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Green Lentil Rice 

by Marianne Navada

Want to add protein and more fiber to rice? Try this green lentil rice. Part of my meal prepping is having cooked rice either in the fridge or the freezer. I used fresh broccoli and carrots in this recipe, but it works well with frozen too. So technically, you can make this with pantry and frozen ingredients. Perfect for those moments when you missed a grocery run. 

You can eat as is, or have it as a traditional rice side dish. It goes well with almost anything. 

I used white basmati rice here, but you can use brown or other kinds.

Green Lentils and Split Green Peas 

When I first started cooking with lentils, beans, and legumes, I was confused with split green peas and lentils. Split green peas are bright green and split in half. Green lentils are a dark green. In terms of taste, split green peas have a sweeter taste while green lentils taste earthier.

Time Saving When Cooking Green Lentil Rice

I cook the lentils separately from the veggies. I sometimes cook the lentils a day or two before making the rice and keep it in the fridge. This shortens the cooking time and a great addition to your meal prep routine. 

Nutrition

High in protein, fiber, potassium, low fat, and tons of nutrients including folate, iron, manganese, and potassium, you can’t go wrong. Adding green lentils and veggies to your rice makes it a complete meal. 

green lentil rice

Green Lentil Rice

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Serves: 6-8 Prep Time: Cooking Time:
Nutrition facts: 200 calories 20 grams fat
Rating: 5.0/5
( 1 voted )

Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked basmati rice (brown or other types of rice is fine too)
  • 1 cup green lentils (dry)
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt (depends if you salted your rice, so check to taste)
  • 1 tbs miso paste
  • 2 tbs olive oil 
  • 1 head of garlic
  • 3 cups veggies (broccoli, carrots, and celery) 
  • parsley or cilantro for garnishing (optional) 

Instructions

  1. Wash lentils. In a smallish pot, add lentils and 3 cups of water and salt.  When it starts boiling, add miso paste. Cook for 20 minutes covered and another 3-5 uncovered. You don't want them mush and wet, but they are not dry either (see video) 
  2. While waiting for the lentils to cook, start preparing the veggies.  
  3. Add oil and sauté garlic. Add veggies and cover. Cook for about 5 minutes until soft. The smaller the veggie pieces, the faster they will cook.
  4. Stir in lentils, cooked rice, and add the rest of salt. 
  5. Garnish with parsley or cilantro (optional). 
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