7 Delicious and Affordable Lentil Recipes for Healthy Eating

Lentils are a fantastic way to whip up budget-friendly and nutritious meals that don’t skimp on flavor. Packed with protein and fiber, these little legumes are versatile and can easily fit into any meal of the day. Here you'll find a collection of tasty lentil recipes that won’t break the bank or your health goals. Get ready to make cooking simple and satisfying!

Hearty Lentil Stew Packed With Flavor

This hearty lentil stew is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s filled with vibrant vegetables and tender lentils, making it a perfect meal for any day. The mix of carrots, potatoes, and greens adds not only color but also a variety of textures to enjoy. Each spoonful is comforting and satisfying, ideal for a chilly evening.

The lentils are the star here. They’re packed with protein and fiber, making this stew both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare! Just chop your veggies, throw everything in a pot, and let it simmer. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs and spices like thyme or cumin. They bring out the best in the lentils and veggies. Serve this stew with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups spinach or kale
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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 garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, add the spinach or kale, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until greens are wilted.
6. Serve hot, with bread on the side if desired.

Comforting Lentil Soup With Garlic And Thyme

This comforting lentil soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It's packed with flavor from garlic and thyme, making it a perfect dish for chilly days. The vibrant colors of the vegetables add a cheerful touch to your meal, while the hearty lentils provide a satisfying base. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and cozy dinner.

The ingredients are simple and wholesome. You’ll find lentils, carrots, celery, and onions, all simmered together to create a rich and nourishing soup. The garlic and thyme elevate the flavors, making each spoonful delightful.

Cooking this soup is straightforward. Just chop your veggies, sauté them, and let everything simmer until the lentils are tender. It’s a great recipe for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and dried thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for a creamier texture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme and alongside crusty bread.

Easy Lentil Pasta For A Quick Dinner

This easy lentil pasta is perfect for a quick dinner. It combines the comforting flavors of pasta with the nutritious benefits of lentils. The image shows a delicious plate of spaghetti topped with a rich tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil and sprinkled with cheese. On the side, there’s some garlic bread, making it a complete meal.

Using lentils in your pasta sauce not only boosts the protein content but also adds a hearty texture. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes!

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to make this delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Garlic bread for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the Lentils and Sauce: Mix in the cooked lentils, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat the noodles evenly.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with garlic bread on the side.

Baked Lentil Casserole For Family Dinners

Baked lentil casserole is a fantastic dish for family dinners. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with nutrients. The image shows a beautifully baked casserole, golden on top with a crispy texture. It’s served alongside a fresh green salad, making for a balanced meal.

This dish is perfect for any night of the week. Lentils are not only affordable but also a great source of protein and fiber. You can easily customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile option for everyone.

Gather your family around the table and enjoy this comforting meal together. It’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°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, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Mix the sautéed vegetables with the cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and cheese if using.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
7. Serve hot with a side salad for a complete meal.

Delicious Lentil Risotto For Comfort Food Lovers

Lentil risotto is a comforting dish that warms the soul. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect choice for any meal. In the image, you can see a beautiful bowl of lentil risotto topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese. Surrounding the bowl are various ingredients like lentils, spices, and a glass of white wine, creating a cozy cooking atmosphere.

This dish is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice for everyone. Plus, it’s an affordable meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Making lentil risotto is straightforward. You’ll enjoy the process of stirring and watching the lentils absorb the broth, creating a creamy consistency. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
3. Add the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for a minute or two.
4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, stirring until it’s mostly absorbed.
5. Cook the Risotto: Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. After about 15 minutes, add the lentils. Continue cooking until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 20-25 minutes total.
6. Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Spoon the risotto into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Wholesome Lentil And Spinach Stuffed Shells

These lentil and spinach stuffed shells are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal. The image shows a colorful plate filled with large pasta shells, generously filled with a savory mixture of lentils and spinach, topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

Using lentils as the main ingredient adds protein and fiber, making it a filling option. Spinach brings in essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing the overall health benefits. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a family favorite.

To make these stuffed shells, you’ll need to cook the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare the filling with cooked lentils, sautéed spinach, and your choice of seasonings. Once filled, top with tomato sauce and cheese, then bake until bubbly. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 12 large pasta shells
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. Mix in the cooked lentils, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the lentil and spinach mixture.
5. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Spicy Lentil Chili For A Warming Meal

Spicy lentil chili is a fantastic dish that warms you up from the inside out. The image captures a steaming bowl of chili, topped with fresh cilantro and slices of avocado. It’s served with crispy tortilla chips on the side, making it perfect for dipping. The cozy setting, with a fireplace in the background, adds to the inviting feel of this hearty meal.

This chili is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish both filling and healthy. The spices bring a delightful kick, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make your own spicy lentil chili.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (any color)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 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, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and avocado slices, alongside tortilla chips.