When it comes to cooking with lentils, there are countless ways to get creative and make a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup, a flavorful curry, or a nutritious salad, lentils are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. From classic Mediterranean flavors to spicy Indian-inspired recipes, we’ve rounded up 19 of the best lentil recipes out there to inspire your next meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some healthy and tasty options, these recipes are sure to please.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some of our favorite lentil recipes that are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. From hearty stews to refreshing salads, there’s something on this list for everyone. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of lentils!
Spicy Red Lentil Curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the comforting warmth of red lentils with a kick of spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Coconut Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the earthy goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in coconut milk and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and healthy salad, packed with protein-rich lentils, crunchy vegetables, and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. While lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Drain cooked lentils and add them to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in diced tomatoes and feta cheese.
5. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Stew
A comforting and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of fiber, protein, and vitamins from the lentils and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting Moroccan-inspired lentil soup, infused with the rich flavors of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add lentils, broth, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in parsley and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Dal
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired lentil soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, water, cumin, coriander, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Burgers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burgers, these lentil and mushroom patties are packed with protein, fiber, and delicious umami flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, oats, mushrooms, carrot, garlic, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Brush the patties with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings, or enjoy as a standalone snack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlicky Lentil and Kale Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of comforting warmth and nourishing goodness. With the combination of sautéed garlic, tender lentils, and curly kale, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups cooked lentils
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups chopped kale leaves (stems removed)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, vegetable broth, chopped kale leaves, and thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in 2 tablespoons olive oil until softened.
4. Add lentils, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Stir in roasted sweet potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian recipe that combines the earthy taste of lentils and quinoa with the sweetness of roasted peppers. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy option for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the lentil-quinoa mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Tomato Pasta Sauce
This hearty pasta sauce combines the creamy texture of lentils with the bright flavor of tomatoes, making it a perfect vegetarian option for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this delicious sauce over your favorite pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Combine cooked lentils with tomato sauce and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Chickpea Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the goodness of lentils, chickpeas, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chickpeas, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Lentils: 20-25 minutes
– Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Lentil and Barley Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of nutritious lentils and fiber-rich barley, simmered to perfection in a flavorful vegetable broth. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, barley, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils and barley are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Fritters
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the earthy flavor of lentils. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, grated carrots, chopped onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until a thick batter forms.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
4. Fry fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Lentil and Rice Pilaf
This comforting pilaf combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the earthy goodness of red lentils, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water or broth in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Combine with the lentil mixture and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lentil and Avocado Wrap
This flavorful wrap combines the creamy texture of avocado with the nutty flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a crispy whole wheat tortilla. Perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked lentils
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– Optional: mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked lentils, mashed avocado, olive oil, red onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm the whole wheat tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon the lentil-avocado mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add any desired toppings (such as mixed greens or feta cheese).
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Lentil and Zucchini Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils and nutritious zucchini, making it an excellent option for a quick and healthy meal. With its comforting flavor and texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and zucchini in a little bit of water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Pumpkin Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients, ideal for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal. With the natural sweetness of pumpkin and the earthy taste of lentils, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and thyme until softened.
2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, pumpkin, carrot, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lentil and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the nutritional benefits of lentils with the crunch of cabbage, all in a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chili flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 19 flavorful lentil recipes! From hearty stews and curries to salads and wraps, there’s something for everyone. Try Spicy Red Lentil Curry, Creamy Coconut Lentil Soup, or Mediterranean Lentil Salad for a taste of the exotic. Or, go for comforting classics like Lentil and Vegetable Stew or Lentil and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers. Whether you’re looking for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, these recipes are sure to please.
