Best Easy Riso e Lenticchie Recipe

Rice and lentils cooked together are a comforting Italian one-pot staple rich in plant-based nutrition. Vegetarian, high protein, and mediterranean, this dish is ideal for family meals and lower cholesterol.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein #diabetic friendly
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • brown lentils 1 cup
  • short-grain rice 1 cup
  • yellow onion 1 medium
  • celery stalk 1 piece
  • carrot 1 small
  • water 5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • extra virgin olive oil 3 tbsp
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • bay leaf 1 piece
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 60 g 70%
Protein 13 g 15%
Fat 7 g 15%
Serving size 320g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water, then drain.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced celery, and diced carrot. Sauté gently for 5–6 minutes until vegetables are soft but not browned.

  3. 3

    Add the rinsed lentils, bay leaf, and 5 cups of water. Season with half the salt and bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add the rice to the pot, stir once, and cover. Simmer over low heat for 18–20 minutes, checking occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

  5. 5

    Once rice is tender and liquid mostly absorbed, turn off heat. Stir in remaining olive oil, remaining salt, and black pepper. Let rest, covered, for 5 minutes before removing bay leaf and serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredients in this Riso e Lenticchie recipe are brown lentils and short-grain rice. These both define the dish's creamy texture and give it a classic Italian flavor, while providing balanced plant-based protein and carbohydrates.
Q. Which step is crucial for perfect doneness?
Step 4 is especially important—simmering the rice and lentils together over low heat and occasionally checking for sticking ensures the grains stay tender and the mixture doesn't burn or become mushy.
Q. How do I avoid mushy rice in this dish?
To prevent mushiness, add the rice only after the lentils have cooked for 20 minutes. Always cook on low heat and keep the pot covered, but check near the end so rice is just tender, not overcooked.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does one serving have?
Each serving contains approximately 340 kcal with 13 grams of protein, making this a filling, nutrient-rich meal suitable for balanced and plant-based diets.
Q. Is this recipe suitable for a Mediterranean or diabetic-friendly diet?
Yes, this recipe focuses on whole grains, legumes, and olive oil, securing its place in Mediterranean diets. With 60g carbohydrates and plant-based ingredients, it's moderate in carbs and suitable for many diabetic-friendly meal plans.
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