Microwave Spanish Rice and Lentil Pilaf

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this quick and flavorful Microwave Spanish Rice and Lentil Pilaf, a hearty one-dish recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. Bursting with smoky paprika, earthy lentils, and aromatic cumin, this fuss-free dish comes together entirely in the microwave, making it a perfect go-to for busy schedules. Cooked with vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and a medley of vibrant veggies like bell peppers and peas, this satisfying vegan pilaf delivers bold flavors and wholesome nutrition in just 25 minutes. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of zesty lemon, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s versatile enough for meal prep, a cozy dinner, or a flavorful side. Let this Spanish-inspired microwave recipe bring convenience and excitement to your kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice
• 1 cup brown or green lentils
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup frozen peas
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 4 pieces lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the rice and lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.

Step 2

In a large microwave-safe dish with a lid, heat the olive oil for 1 minute on high power.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the dish, stir well, and microwave for 3 minutes on high power until softened and fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, and microwave for 30 seconds to activate the spices.

Step 5

Add the rinsed rice and lentils to the dish, stirring well to coat them with the spiced onion mixture.

Step 6

Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes, and stir to combine. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.

Step 7

Microwave on high power for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through the cooking time. Be careful when removing the lid as steam will be released.

Step 8

After 20 minutes, check the rice and lentils for doneness. If needed, microwave in 3-minute intervals until both are tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 9

Stir in the frozen peas and diced bell pepper, then microwave for an additional 2 minutes to warm them through.

Step 10

Let the pilaf rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 11

Fluff the rice and lentils with a fork, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1760.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1215.4

Total Fat 37.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4087.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 183.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 41.4g	0%
Total Sugars 40.5g
Protein 46.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 343.2mg	0%
Iron 17.2mg	0%
Potassium 3565.1mg	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: 27.0%

Protein: 14.6%

Carbs: 58.3%