Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 1 can coconut milk (400ml); 1 cup vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 teaspoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Healthy Meals Ideas

I love making this Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry because it’s not only nourishing but bursting with flavors. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, and combined with the freshness of spinach, this dish becomes a wholesome meal that I can enjoy any day of the week. The spices provide warmth, making it a comforting option for family dinners or meal prep. I appreciate how quick it is to prepare; in just a short time, I can have a delicious, healthy meal ready to serve!

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:25:35.326Z

In my kitchen, this Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry has quickly become a staple. One of the things that makes this recipe special is the combination of spices. I experimented with various blends, ultimately landing on curry powder and cumin for a truly aromatic experience. Adding coconut milk makes it rich and velvety while keeping it light.

I've found that using fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and nutrients, making it a joy to serve. Remember to season as you go; tasting the curry throughout the cooking process ensures you hit that perfect balance of flavors!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
Vibrant and fresh flavors from spinach
Rich, creamy consistency without heavy dairy
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Why Lentils are the Star

Lentils are not just a source of protein; they also bring a wonderful texture to this curry. When cooked, they absorb the flavors of the spices and coconut milk, creating a rich and hearty base. Keeping an eye on your lentils is key; overcooking can lead to mushiness. Aim for a tender but slightly firm texture, which usually takes about 20 minutes of simmering. If you're unsure, taste them midway through cooking to check for doneness.

Additionally, lentils come in various colors, each offering a distinct flavor profile. While this recipe typically uses green or brown lentils, red lentils can be a great substitute. They cook faster and break down more, creating a thicker consistency. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as red lentils may only need about 15 minutes to soften perfectly!

Perfecting the Flavor Balance

The spices in this curry not only contribute warmth but also depth of flavor. Curry powder is a blend of spices that can vary significantly in heat and flavor, so it’s worth your time to choose a high-quality brand or make your own blend. Fresh spices will elevate the taste and ensure each bite is aromatic. You can also trial adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer an extra kick; just remember to start small, as it's easy to overdo.

Creating balance in this curry is essential, especially with ingredients like coconut milk, which can be rich. Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt or a dash of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors. The final taste should be a harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and a hint of freshness from the spinach.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry is excellent for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on a stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If it appears thick upon reheating, adding a splash of vegetable broth can return it to a creamy consistency quickly.

For serving, I love pairing this curry with brown rice or quinoa, which complements its flavors and adds more fiber to the meal. You can also top it with fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lime, adding brightness and elevating the dish further. If you want to vary your accompaniments, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients

For the Curry

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 can coconut milk (400ml)
1 cup vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Serve with rice or naan.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the Lentils and Spices

Add the rinsed lentils, curry powder, and ground cumin to the pot. Stir well to coat the lentils in the spices, cooking for about 2 minutes to toast them slightly.

Simmer the Curry

Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Finish with Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy lentil curry!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving. You can also add diced tomatoes for added acidity and richness.

Cooking Technique Insights

When sautéing aromatics like onions, garlic, and ginger, patience is key. Cooking them until the onions are translucent ensures they release their natural sugars, creating a more flavorful base for the curry. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. If your garlic starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly to prevent it from burning and imparting a bitter taste.

Toasting the lentils with spices is a technique often overlooked but makes a significant difference. It enhances the nuttiness of the lentils and helps the spices adhere better. A quick 2-minute toast in the pot before adding liquids ensures that the flavors bloom beautifully as the lentils cook.

Customizing Your Curry

Feel free to customize the vegetable content of this dish according to what's in season or what you have on hand. Carrots, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes can add both flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook through in the same time as the lentils, usually around 20 minutes.

For a spicy variant, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce after the spinach is wilted. The heat from these ingredients offers a completely different flavor profile while still allowing the curry's essence to shine through. Experimenting with your favorite spices or herbs can create a truly personalized dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?

Yes, red lentils cook faster and will create a thicker consistency, but the flavor remains delicious!

→ How long does this curry last in the fridge?

The curry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this curry?

Absolutely! Just cool it completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or warm naan bread.