Are you looking for a nutritious and flavorful way to add protein, fiber, and vitamins to your meals? Look no further than lentils! These tiny legumes are packed with nutrients and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and main courses. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious lentil recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
From hearty stews and curries to flavorful salads and wraps, our selection of lentil recipes is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthy meal option, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 flavorful lentil recipes, sharing tips and tricks for preparing them and highlighting the unique flavors and textures that make them stand out. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of mouth-watering lentil dishes.
So let’s get started on our culinary journey through the world of lentils! In the next section, we’ll explore some of the classic and comforting lentil recipes that are sure to become family favorites.
Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up on a chilly day with this aromatic and creamy soup, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of red lentils with the richness of coconut milk and a kick of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook until onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Lentils with Spinach
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional lentils, this recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 tender.
2. Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir broth into garlic butter mixture and bring to a simmer.
4. Fluff cooked lentils with a fork and add them to the saucepan. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Lentil Stew with Chickpeas
Moroccan Lentil Stew with Chickpeas: A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the comforting flavors of lentils and chickpeas, spices, and herbs, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Creamy Lentil and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto combines the comforting flavors of lentils, mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1/2 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked lentils and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tender lentils, and sweet potatoes. It’s a great option for a weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 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, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Feta
This vibrant salad combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the tangy crunch of feta, all wrapped up in a Mediterranean-inspired package. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including cooking time for lentils)
Smoky Lentil and Bacon Soup
Smoky Lentil and Bacon Soup Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of smoky lentils and crispy bacon. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day, packed with nutritious ingredients and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy bacon and garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Lentil Stuffed Bell Peppers
This flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of lentils, all wrapped up in a neat and healthy package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the lentil mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Quinoa Veggie Burgers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional veggie burgers, these lentil and quinoa patties are packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, mash the lentils using a fork until coarsely textured.
3. Add quinoa, oats, onion, garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Brush both sides of each patty with olive oil.
6. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Cauliflower
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of shepherd’s pie with the nutty goodness of mashed cauliflower. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 head cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lentils in water until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. In a large pan, sauté onion, garlic, peas and carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and vegetable broth over medium heat.
4. Add cooked lentils to the pan and stir to combine.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Melt butter in a separate pot and steam cauliflower until tender. Mash with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top lentil mixture with mashed cauliflower and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cauliflower is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Kale Stew with Turmeric
A hearty, comforting stew that combines the earthy flavors of lentils and kale with a warm hint of turmeric. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, lentils, water or broth, kale, and turmeric. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil Bolognese with Spaghetti
This hearty vegetarian dish is a twist on the classic Italian pasta recipe, substituting ground beef with red lentils for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and carrot until softened.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add cooked lentils, vegetable broth, and red wine (if using). Simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
6. Serve lentil sauce over spaghetti and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Chorizo Stew
This flavorful stew is a perfect blend of tender lentils, spicy chorizo, and aromatic vegetables. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Avocado Wrap with Tahini Dressing
This flavorful wrap combines the creamy richness of avocado, the comforting warmth of lentils, and the tangy zip of tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick and nutritious lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
Instructions:
1. Spread the lentils along the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
2. Top with mashed avocado, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the filling and fold the tortilla in half to enclose.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe combines the creamy texture of butternut squash with the nutty flavor of lentils, creating a comforting and nutritious soup perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or yogurt (for added richness)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the squash cubes in a baking dish for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Add the roasted squash and use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream or yogurt for added richness.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Eggplant Moussaka
A Mediterranean twist on the classic Greek dish, this Lentil and Eggplant Moussaka combines the hearty flavors of lentils with the tender sweetness of eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (vegetarian option: use nutritional yeast)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, cook lentils in 4 cups water until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add tomato puree and season with salt and pepper.
4. Layer eggplant slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish, overlapping slightly.
5. Spread half the lentil mixture over the eggplant, followed by half the tomato sauce and half the cheese.
6. Repeat layers: eggplant, lentils, tomato sauce, and cheese.
7. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Ginger Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the nutritiousness of lentils, carrots, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, carrots, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Tomato Coconut Curry
This flavorful and nutritious curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, tender lentils, and the sweetness of tomatoes, all wrapped up in a rich coconut sauce. A delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, tomatoes, and coconut milk; stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Dal
This recipe is a flavorful and comforting take on traditional dal, a popular South Asian staple dish. With its rich red lentils, tender spinach, and aromatic spices, this Lentil and Spinach Dal is perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious addition to your weekly meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Roasted Vegetable Grain Bowl
Transform your lunchtime with this hearty, nutritious bowl filled with the flavors of roasted vegetables and tender lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (or quinoa or farro)
– Optional: feta cheese, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, cilantro), lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Toss chopped onion, garlic, carrots, zucchinis, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Fluff cooked lentils with a fork. Add roasted vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Serve warm over cooked rice. Top with feta cheese, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Lentils are a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal. In this article, we’ve gathered 20 delicious lentil recipes that showcase their versatility. From hearty stews and soups to salads, risottos, and burgers, these recipes offer something for everyone. Try the Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk or the Garlic Butter Lentils with Spinach for a comforting start. Or, opt for more exotic flavors like the Moroccan Lentil Stew with Chickpeas or the Indian-inspired Lentil and Spinach Dal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these lentil recipes are sure to please.
Leave a Reply