If you’re looking for an affordable, nutritious, and mouth-watering ingredient to include in your meals, red lentils are a great option.
They cook quickly, have a mild and nutty flavor, and are packed with plant-based protein, iron, and fiber. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a meat-eater, red lentils can add a pop of color, texture, and taste to any dish.
In this blog post, we’ve collected 35 easy red lentil recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From soups and stews to salads and curries, there’s something for everyone.
35 Easy Red Lentil Recipes
1. Red Lentil Soup
This classic recipe is a great way to introduce yourself to the world of red lentils.
Simply sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in olive oil, add red lentils, vegetable broth, and spices, and simmer for 20 minutes. You can blend the soup for a creamier consistency or serve it with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream.
2. Red Lentil Dahl
Dahl is a staple in Indian cuisine and can be made with different types of lentils and spices.
To make red lentil dahl, you need to cook the lentils in water or coconut milk, and then temper a mix of cumin seeds, mustard seeds, turmeric, and ginger in ghee or oil.
Combine the tempered spices and lentils, and let them simmer for a few minutes. Serve with rice or naan bread.
3. Red Lentil Chili
If you’re a fan of spicy and hearty chili, you’ll love this red lentil version.
Sauté onions, peppers, and garlic in a pot, add canned tomatoes, red lentils, vegetable broth, and chili powder, and simmer for 30 minutes. Top with shredded cheese, avocado, or fresh cilantro.
4. Red Lentil Salad
If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy salad that’s easy to make, try this red lentil salad.
Cook red lentils in boiling water until tender, drain them, and combine them with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a citrus vinaigrette. You can also add chopped herbs such as parsley and mint.
5. Red Lentil Curry
This flavorful and comforting curry is perfect for a cold night. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan, add curry powder, garam masala, and red lentils, and cover with coconut milk and vegetable broth.
Let the curry simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked and the sauce is thickened. Serve with basmati rice or bread.
6. Red Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
If you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian take on the classic shepherd’s pie, this dish is for you.
Cook red lentils with vegetable broth, onions, and carrots, and top with mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower. Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Red Lentil and Spinach Soup
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
Sauté onions, garlic, and spinach in a pot, add red lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme, and simmer for 20-30 minutes. You can add a touch of cream or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
8. Red Lentil Burgers
If you’re trying to cut down on meat, but still want a satisfying burger, try these red lentil burgers.
Cook red lentils with quinoa, breadcrumbs, and grated cheese, and shape into patties. Grill or bake the patties and serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.
9. Red Lentil and Mushroom Bolognese
This pasta dish is packed with umami flavor and nutrients.
Sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic in a pan, add red lentils, canned tomatoes, and Italian herbs, and let simmer for 30 minutes. Serve over spaghetti or zucchini noodles.
10. Slow-Cooker Red Lentil Curry
If you want to save time and effort, let your slow cooker do the work for you.
Combine red lentils, curry paste, coconut milk, and vegetables in a slow cooker, and let cook for 4-6 hours on low. You’ll come back to a delicious and fragrant curry that’s ready to be devoured.
11. Red Lentil Falafel
If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, you’ll love these red lentil falafel. Soak red lentils overnight, and then blend them with garlic, herbs, and spices.
Shape the mixture into balls or patties, and fry in hot oil until crispy and golden. Serve with pita bread, hummus, and tzatziki.
12. Red Lentil Tacos
Red Lentil Tacos are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic. Tender red lentils simmered in savory spices create a meaty-textured filling, packed with protein and fiber.
Wrapped in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, and cilantro, they’re a satisfying and guilt-free way to celebrate Taco Tuesday (or any day)!
13. Red Lentil Patties
Red lentil patties are savory, protein-packed treats perfect for Meatless Monday or any day!
Tender on the inside, and crispy on the outside, they’re easily customizable and perfect for burgers, appetizers, or a satisfying meatless meal.
14. Red Lentil Meatballs
These meatless meatballs are a great way to add protein and flavor to your spaghetti.
Combine red lentils, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and herbs, and shape into balls. Cook in a pan until crispy and browned, and serve with spaghetti and tomato sauce.
15. Red Lentil and Pumpkin Soup
This cozy and warming soup is perfect for fall and winter.
Roast pumpkin or butternut squash in the oven, and then blend with cooked red lentils, vegetable broth, and spices. Serve with croutons or pumpkin seeds.
16. Red Lentil and Carrot Soup
This simple yet satisfying soup is perfect for a weekday lunch.
Sauté carrots and onions in a pot, add red lentils, vegetable broth, and cumin, and let simmer for 20-30 minutes. Blend the soup for a creamy texture, and garnish with fresh herbs.
17. Red Lentil Shakshuka
This Middle Eastern dish is a popular brunch choice. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a pan, and add canned tomatoes, red lentils, and spices.
Make wells in the mixture, and crack eggs into them. Cover with a lid and let cook until the eggs are set. Serve with crusty bread.
18. Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Curry
This curry is both sweet and savory, thanks to the combination of sweet potatoes and red lentils.
Sauté onions and garlic in a pan, add spices, red lentils, sweet potatoes, and vegetable broth, and simmer until the lentils and potatoes are tender. Serve with flatbread or rice.
19. Red Lentil Tabbouleh
Create a twist on the classic tabbouleh salad by incorporating cooked red lentils, fresh herbs, tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette.
20. Red Lentil and Tomato Stew
A vibrant Red Lentil and Tomato Stew burst with earthy lentil comfort and tangy tomato freshness.
Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal, it’s healthy, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable with your favorite spices and herbs.
21. Red Lentil and Broccoli Casserole
This casserole is both cheesy and healthy, thanks to the combination of broccoli and red lentils.
Cook red lentils and broccoli florets in boiling water, and then combine with grated cheese, milk, and breadcrumbs. Top with more cheese and bake in the oven until bubbly and golden.
22. Red Lentil and Cauliflower Curry
This curry is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet. Sauté cauliflower and onions in a pot, add red lentils, curry powder, and coconut milk, and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Serve with naan bread or rice.
23. Red Lentil and Coconut Muffins
These savory muffins combine red lentils, shredded coconut, and aromatic spices for a unique and tasty snack.
24. Red Lentil and Zucchini Pancakes
Make fluffy and nutritious pancakes by mixing grated zucchini, red lentils, and your favorite pancake batter ingredients.
25. Red Lentil and Eggplant Stew
This hearty stew is filled with the goodness of red lentils, eggplant, and a variety of spices. Perfect for a comforting dinner.
26. Red Lentil Hummus
Swap chickpeas for red lentils in this hummus recipe for a unique and protein-packed dip.
27. Red Lentil and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Red lentils combined with cheese, herbs, and spices make a delightful stuffing for bell peppers. Bake until tender and cheesy.
28. Red Lentil and Sweet Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters feature a tasty mix of red lentils, sweet corn, and spices. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
29. Red Lentil and Cilantro Rice
Infuse cooked rice with the flavors of red lentils and fresh cilantro for a vibrant and aromatic side dish.
30. Red Lentil and Spinach Lasagna
Layer lasagna noodles with a rich red lentil and spinach mixture, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese for a vegetarian lasagna.
31. Red Lentil and Parsnip Mash
Create a creamy and nutritious mash by combining red lentils with parsnips, butter, and seasonings.
32. Red Lentil and Mushroom Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of red lentils, mushrooms, onions, and herbs make for a satisfying meal.
33. Red Lentil and Fennel Soup
This aromatic soup combines red lentils, fennel, and a touch of lemon for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
34. Red Lentil and Carrot Muffins
These sweet muffins include red lentils, shredded carrots, and warm spices for a delightful treat.
35. Red Lentil and Tofu Scramble
For a hearty and protein-rich breakfast, create a tofu scramble with sautéed red lentils and your favorite vegetables.
Final Thoughts,
In conclusion, red lentils are a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in numerous ways. From soups and stews to salads and burgers, you can always find a red lentil recipe that suits your taste and mood.
Not only are red lentils easy to cook and budget-friendly, but they also boost your health with their protein, iron, and fiber content.
So the next time you’re in the mood for a bold and satisfying meal, don’t hesitate to try one of these 35 easy red lentil recipes. Your taste buds and your body will thank you.
