A tasty and nutritious addition to any meal, lentils are a versatile and nutrient-dense food. Lentils work well in a variety of dishes, including savory curries, light salads, and robust stews. These five delectable dishes, suitable for any occasion, highlight the flavor and adaptability of lentils.
1. Traditional Lentil Soup
Why You’ll Love It: This hearty lentil soup is a go-to dish on chilly days or anytime you need a filling supper. It's tasty and hearty since it's loaded with spices and veggies.Ingredients:
1 cup of dried lentils, rinsed1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make: Saute the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in a big saucepan until they become tender. After adding the smoked paprika and cumin, simmer for an additional minute. Add the broth, tomatoes, and lentils and stir. After bringing it to a boil, lower the heat and simmer the lentils for 30 to 40 minutes, or until they become soft. Before serving, add some salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Why You'll Love It: This light lunch or side dish tastes great with arugula. It's a crowd-pleaser because of the mix of fresh veggies, herbs, and acidic dressing.Ingredients:
1 cup of cooked green or brown lentils1 cucumber, diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make: Put the lentils, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and parsley in a big bowl. Mix the mustard, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. After adding the dressing to the salad, stir to mix. When serving, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over top.
3. Spicy Lentil Tacos
Why You'll Love It: Essentially a classic, these lentil tacos have a tasty and entertaining spin on them. They are simple to prepare, a great source of protein, and ideal for a vegetarian dinner.Ingredients:
1 cup of dried lentils, rinsed1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups vegetable broth
Corn or flour tortillas
Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, salsa, etc.
How to Make: Soften the onion and garlic by sautéing them in a big pan. Cook for a further minute after adding the smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Add the broth and lentils and stir. After bringing to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer the lentils for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are soft. Top the lentil mixture with your preferred toppings and serve it in tortillas.
4. Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry
Why You’ll Love It: This flavor-filled, creamy, thick curry is ideal for a cozy evening. This is a simple, yet soothing dish made with lentils, coconut milk, and toasty spices.Ingredients:
1 cup of dried red lentils, rinsed1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 can of coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooked rice for serving
How to Make: Soften the onion, garlic, and ginger by sautéing them in a big saucepan. After adding the turmeric and curry powder, simmer for an additional minute. Add the broth, coconut milk, and lentils and stir. After bringing it to a boil, lower the heat and simmer the lentils for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they become soft. Add fresh cilantro as a garnish and serve over rice.
5. Mushroom and Lentil Shepherd's Pie
Why You’ll Love It: The mix of lentils and mushrooms makes this vegetarian take on shepherd's pie filling and substantial. It's the ideal comfort dish to have for supper.Ingredients:
1 cup of dried lentils, rinsed1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
1/2 cup vegetable broth
4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared separately)
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make: Soften the onion, carrots, mushrooms, and garlic by sautéing them in a big pan. Add the lentils, broth, thyme, and rosemary and stir. Simmer until the mixture thickens and the lentils become soft. Place in a baking dish, cover with mashed potatoes, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, at 375°F (190°C).
