Healthy & Special Diets > Mediterranean Diet Recipes > Mediterranean Dinners > Legume-Based Stews (Chickpeas, Lentils)

Mediterranean Lentil Stew with Lemon and Herbs

A light and refreshing Mediterranean lentil stew featuring lentils, vegetables, and a bright lemon-herb dressing. This vegan and gluten-free dish is a perfect source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Enjoy it warm or cold as a satisfying and healthy meal.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 200 g Brown or Green Lentils
  • 1 Onion (diced)
  • 1 Carrot (diced)
  • 1 stalk Celery (diced)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 750 ml Vegetable Broth
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 Lemon (juice and zest)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Mint (chopped)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Lentils and Broth

Add the lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Lemon-Herb Dressing

While the lentils are simmering, prepare the lemon-herb dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Set aside.

Finish the Stew

Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the lemon-herb dressing. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the lentil stew warm or cold. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

  • Calories: Approximately 90-110 kcal
  • Protein: 6-7g
  • Fat: 2-3g
  • Carbohydrates: 12-15g
  • Fiber: 5-6g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • Lentil Variety: Brown or green lentils work best for this stew. Red lentils tend to break down more during cooking.
  • Sodium Content: As with the chickpea stew, be mindful of the sodium content in the broth.
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

← Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Lemon and Herbs Mediterranean Oatmeal with Berries and Seeds →

FAQ

  • Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

    Yes, you can add other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or kale. Add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Can I use a different type of herb?

    Yes, you can substitute other herbs such as dill, cilantro, or oregano based on your preference.
  • Is this stew good for meal prep?

    Yes, this stew is perfect for meal prep. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.