Mediterranean Lentil Rice

Name: Mediterranean Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 medium bell pepper, diced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Everyday Dishes

I love how this Mediterranean Lentil Rice dish brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients in a delightful way. Cooking lentils and rice together creates an easy one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The spices and herbs add depth, while the fresh vegetables provide a colorful crunch. It's become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and I often find myself making it in bulk to enjoy throughout the week. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side salad or your favorite protein.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:57:36.147Z

When I first tried making this Mediterranean Lentil Rice, I was amazed at how well the spices complemented each other. Using cumin and coriander really enhances the lentils, providing a warm flavor that’s perfect for any season. The trick is to let the rice and lentils simmer together with the broth; this not only infuses the ingredients with flavor but also helps the rice and lentils achieve that perfect texture!

I've experimented with adding various vegetables based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out wonderfully. My favorite addition is chopped spinach, which wilts beautifully into the dish. Not only does it boost the nutrients, but it also adds a lovely pop of color!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and nourishing with a combination of lentils and rice
Flavorful spices that elevate the meal without overwhelming it
Versatile recipe that allows for customization with your favorite vegetables

Ingredient Insights

The unique combination of green or brown lentils offers a hearty base for this Mediterranean rice dish. Lentils are excellent protein sources and add a creamy texture once cooked. Their cooking time aligns well with long-grain rice, allowing them to absorb flavors together without the need for pre-soaking. If lentils are overcooked, they can turn mushy, so it's essential to check them at the 20-minute mark for that perfect tender bite.

The choice of fresh vegetables can profoundly influence the dish's outcome. For example, substituting the bell pepper with zucchini or adding diced tomatoes can provide a different texture and flavor profile. The key is to ensure that any additional veggies added have similar cooking times as the original ingredients to maintain uniform tenderness. Also, if you're looking to sneak in some extra nutrition, consider adding some spinach or kale for the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Mediterranean Lentil Rice dish is excellent for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to five days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore moisture and prevent it from drying out. Additionally, this dish freezes well. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring some space for expansion, and it can be stored for up to three months.

If you're planning to serve this dish throughout the week, consider cooking it with slightly less liquid the first time. This will help it retain its texture during reheating. Adding fresh herbs like parsley just before serving can brighten the flavors, making it taste freshly made despite being a reheated meal. Plus, pairing it with a dollop of yogurt or tzatziki can elevate the dish each time you enjoy a serving.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the vegetables, make sure to do so at a medium heat. This helps them soften and enhances their sweetness without browning them too much. Look for a glossy appearance and a fragrant aroma, indicating they’re ready for the next step. If you find that the vegetables are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly, as burning can introduce an unpleasant bitterness to the dish.

To enhance the flavors of the spices, toasting them briefly with the lentils and rice is a vital technique. Just one minute over medium heat allows the spices to release their essential oils, resulting in a more aromatic and vibrant flavor profile. Keep a close eye during this step, as spices can burn quickly, which may alter the taste of your dish significantly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 medium bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Add Spices and Lentils

Stir in the cumin, coriander, lentils, and rinsed rice, allowing them to toast for a minute to enhance the flavors.

Simmer Together

Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 25 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Fluff the mixture with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. You can also replace vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing the Mediterranean Lentil Rice with a crunchy side salad featuring fresh greens, cucumbers, and olives tossed in a lemon vinaigrette. This not only adds freshness but also complements the earthiness of the lentils. A sprinkle of feta cheese can add a creamy contrast and elevates the overall flavor while incorporating a traditional Mediterranean touch.

If you're looking to bulk up the protein in your meal, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would pair excellently. Marinating your protein in a similar spice blend as the dish can create a cohesive flavor experience. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, especially for proteins, to ensure they’re perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different grains. Quinoa or bulgur can be used as alternatives to rice, providing a slightly nuttier flavor and different texture. Remember that cooking times may vary; for quinoa, adjust the broth to 2 cups and allow for about 15-20 minutes of cooking time.

You can also infuse international flair by adding different herbs and spices. Consider swapping the cumin and coriander for garam masala or adding fresh herbs like dill or mint to give it a unique twist. This not only keeps the dish exciting but allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences or available ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of lentil?

Yes, you can use red or yellow lentils, but they will cook faster and may result in a softer texture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or grilled chicken for added protein.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.