A fragrant aroma fills the kitchen as you sauté onions, transforming them into a golden caramelized delight. This Easy Mediterranean Lentils and Rice recipe takes about 30 minutes to make, delivering a wholesome dish that’s both comforting and vibrant in flavor. The combination of lentils and spices creates a fulfilling meal that’s packed with nutrition, perfect for any day of the week.
This recipe is great for busy weeknights or meal prepping for lunch. It’s family-friendly and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it, as it keeps well in the fridge for later enjoyment.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, caramelized onions bring depth to the dish.
- Hearty lentils provide protein and fiber.
- Fragrant spices create a warm, inviting flavor.
- Quick to prepare and easy to store for leftovers.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your perfect dish.
For the Base
- 2 cans 15 oz lentils, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups cooked basmati rice (or ½ cup / 100 g uncooked rice to be cooked in water or broth)
For the Onions
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey (sub sugar or maple syrup)
For the Spices
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
- ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste + black pepper)
For Serving
- 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped (or cilantro)
- 1 large lemon (for serving + optional Greek yogurt)
Honey can be substituted if needed.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Basmati rice can be swapped for any long-grain rice.
- Lentils are interchangeable with chickpeas or beans.
- Olive oil may be replaced with avocado oil.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried versions.
How to Make It
Follow these easy steps to create your delicious dish.
Cook Onions
Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 2 thinly sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon honey. Cook for about 10 to 13 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and start to caramelize. Add ½ cup of water halfway through to keep them from burning.
Toast Spices
Stir in 2 cloves grated garlic, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon coriander, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Toast for about a minute until fragrant.
Add Lentils and Rice
Add 2 cans lentils (drained and rinsed), 1½ cups cooked basmati rice, and 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley. Season with ¾ teaspoon salt and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice, more chopped parsley, and a spoonful of Greek yogurt. It’s delicious on its own or served with grilled chicken, lamb skewers, or tagine.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the onions are nicely caramelized for maximum flavor.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference.
- Always rinse lentils well to remove any excess sodium.
- Fresh herbs should be added just before serving for the best aroma.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken for a delicious protein boost.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Enjoy with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
