Lentils are a culinary treasure trove, offering a world of flavors and textures to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for some plant-based inspiration, these tiny legumes are a must-have in your pantry. In this article, we’ll be diving into the wonderful world of lentil recipes, showcasing 20 delicious and innovative ways to cook with these nutritious little gems.
From spicy curries to hearty stews, creamy soups to savory stir-fries, there’s something for everyone in this collection of vegan-friendly lentil recipes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, we’ve got you covered with ideas that are easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
So grab your apron, get ready to get creative, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of lentils!
Spicy Red Lentil Curry
This flavorful and spicy curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors and simplicity, using red lentils as the main ingredient. It’s a great option for a quick and nutritious meal.
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 (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the mixture is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with cilantro leaves, and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Creamy Coconut Lentil Soup
This comforting soup combines the warmth of lentils with the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in coconut oil until softened.
2. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, curry powder, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. A rich and flavorful blend of lentils, mushrooms, and aromatics will warm your belly and soothe your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in the water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Lentil Bolognese
A hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian pasta sauce, this Vegan Lentil Bolognese is a flavorful and nutritious option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve over cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlicky Lentil Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, ginger, and lentils to create a quick and nutritious stir-fry that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.
3. Add the cooked lentils, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds (if desired).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Dal
This recipe combines the nourishing power of lentils with the nutritional benefits of spinach, creating a flavorful and healthy Indian-inspired dal.
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 turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Lentil Tacos
Transform your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and nutritious Smoky Lentil Tacos recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the lentils and 2 cups water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning the smoky lentil mixture onto warmed tortillas and topping with your choice of fixings.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Potato Salad
A hearty and nutritious salad that combines the comforting flavors of lentils and sweet potatoes with a hint of tanginess from the lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils (such as green or brown)
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, roasted sweet potatoes, parsley, feta cheese (if using), and lemon juice.
5. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and toss to coat.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lentil Walnut Loaf
A nutritious and flavorful loaf that combines the nutty taste of walnuts with the wholesome goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked lentils (cooled)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine lentils, oats, brown sugar, walnuts, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Kale Soup
This recipe makes a big pot of delicious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick lunch. With the combination of lentils, kale, and aromatic spices, you’ll be enjoying a nutritious and filling meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 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 and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale and continue to simmer until the leaves have wilted.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil Hummus Wrap
Revamp your snack game with this nutritious and delicious Lentil Hummus Wrap!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– Optional: mixed greens, sliced veggies, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked lentils, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the Lentil Hummus evenly across the center of the wrap, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Add your choice of mixed greens, sliced veggies, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
Cooking Time: None – this recipe is ready to go!
Lentil and Quinoa Bowl
Nourish your body with this flavorful and nutritious bowl packed with protein-rich lentils and quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a tangy tahini drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and lemon juice.
6. To assemble the bowls, divide cooked quinoa and lentils between two bowls. Top with roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lentil Stuffed Bell Peppers
Add some excitement to your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, packed with protein-rich lentils and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons 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 bowl, mix together cooked lentils, rice, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the lentil mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers and place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lentil and Tomato Stew
A hearty and nutritious stew that’s perfect for a chilly day, packed with the goodness of lentils, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of lentils and vegetables with a crispy mashed potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 2 cups)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, boil the chopped potatoes until they’re tender. Drain and mash with butter.
6. Transfer the lentil mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Avocado Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the nutty taste of lentils with the creamy texture of avocado, all wrapped up in a refreshing mix of greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, diced avocado, mixed greens, and chopped red onion.
2. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top (if using).
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time for lentils varies)
Lentil and Carrot Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup recipe, perfect for a cozy evening or as a healthy addition to your meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté garlic and chopped carrots in a little water until tender.
2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cumin. 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.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lentil and Chickpea Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, tender lentils, and creamy chickpeas. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day and can be served with rice, naan, or as a filling for wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using) and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable 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.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters are a delightful twist on traditional patties, packed with the nutritious power of lentils and the freshness of zucchini. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked lentils, grated zucchini, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a thick batter forms.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the batter into the pan.
5. Flatten each fritter slightly with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lentil and Beetroot Burger
Transform your burger game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of lentils and beetroot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 medium beetroot, cooked and diced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or grill with cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, beetroot, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side or until they’re lightly browned and crispy.
5. Assemble the burgers with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with lentils! This article brings you 20 flavorful and delicious vegan recipes that showcase the versatility of this nutritious ingredient. From hearty stews and soups to international-inspired dishes and innovative twists on classic favorites, there’s something for everyone. Discover the perfect blend of spices in Spicy Red Lentil Curry, or the creamy comfort of Creamy Coconut Lentil Soup. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for new recipe ideas, these lentil recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.