Are you a fan of hearty, comforting meals that are also good for you? Look no further! Lentils are one of the most nutritious and versatile ingredients out there, and when combined with a variety of flavors and spices, they can be truly irresistible. In this article, we’ll take a journey through 18 delicious lentil recipes, each one perfect for a different occasion or mood. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold, creamy and comforting, or bright and refreshing, we’ve got you covered.
From classic soups to innovative twists on traditional dishes, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of lentils. We’ll start with some tried-and-true favorites, like Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk and Garlic Butter Lentils with Spinach. Then, we’ll dive into more adventurous options, such as Smoky Lentil Chili with Avocado and Lentil Tacos with Mango Salsa.
Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of red lentils with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a spicy blanket. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
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
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
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, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Lentils with Spinach
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the richness of garlic butter and the nutrients of spinach. It’s a simple yet satisfying side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine lentils, butter, garlic, and onion.
2. Add the water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Lentil and Mushroom Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of earthy lentils and savory mushrooms, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
2. Add the garlic, lentils, water or broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the stew has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry combines the comforting warmth of lentils and sweet potatoes with a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown 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
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
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, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Smoky Lentil Chili with Avocado
This hearty and flavorful chili is perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing gathering. The smokiness from the chipotle peppers adds depth, while the creamy avocado provides a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chipotle peppers, lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro (if using). Serve hot with diced avocado on top.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Lentil and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, quinoa, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the lentil-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Lemon Herb Lentil Salad
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing and healthy salad, bursting with the flavors of lemon, herbs, and tender lentils. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Stir in chopped parsley and dill.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Lentil Bolognese with Spaghetti
This vegetarian take on the Italian classic combines tender lentils with rich tomato sauce and al dente spaghetti for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and toss with lentils and sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Lentil and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole is a satisfying vegetarian option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering. A flavorful mix of lentils, rice, and melted cheese makes it a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, rice, onion, garlic, and peas and carrots.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk and shredded cheese until smooth. Add to the lentil mixture and stir until combined.
4. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Kale Soup with Turmeric
This hearty soup combines the nutty flavor of lentils, the earthy taste of kale, and the warm, spicy kick of turmeric. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
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
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the 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, water or broth, kale, and turmeric. 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: 30-40 minutes
Lentil Tacos with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the comfort of lentils with the sweetness of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions or until tender.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cooked lentils and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning lentil mixture onto tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lentil and Chickpea Burger Patties
A vegetarian twist on traditional burger patties, these lentil and chickpea patty’s offer a nutritious and flavorful alternative to meat-based options.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings and buns
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mash the cooked lentils using a fork or a potato masher.
2. Add the chickpeas, oats, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the lentils.
3. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 2-3 patties, depending on desired size.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and crispy.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Enjoy your delicious and healthy lentil and chickpea burger patties!
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Cauliflower
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional shepherd’s pie with the nutritional benefits of lentils and the creamy richness of mashed cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lentils according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and carrot in olive oil until tender. Add cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, steam cauliflower until tender. Mash with butter or non-dairy alternative. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by spreading the lentil mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, topping with mashed cauliflower, and finishing with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Tomato Coconut Curry
This flavorful curry is a delicious and nutritious vegetarian option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of red lentils, juicy tomatoes, and creamy coconut milk creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin, curry powder, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the lentils, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Roasted Vegetable Bowl
This hearty bowl combines protein-rich lentils with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal for any time of day. With minimal prep time and flexible cooking options, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 tender.
3. While the lentils cook, toss chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
4. Fluff cooked lentils with a fork and divide among bowls. Top with roasted vegetables and garnish with lemon wedges and parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and Bacon Stew with Herbs
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lentil and Carrot Ginger Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the natural sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of lentils, and the spicy warmth of 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
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, 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, and vegetable broth. 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 fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Spinach Dal with Naan
This flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired dish combines the comforting warmth of lentils and spinach with the crispy goodness of naan bread. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 naan breads (homemade or store-bought)
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 oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in spinach, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook until the spinach has wilted.
4. Add cooked lentils to the skillet and stir to combine with the spinach mixture.
5. Serve hot with naan bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful lentil recipes! From comforting soups and stews to vibrant salads and casseroles, there’s something for every occasion. Try Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk or Garlic Butter Lentils with Spinach for a quick weeknight dinner. Impress your friends with Creamy Lentil and Mushroom Stew or Lentil Tacos with Mango Salsa. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or light and refreshing, these lentil recipes are sure to satisfy.