Plus, they’re crazy high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Red lentils are already split, so they’re the easiest of the bunch to cook. And their mild taste means they can be added to almost any recipe, including pancakes, meatballs, and salads! Of course, you’ll most often see them in vibrant soups and curries. But I’ve got a few fun red lentil recipes here that might surprise you. Let’s get to it.
15+ Easy Recipes With Red Lentils From Soup to Salad
1. Masoor Dal Tadka
Red lentils were practically made for Indian curries. And after one taste of this masoor dal tadka, you’ll see why. It’s flavorful, filling, and jam-packed with healthy goodness. Tadka is a cooking method in which spices and other aromatics are cooked in hot oil to bring out their best. The spices are then added to the lentil curry for maximum flavor. Be sure to cook the lentils separately to make them super tender and delicious.
2. Greek Red Lentil Soup
Surprise your taste buds with this creamy Greek red lentil soup! Red lentils, onions, garlic, and sweet carrots cooked in a tomato-based broth are delicious on their own. But they’re then infused with incredible aromatics, including cumin, oregano, and rosemary. Finish off this fantastic soup with a bright splash of lemon juice and fresh parsley. And more an extra pop of salty flavor, add a light sprinkling of feta cheese. Yum!
3. Vegan Red Lentil Curry
Need to whip up a fast and easy dinner? This vegan red lentil curry is just the ticket. This healthy curry only takes 10 minutes of prep work and is creamy, hearty, and dangerously delicious. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop after one bowl. So, make sure you double the batch!
4. Potato & Red Lentil Soup
Plant-based and protein-packed, this potato and red lentil soup is just what you need on a cool night. It only takes a few minutes to prep before it simmers away on the stove. So this is also a fantastic recipe for meal preps. Leave the soup to cool, place it into an airtight container, and store it in the freezer for whenever you need it.
5. Lemony Lentil Soup
Craving something light and zesty? Whip up this lemony lentil soup! It’s bursting with bright, citrus flavors, and you have to admit, it looks pretty incredible. You’ll simmer lentils with veggies and lots (and lots) of lemon juice. Add some curry powder, cumin, and saffron, and it’s a sure-fire winner. Garnish with a lemon slice, and you’re good to go!
6. Instant Pot Red Lentil Soup with Yogurt and Mint
Grab your Instant Pot because you need to make this red lentil soup with yogurt and mint asap! Comforting and nutritious, a bowl of this steaming hot soup is perfect on a cold winter day. You can warm yourself up from the inside with warm, garlicky tomato flavors. Serve this soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a scattering of mint leaves.
7. Sweetcorn Red Lentil and Coconut Chowder
Creamy, fragrant, and oh-so-satisfying, this sweetcorn, red lentil, and coconut chowder is simply delicious. Ready in under 30 minutes, this is ideal for busy weeknights. Red lentils add a fantastic amount of texture and a good protein punch to boot. Meanwhile, the corn and coconut keep things light and sweet. Add a little chili or curry powder if you enjoy soup with a spicy kick!
8. Spicy Red Lentil Curry
This one-pot spicy red lentil curry is perfect for when you’re short on time. You only need 30 minutes, ten ingredients, and one pan. How easy is that? But just because it’s easy doesn’t mean it’s any less delicious. On the contrary, every bite is a flavor explosion! Serve this fiery curry over brown rice with a garnish of cilantro and pickled onions. I also enjoy it with some pita or naan for mopping up all that delicious sauce!
9. Curried Red Lentil and Pumpkin Soup
You can never have enough soup, right? This curried red lentil and pumpkin soup is so tasty, you’ll want to lick the bowl clean. Packed with pumpkin puree, red lentils, and fresh ginger, it’s so deliciously fragrant. Top a bowl of this hearty soup with a dollop of sour cream, red pepper flakes, croutons, or fresh cilantro. Yum!
10. Crunchy Roasted Red Lentils
Looking for a healthy snack? Try these crunchy roasted red lentils. They’re so much better for you than chips. And it’s as easy as sprinkling cooked red lentils with some basic seasonings. Pop them in the oven and – boom! That’s your healthy snack all set! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings too. For example, if you spice like I do, try Cajun spice mix.
11. Red Lentil Tortillas
I can’t tell you how many disappointing tortilla alternatives I’ve tried. All I want is something high protein, gluten-free, and tasty! Is that too much to ask? Not with this recipe! With just five simple ingredients, these red lentil tortillas are light and tasty. And they’re perfect for tacos and fajitas because they don’t tear easily. Oh, and they’re vegan!
12. Carrot and Red Lentil Soup
If you’re short on time, try this lightning-fast carrot and red lentil soup. It’s super creamy and packed with protein, thanks to the red lentils. It’s also perfect for making ahead of time and freezing. So, cook up a big batch and freeze it in individual portions. That way, the next time you’re strapped on time, you can just grab a container and go.
13. Red Lentil Salad
Jazz up your everyday salads with some red lentils! They’ll bring color, texture, and a protein boost, which is perfect for vegans. Filled with veggies and covered in an easy lemon vinaigrette, this lentil salad is great for meal prep. It not only tastes delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients and lots of protein.
14. Red Lentil Pancakes
Start your day off right with these savory red lentil pancakes! The slow-releasing nature of lentils will keep you going until lunchtime. They’re also a fantastic source of protein, so you’ll be more than satisfied. Inspired by South Indian Dosa, they’re best with sautéed zucchini, cashew cream, coriander, and chutney.
15. Mushroom Red Lentil Meatballs
This recipe is a must-make if you’re trying to reduce your meat intake. The meaty, umami-rich mushrooms work wonderfully with the hearty red lentils. Mix them with some breadcrumbs and seasonings, and then bake them in the oven. They may not have that meaty taste we all love, but they’re a fantastic alternative for meatless Monday. They’re wonderful with spaghetti and marinara. Or, try them in a sub with melted cheese and onions!
16. Red Lentil Cookies
Picky eaters won’t be able to resist these sweet and delicious red lentil cookies. This is a fantastic recipe for getting little ones used to the unfamiliar texture of lentils. It’s also a great way to make your favorite treats a little healthier. Stuff the cookie batter with the sweet flavors of peanut butter and chocolate chips, and you’ll hardly even notice the lentils.
17. Red Lentil Granola Bar
Try these red lentil granola bars if you’re always on the go. You can enjoy a fast and easy treat that’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Red lentils are fantastic in granola bars because they add a ton of nutrition without affecting the flavor. Loaded with almond butter, walnuts, and dried cherries, you’ll include a little pure maple syrup and cinnamon for extra sweetness. Delish! Click on a star to rate it!
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