7 Quick and Easy Lentil Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean giving up on nutritious meals. This collection of quick and easy lentil recipes is perfect for those evenings when time is short but a hearty, healthy dish is still on the menu. Packed with flavor and simplicity, these recipes will help you whip up delicious meals in no time!

One-Pot Lentil Curry For Effortless Cooking

When you're short on time but still want a hearty meal, a one-pot lentil curry is a fantastic choice. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. The image showcases a steaming bowl of lentil curry, garnished with fresh cilantro and served alongside fluffy rice. Bright tomatoes and spices add a pop of color, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Using lentils means you can whip up a filling dinner in no time. They cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. Plus, you can customize the spices to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it mild or with a kick, this recipe has you covered!

Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (red or green)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of oil over medium heat until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the curry powder and cumin, letting the spices toast for about 30 seconds.
5. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the curry is too thick, add a little more broth or water.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and alongside cooked rice.

Savory Lentil Soup Ready In No Time

When you think of a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, lentil soup often comes to mind. This image captures a steaming bowl of lentil soup, filled with vibrant vegetables and herbs. The rich colors of the carrots, red peppers, and greens make it not just tasty but visually appealing too.

This soup is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, nutritious, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you have a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the diced carrots and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread.

Quick And Flavorful Lentil Salad

This lentil salad is a perfect dish for busy weeknights. It's quick to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients. The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes, greens, and feta cheese make it visually appealing too!

Start by cooking your lentils until they're tender. While they cool, chop up some fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes. Toss everything together in a bowl with a handful of greens. The dressing is simple: just olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and mix well.

This salad is not only tasty but also nutritious. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish filling and satisfying. You can serve it as a main course or a side dish. It's versatile, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and mixed greens.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Simple Lentil Chili To Warm You Up

Lentil chili is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. The image showcases a bowl of rich lentil chili topped with fresh avocado slices and cilantro. The warm colors of the chili contrast beautifully with the vibrant green of the avocado, making it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

This dish is not only comforting but also nutritious. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this chili a wholesome meal. Pair it with some tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. You can easily customize the spice level to suit your taste, whether you prefer it mild or with a kick.

Making this chili is simple and quick. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings. Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delicious lentil chili!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (any variety)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Avocado slices for topping
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices, alongside tortilla chips.

Creamy Lentil Pasta For A Quick Meal

Picture a cozy dinner with a bowl of creamy lentil pasta that’s not only delicious but also quick to whip up. This dish combines the heartiness of lentils with the comforting texture of pasta, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce, topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese, adds a touch of elegance to your meal.

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Start with your favorite pasta, lentils, and some basic pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility; you can add veggies or spices based on what you have on hand.

Cooking the lentils and pasta together saves time and creates a delightful blend of flavors. As the pasta cooks, the lentils absorb the sauce, creating a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. Serve it with a glass of red wine for a complete meal that feels special without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta
• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked lentils and heavy cream to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Add Pasta and Cheese: Toss the drained pasta into the pot with the lentil mixture. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy lentil pasta!

Lentil And Vegetable Casserole For Family Dinners

When you think of a cozy family dinner, a lentil and vegetable casserole hits the spot. This dish is not only hearty but also packed with nutrients. The warm, golden top layer invites you to dig in, while the rich, savory filling below promises comfort in every bite.

The casserole features layers of lentils and fresh vegetables, all baked to perfection. It's a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Pair this casserole with a fresh salad for a complete meal. The vibrant greens and colorful tomatoes on the side add a nice crunch and balance to the dish. Everyone at the table will appreciate the wholesome goodness!

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion, carrots, bell pepper, and garlic until soft. Add thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked lentils.
4. Transfer the lentil mixture to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the mashed potatoes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve warm with a side salad.

Lentil And Spinach Stew For A Comforting Meal

This lentil and spinach stew is a perfect choice for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, warm, and packed with nutrients. The rich colors of the stew, combined with the fresh green spinach, make it visually appealing. Served with slices of crusty bread, it becomes a comforting meal that everyone will love.

The stew is easy to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a great way to use pantry staples like lentils and vegetables. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup!

As you cook, the aroma of spices fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere. This dish is not just filling; it’s also healthy, making it a win-win for family dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Sour cream or yogurt for garnish (optional)
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic, cumin, and paprika. Stir for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of sour cream or yogurt if desired, alongside slices of crusty bread.