Lentils with tomatoes and herbs

6 servings

60 minutes

Lentils with tomatoes and herbs is a traditional dish of Greek cuisine that embodies the simplicity and harmony of Mediterranean flavors. This rich, aromatic, and nutritious dish combines the tender texture of lentils with the sweet-sour notes of tomatoes and fresh herbs. Light spices like cumin and basil add depth, creating a warm, cozy taste. Historically, lentil dishes were popular among ancient Greeks as this product is an excellent source of protein and is ideal for vegetarian diets. Greek lentils with tomatoes pair well with crusty bread or rice and can be served as a main dish or nutritious side. Its rich aroma and ease of preparation make this dish a great choice for those who appreciate healthy and delicious food.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 117.2
• Proteins: 7.3g
• Fats: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 21.5g

Ingredients

• Brown lentils: 400 g
• Tomatoes: 2 pc
• Onion: 1 head
• Tomatoes in their own juice: 400 g
• Garlic: 3 clove
• Parsley: 1 bunch
• Dill: 0.5 bunch
• Olive oil: to taste
• Salt: to taste
• Ground black pepper: to taste
• Cumin (zira): to taste
• Dried basil: to taste
• Spices: to taste
• Water: 1 glass
• Coriander: 1 bunch

Cooking steps

1. Finely chop the onion and garlic.

   Required ingredients:

   • Onion: 1 head
   • Garlic: 3 cloves

2. Heat a large pan (preferably a wok), sauté onion and garlic in olive oil for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   Required ingredients:

   • Olive oil:  to taste

3. If needed, peel the tomatoes and add them to the pan.

   Required ingredients:

   • Tomatoes in their own juice: 400 g

4. Make a cross-shaped cut on fresh tomatoes and dip them in boiling water for 5 seconds. Remove the skin, chop the tomatoes finely, and add them to the pan.

   Required ingredients:

   • Tomatoes: 2 pieces

5. Add pepper, cumin, basil, and spices to taste. Mix everything.

   Required ingredients:

   • Ground black pepper:  to taste
   • Cumin (zira):  to taste
   • Dried basil:  to taste
   • Spices:  to taste

6. Add lentils to the pan without any prior processing, mix thoroughly, add 1 cup of room temperature water, salt it, bring to a boil and simmer on medium heat until the lentils are fully cooked. If needed, add more water during the simmering process.

   Required ingredients:

   • Brown lentils: 400 g
   • Water: 1 glass
   • Salt:  to taste

7. Finely chop parsley, dill, and cilantro.

   Required ingredients:

   • Parsley: 1 bunch
   • Dill: 0.5 bunch
   • Coriander: 1 bunch

8. Remove the lentils from heat, add chopped greens, mix, cover with a lid and let sit for a few minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Parsley: 1 bunch
   • Dill: 0.5 bunch
   • Coriander: 1 bunch

9. Place the lentils on a plate and garnish with greens.