Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet
Highlighted under: Instant Planning
I absolutely love creating hearty dishes that are both delicious and packed with nutrition. The Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet has become a favorite in my home because it combines wholesome lentils with vibrant flavors of roasted garlic and bright lemon. It's the kind of dish that not only satisfies my appetite but also makes me feel great about what I'm eating. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is a go-to that I can’t wait to share with you!
One evening, I was inspired to use lentils in a completely different way, incorporating roasted garlic and fresh lemon to create a dish that truly shines. The secret to perfecting this skillet is the balance between the tangy lemon and the rich roasted garlic, which works together to elevate the humble lentil into a star dish.
I discovered that allowing the lentils to roast with the other ingredients creates a wonderful depth of flavor. Using a mix of spices and fresh herbs adds an extra dimension, making this recipe not just filling but also surprisingly complex in taste.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up every bite
- Nutty lentils roasted to perfection for added depth
- A one-pan dish that simplifies cleanup
Choosing the Right Lentils
When making the Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet, green lentils are the star ingredient due to their firm texture and nutty flavor. They retain their shape better than yellow or red lentils, which can become mushy during cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with pardina or black lentils, which also offer a unique taste and maintain their integrity. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as these lentils may vary slightly in tenderness.
Rinsing lentils before cooking is not just a step, it’s critical to remove any dust or debris. It also enhances their flavor. So, always give them a good rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This small trick can significantly elevate your dish’s enjoyability by ensuring each lentil is pristine and ready to soak up all the aromatic flavors.
Elevating Flavor Profiles
In this recipe, roasting garlic is a key technique that adds a rich, sweet depth to the dish. To achieve this, ensure your garlic is fresh and finely minced, as this allows it to release more oils and flavor. Sautéing it just until fragrant—about 2 minutes—is essential; overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness, which you want to avoid.
The inclusion of lemon juice and zest brings a lively acidity that balances the earthy lentils. For an even more vibrant lemon flavor, try using organic lemons as they tend to have more oils in their peels. A microplane grater is ideal for zesting as it will give you fine shavings without the bitter white pith.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet:
Prepare the Lentils
In a pot, combine rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine and Roast
Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess liquid and add them to the skillet. Mix in lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Your Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet is ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will give your dish a nice heat that complements the lemon beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dish stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to portion it out for easy reheating later. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of vegetable broth to bring back the moisture.
To prepare ahead of time, you can cook the lentils and sauté the aromatics separately. Store them in the fridge and combine them just before serving. This helps maintain the textures of the lentils and the freshness of the sautéed onions and garlic.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For a complete meal, consider serving the Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet over cooked quinoa or brown rice. This not only adds additional fiber but also a delightful chewiness that complements the dish. A side of steamed greens, such as spinach or kale, can provide a pop of color and extra nutrition.
To vary the flavor profile, you might consider adding diced bell peppers or spinach when sautéing the onions. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute their unique flavors and textures. If you enjoy heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a warming kick to the dish, making it even more comforting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, if you're short on time, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse and add them towards the end of cooking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This skillet pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
→ Is this dish vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based, making it a great vegan option.
Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet
I absolutely love creating hearty dishes that are both delicious and packed with nutrition. The Roasted Lemon Garlic Lentil Skillet has become a favorite in my home because it combines wholesome lentils with vibrant flavors of roasted garlic and bright lemon. It's the kind of dish that not only satisfies my appetite but also makes me feel great about what I'm eating. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is a go-to that I can’t wait to share with you!
Created by: Briar Kensington
Recipe Type: Instant Planning
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a pot, combine rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess liquid and add them to the skillet. Mix in lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast the mixture over medium heat for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. This will give your dish a nice heat that complements the lemon beautifully.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 51g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 18g