One Pan Creamy Lentils, Japanese Sweet Potatoes, and Kale

Introduction

When I first made One Pan Creamy Lentils, Japanese Sweet Potatoes, and Kale for my family, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had seen so many recipes online for similar one-pan dishes, but this combination of hearty lentils, sweet potatoes, and kale with creamy sauce sounded so comforting. As soon as I plated the dish and set it on the table, my family was intrigued. The aroma of the garlic, herbs, and sweet potatoes was mouth-watering, and after the first bite, they were hooked. The creamy texture, combined with the soft sweetness of the potatoes and the earthy flavors of the kale and lentils, made for a satisfying and nourishing meal. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and leaves you feeling full and satisfied without being too heavy. It’s a winner in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love One Pan Creamy Lentils, Japanese Sweet Potatoes, and Kale

This recipe is a cozy, nourishing meal that you’ll want to make over and over again. The best part is it’s made in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze! The combination of creamy lentils, tender Japanese sweet potatoes, and nutrient-packed kale creates a flavorful, hearty dish that is both satisfying and healthy. The addition of lemon juice adds a bright and tangy note, balancing the richness of the cream. It’s a comforting dish that is easy to make yet packed with flavor, making it ideal for a quick dinner, lunch, or even meal prep. Plus, with simple ingredients like lentils and sweet potatoes, it’s a great plant-based option that’s sure to please everyone at the table, regardless of their dietary preferences.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 Japanese sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup low-sodium broth (bone broth or vegetable broth)
• 1 can lentils, drained and rinsed
• 2 large handfuls of chopped kale
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1 lemon

For serving (optional):

• Tahini
• Chili oil
• Pita bread or sourdough

These ingredients combine to make a flavorful, hearty meal that is both filling and nutritious. The Japanese sweet potatoes add a creamy, slightly sweet flavor, while the lentils provide protein and fiber. The kale is packed with vitamins, and the heavy cream brings a richness that pulls everything together.

Instructions

Making this dish is simple and requires minimal prep. Follow these easy steps:

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed sweet potatoes. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly brown.
2. Season and Simmer
   Stir in the oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, sea salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the broth, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
   Stir in the chopped kale, lentils, heavy cream, and lemon juice. Continue to simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
4. Serve
   Plate the creamy lentils and sweet potato mixture, and drizzle with tahini or chili oil, if desired. Serve the dish with warm pita bread or sourdough on the side for a satisfying meal.

This one-pan meal is packed with flavor and requires very little cleanup. The versatility of the dish means you can serve it as-is, or add extra toppings to customize it to your taste.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

Each serving of this dish provides a balanced combination of nutrients that will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Below are the approximate nutrition facts per serving:

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Sugar: 9 grams
• Sodium: 600 mg (depending on the broth and seasoning used)
• Fat: 15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 4 grams
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Fiber: 8 grams
• Protein: 9 grams
• Cholesterol: 20 mg

This dish is a great source of fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it a balanced option for any meal. The healthy fats from the olive oil and cream help keep you feeling satisfied, while the lentils provide a plant-based protein source.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

This recipe is quick to prepare and cook, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even meal prep for the week. With just 10 minutes of prep and a short cook time, you can have a nutritious meal ready in less than 40 minutes.

How to Serve

This creamy lentil, sweet potato, and kale dish is versatile and can be served in several ways. Here are some ideas:

• With Tahini: Drizzle tahini on top for a nutty, creamy finish that complements the dish’s flavors.
• With Chili Oil: Add a touch of chili oil for a spicy kick that adds complexity to the dish.
• With Pita or Sourdough Bread: Serve with warm pita or sourdough for dipping into the creamy sauce, making it even more satisfying.
• As a Standalone Meal: Serve it as a full meal on its own, with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for extra freshness.
• For Meal Prep: This dish can be portioned out into individual containers for easy meal prep throughout the week.

No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to impress with its flavors and satisfying texture.

Additional Tips

1. Substitute Kale: If you’re not a fan of kale, spinach, or cilantro can be used instead. These greens will give the dish a different flavor but still work well with the other ingredients.
2. Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond cream for a vegan-friendly version of this dish.
3. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower, celery, or carrots for extra texture and nutrition. These can easily be incorporated during the simmering process.
4. Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy spicier food, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the dish.
5. Batch Cooking: This dish is great for meal prepping! Make a double batch and store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 1 month.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular sweet potatoes or any other variety you prefer, but Japanese sweet potatoes have a slightly sweeter, creamier texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. If serving with bread, choose gluten-free pita or sourdough if you have dietary restrictions.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

5. What can I use instead of lentils?
If you don’t have lentils, you can substitute them with chickpeas, white beans, or any other type of canned beans for a similar texture and protein content.

6. Is this recipe suitable for a paleo diet?
To make this recipe paleo, you would need to replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and ensure that the broth is compliant with paleo guidelines.

7. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, if you prefer a meatier dish, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even ground turkey to the skillet during the simmering process.

8. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more red pepper flakes, a chopped fresh chili, or some hot sauce to increase the heat level.

9. What type of broth should I use?
You can use either bone broth or vegetable broth, depending on your preference. Bone broth will add more richness, while vegetable broth keeps it plant-based.

10. How can I make this dish more filling?
Serve this dish with a side of quinoa, rice, or a few slices of crusty bread to make it a more hearty and filling meal.

Conclusion

One Pan Creamy Lentils, Japanese Sweet Potatoes, and Kale is a comforting, nourishing meal that comes together quickly and easily. It’s packed with nutrients from the kale, lentils, and sweet potatoes, and the creamy sauce brings everything together for a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a meal prep option, or a vegetarian delight, this recipe checks all the boxes. Try it today, and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that will keep you coming back for more!

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