This unique collection of hearty lentil recipes brings together some satisfying everyday meals ranging from cozy soups, comforting stews and flavorful salads. Nourishing, and packed with flavor, these are recipes worth trying.
Lentils are one of those ingredients I always have in my pantry. They’re great for everyday meals and perfect when you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and nourishing. In this collection of lentil recipes, I’ve gathered some of my favorite ways to cook with them, from cozy soups and stews to scrumptious salads, and some other recipes for special occasions too.
There are of course several varieties of lentils, each with its own texture and flavor. For this collection, I’m focusing on two varieties exclusively: Puy lentils (or other green lentils), which hold their shape when cooking and have an earthy flavor profile, and Beluga lentils, small black lentils with a firm texture and rich, slightly nutty flavor. Both are incredibly versatile and can be used interchangeably in the recipes below.
Hearty Lentil Recipes Worth Making
Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie makes for a rich, hearty and comforting family dinner recipe, easy to make and packed with flavors.
Warm Salmon Lentil Salad with Tzatziki
This simple warm salmon lentil salad with tzatziki makes for a great lunch or dinner, packed with nutrients and good-for-you ingredients.
Greek Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Lentils
This Greek sheet pan gnocchi features some herb-roasted summer veggies, feta cheese and some beluga lentils. Loaded with flavors, this simple sheet pan gnocchi is a hit every single time.
French Lentil Salad with Beets, Baby Spinach & Feta
French lentil salad with beets, baby spinach and feta cheese is a nourishing healthy winter salad recipe, naturally gluten-free and easy to make!
Vegetarian Bolognese Lasagna
Vegetarian bolognese lasagna feature layers of slow-cooked lentil ragù, pasta sheets and creamy bechamel sauce, all baked to a golden-brown perfection. You could hardly tell these bolognese lasagna are vegetarian!
Braised Fennel, lemon, dill and Puy Lentils
Braised fennel with Puy lentils is a simple vegan dish, healthy, elegant and subtle in flavors. It features some tender maple-braised fennel, lemon, dill and lentils.
Lentil, Chickpea and Sweet Potato Curry
This lentil, chickpea and sweet potato curry is a little twist to my cauliflower curry recipe. Loaded with nutritious ingredients, and subtly flavored with Indian spices, it makes a very satisfying and healthy weeknight meal.
Butternut Squash and Lentil Pot Pie
This butternut squash and lentil pot pie is prepared with a hearty and creamy filling, tucked into two homemade pie crusts. It makes a rustic and festive dish for the holidays, and a great family-friendly dinner to serve throughout the fall and winter months.
Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry (vegan, gluten free)
This hearty, fragrant and healthy lentil curry in a creamy coconut milk sauce is naturally vegan and gluten free. Serve with a side of white rice spiced with cardamom.
Grandma’s Nourishing Lentil Soup with Roasted Vegetables & All-Spice
Grandma’s nourishing lentil soup with roasted vegetables and all-spice is hearty, healthy, and packed with plant-based protein. With 5 ingredients only, it’s the perfect comforting weekday soup.
Lentil Salad with Zucchini, Feta and Mint
This simple lentil salad with zucchini, feta and mint is the perfect easy meal for busy days. Vegetarian, gluten-free and healthy, it’s packed with wonderful refreshing flavors. Don’t pass on the vinaigrette!
Vegan Lentil-Walnut Bolognese
Easy vegan lentil-walnut bolognese with a perfect minced meat-alike texture and all the flavors you love in the traditional recipe.
Vegan Lentil Meatloaf (Lentil Terrine)
This simple vegan lentil meatloaf is made with nutritious lentils, butternut squash, and rolled oats. Served hot as a loaf or cold as a terrine, it makes a perfect centerpiece on a regular weeknight meal and a lovely starter for holiday gatherings or any other special occasion.
Lentil Stuffed Butternut Squash with Halloumi
Lentil stuffed butternut squash with halloumi is a simple recipe, healthy, gluten-free, and very satisfying. Just perfect when it gets chilly outside and you need a comforting dinner to warm you up.
Comforting Cauliflower Lentil Curry (+video)
This creamy comforting cauliflower lentil curry is packed with delicious healthy flavors and ready in no time. Vegan and gluten-free, it’s the perfect meal for busy days.
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To go further, make sure you check my other Recipe Roundups, where I share our best recipes in each category.
- Easy Baking Recipes (with minimal ingredients)
- Fall Baking Lineup Unlocked
- Best Banana Recipes You’ll Go Crazy For
- Favorite Classic Apple Recipes
- Comforting Vegetarian Winter Meals
I love hearing from you! If you try one of several of these hearty lentil recipes, please leave a review, letting me know how you liked it/them.
