Are you looking for a flavorful way to add some plant-based protein to your meals? Look no further than lentils! These humble legumes are packed with nutrients and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and main courses. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and creative lentil recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and exotic or comforting and familiar, there’s a lentil recipe here to suit your taste. From hearty stews and curries to fresh and zesty salads, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of lentils. And with their high protein content, fiber, and low calorie count, you can feel good about what you’re eating too.
In this article, we’ll take a tour of global cuisine, exploring lentil dishes from India, Morocco, Italy, and more. We’ll also share some creative twists on classic recipes, like stuffed bell peppers and fritters. So if you’re ready to get cooking with lentils, let’s dive in and explore these 18 flavorful and tasty lentil recipes for every occasion!
Spicy Red Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant curry is a flavorful and nutritious meal option that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices. Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, coconut milk, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Garlicky Lemon Lentil Soup with Spinach
This vibrant and flavorful soup combines the earthiness of lentils, the brightness of lemon, and the pungency of garlic for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the spinach leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
Warm up with this hearty, smoky stew that combines the comfort of lentils and sweet potatoes with a depth of flavor from smoked paprika. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the sweet potato and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Creamy Lentil and Mushroom Risotto
Transform ordinary risotto into an extraordinary dish with the addition of creamy lentils and savory mushrooms. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup cooked lentils (red or green)
– 1/2 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 mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start browning.
3. Add rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 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
Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Feta and Olives
Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Feta and Olives: A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the warmth of lentils with the tanginess of feta and olives, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 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 lentils are tender.
2. Drain the lentils and let them cool to room temperature.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils, parsley, feta cheese, olives, and garlic.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Ginger
This hearty and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect blend of plant-based protein, fiber-rich lentils, and nutrient-dense vegetables, all infused with the warm and inviting aroma of fresh ginger. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe makes for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Add the cooked lentils, garlic, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of lentils and chickpeas with the bold flavors of Moroccan spices, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, chickpeas, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Lentil and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of lentils, quinoa, and bell peppers to create a flavorful and nutritious main course. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 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 and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, quinoa, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the lentil-quinoa mixture.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup with Kale
Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup with Kale Recipe
Warm up on a chilly day with this vibrant and nutritious soup, bursting with the flavors of turmeric, kale, and red lentils. This comforting recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Dal with Cumin
Lentil and Spinach Dal with Cumin Recipe
This hearty and nutritious dal is a staple of Indian cuisine, made with red lentils, spinach, and the warm flavor of cumin. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the lentils and combine with 2 cups of new water in a large pot.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in ground cumin, salt, and turmeric powder. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the cooked onion mixture to the lentil pot.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
8. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
9. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lentil Bolognese with Whole Wheat Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of a classic bolognese sauce with the nutritious benefits of lentils and whole wheat pasta. The result is a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
5. Cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions.
6. Combine cooked lentils and sauce; toss with pasta.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Fritters with Yogurt Dip
A flavorful and nutritious snack or appetizer that combines the benefits of lentils, carrots, and yogurt. These crispy fritters are perfect for a quick bite or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Yogurt Dip ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together lentils, carrot, flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the beaten egg and stir until well combined.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Drain on paper towels.
6. For the yogurt dip, mix all ingredients together in a bowl and refrigerate until serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Tomato Coconut Curry
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tender lentils, and juicy tomatoes, all wrapped up in a rich coconut sauce. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Avocado Wrap with Tahini Dressing
A flavorful and nutritious wrap filled with protein-rich lentils, creamy avocado, and a tangy tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 tablespoon tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together hummus, tahini, and lemon juice.
2. Spread the mixture on one half of the tortilla.
3. Top with cooked lentils, diced avocado, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lentil and Barley Soup with Fresh Herbs
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup, packed with the goodness of lentils, barley, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup whole grain barley, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, water, barley, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in thyme and bay leaf; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree to desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lentil and Roasted Eggplant Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the natural sweetness of roasted eggplant with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, combine lentils, water or broth, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes with some of the cooked lentil liquid (reserve remaining liquid). Simmer over medium heat until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Assemble casserole by layering roasted eggplant, lentils, and tomato sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese if using.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Corn Tacos with Lime Crema
Lentil and Corn Tacos with Lime Crema Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils and corn with a tangy kick from lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) whole corn kernels, drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream
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. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and cooked lentils. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning lentil mixture onto tortillas and topping with corn kernels and Lime Crema.
Lime Crema Recipe:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Pumpkin Stew with Sage
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of lentils and pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, pumpkin cubes, and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 18 delicious lentil recipes! From spicy curries to hearty stews and creamy risottos, there’s something for every occasion. Try the Smoky Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew or the Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Feta and Olives. Spice up your life with the Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Chickpea Stew or get creative with the Lentil Bolognese with Whole Wheat Pasta. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion dish, these lentil recipes are sure to satisfy.
