Pumpkin Lentil Curry with Chickpeas
This Mediterranean-style curry combines pumpkin, red lentils, and chickpeas in a spiced tomato-coconut base. It’s creamy without cream, high in fiber and plant protein, and full of warming, aromatic flavors — ideal for a light dinner or meal prep.
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
Vegetables & Legumes
1 cup pumpkin, diced
½ cup red lentils, rinsed
1 cup cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained & rinsed)
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
1 small tomato, chopped
Liquids & Flavor
1 cup vegetable broth or water
½ cup light coconut milk
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp coriander powder
Pinch chili flakes
Salt & black pepper to taste
Garnish
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Saute Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a pot
Saute onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant (2–3 minutes)
Add Spices & Pumpkin
Stir in cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, and chili flakes
Add pumpkin cubes and cook 2–3 minutes
Add Lentils & Liquids
Add red lentils, chopped tomato, and vegetable broth
Simmer 15–20 minutes until lentils and pumpkin are soft
Add Chickpeas & Coconut Milk
Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk
Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through and creamy
Serve
Garnish with parsley/cilantro
Serve with lemon wedges, quinoa, or whole-grain flatbread
Tips
Use red lentils — they cook quickly and become creamy
Add spinach or kale for extra fiber and color
For extra protein, stir in tofu cubes or chickpea flour dumplings
Adjust spices to taste — paprika adds smoky flavor, turmeric adds earthiness
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it weight-loss friendly?
Yes — plant-based, high fiber, moderate fat, naturally filling
Can I make it vegan?
Yes — naturally vegan
Can I meal prep it?
Yes — stores 3–4 days in fridge; reheats well
Can I make it creamier without coconut milk?
Yes — blend a portion of lentils and pumpkin for a creamy texture
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fat: 8 g
Fiber: 10 g