Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!)

If you’re in search of a delightful, satisfying, and nutritious meal that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than these Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!). Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant spinach, and a zesty taco seasoning, these burritos are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into why these burritos are bound to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!). First and foremost, they are incredibly flavorful thanks to the combination of fire-roasted tomatoes and fresh spices. The lentils provide a hearty base that keeps you full, making them perfect for lunch or dinner. Additionally, they are easy to customize with your favorite toppings, and they can be made in bulk, making them ideal for meal prep. Lastly, they are a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, ensuring you get your daily dose of vegetables with every bite.

Gather These Ingredients

To make these Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup green or brown lentils (uncooked)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 jalapeño peppers, diced (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 oz fresh baby spinach (or more, if desired)
• 5 large tortillas (gluten-free if desired)
• Chipotle crema, pico de gallo, salsa, lettuce, pickled jalapeños, hot sauce, etc. for serving

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you get cooking, gather the necessary equipment:

• Large saucepan or pot for cooking lentils
• Skillet for sautéing vegetables
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board for chopping
• Serving plates for assembling burritos

Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!): How It’s Done

Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s walk through the steps to create these delicious burritos.

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water. In a large saucepan, add the rinsed lentils and cover them with about 3 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the lentils are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil if you prefer. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and diced jalapeño peppers, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the aromatics are ready, add the cooked lentils to the skillet along with the taco seasoning and fire-roasted diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Finally, add the fresh baby spinach and stir until wilted.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos

Lay out a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon a generous amount of the lentil and spinach mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Top with your favorite garnishes like chipotle crema, pico de gallo, or salsa. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!) are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with a side of fresh lettuce, pickled jalapeños, and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

These burritos are perfect for any season! Here are some serving ideas based on the time of year:

• Spring: Serve with a light side salad and fresh avocado slices.
• Summer: Pair with a refreshing corn salsa and chilled beverages.
• Fall: Add roasted butternut squash on the side for a seasonal touch.
• Winter: Serve with a warm bowl of spicy tortilla soup.

Notes on Ingredients

• Feel free to use any variety of lentils you have on hand; red lentils will cook faster, while green or brown lentils will provide a firmer texture.
• You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeño peppers.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of vegan sour cream or avocado to the filling.
• For added flavor, try using homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought.

Shelf Life & Storage

The Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!) can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to make them ahead of time, assemble the burritos and wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm them in a skillet or microwave.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other vegetables in the burritos?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas to make these burritos suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the burritos when you’re ready to eat. They can also be frozen for later use.

What can I serve with these burritos?

These burritos pair well with a variety of sides, such as a fresh green salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips with salsa.

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Save & Share

If you loved these Lentil Spinach Burritos (Easy, Vegan!), don’t forget to save the recipe and share it with your friends and family! They’ll appreciate a delicious, healthy meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner party, these burritos are sure to impress.

The delightful combination of lentils, spinach, and spices wrapped in a warm tortilla is truly a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch it become a regular feature in your weekly meal rotation!