One-Pan Marry Me Lentils: A Vegan, Gluten-Free Love Story

One-Pan Marry Me Lentils: A Vegan, Gluten-Free Love Story

Get ready to fall head over heels for this One-Pan Marry Me Lentils recipe! This vegan, gluten-free dish is so irresistibly creamy, savory, and packed with flavor that it might just inspire a proposal—or at least a second helping! With sun-dried tomatoes, creamy coconut milk, and hearty red lentils, this one-pan wonder is perfect for a cozy dinner for four. It’s easy, wholesome, and bursting with umami goodness. Let’s dive into this love-at-first-bite meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan magic: All the flavor with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights.

• Vegan and gluten-free: A crowd-pleaser that fits a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

• Rich and creamy: Sun-dried tomatoes, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast create a dreamy, savory sauce.

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for a comforting yet healthy meal.

• Versatile: Serve it solo, with crusty bread, or over rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)

• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil (use the oil for extra flavor!)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup yellow onion, finely diced

• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

• 1 ½ tbsp tomato paste

• 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed

• 1 tbsp gluten-free tamari (or soy sauce if not gluten-free)

• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth

• 1 (15 oz) can full-fat coconut milk

• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast

• 1 tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp ground black pepper

• 2 cups baby spinach

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the base: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes (with their oil), minced garlic, and diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onions begin to soften.

2. Toast the spices: Stir in the Italian seasoning and tomato paste. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to caramelize the tomato paste and release its rich flavor.

3. Cook the lentils: Add the rinsed red lentils, tamari, vegetable broth, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the sauce is creamy.

4. Add the finishing touches: Stir in the lemon juice and baby spinach. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the spinach is just wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Serve and garnish: Spoon the lentils into bowls, top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy as is or pair with your favorite side!

Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Rinse the lentils: Rinsing the red lentils removes excess starch for a smoother texture.

• Control the thickness: If the lentils thicken too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

• Customize it: Swap spinach for kale or arugula, or add veggies like diced carrots or zucchini for extra heartiness.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water. This dish also freezes well for up to a month.

• Serving ideas: Pair with crusty gluten-free bread, fluffy rice, or quinoa to soak up the creamy sauce.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

This One-Pan Marry Me Lentils recipe is a true winner—creamy, flavorful, and so satisfying that it’s sure to win hearts at the dinner table. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that perfectly coats the tender red lentils. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and made in just one pan, making it a stress-free yet impressive meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. So grab your skillet and let’s make some lentil love! How would you serve this—solo, with bread, or over rice? Share your thoughts and any fun twists you add with us on Pinterest! and check out the Ultimate Plant-Based Cookbook below!