Lentils with Onions and Tomatoes

Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Lentils with Onions and Tomatoes recipe—a nutritious, plant-based dish that's packed with protein and bold spices. Tender brown or green lentils are simmered to perfection and combined with caramelized onions, juicy ripe tomatoes, and an aromatic blend of cumin, turmeric, and optional cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. The dish comes together in just under an hour and is perfect for meal prep or a quick, wholesome dinner. Garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and served alongside rice or flatbread, this versatile recipe is as delicious as it is nourishing. A one-pot wonder that's gluten-free, vegan, and brimming with cozy, spiced flavors!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Brown or green lentils
• 3 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion
• 3 Garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 medium Ripe tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set the cooked lentils aside.

Step 3

While the lentils are cooking, dice the onion finely, mince the garlic, and chop the tomatoes into small pieces.

Step 4

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized.

Step 6

Stir in the minced garlic, ground turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.

Step 7

Add the chopped tomatoes and salt to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the tomatoes break down into a thick sauce.

Step 8

Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or spices as needed.

Step 10

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve warm. This dish pairs well with rice, flatbread, or as a hearty component of a grain bowl.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1325.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	603.4

Total Fat 30.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2410.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 65.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 21.7g	0%
Total Sugars 14.8g
Protein 22.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 176.3mg	0%
Iron 10.7mg	0%
Potassium 1607.3mg	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: 43.4%

Protein: 14.6%

Carbs: 42.0%