Smoky Paprika Lentil Skillet

Name: Smoky Paprika Lentil Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 can (14oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Smoky Paprika Lentil Skillet for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. The rich paprika flavor combined with the hearty lentils creates a comforting dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. I always keep lentils on hand, as they absorb flavors beautifully and cook quickly. This skillet is perfect when I want something easy to prepare but still packed with taste and texture, making it a staple in my home-cooked meals.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:22:09.387Z

Cooking this Smoky Paprika Lentil Skillet has become one of my favorite experiments in the kitchen. The first time I made it, I was captivated by how the smokiness from the paprika paired perfectly with the earthy lentils. It's a wonderful balance of flavors, and I’ve found it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients while keeping the meal delicious.

One specific tip I discovered is to let the lentils simmer a little longer than the recipe suggests—this allows them to soak up all the fragrant spices and create a more cohesive dish. Now, I wouldn’t want to rush this wonderful meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty texture from the lentils and crisp vegetables
Smoky flavor adds a unique twist to your weeknight dinner
Nutritious and comforting, perfect for any season

      

Unlocking the Flavor of Lentils

Lentils are not only hearty but also excellent at soaking up flavors, which is crucial in this Smoky Paprika Lentil Skillet. When you rinse the lentils before use, you remove any residue that might affect their cooking. If you're using green or brown lentils, they hold their shape well during cooking, which adds a delightful texture to the dish. If you're looking for a quicker option, red lentils can be used, but they will break down more and create a creamier texture.

To achieve maximum flavor, add the spices at the right time. By incorporating the smoked paprika and cumin at the stage when you add the lentils, you allow the spices to bloom in the oil. This enhances the dish's overall depth and ensures that each lentil is coated in the smoky goodness that defines this recipe.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Make sure to watch the heat closely after adding the vegetable broth; bring it to a boil and then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. If the heat is too high, you risk burning the lentils at the bottom of the skillet before they can cook through. A properly controlled simmer will give you tender lentils in about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

While the lentils simmer, resist the urge to lift the lid too frequently. This will release steam and can prolong cooking time. A well-sealed skillet keeps everything moist and allows the dish to develop its flavors fully. You’ll know it's done when the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this dish with a garnish of fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lentils. For extra brightness, consider squeezing a little lemon juice over the top just before serving. This simple addition elevates the flavor profile and balances the smokiness of the paprika.

Feel free to customize this recipe by throwing in seasonal vegetables too! Add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrition boost. If you're looking to up the protein, you can also stir in some cooked quinoa or top it with a fried egg. These variations can make this skillet versatile and tailored to your tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 can (14oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious skillet meal:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Lentils and Spices

Stir in the rinsed lentils, smoked paprika, and cumin. Mix well to coat the lentils in the spices, cooking for about 2 minutes for flavors to meld.

Combine with Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving. It brightens the dish and enhances the smoky notes.

Enhancing Leftovers

This Smoky Paprika Lentil Skillet makes for fantastic leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to develop, often tasting even better the next day. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if the mixture has thickened too much.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the lentils and vegetables in advance and store them separately. This will allow you to pull everything together quickly during a busy weeknight. Just remember to combine and heat it before serving.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you're following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it relies on lentils and vegetables instead of grains. For a protein-packed vegetarian option, adding a can of chickpeas can elevate the dish while keeping it satisfying. If you’re avoiding nightshades, substitute bell peppers with zucchini or green beans for added flavor and texture.

For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños while you sauté the vegetables. Adjust the seasoning to your preference; this flexibility makes the recipe accessible for a variety of dietary needs while keeping it delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Absolutely! While green or brown lentils work best, you can experiment with red lentils, but they will cook faster and result in a different texture.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your vegetable broth is free from animal products.

→ Can I prep this in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge. The lentils can also be cooked ahead of time and heated just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.