Mediterranean Shrimp & Red Lentil Skillet

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and energizing, this Mediterranean Shrimp & Red Lentil Skillet checks all the boxes. It’s a colorful, protein-rich dish that comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Packed with tender shrimp, hearty red lentils, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish balances flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and brightened with a touch of lemon, it’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special.

Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this skillet meal is a delicious way to nourish body and soul without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 500g shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 200g dried red lentils
• 750ml vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 100g fresh spinach
• 1 lemon, juice and zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, diced zucchini, and red bell pepper, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
2. Rinse the red lentils, then add them to the skillet along with the dried oregano and smoked paprika. Stir for one minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the lentils are tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the shrimp and halved cherry tomatoes. Increase heat to medium-low and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, then add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

• Make it vegetarian: Swap shrimp for chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
• Boost flavor: Add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.
• Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—they reheat beautifully.

Nutrition

Approximate nutrition per serving:

• Calories: 1640 (entire recipe)
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 43g

Related Recipe

See the original recipe: "Mediterranean Shrimp & Red Lentil Skillet"

This vibrant one-pan dish is proof that healthy can also be hearty and delicious. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—you might just inspire someone else to bring a little Mediterranean sunshine to their table!