Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry

Name: Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 2 teaspoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love cooking with lentils and spinach, especially when I want a nutritious yet comforting meal. This Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry has become a staple in my kitchen because it's packed with flavor and happens to be very simple to make. In just a few steps, I can whip up this delightful dish that's not only delicious but also incredibly good for my health. Each bite is a blend of earthy lentils, fresh greens, and aromatic spices that never fail to uplift my meal times.

Created by

Tabitha Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:50:42.486Z

When I first tried making a lentil and spinach curry, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly everything came together. The combination of spices really enhances the dish, and I find it's a great way to introduce more plant-based meals into my diet. One tip I discovered is to sauté the spices before adding the lentils and liquid, as this really brings out their depth of flavor.

Over time, I’ve experimented with various vegetables and spices, but I always come back to the original version because it has that perfect balance of taste and texture. Plus, the leftovers are incredible for lunch the next day, making it a real winner in my book!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich in plant-based protein and iron from lentils
Filled with the goodness of fresh spinach and warming spices
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding Lentils in Curry

Lentils are the backbone of this curry, providing a hearty texture and a wealth of nutrients. When cooked, green or brown lentils retain their shape while becoming tender, which adds substance to the dish. It's essential to rinse the lentils well before cooking to eliminate any dust and enhance their flavor. I find that soaking them for about 30 minutes beforehand can further reduce cooking time and ensure an even softer result.

One of the unique qualities of lentils is their ability to absorb flavors from the spices and broth they’re cooked in. By adding spices early in the cooking process, you create layers of flavor that permeate the lentils. If you prefer a softer texture, feel free to cook the lentils a little longer, but keep an eye on them to prevent them from turning mushy.

Perfecting the Spinach Addition

Adding spinach is not just for nutritional value; it contributes a vibrant color and fresh taste to the curry. The best time to incorporate spinach is after the lentils are tender and the coconut milk has been added, allowing the greens to wilt slightly without losing their vibrant green hue. This step should only take about 5 minutes of gentle simmering, ensuring that the spinach retains its nutrients and texture.

If you're looking to switch things up, other greens like kale or Swiss chard can work wonderfully. Just chop them into smaller pieces and add them at the same time as the spinach. Keep in mind that tougher greens will need a few extra minutes to cook down compared to spinach, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This curry pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, which can help soak up the creamy sauce. For an extra flavor boost, consider topping it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime, which brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the coconut milk. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a side of roasted vegetables.

If you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge for up to four days. Just keep the curry in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. You can also freeze the curry for up to three months; simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The flavors continue to meld and improve over time, making it even more delicious!

Ingredients

Collect the following ingredients to prepare this delicious curry:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your healthy lentil and spinach curry:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in the curry powder and cumin, allowing them to toast for about 1 minute before adding the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Simmer to Perfection

Cook the lentils uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.

Incorporate Spinach and Coconut Milk

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and coconut milk. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the curry into bowls and serve hot, perhaps with rice or naan. Enjoy the healthy, comforting goodness!

Your Healthy Lentil and Spinach Curry is ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the curry by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe calls for coconut milk, you can customize the creaminess by substituting with almond milk or cashew cream for a nutty flavor. For a lower-fat option, light coconut milk can reduce the calorie content while still providing a rich texture. Additionally, if you want extra protein, feel free to toss in some cooked chickpeas or diced sweet potatoes during the simmering phase.

Spices are easily adjustable as well; if you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a diced chili. This will give the curry an added kick. Alternatively, if you want to tone down the spice level, omit the curry powder and opt for a milder seasoning blend.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue with lentil curries is ending up with a watery consistency. If you find your curry too thin, don’t worry! Simmer it uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You can also mash a few lentils against the side of the pot to help thicken the sauce.

On the other hand, if you accidentally overcook the lentils and they become mushy, consider turning the dish into a lentil soup by adding more vegetable broth. This allows you to salvage your meal while still enjoying the flavors. Just remember that the finished texture will differ slightly, but it remains equally delicious!

Make-Ahead Tips

Making this curry in advance is an excellent way to save time during busy weeknights. You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of adding spinach and coconut milk, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge for up to two days before serving. This way, all you need to do is heat it up, add the final ingredients, and enjoy a quick, nutritious dinner.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider prepping individual portions in airtight containers. This allows for easy grab-and-go lunches. The flavors will actually deepen over time, making each serving even more flavorful. Just be sure to add fresh spinach when you're ready to eat to maintain that fresh and vibrant taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this curry ahead of time?

Yes! This curry tastes even better the next day, so you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a vegan dish.

→ What can I use instead of coconut milk?

You can substitute coconut milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk, though the flavor will differ slightly.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.