Steamed Lentils with Saffron

Infuse your meals with the aromatic warmth of saffron in this simple yet elegant recipe for Steamed Lentils with Saffron. Perfectly tender green or brown lentils are simmered with a golden blend of fragrant saffron threads, garlic, and olive oil, creating a dish that's as visually stunning as it is flavorful. A hint of bay leaf and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley complete this nutritious, Mediterranean-inspired recipe. Ready in just 40 minutes, this one-pot dish makes an ideal side or a satisfying light main course, especially when paired with crusty bread or fluffy rice. Rich in plant-based protein and naturally gluten-free, it’s a wholesome and soul-warming option that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Green or brown lentils
• 3 cups Water
• 1 large pinch Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris. Set them aside.

Step 2

In a small bowl, add the saffron threads to two tablespoons of warm water. Allow them to steep for at least five minutes to release their flavor and color.

Step 3

In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4

Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and stir to coat them with the garlic-olive oil mixture.

Step 5

Pour in the water and stir. Add the bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and the saffron water mixture (including the threads).

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the lentils to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy.

Step 7

Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf and discard it.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 9

Transfer the lentils to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Step 10

Serve warm as a side dish or as a light main course with crusty bread or rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(962.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	497.1

Total Fat 28.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2388.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 43.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.3g	0%
Total Sugars 3.7g
Protein 18.6g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 100.8mg	0%
Iron 7.3mg	0%
Potassium 784.0mg	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: 51.1%

Protein: 14.7%

Carbs: 34.2%