When you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of the week, finding a nourishing meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen can feel impossible. Enter the Spinach Lentil Rice Bowl—a vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition without the hassle. I discovered this gem one hectic evening when I was juggling work and home responsibilities, and it quickly became a staple for quick weeknight dinners.

With hearty lentils, savory spices, and fresh spinach all nestled on a bed of fluffy brown rice, this vegan bowl is not only quick to prepare but also a delightful option for meal prepping. It’s the perfect antidote to the mundane fast food routine we often fall into. Join me in exploring this warm and comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor—one bite of this bowl and you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less!

Why is this Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl a must-try?

Nourishing and Satisfying: Packed with protein-rich lentils and fiber-full brown rice, this bowl is a hearty meal that will keep you fueled.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe can be on your table in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!

Vibrant Flavors: The combination of aromatic spices and fresh spinach creates a delightful taste that makes every bite exciting.

Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is ideal for batch cooking, making it simple to enjoy nutritious meals throughout the week; simply store them in airtight containers.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish will impress with its colorful presentation and delicious taste.

Looking for more meal prep inspiration? Try out my flavorful Korean Beef Bowls for another quick and delightful option!

Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl Ingredients

For the Base

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A rich cooking fat that enhances flavor; avocado oil is a great neutral substitute.
Yellow Onion – This base ingredient adds depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Garlic – Fresh garlic elevates the dish’s flavor; substitute with ½ teaspoon garlic powder if needed.
Green or Brown Lentils – The primary protein source for the bowl; opt for canned lentils for quicker prep.
Brown Rice – Provides fiber and a hearty base; quinoa is a perfect substitute if you prefer.
Vegetable Broth – Infuses flavor into the dish; you can use water plus extra seasonings as an alternative.
Water – Essential for cooking the rice; adjust depending on the type of rice you’re using.

For the Seasoning

Ground Cumin – This spice brings warmth; if you’re seeking mildness, you can skip it.
Ground Coriander – Adds a refreshing, citrusy note; fennel seeds can be a suitable alternative.
Turmeric Powder – Gives the dish a stunning golden color; it’s best not to skip it for the traditional look.
Bay Leaf – Adds a lovely aroma while cooking; feel free to omit it if unavailable.
Salt and Black Pepper – Necessary for enhancing flavor; season according to taste.
Lemon – Brightens flavors with a zesty kick; lime juice works just as well for that citrus punch.

For the Greens

Fresh Spinach – The star leafy green providing essential nutrients; kale or Swiss chard can work too if you’re aiming for variety.

This Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl is a beyond-satisfying dish that perfectly combines nutritious ingredients, ensuring a wholesome meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy crafting this delightful meal!

How to Make Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl

Cook the Brown Rice: In a pot, combine the brown rice with the appropriate amount of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to simmer for about 45 minutes until tender and fluffy.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Bloom the Spices: Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their wonderful aromas.
Cook the Lentils: Add in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and a bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Wilt the Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking until just wilted and vibrant in color.
Final Seasoning: Remove the bay leaf, then season the lentil-spinach mix with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Assemble the Bowls: Layer the cooked brown rice with the lentil-spinach mixture in serving bowls. Feel free to add your favorite toppings!

Optional: Garnish with a drizzle of tahini or a sprinkle of seeds for added crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for the Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl

Perfect Lentils: Rinse lentils before cooking to prevent mushiness and ensure even cooking. Opt for green or brown lentils for best results.
Flavorful Spices: Blooming the spices properly enhances the dish’s flavor. Make sure to sauté them until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Meal Prep Secrets: Store leftover rice and lentil mix separately to maintain texture. This way, they’ll be perfect when reheated for your next meal.
Substitution Savvy: If fresh spinach isn’t available, kale or Swiss chard can be used instead for a similar nutrient boost.
Lemon Zing: Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end, especially with fresh lemon juice, to elevate the overall dish flavor.

Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish uniquely yours, enhancing both flavor and nutrition!

Sweet Potato Addition:
Incorporate diced sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness and added fiber. Roast them beforehand for a delightful caramelized flavor.
Nutritional Yeast:
Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top before serving for a cheesy, umami flavor without any dairy. It’s a nutritional powerhouse as well!
Creamy Avocado:
Add sliced avocado on top for creaminess and healthy fats, elevating the dish to a new level of indulgence.
Quinoa Swap:
Substitute brown rice with quinoa to boost protein content and introduce a different texture. It cooks quickly, making meal prep even easier!
Spicy Kick:
Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring heat to the dish. Adjust according to your heat preference for a zesty twist.
Herb Infusion:
Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving to brighten the flavors. They add a refreshing touch that makes every bite sparkle.
Coconut Milk Creaminess:
Incorporate a splash of coconut milk when cooking lentils for a creamy, tropical twist that adds richness and depth of flavor.
Mixed Greens Option:
Swap fresh spinach for a mix of other greens like arugula or kale for a different flavor profile while keeping it nutritious. They’ll wilt perfectly with the warm lentils!

What to Serve with Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl?

Bringing together flavors and textures can elevate your Spinach Lentil Rice Bowl to a full-fledged meal experience.

Crispy Roasted Vegetables: The crunch of oven-roasted seasonal veggies adds a lovely contrast and more nutrition to your bowl.
Creamy Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado not only enhances flavor but also adds healthy fats that make every bite delightfully rich.
Tzatziki Sauce: A cool, yogurt-based dip brightens the meal with its refreshing flavors and pairs perfectly with the spices in the bowl.
Garlic Naan Bread: This warm, soft bread is fantastic for scooping up your lentil bowl, adding a wonderful doughy texture and flavor.
Quinoa Salad: A fresh, tangy quinoa salad complements the dish with its crunchy vegetables and zesty dressing for an extra nutrient boost.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea balances the savory flavors of the bowl, creating a wholesome dining experience.
Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, citrus-flavored sorbet cleanses the palate and sweetens the meal beautifully.
Spiced Nuts: A handful of seasoned nuts brings a delightful crunch while enhancing the nutty flavors from the lentils and rice.

How to Store and Freeze Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl

Fridge: Store leftover Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This maintains freshness and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze the lentil and rice mixture in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, warm in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it from drying out. Stir until heated through.

Batch Cooking: Prepare a larger batch ahead of time and store in separate containers for quick meal prep throughout the week.

Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl?
Absolutely! When selecting spinach, look for vibrant green leaves that are crisp and free of dark spots or wilting. For lentils, choose dry varieties that are uniform in size and color; avoid those that appear discolored. The onion should feel firm and have dry skin, while garlic should be plump and free from sprouting.

How should I store leftovers of the Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while maintaining the integrity of the dish. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them—more on that in the next question!

Can I freeze the Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl?
Yes! To freeze, portion the lentil and rice mixture into airtight containers suitable for the freezer. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. This dish can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently in a pan, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.

What should I do if my lentils are mushy?
I often recommend preventing mushy lentils by rinsing them before cooking to remove excess starch. Additionally, monitor cooking times closely—green or brown lentils should only simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender but firm. If you’re using canned lentils, sauté the spices first for flavor, and add the drained lentils just to heat through, which keeps their texture intact.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. However, if cooking for pets or someone with allergies, be cautious with garlic, which can be toxic to dogs. Always double-check with guests for any specific allergies, especially when it comes to potential cross-contamination with grains and legumes.

Can I add other veggies to the Lentil Spinach Dinner Bowl?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to incorporate diced sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some veggies may require a few extra minutes to become tender.