Lentil Side Dish
A hearty, flavorful lentil side dish infused with tomatoes, herbs, and aromatics, perfect for a comforting, nutritious meal suited for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute diced onion and fennel in olive oil until soft.
- Add lentils and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasonings, oregano, minced garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for another 15 minutes.
- Stir in parsley flakes and optional couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Stir again and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the garlic with the onion and fennel. If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth works well as a substitute. You can also use green or brown lentils if that's what you have on hand. For a unique twist, try adding some cooked sausage or roasted vegetables to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This lentil side dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats like Pan Braised Salmon With Green Sauce or Mediterranean Skillet Chicken. It can also be served alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like chicken or shrimp for a satisfying, nutritious option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and warm in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to adjust seasoning after reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil Side Dish contains roughly 763 calories, with 20g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (103% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), and calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2740mg per serving (119% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Rinse and drain them, and add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm through. Adjust the liquid accordingly since canned lentils are already cooked.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and you're good to go. This will maintain the flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this lentil dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).