Some recipes just feel like home, and for me, it’s Lentils With Chard, Dill, and Feta cooked in my 6-quart slow cooker. The earthy lentils and tender chard create a cozy base, while the fresh dill and salty feta brighten every bite. It’s comfort food that feels fresh and satisfying all at once.

This dish shines in the colder months, when you need something hearty but easy to whip up. It’s great for weeknight dinners or to impress friends during the holidays. Make it ahead, serve with a crusty loaf, and enjoy the leftovers—they’re even better the next day!

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Recipe Ingredients

• 2 cups (400 g / 14 oz) puy-style lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups (1 liter / 35 fl oz) vegetable stock
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 lb 10 oz (750 g) rainbow chard: leaves finely shredded, stems diced into ¾-inch (2 cm) pieces
• 1 handful of fresh dill, coarsely chopped
• 2 spring onions (scallions), thinly sliced
• 7 oz (200 g) feta cheese, broken into bite-sized pieces
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How To Make Lentils With Chard, Dill and Feta

1. Start the Base: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable stock, and finely chopped garlic to your slow cooker, then cover and set to high heat for 3 hours until the lentils are tender and flavorful.
2. Cook the Chard: Once the lentils are done, stir in the diced chard stems and shredded leaves, then cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes. The chard should be tender, and the leaves should wilt beautifully.
3. Season and Add Flavor: Season the lentil mixture with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, then gently stir in half of the chopped dill, sliced spring onions, and crumbled feta.
4. Finish with Toppings: Transfer the lentils to a serving dish, then sprinkle the remaining dill, spring onions, and feta over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a silky richness, and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty, citrusy kick. Enjoy this cozy dish warm, with crusty bread or as a side to grilled vegetables or roasted meats.

Recipe Tips

• Add More Flavor: To enhance the flavor, try sautéing the garlic before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer, aromatic base.
• Chard Substitutions: If rainbow chard isn’t available, use spinach, kale, or collard greens, adjusting the cooking time to suit their texture and tenderness.
• Make It Vegan: Replace feta with a plant-based feta alternative or add a handful of toasted pine nuts for creaminess and crunch.
• Boost the Protein: For extra protein, stir in cooked chickpeas, diced tofu, or even shredded chicken during the final 15 minutes of cooking.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

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