Lentils with Winter Vegetables Recipe

 Lentils with Winter Vegetables is a cozy, nourishing dish that brings together earthy lentils and the season’s best vegetables in one hearty bowl. It’s warm, rustic, and full of flavor — perfect for cold nights when you want something wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 carrots, chopped

  • 1 parsnip, chopped

  • 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed

  • 1 small turnip, chopped

  • 2 cups chopped kale or Swiss chard

  • 4 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 teaspoon thyme

  • ½ teaspoon rosemary

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)

Cooking Time

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 40 minutes

  • Total time: 55 minutes

Serving

  • Serves 4

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base:

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.

  2. Add the Vegetables:

    Stir in carrots, parsnip, sweet potato, and turnip. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. Simmer the Lentils:

    Add lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes until lentils and vegetables are tender.

  4. Add Greens and Finish:

    Stir in kale or chard and cook for 5 more minutes until wilted. Remove the bay leaf. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

  5. Brighten and Serve:

    Add lemon juice or vinegar just before serving for a hint of acidity. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Tips

  • For a heartier meal, top with a poached egg or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

  • You can swap kale for spinach or collard greens.

  • This dish freezes well — perfect for meal prep.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 240

  • Protein: 12g

  • Fat: 5g

  • Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fiber: 12g

  • Sugar: 6g

Lentils with Winter Vegetables is a comforting, protein-rich meal that celebrates the depth and flavor of seasonal produce in every bite.