Budget-friendly, protein and fiber-packed, and loaded with flavor, these 15 Lentil Recipes check all the boxes! From hearty vegan mains to comforting stews and savory soups, each recipe is designed to keep you full and satisfied.
Lentils don’t always get the love they deserve. As far as plant-based protein sources go, they’re one of the best! Flexible, nutrient-dense, and friendly to your wallet, I never want you to think of lentils as boring ever again.
Whether you’re craving a hearty soup, a comforting stew, fresh salads, or a “meaty” main dish, lentils can seriously do it all. This collection of vegan lentil recipes is here to inspire your next meal and prove just how versatile this humble pantry staple can be. Let’s get into the recipes!
Types of Lentils
Red and Yellow Lentils: The softest of the bunch, these lentils break down and melt into whatever you’re cooking.
Best for: Soups, stews, dals, and thick sauces where you don’t necessarily need to notice the texture.
Green/Brown Lentils: An everyday, versatile lentil you’ll easily find in most grocery stores. They stay somewhat firm and chewy and hold their shape well as long as they aren’t overcooked.
Best for: A plant-based ground meat swap in stews, vegan meatloaf, tacos, meatless wellingtons, veggie burgers, etc.
French (Puy) Lentils: A firm, peppery, and earthy green lentil that holds its shape after cooking.
Best for: Warm or cold salads and grain bowls, side dishes, and paired with roasted vegetables.
Black Beluga Lentils: A caviar-looking, uniquely rich-tasting lentil. They’re a little more expensive but well worth the price if you’re going for a fancy meal.
Best for: Gourmet side dishes, cold salads, or a grain bowl topping.
Lentil FAQs
Do I need to soak lentils?
Nope! Unlike dried beans, dry lentils don’t need to be soaked in water before cooking. Just rinse them under cold water and discard any small rocks or debris before you get started.
How do you cook lentils?
The easiest way is to simmer them in water/broth using a 1:3 lentil-to-liquid ratio. Add the lentils and water/broth to a pot, heat to a gentle simmer, and cook for 10 to 30 minutes. Red lentils cook the fastest (around 10 to 15 minutes), while heartier types take a little longer.
Why are my lentils mushy?
This means they were simmered in the liquid too long. Taste-test red lentils at the 10-minute mark, or green/brown lentils at the 20-minute mark. You want them to have a firm but tender bite.
Mains
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Vegan Lentil Loaf
No one will miss the meat in this savory, mouthwatering Vegan Lentil Loaf! Makes a wonderful main dish on a holiday, and is easy enough to make any day of the week.
It’s true – this is The Best Vegan Spaghetti ever! Made with a meaty lentil and ground “beef”-packed tomato sauce, this is an easy weeknight meal you can prepare in a flash.
I don’t say this lightly… This is the BEST and EASIEST vegan lasagna recipe! Layered with a rich marinara, creamy ricotta, spinach, noodles and topped with ooey-gooey vegan mozzarella cheese. No need to pre-cook the noodles!
This easy 1-Pot Lentil Bolognese recipe puts a plant based spin on the classic Italian sauce. With almost addictively rich flavors and plenty of protein, it’sa satisfying vegan dinner!
This is the BEST Lentil Salad!Loaded with a lot of ingredients that are not only good for your body, but for your tastebuds, too. A beautiful medley of fresh veggies and lentils is all tossed together in a mouthwatering lemon dressing.
Made in one pot in just 30 minutes, this is guaranteed to be the easiest lentil dahl recipe you ever try! It’s rich and creamy, made with budget-friendly ingredients, and packed with plant protein and fiber.
This super cozy Sweet Potato Red Lentil Stew is chock-full of tender sweet potatoes, soft red lentils, kale, and warm spices. It’s an easy, one-pot comfort food designed to keep you warm all winter long!
Lentil Curry is what comfort food dreams are made of! It’s a hearty one-pot meal that’s filled with protein-packed lentils, warm spices, and coconut milk. Instant Pot instructions included.
Lentil Chili is an easy, hearty, and delicious 1-pot vegan meal. Made with hearty red lentils, black beans, walnuts, vegetables, and a handful of smoky spices.
This Easy Vegan Curry simmers a medley of colorful vegetables, lentils, and coconut milk together in one pot. It’s a simple 30-minute recipe that’s easy to customize and packed with flavor!
It’s true – this really is The Best Lentil Soup you’ll ever make! It’s all whipped up in one pot with simple and inexpensive ingredients like fresh veggies, bold spices, and of course plenty of lentils.
This one-pot Coconut Curry Lentil Soup is a quick and easy meal made with everyday ingredients. You’ll find lentils, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and warm curry seasonings in every bite!
This creamy and comforting Lemon Red Lentil Soup is easy to make with red lentils, lemon juice, kale, and carrots. Its bright lemon flavors are over-the-top delicious!
This Creamy Carrot and Lentil Soup is so luxurious that you’ll be craving it all year long! It’s easy to make with budget-friendly ingredients but is packed with plant-based protein and features layers of warm and comforting flavors.
