Glorious Green Lentil and Spinach Stew: A Heartwarming Bowl of Nutrients and Comfort

Imagine a chilly evening, the air crisp and cool. You're indoors, wrapped in a cozy blanket, and the tempting aroma of sautéed onions and garlic fills the air. Before you is a steaming bowl of Glorious Green Lentil and Spinach Stew—a humble yet luscious meal that not only warms the soul but also nourishes the body. This dish is a nod to the hearty stews of Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean, where legumes and greens are cherished for their robust flavors and nutritional benefits. Rich in proteins, fibers, and antioxidants, this stew is perfect for quiet evenings at home, family gatherings, or any occasion where comfort is on the menu.

**Packed with earthy lentils and tender spinach, enriched by spices and herbs, it delivers a savory, fulfilling experience with every spoonful.**

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup of **green lentils**, rinsed and drained- 2 tablespoons of **olive oil**- 1 large **onion**, finely chopped- 2 cloves of **garlic**, minced- 2 **carrots**, diced- 2 **celery stalks**, sliced- 1 teaspoon of **ground cumin**- 1/2 teaspoon of **smoked paprika**- 1/4 teaspoon of **cayenne pepper** (adjust to taste)- 4 cups of **vegetable broth**- 1 can (14.5 oz) of **diced tomatoes**- 2 cups of fresh **spinach**, roughly chopped- Salt and black pepper, to taste- 1 tablespoon of **lemon juice**- 2 tablespoons of **fresh parsley**, chopped (for garnish)

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Aromatics**: In a large pot, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **onion** and **garlic**, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

2. **Build the Base**: Add the **carrots** and **celery** to the pot. Stir occasionally, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. **Add the Spices**: Sprinkle in the **ground cumin**, **smoked paprika**, and **cayenne pepper**. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, allowing the flavors to bloom for about a minute.

4. **Incorporate Lentils and Liquids**: Pour in the **green lentils**, followed by the **vegetable broth** and **diced tomatoes** (with their juice). Stir to combine all the ingredients.

5. **Simmer the Stew**: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. **Finish with Spinach**: Stir in the **spinach** and cook for another 5 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.

7. **Season and Serve**: Season the stew with **salt** and **black pepper** to your liking. Stir in the **lemon juice** for a touch of brightness. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with **fresh parsley**.

### Cooking Tips:

- **Adjust Spice Level**: If you're sensitive to heat, reduce or omit the **cayenne pepper**.- **Texture Variation**: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the stew before adding the spinach, and then mix it back into the pot.

### Serving Suggestions:

- Serve alongside **crusty bread** or **warm naan** to soak up the flavorful broth.- Pair this stew with a light, crisp **white wine** like a Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the stew's savory depth.

### Nutritional Spotlight:

Green lentils are rich in protein and iron, making this stew not only delicious but a highly nutritious choice. The addition of fresh spinach injects a dose of vitamins A, C, and numerous antioxidants, rounding the meal perfectly.

With its enticing aroma and comfort-laden flavors, this Glorious Green Lentil and Spinach Stew is more than just a meal—it's a celebration of nourishing, home-cooked goodness.