57 Lentil Recipes To Put the Pantry Staple To Good Use
Felicia Lim
·12-min read
Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Do you ever plan your weekly grocery run based on cleaning out the pantry? When you've got things on hand that need to be used up, it saves both time and money!
Lentils are one ingredient hanging out in the cupboard just waiting to be made into something delicious. They are part of the legume family, but they're known for being a vegetarian protein source and super easy to cook. Just take a look at these 57 easy lentil recipes that range from red lentil soups and lentil stews to lentil salads. But first, a deeper dive into what lentils are, exactly.
Lentils are seeds that grow in pods and have a lens-like shape. Lentils, just like rice and pasta, are one of the most flexible staples to have on hand, at all times. Lentils are also nutritious and protein-packed, so they can be used both as a side or a filling main course.
If you are a lentil novice, there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, lentils should be rinsed with cold water, sorted through to remove any debris and then drained well.
Next, lentils do not have to be soaked before cooking, but many people choose to do so because it cuts cooking time in about half (usually).
Finally, if you are boiling lentils on the stove top, remember to choose a pan larger than the amount of lentils for they will almost triple in size as they cook. A good tip is to use a 3:1 ratio of cooking liquid (water or stock) to lentils. So, for every cup of lentils, you want to prepare, have three cups of liquid.
When it comes to what to make with lentils, we've included recipes for French Onion Lentil Stew and Tuscan Lentil Soup, Vegan Lentil Meatloaf and Lentil Meatballs—even Fried Halloumi Lentil Salad and Lentil Pizza Crust. There's a whole myriad of lentil recipes to try with this versatile legume.
Here are 57 protein-packed, easy lentil recipes featuring the favorite pantry staple. Browse through them, and make sure to pin your favorites!
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