Lentils are an inexpensive pantry staple that packs a nutritious punch. But many home cooks get stuck in a rut, using them for soup or bland sides. These 15 fantastic lentil recipes will star the legume in your meals.
French Puy Lentil Salad: Parisian Picnic Perfection
Ditch the mayo! This bistro-inspired salad features peppery Puy lentils, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette. The bright flavors and lack of heavy dressing make it refreshingly light. It is a great side dish for a potluck or a light lunch.
Smoky Spanish Lentil Stew: A One-Pot Fiesta
Fire up the flavor with chorizo, smoked paprika, and hearty brown lentils. This Spanish lentil stew is a cozy hug in a bowl packed with protein and smoky goodness that’ll take your dinner to the next level.
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie: The Veggies Take Center Stage
This one is for the vegetarians! The lentil shepherd’s pie is a hearty twist on the classic, so you feel you’re getting all the benefits. Lentils replace the lamb, and a creamy mashed potato topping finishes it flawlessly.
Indian Spiced Lentil Dal: Your Taste Buds Will Thank You
Craving comfort food with an exotic twist? Look no further than Indian-spiced lentil dal! Fragrant spices like cumin, turmeric, and ginger simmer with lentils, creating an intensely flavorful and soul-warming dish.
Lentil Bolognese: Weeknight Veggie Win
Pasta night just got a healthy upgrade! This lentil bolognese swaps meat for protein-rich lentils and veggies. It’s simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce, which is terrific when tossed with pasta for a delicious vegetarian meal.
Moroccan Lentil Soup with Crispy Shallots
This vibrant lentil soup whisks you away to Morocco with every spoonful. Fragrant spices dance with tender lentils, and a final flourish of crispy shallots adds a delightful textural contrast. It’s quite a delicious and satisfying adventure for your taste buds.
Curried Lentil Burgers: Beyond the Beef
Move over, beef! These curried lentil burgers offer a flavor explosion in every bite. In this juicy, satisfying patty, a fragrant blend of curry spices dances with protein-rich lentils and fresh vegetables. Served with toasted buns and your favorite toppings, this is a delicious and healthy burger experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Lentil and Mushroom Loaf: The Meatless Main That Steals the Show
A true redefinition of comfort food, the vegetarian loaf from earthy mushrooms and protein-rich lentils creates a satisfyingly dense texture. The combination is baked to savory perfection, making it a delicious and satisfying main course for vegetarians and anyone seeking a hearty meatless option. Meatless Mondays never looked so good!
Spiced Lentil Fritters: Crispy Bites with Cool Relief
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fritters are a textural delight bursting with warm spices. A cool and creamy mint dip provides a refreshing contrast, making them perfect for appetizers or a light snack.
Lentil Tacos: Taco Tuesday Reimagined
Taco Tuesday takes a flavorful turn with these protein-packed lentil tacos. Savory lentils mingle with your favorite toppings, all wrapped in warm tortillas. A refreshing cilantro lime crema adds a burst of brightness, making them a healthy and satisfying twist on a classic.
Warm Lentil Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash: Fall Harvest on a Plate
Celebrate the season with this vibrant, warm salad. Mingle roasted butternut squash with protein-rich lentils and fresh herbs to create a comforting, flavorful side dish bursting with fall flavors.
Lemony Lentil Pasta: Arugula’s Peppery Punch
Spring flavors come alive in this lemony pasta dish. Tender lentils bathe in bright lemon sauce, while peppery arugula adds a delightful kick. It’s a light and refreshing meal, perfect for warmer months.
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup: Nourishment in Every Bowl
Fight fatigue with this nourishing lentil and vegetable soup! Lentils simmer with a vibrant mix of veggies, creating a fiber and protein-rich broth packed with vitamins and minerals. Every spoonful is a detoxifying and satisfying boost, perfect for a cleanse or a healthy weeknight meal.
Lentil Hummus: Smoky & Spicy Twist
Are you looking to level up your hummus game? This protein-rich version swaps chickpeas for lentils, creating a smoky and flavorful dip with a warm spice blend. Perfect for dipping your favorite veggies or pita bread for a satisfying and healthy snack.
Sweet Potato Lentil Bowls: Roast & Devour
Roast tender sweet potatoes and fill them with a protein-packed lentil and veggie medley. Full of flavor and color, this one-pan wonder is a complete and satisfying meal that lets you skip the dishes.
