it to warm through for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils, bay leaf, thyme, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.

Step 8

Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf and add the chopped kale or spinach. Stir until the greens wilt, about 2-4 minutes.

Step 9

Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, stir in lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Step 10

Serve the lentil stew warm, with crusty bread or as-is for a wholesome meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2586.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1277.4

Total Fat 51.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 10.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 177.1mg	0%
Sodium 12084.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 91.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 30.5g	0%
Total Sugars 27.0g
Protein 109.3g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 585.1mg	0%
Iron 13.2mg	0%
Potassium 3426.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.5%

Protein: 34.6%

Carbs: 28.9%