Description
This Quick Greek Lentil Dinner is a flavorful and hearty recipe perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender lentils simmered with aromatic onions, garlic, and Mediterranean spices, then finished with creamy feta cheese and fresh parsley, it offers a nutritious and satisfying meal that comes together in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Lentil Base
- 1½ cups dried green or brown lentils
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- Zest of ½ lemon (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing your aromatics.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic along with 1 teaspoon each of oregano and cumin. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add lentils and liquids: Stir in 1½ cups of dried lentils, then pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer lentils: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the lentils simmer gently until tender, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add finishing flavors: Once lentils are cooked, remove from heat and stir in 8 ounces of crumbled feta cheese, the zest of half a lemon (if using), and 2 tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley. Mix gently to combine and allow the cheese to slightly melt.
- Season and serve: Taste the lentil mixture and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm for a cozy, nutritious meal.
Notes
- You can soak lentils for 30 minutes prior to cooking to reduce simmer time slightly.
- For a vegan version, omit feta or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Lemon zest brightens the dish but is optional if unavailable.
- Use vegetable broth with low sodium to better control salt levels.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: Greek lentils, quick lentil dinner, vegetarian lentil recipe, easy weeknight dinner, Mediterranean lentils
