Herb Lentils and Rice

Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this hearty and flavorful Herb Lentils and Rice recipe, a perfect fusion of healthy, earthy ingredients and aromatic Mediterranean spices. This one-pot wonder combines tender brown lentils and fluffy rice simmered in a savory vegetable broth, infused with the warm notes of cumin, thyme, and paprika. Fresh parsley and dill lend a vibrant, herby finish, while a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing, zesty twist to every bite. Quick and easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, this dish is as nourishing as it is satisfying, making it ideal for vegetarians and anyone seeking a wholesome, budget-friendly meal. Serve it as a main course or a delightful side dish and savor its comforting, home-cooked goodness.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Brown lentils
• 1 cup White or brown rice
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 medium Yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups Vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 Bay leaf
• 4 servings Lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils and rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth (or water), and the bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 6

After 15 minutes, add the rinsed rice to the pot. Stir everything together and cover with a lid. Simmer for another 18-20 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are both tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7

Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf.

Step 8

Stir in the fresh parsley and dill. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 9

Serve warm with a lemon wedge on the side for a bright, zesty finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1555.5 grams (1555.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	870

Total Fat 31.20g	40%
Saturated Fat 4.90g	25%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 6146mg	267%
Total Carbohydrate 123.90g	45%
Dietary Fiber 22.80g	81%
Total Sugars 14.40g
Protein 27.80g	56%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 210mg	16%
Iron 11mg	63%
Potassium 2004mg	43%

*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: 31.6%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 55.8%