Savory Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew with Spiced Quinoa
Discover the perfect hearty and cheap protein dish: Savory Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew. Easy, nutritious, and perfect for cozy dinners!
Recipe Overview
Discover the perfect hearty and cheap protein dish: Savory Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew. Easy, nutritious, and perfect for cozy dinners!
Ingredients
- • * olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- • * onion, chopped: 1 medium
- • * garlic cloves, minced: 3
- • * ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- • * ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
- • * butternut squash, peeled and cubed: 2 cups
- • * green lentils, rinsed: 1 cup
- • * vegetable broth: 4 cups
- • * canned diced tomatoes: 1 (14-ounce) can
- • * quinoa: 1 cup
- • * water: 2 cups
- • * salt: to taste
- • * black pepper: to taste
- • * fresh parsley, chopped: 1/4 cup
- • * lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- 1 Preheat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and heat until shimmering. This step ensures the oil is hot enough to properly sauté the vegetables, enhancing their flavors.
- 2 Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and coriander, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
- 3 Stir in the cubed butternut squash, lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the lentils and squash are tender.
- 4 While the stew simmers, prepare the spiced quinoa. In a separate saucepan, combine quinoa, water, a pinch of salt, and a dash of cumin. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
- 5 Once the stew is ready, season it with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
- 6 To serve, spoon a generous portion of the stew into bowls and top with a scoop of spiced quinoa. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- • This hearty stew is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a crusty whole-grain bread can elevate the experience by adding a satisfying crunch. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top can add a creamy texture and a tangy contrast to the earthy flavors. For a beverage, a light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the stew's herbaceous notes. If you're serving this dish at a gathering, consider presenting it in a rustic ceramic bowl to enhance the cozy, home-cooked vibe. Add a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to round out the meal with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, allow the stew to cool completely and then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency. The quinoa can be stored separately, and when reheated, be sure to fluff it with a fork to restore its texture. This dish's flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
