445 lentil recipes

Hearty lentil soup with mushrooms, carrots, celery, and small pasta shells simmered low and slow. A one-pot family recipe that's filling, budget-friendly, and naturally vegan.

One-pot spicy lentil soup with tomatoes, carrots, celery, cayenne, and cumin. High-fiber, naturally vegan, and dead simple. Just dump everything in and let it simmer.

Dahl Shaag, an Indian lentil and spinach stew with turmeric, cumin, mustard seeds, and garam masala tempered in ghee. Protein-packed, naturally vegan-friendly, and deeply comforting.

Creamy blended lentil soup with bacon, leeks, and a splash of vinegar, topped with sliced sauteed frankfurters. A German-inspired comfort soup that's thick, smoky, and surprisingly hearty.

Lentils and spinach simmered in chicken broth with popped mustard seeds, coriander, and lemon juice, topped with melted cheddar. A hearty, high-fiber soup with Indian-inspired spicing.

Tandoori duck marinated in spiced yogurt with cumin, cardamom, and cayenne, then grilled and served over red lentils. Skinned for less fat, the yogurt marinade keeps the meat juicy and tender.

Big-batch red lentil soup spiced with cumin, coriander, jalapeño, and oregano, finished with cilantro and a tangy lime cream. Makes enough to eat now and freeze two-thirds for later.

Roast leg of lamb served with braised lentils finished with pan gravy, green onions, and parsley. A classic pairing where the lamb's drippings enrich the earthy lentil side dish.

Pureed Mexican lentil soup with green chili salsa, ham, garlic, and cornmeal for body. A thick, smoky bowl topped with sour cream and cilantro that's loaded with protein and fiber.

Vegetarian lentil-walnut burgers with mushrooms, wheat germ, and dry sherry. Hearty, earthy veggie patties that hold together on a bun and freeze beautifully for meal prep.

Low-fat lentil loaf with tomato sauce and green bell pepper, bound with egg whites and saltine crackers. A hearty vegetarian meatloaf alternative packed with plant protein.

A baked vegetarian pate made from pureed lentils spiced with curry, turmeric, cumin, and chili, bound with eggs and baked in a terrine. Earthy, warm, and spreadable. Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead entertaining.

A vegetarian "kibbeh" with lentils in place of the meat.

Red lentil dal with cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger, green chili, and lemon. A warming, naturally vegan lentil stew with Indian-inspired spices.

Vegetarian red lentil soup with potatoes, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and tamari seasoned with cumin, paprika, and oregano. Naturally thick and creamy as the lentils break down during cooking.

Gobi dal with red lentils, cauliflower, coconut, and cashews simmered in cumin, coriander, and turmeric. A thick, warming Indian stew that's a complete meal with rice.