Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!)
Looking for a satisfying and hearty meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with nutrients? Say hello to these Lentil Spinach Burritos! This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. With protein-rich lentils and vibrant spinach, these burritos are not only delicious but also incredibly fulfilling. Plus, they’re vegan, making them a versatile option for everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the details of making these scrumptious burritos!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Lentil Spinach Burritos apart is their incredible balance of flavors and textures. The earthy lentils combine perfectly with the fresh spinach and zesty taco seasoning, creating a filling that is bursting with flavor. Additionally, they are simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a dish to impress your friends, these burritos fit the bill.
What’s in the Bowl
To create these delightful burritos, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils (uncooked)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 ½ Tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 oz fresh baby spinach (or more for extra greens)
- 5 large tortillas (gluten-free if desired)
- Chipotle crema, pico de gallo, salsa, lettuce, pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, etc. for serving
Setup & Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking:
- A large pot for cooking lentils
- A skillet for sautéing
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A cutting board and knife for chopping
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper for wrapping burritos (optional)
Stepwise Method: Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!)
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water. In a large pot, add 3 cups of water and the lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked lentils, taco seasoning, and fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir well to combine, letting the mixture cook for another 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Fold in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, just about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon an ample amount of the lentil and spinach mixture into the center of each tortilla. Top with your favorite toppings such as chipotle crema, pico de gallo, or hot sauce.
Step 6: Roll It Up
Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly from the bottom. If you’d like, you can wrap each burrito in aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy transport or storage.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious lentil spinach burritos warm, with additional toppings on the side for everyone to customize their meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the wholesome goodness!
Make It Fit Your Plan
Everyone has different dietary preferences and needs. Here are some ways to customize your Lentil Spinach Burritos:
- Swap lentils for black beans or chickpeas for a different protein source.
- Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a different texture.
- Add avocado or guacamole for creaminess.
- Include other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Make it a burrito bowl by serving the filling over rice instead of in a tortilla.
What Not to Do
To ensure your burritos turn out perfectly, here are some tips on what to avoid:
- Don’t overcook the lentils; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
- Avoid using too much taco seasoning, as it can overpower the other flavors.
- Don’t skip the toppings; they add freshness and variety to each bite.
- Don’t wrap the burritos too tightly, as this can cause them to split open when heated.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Lentil Spinach Burritos fresh, consider these storage tips:
- Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, wrap burritos individually and freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Reheat burritos in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Add fresh toppings just before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Common Qs About Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!)
Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Yes! Dried lentils are perfect for this recipe. Just remember to cook them beforehand until they are tender.
What can I substitute for taco seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning, you can mix cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade version!
How can I make these burritos spicier?
To add more heat, increase the number of jalapeños, or mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling.
Are these burritos gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free tortillas, these burritos can easily be made gluten-free!
Keep Cooking
If you loved these Lentil Spinach Burritos, here are some more delicious recipes to try:
Wrap-Up
These Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!) are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and nutrition. With their simple preparation and endless customization options, they can easily become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of lentils and spinach provides a hearty filling that will keep you satisfied without compromising on taste. Whether you enjoy them for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these burritos are a delightful way to nourish your body and your taste buds. Give them a try and discover your new favorite meal!
Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water. In a large pot, add 3 cups of water and the lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapeños, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cooked lentils, taco seasoning, and fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir well to combine, letting the mixture cook for another 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Fold in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, just about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
- Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon an ample amount of the lentil and spinach mixture into the center of each tortilla. Top with your favorite toppings such as chipotle crema, pico de gallo, or hot sauce.
- Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly from the bottom. If you’d like, you can wrap each burrito in aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy transport or storage.
- Serve your delicious lentil spinach burritos warm, with additional toppings on the side for everyone to customize their meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the wholesome goodness!
Notes
- For a different protein source, swap lentils for black beans or chickpeas.
- Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for added texture.
- Add avocado or guacamole for creaminess.
