Green Beans with Lentils

Elevate your mealtime with this vibrant and wholesome Green Beans with Lentils recipe—a perfect harmony of tender green beans, protein-packed lentils, and aromatic spices. This Mediterranean-inspired dish features a robust blend of ground cumin, smoky paprika, and a zesty drizzle of fresh lemon juice, making it a healthy, flavor-forward addition to any menu. Blanched green beans retain their crispness, while sautéed onions and garlic add depth, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness. Ideal as either a hearty side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it as effortless as it is delicious. Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, it’s a nutritious option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy a dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 300 grams green beans
• 200 grams brown or green lentils
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 500 milliliters vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 0.25 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.

Step 2

In a medium-sized pot, combine the lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid if necessary and set aside.

Step 3

While the lentils cook, trim the ends off the green beans and cut them into 2-3 inch pieces.

Step 4

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch them for 2-3 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp. Drain and immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.

Step 5

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in the ground cumin and paprika, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their aromas.

Step 7

Add the green beans to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8

Add the cooked lentils to the skillet, gently stirring to combine. Season with salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 9

Remove from heat and drizzle the dish with lemon juice. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Step 10

Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish or light main course. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1185.7 grams (1185.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	683

Total Fat 31.00g	40%
Saturated Fat 4.70g	24%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4748mg	206%
Total Carbohydrate 84.00g	31%
Dietary Fiber 29.10g	104%
Total Sugars 21.80g
Protein 27.60g	55%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 262mg	20%
Iron 14mg	76%
Potassium 2199mg	47%

*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: 38.5%

Protein: 15.2%

Carbs: 46.3%