20 Lentil Recipes That Will Make You Forget Meat Exists

I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Lentils are a great food to add to your meals. They’re cheap, easy to cook, and good for you. You can use lentils in many ways, from soups and salads to tacos and burgers. Lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and other nutrients that can help keep you healthy and full.

There are different types of lentils you can try. Red lentils cook fast and are good for soups. Green and brown lentils hold their shape better and work well in salads. Black lentils have a nice flavor and look pretty on a plate. No matter which kind you pick, lentils can make your meals tasty and filling.

Lentil Soup

You’ll need these ingredients for a tasty lentil soup:

1 cup dried lentils
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Here’s how to make it:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the lentils, broth, tomatoes, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Your soup is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or when you want a hearty, healthy meal.

Dal (Indian Lentil Curry)

Here’s what you’ll need to make a tasty dal:

1 cup red lentils
3 cups water
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 tomato, chopped
2 tbsp oil
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp turmeric
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Now let’s cook your dal:

Rinse the lentils and add them to a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until soft.
In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. When they sizzle, add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until onions are golden.
Add tomato and spices. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes break down.
Pour this mixture into your cooked lentils. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
Add salt to taste and garnish with cilantro.

Your dal is ready! Serve it hot with rice or naan for a comforting meal.

Lentil Salad

Here’s a tasty lentil salad recipe you can whip up in no time!

Ingredients:

1 cup dry green or brown lentils
3 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Rinse the lentils and put them in a pot with the water or broth. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Drain the lentils and rinse with cold water to cool them down. Let them sit for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the cooled lentils with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Your lentil salad is ready to enjoy!

You can eat this salad right away or chill it in the fridge for a bit. It’s great for lunch or as a side dish with dinner.

Lentil Burgers

You’ll love these tasty lentil burgers! Here’s what you need:

1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup cooked rice
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now let’s make them:

Mash the lentils in a bowl.
Add rice, bread crumbs, onion, and garlic. Mix well.
Form the mixture into 4 patties.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook burgers for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

These burgers are perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. You can add spices like cumin or paprika for extra flavor. Try them with avocado, tomato, and lettuce. Enjoy your homemade lentil burgers!

Mujadara (Middle Eastern Lentils And Rice)

Ingredients:

1 cup black lentils
1 cup long-grain rice
3 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt to taste

Directions:

Rinse the lentils and rice separately.
In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté two-thirds of the sliced onions until golden brown.
Add lentils and 2 cups of broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in the rice, remaining broth, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Cover and cook on low heat for 20 minutes.
While the lentils and rice cook, caramelize the remaining onions in a separate pan.
After 20 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the lentils and rice with a fork, then top with the caramelized onions.

Serve your mujadara hot and enjoy this comforting Middle Eastern dish!

Lentil Bolognese

Here’s a tasty lentil bolognese recipe you can try at home:

Ingredients:

1 cup dried brown lentils
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Rinse the lentils and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, lentils, oregano, and basil.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your lentil bolognese over pasta or with crusty bread. Enjoy your hearty, plant-based meal!

Lentil Loaf

Here’s a tasty lentil loaf recipe you can try:

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked lentils
1 cup cooked rice
1 diced onion
2 minced garlic cloves
1 cup oats
1/4 cup oat flour
1 flax egg (1 tbsp flax meal + 2.5 tbsp water)
1 tsp each: salt, thyme, oregano
1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the flax egg and set aside for 5 minutes.
Sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
Mash half the lentils, then mix with whole lentils, rice, and sautéed veggies.
Add oats, flour, flax egg, and spices. Mix well.
Press into a loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes.
For a glaze, mix ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Spread on top and bake 15 more minutes.
Let cool before slicing and serving your yummy lentil loaf!

French Lentil Stew

You’ll love this cozy French lentil stew. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and filling.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup French green lentils
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp herbes de Provence
1/4 cup olives, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for topping

Now let’s make your stew:

Rinse the lentils and set aside.
In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in lentils, tomatoes, broth, and herbes de Provence.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Add olives and season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot with fresh basil on top.

This stew is easy to make and tastes even better the next day. You can add other veggies like mushrooms or parsnips if you like. Enjoy your French lentil stew with some crusty bread for dunking!

Lentil Tacos

Want to try a tasty twist on taco night? Give lentil tacos a go! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup dry brown lentils
2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
1 diced onion
2 minced garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
Salt to taste
Taco shells or tortillas
Your favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, cheese, etc.)

Now let’s get cooking!

Rinse the lentils and set aside.
In a pan, heat the oil and cook the onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the lentils, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Keep cooking uncovered for about 5 more minutes to thicken the mixture.
Warm your taco shells or tortillas.
Fill each shell with the lentil mixture and add your toppings.

There you have it! Dig in and enjoy your tasty lentil tacos. They’re packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients. Plus, they’re super easy to make.

Masoor Dal (Red Lentil Curry)

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup red lentils
3 cups water
1 onion, chopped
2 tomatoes, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 green chilies, chopped
2 tbsp oil
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Cilantro for garnish

Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

You’ll love this hearty vegetarian twist on a classic dish! Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

1 cup dried green lentils
4 medium potatoes
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
2 tbsp butter (or vegan substitute)

Directions:

Cook lentils according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with milk and butter.
Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in a pan until soft.
Add cooked lentils, broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the veggies. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Pour lentil mixture into a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden.

Your Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy this comforting meal with your loved ones.

Lentil Chili

You’ll love this hearty and flavorful lentil chili! It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

1 cup dried brown lentils
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Rinse the lentils and set aside.
In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
Add the lentils, tomatoes, beans, spices, and broth. Stir well.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes.
Stir occasionally until the lentils are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious lentil chili!

You can top your chili with your favorite garnishes like cheese, sour cream, or avocado. This recipe is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

Mediterranean Lentil Salad

You’ll love this tasty and healthy Mediterranean lentil salad! It’s perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup green or black lentils
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the lentils in boiling water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, mix the cooled lentils with cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
Add feta cheese, olives, parsley, and mint to the bowl.
In a small jar, shake together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Your Mediterranean lentil salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it cold or at room temperature for a yummy and nutritious meal.

Lentil And Spinach Curry

You’ll need:

1 cup red lentils
2 cups spinach leaves
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp curry powder
1 can coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp oil
Salt to taste

Here’s how to make it:

Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

Stir in curry powder and cook for another minute.

Add lentils, coconut milk, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.

Once lentils are tender, add spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes until wilted.

Season with salt to taste. Your curry is ready to enjoy!

Serve over rice or with naan bread for a filling meal. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick, nutritious dinner.

Lentil And Vegetable Soup

Here’s a tasty lentil and veggie soup you can whip up:

Ingredients:

1 cup dried lentils
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 potato, cubed
6 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Lentil Hummus

You’ll love this tasty twist on classic hummus! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked red lentils
2 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cumin

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a food processor.
Blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
Scrape down the sides and blend again if needed.
Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy!

You can serve your lentil hummus with veggie sticks, pita chips, or spread it on sandwiches. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Try adding different spices like smoked paprika or za’atar to change up the flavor. You can also swirl in some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra zing.

This protein-packed dip makes a great healthy snack or appetizer. Give it a try next time you’re craving hummus!

Lentil And Sausage Casserole

You’ll need:

1 cup red lentils
4 sausages, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Here’s how to make it:

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium heat. Add the sliced sausages and cook until browned.
Remove sausages and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until softened.
Add lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Stir the cooked sausages back into the lentil mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until the top is slightly crispy.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty lentil and sausage casserole!

Lentil Stuffed Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need:

4 bell peppers
1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup cooked couscous
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s get cooking!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.

Place the peppers on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 15 minutes.

While they’re baking, heat olive oil in a pan. Add onions and mushrooms, cooking until soft.

Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add lentils, couscous, and spices. Mix well.

Take the peppers out of the oven and stuff them with your tasty lentil mixture.

Put them back in the oven for about 20 minutes, until the peppers are tender.

And there you have it! Your lentil stuffed peppers are ready to enjoy. They’re packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients.

Lentil And Mushroom Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked brown lentils
2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toss in mushrooms and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
Add cooked lentils and soy sauce. Mix well.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring often.
Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serve hot and enjoy your tasty lentil and mushroom stir-fry!

Lentil And Sweet Potato Curry

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup red lentils
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
2 tbsp curry paste
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp turmeric
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can chopped tomatoes
Salt to taste
Oil for cooking

Now, let’s make your curry!

First, rinse the lentils and set them aside. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.

Toss in the garlic and ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the curry paste, cumin, and turmeric. Stir well.

Next, add the sweet potatoes, lentils, broth, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.

Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The curry is ready when the lentils are soft and the sweet potatoes are tender.

Taste and add salt if needed. Your delicious lentil and sweet potato curry is now ready to enjoy!